Picture This!: Basics Archives

Basics Archives

July 10, 2007

Focus on Disney World - Donde esta Donald?

Say hi to Donald Duck, star of the new Mexico attraction “Gran Fiesta”. This was taken outside of the Mexico pavilion at Epcot where Donald was doing a meet and greet with park guests. In between posing with children Donald turned and gave me a quick wave. I was so glad I already had my camera focused on him.

Quick Tip: When taking photos of characters, be sure to get some close-up shots. Try to fill the bulk of your frame with the character’s face. Be careful with your zoom though. It’s easy to lose important detail if you get too close.

This picture of Captain Hook would have been much better if I had gotten his hook in the picture. The photo of Donald works because I got some of his sombrero and colorful tunic in the frame to give context to the shot. When in doubt, take your shot at a slightly longer distance. You can always crop it tighter later.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on July 10, 2007 6:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

July 30, 2007

Focus on Disney World - DiVine

I remember reading about DiVine on some of the Disney forums and I had no idea what people were talking about. People talked about how beautiful she is and how gracefully she moves. When I finally saw her last December I couldn’t take my eyes off her. She was mesmerizing.

For those of you who haven’t had the pleasure, DiVine is a stilt figure who hangs out on the path to Asia in the Animal Kingdom. If you don’t know to look for her you may easily miss her because she blends in quite nicely with the vegetation along the path.

Quick Tip: When photographing the entertainers at Disney World, or anyone for that matter, be sure to focus your camera on their eyes. It sounds pretty simple but I can’t tell you how many pictures I have of people with perfectly focused noses and blurry eyes! To make sure that doesn’t happen to you, lock your focus before taking the photograph.

Here’s how: First, focus your camera directly on the person’s eyes. Then press your shutter halfway down. This will lock the focus on their eyes. With your shutter halfway pressed, move your camera to reframe your photo the way you want it. Now wait for the right moment and then press the shutter the rest of the way down to capture your perfect shot. As long as your subject doesn’t move closer or further away before you fully press your shutter, you should get a nicely focused picture.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on July 30, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

August 8, 2007

Light Meter: Batteries 101

There are a variety of things to consider when shopping for a digital point and shoot camera. In my experience I have found that people make the choices that are best for them and that's the right thing to do. If you do your research, without making yourself crazy, and ask a few friends what they like/dislike about their cameras you will be a better educated consumer. Let's get you started on the road of knowledge.

Batteries: Positive and Negative (get it? a ha ha hmm)

A digital point and shoot will either run on AA batteries or a lithium-ion battery. Some cameras will allow you to substitute a CRV3 lithium or lithium-ion for 2 AA batteries. AA's are what we're most familiar with. We use them in toys, walkmans, discmans, and those water bottle/fans that Disney sells. Well, I'm assuming they take AA maybe they use AAA batteries. I'm too cheap to buy one. Moving on, lithium-ions are what is in your cell phone. It's that square or rectangular flat battery that keeps your phone powered so you can talk till the cows come home from a rollicking game of bingo.

I've compiled a list of pluses and minuses to both types of power. Oh, and before you make your decision based on these lists, next time I'll go over the 5, count 'em, 5 common types of AAs.

Pluses:
** Easy to find in gift shops, drug stores, and even gas stations should you forget to pack them or they wear out
** Most cameras take 2 and most chargers will power 4 at a time. This gives you a spare set ready for action
** Rechargeables will allow an average of 250-300 shots per charge

Minuses:
** Alkalines can last as little as 20 minutes
** Spend more money on alkaline and lithium

Plus and Minus: Chargers can take anywhere from 15 minutes to 8 hours, depending on the charger and strength of batteries.

Lithium-ion

Pluses
** Available in camera stores and electronic stores
** Average battery will take 400 shots per charge
** Chargers are compact

Minuses

** Average manufacturer's price is $30-60 for a spare. Off-brand lists for about $20-40
** Like your cell phone battery, some last longer than others
hand%20batteries.JPG
Lithium-ions (left and center) come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. They are also designed to work with specific cameras. AA's are always the same size but are either alkaline, lithium, oxyhydroxide, NiCad or NiMH.

Posted by Lisa Berton on August 8, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

August 15, 2007

Light Meter: Batteries 102

I previously went over the differences between AA batteries and lithium-ion batteries. This time around I'll touch upon the 5 common types of AA's; American Airlines, Aristocratic Aardvarks, Alan Alda... Making sure that you're paying attention.

Disposable

Alkaline - Bar none these are the ones we've all used. They're easy to find in your local supermarket and wholesale warehouses among many other locals. While they may be the most common they don't last very long. Alkaline batteries actually lose power sitting around waiting for you to buy them and while sitting idle in electronic devices. My recommendation is to only use them in a pinch. A 4-pack averages $5.00.

Oxy nickel hydroxide - What? I know, I know...most people haven't heard of this species. It's a new cross-breed of throw away batteries. They're not as easy to find as they should be. In comparison to alkalines, oxy nickel hyroxide batteries last twice as long. A 4-pack goes for around $6.00 and are avaliable in electronics stores as well as discount department store chains.

http://www.panasonic.com/consumer_electronics/oxyride_ms/flash.asp

http://www.duracell.com/gna/powerpix/faq.htm

Lithium - Energizer is producing these and advertising them everywhere. These powerful little guys last 5-7 times as long as alkalines. In fact they can outlast rechargeables however once they're kaput, they're kaput. Look for them in camera shops, hardware stores, and online. A 4-pack costs $15.00.

Rechargeable

Nickel-cadmium (NiCd) - An alternative to the previously listed batteries are rechargeables. Since they can be used over and over again, you'll save money in the longrun. NiCd's are a great option in this regard. There are a variety of companies making them. Ideally they are for those who use their cameras often because these batteries can develop problems if they are not properly discharged before recharging. A 4-pack of AA's with a charger sells at $20 -30.00.

Nickel-metal hyrdride (NiMH) - As more and more consumers are purchasing their 2nd, 3rd or even 4th digital camera they've learned that NiMH batteries are the way to go. Unlike NiCd's, they can withstand random charging . Available for purchase nearly everywhere you find alkalines, a set of 4 can be bought for $10.00 or with a charger for $15-40.00. Also, there's another breed elbowing it's way into town. These are ready-to-use AA's made by Sanyo and Rayovac among others. Typically they cost $12 for a 4-pack.

Important things to remember:

Never mix battery types in a camera.
Store batteries in a cool dry place. They are perishable; extreme heat or cold can ruin them.
Don't attempt to charge alkaline, lithium or oxy nickel hyroxide batteries.
New NiCd's and NiMH's need to be charged overnight before their first use.
Don't leave your charger plugged in for an excessive amount of time.
Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Posted by Lisa Berton on August 15, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

August 19, 2007

Focus on Disney World - Cinderella's Castle

No doubt you recognize the subject of this photo. Cinderella’s Castle at the Magic Kingdom has got to be the most photographed subject in all of Disney World. In fact, I think I recently read that it is the most photographed subject in the entire world. I don’t know if that’s true or not but I wouldn’t be surprised.

Believe it or not, until my trip last December I didn’t have a single picture of this famous icon. I happened to be lingering in the park a little past closing and noticed that the castle was changing colors every 20 seconds or so. It looked so beautiful and, except for the lone Photopass photographer, there weren’t any other people around. I think I got a photo of nearly every color change. This stark white version ended up being my favorite.

Quick tip: Be careful when framing your photos, especially in the dark. I could just kick myself for cutting off the top spire of the castle in this photo. This was totally operator error on my part but I’ve also had cameras in the past that consistently produced photos that were cropped more tightly than I thought they were when I framed the shot. Now when I take photos I generally try to frame them so that my subject is just a touch further away from the edge than I really want it to be so that I’m not sorry later. It’s much easier to crop out a little extra sky than to try to manufacture something that isn’t there!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on August 19, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

August 22, 2007

Light Meter: Me and My Macro

You know all those sweet endearing songs about wanting to get close to someone? They're really just metaphors about using the macro setting. No, really, I mean it. What else could they possibly be talking about? Let us explore this feature and all get a little bit closer. C'mon!

We'll begin with the icon for the macro setting on your camera. The universal sign for macro is a flower. Most cameras have this identifiable symbol on the 4-way controller on the back of the camera. As camera designs change however, readily available controls are moved to fit below increasingly larger LCD's (screen on back) or disappear entirely and are only obtainable via the camera's main menu.

"So come on baby come on over. Let me be the one to show you." When you press the macro icon, you turn on the function that will allow you to take close-up shots of things that are small, such as flowers and coins.

Then there's the ability to get detail on something larger. For instance, normally you'd take a headshot of your child but with the macro function you can photograph his/her cute little freckled nose. Scrapbookers can go wild and take photos of each part of the face and put them together as a collage. Oh, and one small request, no one tell my mom about the option to photograph freckled noses. That'll be our little secret, OK?

pin%20dig%20mac%20sm.JPG pin%20dangle%20dig%20mac%20sm.JPG
I used the Digital Macro mode (manual setting) on a Canon Powershot SD500 to get the entire pin as well as the dangling piece by itself.

Then I used the auto mode and turned on the macro setting and got this. Although it's a clear photo, I couldn't get as close as I could with the Digital Macro setting.

dangle%20mac%20sm.JPG

pin%20no%20mac.JPG
Just to show you why macro is important, without it the pin looks like this. Blech! Who wants to buy a blob?

So my friends, go out and capture the details in everyday life and as you do you'll say to yourself, "Why do birds suddenly appear every time you are near? Just like me, they long to be close to you."

Posted by Lisa Berton on August 22, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

August 23, 2007

Focus on Disney World - Train Village

With of all the amazing rides and attractions that fill the Disney Parks, it’s easy to miss some of the less spectacular displays. Here’s one that I always find myself stopping for. Just outside of Germany in the World Showcase area of Epcot is a really cute miniature train village. It’s easy to miss this sweet little display if you’re trying to fit in as much as you can. But outside of Disney, this village would be an attraction all on its own. The next time you visit Epcot check it out.

Quick Tip: When taking a photo of something close to ground level, including children, try to get as close to the level of your subject as possible. Your pictures will look better if you are not shooting down at your subject. I always find it better to rest one knee on the ground for added stability. Now, if anyone has tips for gracefully getting back up from this position, I’m all ears!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on August 23, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

September 5, 2007

Light Meter: Keep it Simple

One of the great things about strolling down Disneyland's Main Street is that all of our senses get to enjoy it. The mouth-watering scent of peanut brittle coming from the candy shop. The sound of hooves clunking along the concrete as a horse pulls a carriage. The taste of Fantasia ice cream (R.I.P.) made of pistachio, cherry, and banana.

Walking past shops you touch the smooth buildings and once inside the Emporium feel the soft squishy stuffed Disney characters. Last but not least, we see what is going on around us. Balloons are dancing with each other, children with eyes wide open and mouths forming nothing more than a slow motion "Wow."

With all of these going on at once you can easily miss out on the simplest of things. I had a portraiture teacher who repeatedly told us to keep it simple. You don't need a lot going on to make a great shot. You can also change the mood of an image simply enough by seeing it in black and white. There's something about it that strips the picture down to it's core. Details become more noticeable. Give it a try the next time you're making your way to Tomorrowland or Adventureland. It just takes a moment to stop and see things in a whole new light.

Posted by Lisa Berton on September 5, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

September 6, 2007

Focus on Disney World - Illuminations

One of the things Disney does best is put on a spectacular fireworks show. This photo, although not one of my best, has always been one of my favorites. It’s a photo of the Illuminations fireworks show at Epcot, taken from the upstairs deck outside of Teppanyaki restaurant. I took this with a point and shoot camera on the automatic/normal setting. I used the deck railing to steady the shot. At the time, I had no idea how to take good photos of fireworks. Basically I just clicked away, hoping something might come out. This was my one lucky shot out of about twenty.

One of the questions asked most often on photography forums is “How can I take great fireworks shots?” This summer I learned that it’s actually not that hard if you follow a few simple guidelines.

1. Pick a good location to shoot from. Choose a spot that is upwind from where the fireworks will be set off so that the smoke blows away from you and out of your photograph. Remember that the fireworks will explode high in the sky, so be sure to look up when choosing your spot. Make sure that your view will not be blocked by trees, buildings or giant torches – although thoughtfully incorporating some things (like the torii gate above or a child on dad’s shoulders) will create a nice composition.

2. Use a tripod. It’s the only way to be sure you will get a sharp picture. Even better, combine the tripod with a remote shutter release.

3. Turn your flash off. The only thing it's going to light is the back of the head of the person in front of you - not exactly the effect you're going for!

4. Use the right settings. If you have a point and shoot with a fireworks setting on your camera, use that. If not, set your camera to landscape. If you can manually set your camera, the following settings are a good place to start: ISO 100, 2-3 second shutter, aperture f8-f16.

5. Take lots of photos. After the first few, take a look to make sure you’re getting what you want. Now enjoy the show!

I used these guidelines to take photos of the fireworks on the 4th of July this year. I was so pleased with the results. Finally, I have fireworks shots that I'm proud of. I can’t wait for my next trip to Disney World to photograph Wishes and Illuminations.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on September 6, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

September 7, 2007

Photographic Innoventions: Landscape or Portrait?

When taking a picture, one of the first elements I think about is whether to use a Landscape (horizontal) or Portrait (vertical) orientation. A lot depends on the subject as people and tall objects like towers or castles look better to me as a portrait. While four legged animals and sweeping vistas look better as a landscape. The second element I consider is what do I want to use the photograph for. Do I want to make a large print and hang it in the living room? Or, as in the case of the crow's nest and sail outside the Pirates of the Caribbean ride in the Magic Kingdom, will I use it as wallpaper on my computer screen.

Click for Larger Image. Copyright © Scott Thomas Photography 2007

Pirates of the Caribbean. © Scott Thomas Photography 2007
Nikon D70/18-200VR, 1/250s, f/11, 200 ISO, -0.3 EV, 38mm Focal Length

I know it's popular to want to share your photography, especialy Walt Disney World photos, with other people as computer wallpaper. Just don't get stuck in taking pictures only for computer screens. When first studying photography and later when doing wedding photography, I read over and over that by turning my camera 90 degrees and shooting my subjects in a vertical orientation, it would make my photos stand out. With that in mind, I often take both a landscape and a portrait version of a photograph.

Pirates of the Caribbean Crow's Nest. © Scott Thomas Photography 2007
Nikon D70/18-70DX, 1/160s, f/6.3, 200 ISO, +0.3 EV, 60mm Focal Length

Don't forget to shoot vertical! You'll be glad you did. So, drink up, me 'earties, yo ho!

Posted by Scott Thomas on September 7, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

September 11, 2007

Focus on Disney World - A Cup of Love

Accidents happen! Here's one that was a nice surprise when I got home. I was practicing taking night photos of the Mad Tea Party ride and had way more than I actually wanted, but I didn’t want to take the time to delete any of the extras while I was in the park. When I got home I was glad I kept them all because I discovered this sweet couple when I was looking at the full size shots on my computer. I love how the all of the teacups are a total blur except theirs. It’s almost as if they were the only ones there. I’m sure they thought they were!

Quick Tip: Don’t delete your photos until you get a chance to see them in large format. Sometimes there may be a hidden gem that you’ll be glad you saved.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on September 11, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

September 18, 2007

Focus on Disney World - Yeti Shrine

If you listen to our friends over at the WDW Today podcast, they’ll tell you that an hour or two is more than enough time to spend in the Animal Kingdom. They are exaggerating of course, but their point is that there just isn’t that much to “do” there. If it’s attractions you’re most interested in, then I’d have to agree. The only ones I make sure I never miss are Expedition Everest, Kilimanjaro Safaris and the Festival of the Lion King.

As a photographer though, I have to disagree. I think Animal Kingdom may be my new favorite park for taking pictures. I think Disney did a fabulous job on the theming in this park. The detail is incredible. At every turn there is something interesting to capture on camera. It’s also a very beautiful park. The landscaping is gorgeous and there’s water everywhere. Oh, and don’t forget the animals. Two hours may be enough time for the attractions, but I could easily fill two days with taking photos at Animal Kingdom.

Quick Tip: I spend a lot of time looking at other people’s photos. It’s a great way to learn about what kind of photos catch my interest. Once when looking at some Disney photos I came across a photo of the Yeti Shrine with Expedition Everest in the background. It wasn’t obvious, but as I studied it I noticed the shrine seemed to have a similar shape to the mountain. In that photo I couldn’t be sure so, on my next trip I made a point to check it out. Indeed, as you can see, if you stand in just the right spot you can line up the shrine and the mountain. That was a fun discovery.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on September 18, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

September 19, 2007

Light Meter: A Tale of 1 Million Megapixels Porportion

Sit back, relax, and pay close attention as this a true story.

It was a damp and dark night with the fog rolling in from the Atlantic coastline. In the distance, a shrieking owl and the rattling of chains echo in moonlight. Then all of a sudden,

Wait, wait, wait, that's the wrong story. Sorry folks. I left the computer for a few minutes and my cat got ahold of the keyboard.

A woman came into my work today with her Kodak Easyshare C653 wanting to print out her photos. We inserted the SD card into the computer and it said she had 20 photos on her card. She shook her head and told me she had LOTS of photos and she'd taken them recently. Alright, they are probably stored in the camera's internal memory. I put the SD card back into her camera and copied them from the camera to the memory card.

By doing a quick calculation in my head, I guessed the monitor would now show a total of 30 photos, give or take. I reloaded her card into the monitor and it showed a new total of 72 photos! If I was a cartoon character, my eyes would have bugged out, my jaw would have hit the floor and I would have left a mark on my forehead for smacking it too hard. Why, you ask. Because you see my friends, in order to get that many photos into 32 MB of internal memory, you have to reduce the megapixels to next to nothing.

What does this mean? It means that the photos she took of her grandkids weren't going to make good prints because they were shot a 1 MP. That's right, just 1 million megapixels.

What happened when she tried to print her photos? The computer gave her a warning that said her file size was too small to get a decent 4x6 print. In bolder terms, the kids are going to look like they're made out of Legos or if they're toddlers, Duplos.

How does this happen? It's quite simple. Someone lowered the quality level on her camera. Many pepople do this so they can get more photos on the memory card, understandably. However, they're usually not aware of the impending results. I see this happen all too often. Dads who kick themselves and friends who are saddened all by the fact that their great shot won't make a great gift.

How can I get more photos on my memory card? The larger the card, the more photos it will store. The more megapixels in your camera, the larger the file sizes. Today's cameras average 8 MP and either come with a 32MB or 64MB (megabyte) card or internal memory of the same size. That's around 8 photos at the highest resolution. Be good to yourself and get a memory card that is no less than 512MB. That will hold around 160 photos on a 7 or 8 MP camera. To double that amount, you'll want a 1GB (gigabyte) card. We'll go over memory cards in more detail in a future edition of Light Meter.

MP%20screen.jpg

The best advice I can give you is to always shoot at the highest resolution your camera has. If you have a 6 MP camera, set it to 6 MP. It may also offer a quality level showing a number of stars. Choose the most stars. This way, you'll never have to worry about changing the settings and if you can make that enormous poster of your hubby dressed as the Tooth Fairy for his surprise 40th birthday party.

Posted by Lisa Berton on September 19, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

September 21, 2007

Photographic Innoventions: Look Up!

The Crown and Crest store in Epcot's United Kingdom pavilion. © Scott Thomas Photography 2007
Nikon D70/18-200VR, 1/15s, f/3.5, 450 ISO, +1 EV, 18mm Focal Length

While "researching" family crests and name histories in the United Kingdom's Crown and Crest store in Epcot, I suddenly remembered the old Walt Disney themepark fan's adage, "Look Up!". I was rewarded with the view you see above of multicolored flags depicting family crests from Ol'England hanging from the wooden rafters.

Did you know most pictures are taken about five to six feet off the ground or eye level of most people? While I was standing for this photograph, many times after taking an initial photograph, I pause and think how I can make it better. Would a different angle help? What if I move closer? Or farther away? Would getting down on my knees or belly give the picture more impact? How about from above? Is it possible to come back at another time of day when the sun is low or at night?

Now, I do know it is very hard to do this at Walt Disney World with the crowds, kids in tow or rushing to get to a scheduled show or dining reservation. However, I encourage you to practice this exercise with subjects around your home, neighborhood or anywhere you have your camera with you. Thankfully, Disney Imagineers make it easy and all you need to do is look up...

Flags blowing in the wind above the Maharajah Jungle Trek in Animal Kingdom. © Scott Thomas Photography 2007
Nikon D70/18-200VR, 1/250s, f/8, 200 ISO, -0.3 EV, 75mm Focal Length

Posted by Scott Thomas on September 21, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

September 23, 2007

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #7

This was Challenge #6:

And here's the answer:

Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50/18-200VR, 1/60s shutter, f4.8

Many people guessed Small World for this challenge. I can see why, but it’s actually from the United Kingdom toy store in Epcot. Congratulations to Stacey Van Dyke for being the first to send in the correct answer.
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Challenge #7: Where in the world is this?

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer by clicking on the comments link below this post.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on September 23, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

September 25, 2007

Focus on Disney World - The Little Things

I happened upon this little guy having breakfast while walking on the path between Saratoga Springs and Downtown Disney. He was so intent on eating that he didn’t even mind me taking his picture. If you look really close you can see one of the buildings in the reflection in his eye.

Quick Tip: My tip for today really is a quickie - take time to notice the little things. Yup, that's it. So often we are trying to cram in as much as we possibly can at Disney World. If you're anything like me, you need a vacation from your vacation! Many of my favorite shots were taken when I slowed down and really paid attention to what was around me. And, come to think of it, those are some of my favorite memories as well.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on September 25, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

September 30, 2007

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #8

This was Challenge #7:

And here's the answer:

Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50/18-200VR, 1/500s shutter, f5.7

And the winner is… Marie Bertini! Marie was the first to correctly identify this photo as the Zendrum played by the Village Beatniks in Animal Kingdom. You can usually find them rocking out near the Flame Tree BBQ on Discovery Island.
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Challenge #8: Where in the world is this?

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer by clicking on the comments link below this post.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on September 30, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

October 2, 2007

Focus on Disney World - Composition

Most of us take a lot of snapshots when we are on vacation – quick photos of our traveling companions standing in front of their favorite attractions. We’re happy when we catch them with their eyes open or a smile on their face. Then we get home and realize that all of our photos look pretty much the same: there’s Barb and the kids in front of the castle… there’s Barb and the kids in front of Morocco… that’s the kids with Barb in front of Star Tours… oh, there’s me and the kids in front of Expedition Everest… hmmm, what’s that… I can’t quite tell, but it must be Barb and the kids!

Have you ever looked at some people’s vacation photos and felt like you could just walk right into the picture, almost as if you were there yourself? How is it that some pictures are so fun and interesting to look at? Some people seem to have a real knack for taking great photos. Well, you don’t have to be a professional photographer or have any fancy equipment to take photos that stand out from the typical tourist shots. People who take good photos just know how to compose them in a way that makes them interesting for others to view. There are people for whom this comes naturally, but for most of us it’s a simple matter of knowing a few composition techniques.

Over the next few weeks I’ll show you how, with very little effort, you can take photos that look like they were taken by a pro. You won't necessarily want to use these tips on every photo you take. After all, those fuzzy, crooked pix of droopy-eyed relatives in front of Tower of Terror make us smile! But it is fun to experiment and it doesn’t hurt to have a few tricks up your sleeve to mix things up a bit.

Quick Tip: Although there are many techniques for composing a photo, there is no right or wrong way to do it. Don’t get too caught up in trying to follow the rules of composition. The photo above was taken at the Flower and Garden Festival at Epcot last May. I didn’t use any particular technique to take it. All I did to compose this shot was move around, looking through my viewfinder until I liked what I saw. I wanted to capture the contrast between the circles created by the flower pots and the stripes created by the light in the water. When I got those two things lined up in a way that was pleasing to my eye, I snapped the photo.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on October 2, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

October 7, 2007

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #9

This was Challenge #8:

And here's the answer:

Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50/18-200VR, 1/500s shutter, f4.8

The best resort pool on property, hands down, is Stormalong Bay at the Yacht and Beach Clubs. This beached pirate ship, named the Albatross, is the pool’s slide.

Darn - no winners this week. I guess this one was kind of hard. The Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse was the most popular guess. This next one will be easy for you Hidden Mickey buffs - better get your answers in early!
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Challenge #9: Where in the world is this?

Do you know where to find this Hidden Mickey? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer by clicking on the comments link below this post.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on October 7, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

October 9, 2007

Focus on Disney World - Germany

I think I’ve mentioned this before - night photos are my favorite, especially from Disney World. This is Germany from the World Showcase in Epcot. I think Epcot is the most beautiful place after dark. I always try to make sure I am as far from the exit as possible at closing time!

Quick Tip: I recently heard someone say that they know their camera so well that they are able to use every function in the dark. I’m working on it but I’m a long way from being able to do that! In the meantime, I carry a small LED flashlight in my camera bag to help me see the controls on my camera at night.

I’ve been through three different flashlights and finally found one that works for me. The first two had buttons on the side of the flashlight that kept turning on by themselves. The one I have now has a button on the end, similar to a click type pen. It takes a bit of effort to press it on so I don’t have to worry about it illuminating the inside of my camera bag.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on October 9, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

October 14, 2007

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #10

This was Challenge #9:

And here's the answer:

Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50/55-200, 10/5000s shutter, f5.6

This Hidden Mickey is on one of the totem poles outside of Canada in the World Showcase area of Epcot. Do you see it? Jacquelyn Law did and she was first to let me know. Congratulations Jacquelyn, you're this week's winner!

For more Hidden Mickey fun be sure to check out Steve Barrett’s blog here on AllEarsNet.
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Challenge #10: Where in the world is this?

Do you know where this is? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer by clicking on the comments link below this post.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on October 14, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

October 16, 2007

Focus on Disney World - Framing Your Subject

Using objects in the foreground of your shot to frame your subject is a good way to focus attention where you want it and add depth to your photo. While in the Magic Kingdom, I used the arched doorway of Cinderella's castle to frame the passageway and the carrousel behind the castle.

A frame can help give context to your photo. A desert view framed by a rock formation really gives you a sense of place. A frame leads the viewer’s eye into the photo and may even encourage the viewer to look at it longer. You are limited only by your imagination when choosing a framing element. Here are some framing ideas to get you started.

• Architectural elements such as archways, doorways, windows, a hole in a wall, bridges and tunnels make great framing elements.

• Natural elements like rock formations, a gap in dense foliage or between trees, the overhanging branches of a tree, and even people can be used to frame your subject. For example, you can shoot over people’s shoulders or between their heads. There are plenty of opportunities for this at Disney World! You can even use shadows to frame your subject.

• The absence of objects, for instance a bare wall, can frame your subject by isolating it. This is what photographers do when they use a backdrop. Another way to isolate your subject is to use a very shallow depth of field to blur the background, creating a frame that will surround your subject.

• Patterns are often used as framing devices. Imagine the shelves in the World of Disney filled with stuffed Pooh bears. Now imagine one pink Piglet in the center of all that orange. That’s a frame.

Your frame can go completely around your subject or it might just be on one or two edges of your shot. It can be close to the edge of your photo or protrude pretty far into it, even taking up most of the space in it. The key is to keep in mind is that you are trying to focus the viewer’s attention on your subject. You don’t want your frame to overshadow the subject but in the same instance, you don’t want a wimpy frame that just ends up being a distraction. A good practice is to ask yourself if the frame will add to the photo or take away from it before you click your shutter. Experiment and see what you like.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on October 16, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

October 21, 2007

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #11

This was Challenge #10:

And here's the answer:

Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50/18-200VR, 1/20s shutter, f4

I just love all the creative signs at Disney World. This one is located on the Pangani Forest Exploration Trail in the Africa section of Disney’s Animal Kingdom. In addition to gorillas, you’ll find birds, fish, monkeys, duikers and hippos on this trail near Kilimanjaro Safaris.

I think the signs are as much fun to look at as the animals. Karen Dresser-Smith from Salem, Massachusetts must think so too – she’s this week’s challenge winner!

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Challenge #11: Where in the world is this?

Do you know where this is? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer by clicking on the comments link below this post.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on October 21, 2007 5:04 AM | Comment | Permalink

October 28, 2007

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #12

This was Challenge #11:

And here's the answer:

Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50/18-200VR, 1/400s shutter, f5.3

You’ll see the logo for Hollywood Public Works all over Disney’s MGM Studios (soon to be changed to Disney’s Hollywood Studios). This goofy guy is one of the Streetmosphere actors who entertain guests along Disney’s streets of Hollywood. Although many people correctly guessed that this photo came from MGM Studios, Amanda Campbell was the first person to reference the Streetmosphere performers. Congratulations Amanda, you’re this week’s winner!

Check out this link for an interesting article on the History of Streetmosphere.
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Challenge #12: Where in the world is this?

Do you know where this is? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer by clicking on the comments link below this post.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on October 28, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

November 2, 2007

Photographic Innoventions: Rule of Thirds

The Rule of Thirds is a compositional rule in photography and other visual arts. The rule states that an image can be divided into nine equal parts by two equally-spaced horizontal lines and two equally-spaced vertical lines. The four points formed by the intersections of these lines can be used to align features in the photograph. This aligning of a photograph's subject with these points creates more tension, energy and interest in the photo than simply centering the subject would. However, like the Pirate's Code, the Rule of Thirds is more like a guideline than an actual rule.

Below is a photograph of Off Kilter's Bassist, Mark Weldon, where I am showing you how the Rule of Thirds applies. (Note, it's not exact as I hand drew in the lines but it's close enough for our purposes.) Notice in three of the four intersections there are strong subjects close by: Mark's tilted head in the upper left and both his hands in the lower two.

Rule of Thirds.

Many people feel the application of the Rule of Thirds turns everyday snapshots into professional looking photographs. I know as I edit my photos, the ones which follow this rule stands out above ones that don't. Especially, when taking pictures of people. For instance, we've all taken pictures of a person or group of people in front of the Magic Kingdom's entrance with the train station and flowers in the exact center of the Mickey symbol. I am guilty of this. Next time, try composing the people in one of the lower intersection points. I think you'll find the photographs will appeal to you more.

Another popular mistake people make is putting the horizon right in the middle of their picture. Effectively disecting the image in two. You should try to put the horizon at either the upper or lower third of your viewfinder when composing.

By practicing the Rule of Thirds, you'll find yourself thinking a bit before pressing the shutter. Recomposing in the viewfinder or retaking an image after looking at the photo you just took. The fun of digital photography is how easy and fast it is to learn to take better pictures. Another fun project is to review past photos which you thought were okay, crop them using the Rule of Thirds and see, if by doing so, makes them better.

Now, I think I owe Mark and all of you an unobstructed look as I captured him jamming to a Celtic tune during my last trip to Walt Disney World. Off Kilter can be seen several times a day at Epcot's Canadian pavilion when scheduled to perform. Check the link for more information about the band and their schedule.

Off Kilter Bassist, Mark Weldon. © Scott Thomas Photography 2007

Off Kilter Bassist, Mark Weldon.
Nikon D70/18-200VR, 1/60s, f/5.6, 200 ISO, 0 EV, 200mm Focal Length

Posted by Scott Thomas on November 2, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

November 3, 2007

Focus on Disney World - Portrait Composition

One thing I love about taking photos of the parades at Disney World is that the Cast Members love to mug for the camera. It makes it so fun to take their pictures. This is one of my favorite photos. It was taken during Mickey’s Jammin’ Jungle Parade at the Animal Kingdom.

Quick Tip: When composing portraits, line up your shot so that your subject’s eyes are about a third of the way down from the top of the photo. This gives your viewer the sense that they are looking at your subject at eye level, regardless of how tall or short either person is.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on November 3, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

November 4, 2007

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #13

This was Challenge #12:

And here's the answer:

Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50/18-200VR, 1/500s shutter, f8

Everyone’s a winner! There were more responses than ever to this week’s challenge and everyone knew that the photo was taken in front of the France Pavilion in Epcot. Jennifer Snapp was the first one to send in her answer and she was the first person who provided the name of this French acrobat team, Serveur Amusant. Congratulations Jennifer!

You will need to be very specific with the location of this next photo in order to win. Are you up to the challenge?
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Challenge #13: Where in the world is this... exactly?

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer by clicking on the comment link below this post.
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New this month - real prizes! Everyone who sends in a correct answer to a Where in the World challenge this month will be entered in a drawing at the end of the month for a a copy of Hidden Mickeys Walt Disney World by Steve Barrett and some special AllEars® goodies! No more lurking out there - if you think you know the answer, be sure to send it in so that you don't miss out on your chance to win something very cool!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on November 4, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

November 9, 2007

Focus on Disney World - Leading Lines

One way to make the main subject of your photograph stand out is to compose your shot with leading lines. Leading lines are lines in a photograph used to guide your viewer’s eye through your photograph. When deciding how to compose your shot, consider where the line begins and ends, the direction of its flow and its angle and shape.

In this photo, my main subject is the lighthouse in front of the Yacht Club resort. There are several leading lines here: the dock, the beam of light reflected on the dock, the rope railing. Even the buildings on the horizon lead your eye to the lighthouse. The list of things to use as leading lines is endless. Even people and shadows can be used to create leading lines.

The way in which the lines flow should allow your viewer to enter the picture where the line begins and continue his or her viewing without being lead out of the photo. By changing your camera angles you can change the direction the lines in the photograph are leading. Zooming in or out can change where your line begins and ends.

You can even affect the mood of your photo by the shape of leading line you choose. Different lines are thought to have psychological meanings: vertical lines create a feeling of stature and strength and can even imply power; horizontal lines are thought to be peaceful or stable, suggesting rest; diagonal lines represent activity or motion; and curved lines are thought to be graceful and imply beauty.

Leading lines will give depth to your photo and can make an average scene look a lot more interesting. Give it a try next time you are composing a photograph.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on November 9, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

November 11, 2007

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #14

This was Challenge #13:

And here's the answer:

Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50/18-200VR, 1/1000s shutter, f8

Kudos to Tim Wingfield! He did some very creative detective work and was the first to come up with the right answer. This torch is between France and the United Kingdom in Epcot’s World Showcase.

Tim wasn’t the only person with a correct guess though. Lori Bennett also knew the location of this week’s challenge and will be entered in the drawing for Steve Barrett’s Hidden Mickey book and some other AllEars goodies at the end of this month!

I have a feeling that Challenge #14 might not be as difficult. If you think you know this one, send your answer in quickly.
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Challenge #14: Where in the world is this?

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer by clicking on the comment link below this post.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on November 11, 2007 5:01 AM | Comment | Permalink

November 18, 2007

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #15

This was Challenge #14:

And here's the answer:

Copyright © 2006 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50/18-55, 10/2000s shutter, f7.1

OK, that was an easy one! Nearly everyone knew that this was a photo of Daisy Duck hiking with Hewey, Louie and Dewey at Camp Minnie Mickey in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Congratulations to Casey Wittekind! She was quick with her response and is the official winner of Challenge #14.

Several people thought that it was Donald leading this group, not Daisy. Maybe they know something about Donald that I don’t so I included them as winners too! That means there was an amazing 105 people who sent in the correct answer this week!

Congratulations to Amiee Stooksberry, Amy Cole, Amy Debevec, Amy Eastman, Anderson Dun, Angela Haire, Anick Nolin, Anthony Dearman, April Pangburn, Ashley, Barb Murin, Bernadette Weltsek, Bethany Mattiuz-King, Bill, Blair McGee, Brian Martsolf, Brittany Irish, Brooke Kern, Carol Gamill, Caryn Schill, Casey Wittekind, Catherine, Cheri Fitz, Chloe, Christina Romano, Christine, Christy Miller, Danielle Destefano, Darlene Harmon, Debbie Hudson, Diana Blanchard, Diane Schlicht, Ed Aleszczyk, Ella Harmeyer, Emily Presgrave, Emmy-Lou, Erin Rix, Frank Finkin, Frank Pierce, Gerry, Heather Young, Heidi Summers, Isabella Pedone, Jaclyn Frye, Jacquelyn Law, James Hickey, Jane Bradley, Jane Cash, Jennifer Bourg, Jessie Romano, Jodi Higgins, Joe V., John Ames, John Derrico, Judy Koslowski, Julie Fahrner, Jyl Deshler, Karen Dressersmith, Karen Kenney, Karen Schlumpf, Kathy Love, Kelly Scott, Kristin Padalik, Laura Barnes, Lisa Beth, Lisa Forsythe-Kane, Lisa Honard, Lynne Workinger, Marianela Olivares, Marie Bertini, Mark, MaryAnn Eckenrode, Matt Roseboom, Melissa Wheeler, Michael Gainey, Michael O'Blenis, Mike Himel, Minnie Escobar, Nancy Kruczek, Nicole Gray, Rachel, Raj Boora, Richard Martin, Riva Janes, Robert Flaherty, Robert Speed, Ronald Zinke, Ryan Simms, Samantha Sim, Sandra Shaw, Sandy, Scott Button, Scott Cerino, Shari, Sharon Pierce, Shawn Hyde, Stephen Hafke, Susan Calhoun, Susie McCallister, Tammy Bozman, Tammy Petone, Terri, Theresa Rucando, Tracey Hvizdos, Vicky. All of you will be entered in the November winner's drawing.

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Challenge #15: Where in the world is this?

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer by clicking HERE!

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Everyone who sends in a correct answer to a Where in the World Challenge this month will be entered in a drawing at the end of the month for a a copy of Hidden Mickeys Walt Disney World by Steve Barrett and some special AllEars® goodies!

No more lurking out there - if you think you know the answer, be sure to send it in so that you don't miss out on your chance to win something very cool!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on November 18, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

November 20, 2007

Focus on Disney World - Orientation

One of the first things you should think about before taking a photograph is whether it will look better with a horizontal or vertical composition. Because of the way that cameras are built, it feels more natural to hold them horizontally. Consequently, most photos are composed that way. This works well when you want to emphasize the width of your subject. A horizontal composition will draw your viewer’s eye from side to side across the frame. This photo from the Magic Kingdom gives you a sense of what a gorgeous fall day it was. In addition to the train station, I was able to capture the big, beautiful sky and many of the Halloween decorations in the shot.

Depending on your subject, a vertical composition may be a more pleasing way to frame your picture. Often, tall subjects (like trees or people) look better when framed vertically. Composing vertically can be a good way to capture a more detailed view of your subject. In this vertical shot of the same scene, the emphasis is more on the beautiful clock tower and the architectural details of the station.
Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50/18-200VR, 1/1000s shutter, f4.8

If you’re not used to turning your camera on its side, it may feel a bit awkward at first. As with everything, the best way to get used to it is to practice. So next time you are taking pictures, make a point of trying both horizontal and vertical compositions on every photo. It won’t take long for you to get a sense of which subjects look better with each orientation. I often take both kinds of photographs and decide later, when I’m viewing them on my computer, which I like best. Sometimes I can't decide and end up keeping both, like I did with these two views of the train station.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on November 20, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

November 23, 2007

Photographic Innoventions: dSLR Chistmas Gift Giving

I've been looking at all the Day After Thanksgiving sales brochures online over the past few days. There are some great deals coming out for the digital camera owner on your list. Here are some of ideas:

Camera/Lens Dependent Gifts
Memory Cards
Rechargable Batteries
UV Lens Filter
Circular Polarizer Lens Filter

Non-Dependent Gifts
Micro-Fiber lens cleaning cloth
USB External Hard Drives (many under $100)

Photography books make great gifts. Here are two of my favorites.

Bryan Peterson's Understanding Exposure - is a great book on how exposure relates to your photographs. Updated for the digital age.

The Digital Photography Book - Ever wonder how to create a photo you see in a book or magazine? This book gives you "recipes" so you won't have to wonder anymore.

And some products that I've found useful.

Giottos Rocket Blaster - keep your camera's sensor dry and clean.

Cam-Pod Camera Support - don't want to lug around a tripod? This will protect and secure your camera. Great to use on top of flat surfaces like those famous Walt Disney World garbage cans.

Bogen-Manfrotto 725B Tripod - If you do want to use a tripod, I've found this one to be a good combination of light weight and sturdiness. Comes with a carrying bag with an over the shoulder strap.

Nikon 55-200mm f/4-5.6G DX VR Zoom Lens - For the Nikon owner, this is Nikon's budget Vibration Reduction (VR) lens for their dSLR systems. I own the 18-200 with similiar technology and this lens has gotten rave reviews on popular photography forums.

I'll see you in the malls at 5am on Friday! Happy Holiday Shopping Everyone!

Posted by Scott Thomas on November 23, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

November 25, 2007

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #16

This was Challenge #15:

And here's the answer:

Copyright © 2006 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50/55-200, 10/2500s shutter, f10

Christina Romano is this week’s challenge winner. Way to go Christina! With the help of her sister, Jessie and her dad, Nick, Christina was the first to let me know that this sculpture resides in Italy at Epcot’s World Showcase. This is one of those really cool details that is so easy to walk right past without noticing. It’s the top of the newel post on a staircase outside of Tutto Italia Restaurant.

Here’s another photo that shows the location a little better. The restaurant is located to the right of the staircase.

Congratulations to Melanie Sicard, Cheri Fitz, John Ames, Chloe, Garland Cox, Jody LaFerriere, Erica Adkins, Brooke Kern, Lisa F, Joan Bertini, Melissa Potter, Marsha Margerum, Melanie Sicard, Angelique Williams, Douglas Cotler, Bob Eldridge, Jill Greer, Christina, Nick and Jessie Romano. All of you will be entered in the November winner's drawing.
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Challenge #16: Where in the world is this?

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer by clicking HERE!

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No more lurking out there - if you think you know the answer, be sure to send it in so that you don't miss out on your chance to win something very cool!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on November 25, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

November 29, 2007

Focus on Disney World - Rockin' Roller Coaster

In my last tip I talked about deciding whether to orient your pictures either vertically or horizontally. Take a look at this photo of the guitar outside of the Rockin’ Roller Coaster at MGM Studios. Is this a vertical or horizontal composition?

That was actually a trick question – it’s neither! If you look closely you will see that the building behind the guitar appears to be slanted, but trust me, it wasn’t. It was my camera that was slanted. Sometimes, an unusual angle is better suited to your subject.

I wanted this photo to have a very specific look. The subject of the photo was the guitar and I wanted to emphasize the size of it. When I composed the shot I started out holding my camera vertically but then I tipped it to line up the guitar strings with the left edge of my viewfinder. I had to move both the camera and myself around quite a bit to get just the right angle. I wanted to get some of the piano keys in the photo but not the railing that is in front of them. I wanted the name of the coaster to show in the photo and I wanted the neck and strings to extend beyond the edge of the photo, near the corner, but not centered on it.

It took a little effort to get everything just right but it was worth it because I am happy with how it turned out in the end. Try taking some of your photos at different angles. You may end up with some interesting results.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on November 29, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

December 2, 2007

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #17

This was Challenge #16:

And here's the answer:

Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50/18-200VR, 10/640s shutter, f5.3

Heather Young is this week’s challenge winner. She was first to guess that this lovely jewel is on the turban of Jafar. Jafar can be found on the front of the villian’s float in the Disney Dreams Come True Parade at the Magic Kingdom. Yay Heather!

Congratulations also go out to Courtney Mitchell, Heather Young, Christina, Jess, Nick and Annette Romano, Jude Toups, Sandra Shaw, Darlene, Brooke Kern, Rita Carmack, Stacey Barboza, Chloe, Steven Gordon, Jennifer King, Pamela & Briana Bates, Betsey Pickard and Chip Vermette. All of you also gave the correct answer and were entered in the November winner's drawing.

And speaking of that November drawing… Congratulations to Blair McGee! Blair was chosen from a pool of 140 November winners to receive a copy of Hidden Mickeys Walt Disney World by Steve Barrett and some special AllEars® goodies.
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Challenge #17: Where in the world is this?

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer by clicking HERE!
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Everyone who sends in a correct answer to a Where in the World Challenge this month will be entered in a drawing at the end of the month for a copy of Hidden Mickeys Walt Disney World by Steve Barrett and some special AllEars® goodies!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on December 2, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

December 7, 2007

Live from MouseFest #1 - Focus on Disney World

MouseFest is finally here - and I get to tell you about it. Of course, that means I'll mostly be sharing photos. The first official land meets started today at the Magic Kingdom. Starting off the day was MouseFest 101, where Mike Scopa and Mark Goldhaber talked about the origins of MouseFest. They shared tips for first-timers and some great stories with a full house. They were followed by Dave Marx giving an amazingly brief Chairman's Kick-Off and the mingling began!

Next it was off to Mike Scopa's Fourth Annual Dole Whip Meet. I had never before tasted a Dole Whip and I gotta say, I'm not such a fan of that concoction. But the meet was fun none the less. We did a pretty good job of blocking traffic in front of Aloha Isle.

Following the Dole Whip meet I had to leave to pick up my friends at the airport. After several wrong turns and mishaps I made it back over to Magic Kingdom for Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party. I was just in time to make it to the Fourth Annual MVMCP fireworks meet hosted by Deb Wills from AllEars and Dave Card from Tagrel. But since it's nearly 2am here, you'll have to wait til my next post to see those photos!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on December 7, 2007 1:17 AM | Comment | Permalink

December 8, 2007

Live from MouseFest #2 Focus on Disney World

As promised, here are a few pictures from last night's Fireworks Meet at Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party. I knew it would be very crowded so I didn't bring my tripod. Unfortunately, that means these are a little shaky. I'll get some better fireworks and night photos later that I'll be sure to share but I thought you might enjoy these in the meantime.

Now for Friday's meets. We started the day with the Seventh Annual Kilimanjaro Safari meet hosted by Deb Wills from AllEars and Fred Block from MagicMeets. This was a really fun meet. There were about 250 people who attended. We all entered the ride together through the FastPass lane, filling truck after truck on the safari. What a way to start the day!

Next up I headed over to Asia for the Expedition Everest Adventure. This meet was co-hosted by several different online communities: LimeGreenCheri, Moley, and BetsyAnn from Tagrel.com, Binnie from TheMouseForLess.com and Nathan Rose from Magical Mountain and The Magical Definition Podcast.

The Dinosaur/Dino-RADP meet had an interesting twist. Yesterday, Mike Scopa challenged Matt Hochberg to ride Dinosaur, a ride he is actually terrified of. The challenge turned into a benifit for two charities that raised close to $500, donated by MouseFesters who attended MouseFest 101.

Today was a busy day with more meets than I could possibly attend. I chose to end the day by going to the Ho, Ho, Ho Lotta Lights meet, hosted by Moley, WDWNJ, Big Red, roguepony and johnnyblack from Tagrel.com. The lights were beautiful and the company was the best - what a nice way to round out the day.

Saturday is another jam-packed day. I'll be spending a big portion of it at the Dolphin for the Mega Mouse Meet. Don't forget to check back to see the potos!

A little Mousekeeping... I apologize for the photos being out of order. Without loading them one at a time, I have no control over what the order in which they show - and there just isn't enough time for that here.

If you are having trouble viewing the slideshows, try refreshing your browser or checking back later. Sometimes the slideshows are a little temperamental!

See you tomorrow!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on December 8, 2007 5:24 AM | Comment | Permalink

December 9, 2007

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #18

This was Challenge #17:

And here's the answer:

Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50/18-200VR, 1/500s shutter, f13

You’re going to have to get up early to beat the Romano family! Once again, Christina, Nick and Annette Romano have won this week’s challenge. Christina was first to let me know that this cute little fish lives on the outside of the Living Seas with Nemo building in Epcot’s Future World.

Congratulations also go out to Mary, Christina Cella, Chris Burns, Brooke Kern, Kari Svinarich, Emily Rennie, Shannon Milair, Heather Lyons, Blair McGee, Amiee Stooksberry, Belicia Dawson, Jennifer Bourg, Amanda Campbell, Anne Hainsworth, Willie Tople, RR Martin, Lisa Simons, Paula Potts, Charlotte, Shiraz Biggie, Trish Babler, Jennifer Horst, Ken Fischler, Carinne, Karen Schlumpf, Anderson Dun, Judy Koslowski, Melissa Littman, Katie Poole, Erica Adkins, Erin, gshaw7, Austin O'Blenis, Collee Dubin, Nancy Ahlsen, Deborah Shauan, Richard Uhler, Jennifer Lalli, Kelly Jean Clarkson, Cathy Adams, Melissa Wheeler, Matt Cofone, Jude Toups, Brittany Irish, David Hicks, Angie Volluz, Monica Alderman, Cheri Fitz, Jennifer Dye, Jane Bradley, Darlene Harmon, Vicki Vaught, Tim Rachuba, Catherine Chiarello, Charissa Banks, Betsey Pickard, Debbie Hudson and Sharon Pierce. All of you also gave the correct answer and will be entered in the December winner's drawing.
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Challenge #18: Where in the world is this?

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer by clicking HERE!
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Posted by Barrie Brewer on December 9, 2007 5:30 AM | Comment | Permalink

December 14, 2007

Photographic Innoventions: Hats Off to More Disney Props

Last month I did an entry on Props at Walt Disney World and asked people to send in their favorites. By far the most popular ones where all the different and fun hats you find in shops throughout the resort. As an example, my daughter is trying on a very patriotic hat in The Chapeau, a hat shop on Magic Kingdom's Main Street. This shop can monogram almost any hat and, of course, Mickey Ears for you while you wait. Hats found in World Showcase are a big hit with our Photo Blog readers from French Berets, Sombreros in Mexico, Coolie hats in China to Homburg style hats in Germany. The little outdoor shop at Rafiki's Planet Watch in Disney's Animal Kingdom has all kinds of safari hats. My daughter just had to model one for me.

Safari hat. © Scott Thomas Photography 2007
Nikon D70/18-200VR, 1/60s, f/4.5, 200 ISO, -0.3 EV, 40mm focal length

Other popular suggestions for props was RC Car from Toy Story at the All Star Movies resort, the larger than life Troll in Norway's Puffin's Roost shop, a Cinderella statue at the Marketplace in Downtown Disney similar to Buzz Lightyear I mentioned in the first Disney Prop entry and the Mickey sculpture at the Contemporary resort with Mickey ears perfect to sit kids in.

Would like to continue this topic so if you have a favorite Walt Disney World prop, I'd like to hear about it! Just leave a Comment using the link below.

Posted by Scott Thomas on December 14, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

December 16, 2007

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #19

This was Challenge #18:

And here's the answer:

Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50/18-200VR, 1/125s shutter, f5.6

Challenge #18 turned out to be a difficult one. I have lots of photos of different light fixtures at Disney World. They are always so creative and interesting. Tim Rachuba was the first of only three people who knew that this photo was of a lantern that can be found on Discovery Island in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Congratulations Tim – you’re this week’s winner. Tricia Noble and Nancy Ahlsen also had the correct answer this week. Tim, Tricia and Nancy will be entered in the December winner's drawing.
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Challenge #19: Where in the world is this?

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer by clicking HERE!
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Posted by Barrie Brewer on December 16, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

December 17, 2007

Not Quite Live from MouseFest #3 - Focus on Disney World

Another MouseFest has come and gone. I can hardly believe it's over already! I had such a fabulous time. Here are a few highlights from Saturday.

The Mega Meet is an event that is attended by pretty much everyone. It was held in a huge ballroom at the Dolphin Hotel. Disney guidebook authors, web site founders, podcasters, and members of many Disney fan communities all had tables at the Mega Meet.

Everyone who visited the tables left the event with a bag full of freebies and many people were lucky enough to win some great prizes.

One of the activities that everyone had a great time with was a bingo-like scavenger hunt sponsored by MEI and MouseFan Travel. Here are just a few of the photos I took at this meet. [Just refresh your browser if the slideshow gives you an error message.]

In addition to the official MouseFest meets, different online communities sponsor dozens of meets for their members. One of my favorite community meets is the Tagrel Karaoke meet at Kimonos in the Swan Hotel. Definately one of the more wild and crazy meets I know of, this one is incredibly fun!

That's it for today. I have just one more MouseFest installment. Check back to see my wrap up with photos from a couple of the Sunday meets.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on December 17, 2007 5:06 AM | Comment | Permalink

December 23, 2007

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #20

This was Challenge #19:

And here's the answer:

Copyright © 2005 Barrie Brewer, Fuji FinePix S5000, 1/1000s shutter, f9

This giant dinosaur calls Chester & Hestor’s Dino-Rama home. You’ll find Dino-Rama in Dinoland USA at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Stacey Van Dyke was this week’s lucky winner. She was the first one to send in her answer. Congratulations Stacey!

From the number of answers I got this week, I’d say Dino-Rama is no secret. Stacey Van Dyke, Brittany Irish, Jennifer Chartier, Austin O'Blenis, Christina Romano, Daniella and Isabells, Belicia Dawson, Jessica Romano, Willie Tople, Katie Wetzel, Amber Keen, Sherry Klinefelter, Neil Taylor, Ed Aleszczyk, Kelli Olthoff, Jude Toups, Tim Rachuba, Aruna Mohan, Bethany Cybak, Denise Cayz, Paula Potts, Carinne, Laura Barnes, April Ramey, Tricia Noble, Richard Uhler, Melissa Blackwell, Garland Cox and Jennifer Schwing will all be entered in December’s winners drawing. Good luck to you all!
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Challenge #20: Where in the world is this?

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer by clicking HERE!
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Posted by Barrie Brewer on December 23, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

December 25, 2007

Focus on Disney World - A Holiday Gift

Season's Greetings! I hope everyone is having a wonderful time with your loved ones. I have a gift to share. I hope you like it. The gift is a monthly calendar for the new year. Each month I will post a photo calendar page for the next month that you can print out and use at home or work. It's just a little bit of pixie dust to brighten the days before your next trip.

You will need to have Adobe Reader on your computer to download the calendar(s). Just click on the photo to download the calendar you want.

This one prints out at 8.5" x 11". It's handy if you need a calendar that you can write on.

This one prints out at 4.75" x 4.75", the perfect size for a CD Jewel Case frame.

I took this fireworks photo at MouseFest this month. I was standing on the outside deck of Teppan Edo - one of my favorite places to capture Illuminations. I think this particular bit of fireworks was part of the Christmas tag at the end. It was spectacular.

Speaking of MouseFest - I have one more installment of photos to share with you. Watch for it later this week. Then it's back to my regular tips after the first of the year. Happy Holidays everyone!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on December 25, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

December 30, 2007

Wrapping Up MouseFest #4 - Focus on Disney World -

One of the best times I had at MouseFest this year was attending the Illuminations Dessert Party. I was lucky enough to be a guest of Deb Wills and just loved viewing the fireworks up close and personal. The wind was not in our favor so I didn't get many fireworks photos to share but the event was great fun!

The last MouseFest meet that I attended was another Tagrel meet. I was one of the co-hosts of this meet. Granted, that makes me a little biased, but I'm CERTAIN it truly was one of the funnest meets of the week. Capture the Magic is a wacky photo scavenger hunt through the Magic Kingdom. Teams are given 90 minutes to complete their photo quests, the winners being the team with the most points at the end. My only complaint about this meet was that the hosts didn't get to play!

MouseFest was a blast! It's just so much fun to see old friends and meet new ones while getting to play at Disney World. I already miss everyone and can't wait for next year.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on December 30, 2007 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #21

This was Challenge #20:

And here's the answer:

Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/6s shutter, f4

I noticed this shelf of crayons when I was headed into Cape May Café at the Beach Club Resort. These are the crayons they give kids to play with while they are waiting for their meals. Who would have ever thought that a crayon storage space could be used so cleverly to decorate? That’s Disney for you!

Christina Romano was this week’s winner once again. Christina is getting hard to beat! She was joined by Jessica Romano, Nancy Ahlsen, Loretta Reed and Gretchen who all knew the answer and were entered in December’s winners drawing.

It’s time for another drawing winner. Congratulations to Nancy Ahlsen! Nancy was chosen randomly from a pool of 95 December winners to receive a copy of Hidden Mickeys Walt Disney World by Steve Barrett and some special AllEars® goodies.
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Challenge #21: Where in the world is this?

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer by clicking HERE!
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Posted by Barrie Brewer on December 30, 2007 8:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

January 6, 2008

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #22

This was Challenge #21:

And here's the answer:

Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/250s shutter, f8

Only one person knew that this metal hand was part of the ESPN building on the Boardwalk and that was Jessica Romano. Congratulations Jessica! I was certain this would be an easy one. This contest just baffles me (in a fun way). Whenever I think something is going to be hard, someone gets it right away. And when I think my email with be overrun by answers, I have a lonely week!

Well, it just means there’ll be better odds for winning the monthly prize this month. Let’s see how you all do on this next one. Good luck everyone!
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Challenge #22: Where in the world is this?

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer by clicking HERE!
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Posted by Barrie Brewer on January 6, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

January 8, 2008

Focus on Disney World - Sensor Dust

I found myself in quite a predicament on my last trip to Disney World. Back in the fall I took my camera in to be cleaned. It wasn't really dirty but I had bought one of those service agreements that included a yearly cleaning. So I thought it would be a good idea to take it in.

When I next used my camera I noticed little fuzzy dots on my photos. I had been taking pictures in the rain and assumed it was water spots. I gave my lens and filters a good cleaning and put away my camera.

The next time I went out shooting I had the same spots. Now I realized that what I was seeing were dust spots on my sensor. I opened the camera, blew out the inside and cleaned off the inside of my lens. I was able to get rid of all the spots except one.

That one spot was pretty easy to get rid of with Photoshop – one little click and it was gone – so I lived with it. But I knew I would be taking hundreds of photos on my trip to Florida and I didn’t want to have to deal with fixing each and every one of them. I knew I needed to take my camera back in.

Being the procrastinator that I am, I waited until just before leaving to call the place that cleaned it, or should I say, dirtied it! No problem, they could re-clean it that day and I could pick it up in the morning before heading to the airport. I was thrilled.

When I picked up the camera the next day I was told that they couldn’t get the spot off and that I’d have to send it in to get the sensor replaced. That would take 4 weeks. Well, there was no way I was going to Disney World without my camera. I’d just have to Photoshop that little spot out of my photos and get it fixed later. On to the World…

When I arrived at the Boardwalk I found that I had a great view of the pool and the Dolphin Hotel. It was a gorgeous blue day and of course, the first thing I did was unpack my camera to snap a photo of my view. I was horrified at what I saw. That small little spot was actually gone, but in its place were a number of other spots, including a big long streak down the middle of the frame. Here’s a photo of what they looked like.

It was disastrous. There was no way I would be able to Photoshop that streak out of hundreds (more than 1300 as it turned out!) of photos. Thank goodness for the internet. I was able to connect with some of my online friends who were still at home and get some advice for what I could possibly do while I was there. You were probably wondering if I was ever going to get around to a tip in this post! Well here it comes.

Be sure to check your camera equipment well in advance of any trip you are taking. Obvious, right? But how many of us really do that? I know I can’t be the only one who could make such a silly mistake. I could have saved myself a considerable amount of stress. Not to mention the vacation time I wasted trying to figure out how to solve my dilemma while I was there.

Now, if you decide not to follow my advice and you find yourself in the same predicament, here is another tip thanks to my internet friends. If you have dust on your sensor that you cannot clean off right away, set your aperture wide open. At f/3.5 the dust spots will be barely visible. This bit of advice saved my butt. The photo above was taken at f/22. This one below was taken at f/3.5.

In May I am heading to Europe on an Adventures by Disney trip. I definitely learned my lesson. I'm taking my camera in to get the sensor replaced soon.

By the way, here is a photo of that view.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on January 8, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

January 13, 2008

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #23

This was Challenge #22:

And here is the answer:

The Beauty and the Beast float at the Magic Kingdom is where you’ll find this cute little bird. There is always a lot of wonderful detail in the parade floats – something to keep in mind for future challenges! This week’s winner, Christina Daughtridge, is very observant. She was the only one who sent in the correct answer.

We've had two hard challenges in a row. I bet a lot of people will recognize this next picture.
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Challenge #23: Where in the world is this?

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer by clicking HERE!
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Everyone who sends in a correct answer to a Where in the World Challenge this month will be entered in a drawing at the end of the month for a copy of Hidden Mickeys Walt Disney World by Steve Barrett and some special AllEars® goodies!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on January 13, 2008 5:15 AM | Comment | Permalink

January 15, 2008

Focus on Disney World - February Calendar

If you read my December 25, 2007 blog, you know that my holiday gift to you is that each month I will post a photo calendar page that you can print out and use at home or work during 2008.

Here is February’s calendar page for downloading. This photo of Snow White from the parade at the Magic Kingdom was probably my luckiest shot ever. I just happened to be in the right place at the right time. The original photo wasn’t actually that impressive. I turned it into one of my favorites by cropping it and softening her features with a gausian blur effect in Photoshop.

You will need to have Adobe Reader on your computer to download the calendar(s). Just click on the photo to download the calendar you want.

This one prints out at 8.5" x 11". It's handy if you need a calendar that you can write on.

This one prints out at 4.75" x 4.75", the perfect size for a CD Jewel Case frame.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on January 15, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

January 20, 2008

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #24

This was Challenge #23:
Where in the World #23

And here's the answer:
Mexico Pavilion Detail
Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/125s shutter, f5.6

The Mexico Pavilion in Epcot’s World Showcase is the home of last week’s photo challenge. This is a close-up of a sculpture on the side of the building. Willie Tople was the first with the correct answer – way to go, Willie!

Congratulations also go out to Christina Romano, Evelyn Cowdell, Aruna Mohan, Brian G, Garland Cox, Laura Barnes, Tim Rachuba, Matt Taylor, Vickie Scioneaux, Allison DiBiase, Becky Sutton, Paula Chapman, Carrie Brenon, Barbara Zimdars, Melissa DeMonbreun, Suzie Marchetti, Kelli Vancil, Mike Stanilla, Noreen Rachuba, Ann Carr, Stacey Barboza, Jeff Warmington, and Patty Sautters. All of you also gave the correct answer and will be entered in the January winner's drawing.
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Challenge #24: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #24

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer by clicking HERE!
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Posted by Barrie Brewer on January 20, 2008 7:17 AM | Comment | Permalink

January 27, 2008

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #25

This was Challenge #24:
Where in the World #24

And here's the answer:
Casey’s Grandstand
Copyright © 2008 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/60s shutter, f4

On Main Street in the Magic Kingdom is a counter service restaurant called Casey’s Corner. Casey’s the place to go when you have a taste for a good old fashioned hot dog. Decorated with old baseball memorabilia, the seating area at Casey’s is designed to resemble a grandstand from days gone by. You can sit on the bleachers and enjoy your hot dog while watching old Mickey cartoons on a big screen.

Congratulations to Melissa Mathias, this week’s winner. In addition to Melissa, Kevin Gramlin, Mike Chappell, John Williamson, Wendy Haseneier, Sharon Pierce, Bill Nuzzo, Stacey Van Dyke, Angie Young, Pat Stockhaus, Renee Soderberg, Brenda, Sheila Filipone, Chris Maupin, Trygve Cumpston, Rhonda Jackson, Terri McAleer, Michael Belemjian, John Frangakis, Austin O'Blenis, Caryn Schill, Amie Mumpower, Jane Bradley, Doug Uccollo, Kathy Lowe, Jessica Romano, John Kaanta, Bill Bathel, Elisa Dillon, Kevin Sommer, Ed Aleszczyk, Scott Price, George Z, James Tweedy, Shelley Eggert, Brittany Vander Wal, John Lacasse, Debbi Bozeman, John Harmon, Scott Bauer, Dick Nussbaum, Lou Baker, Larry Gionet, Christina Romano, Joe Marrella, Michelle Raimist, Jim Thompson, Jos Rohrbach, John Burgess, Christine Rigney, Paul Pinzer, Bridget, Gary, Nicole Blount, Bryan McIntyre, Jim Barnick, Scott Cullen, Eric Bouchet, Buddy, Chris Thomas, Jim Greenhouse, Kathy Knight, Ed Horn, Melissa Hallenbeck, Terrie Waltich, Tommy Turner, John Pasqueralli, Steve Seibert, Mike Timmerman, Mike Holland, Phillip T. Stewart, Kelly Ware, Ken Hegburg, Kenny Cruz, Linda Norton, Cheryl Edwards, David Freemyer, Adam, Anthony Iarriccio, Jen Cerce, Bill Androckitis Jr., Cindy Bunch, Jude Toups, Jane Kubarsky, Tracey Yates, Kelly Sutton, Brian Gardner, Alyssa Nutter, Kyle Ellis, Nadine Anderson, Kevin Scharf, Todd Stevens, Liz Myrato, Heather Young, CJ, Betsy Richter, Mike Kaczanowski, Leslee Rigoli, John Zawisza, Kelly Michael, Ali, Debbie Beineman, Lori LaPointe, Michele Kaanta, Erica Andrews, David Rhoad, Margaret West, Kim Christian, Jennifer Kaufman, Mike Cross, Pollyanna Buff, Pat, Ruthie Hatch, Bob Sertic, Daniel James McCarthy, Erin McAuliffe, Mildred Popp, Regina Allen, Kim Tidwell, Marilyn Flanigan, Kandice, Charles Wright, Susan McAbee, Julie Bozeman, Cindy Dore', George Taylor, Jennifer Bowling, Debra Ulicny, Heather Cottell, Jen Carpenter, Lauren, Ellen Quinn, Emily, Michael Greer, Patty Carty, Brandy White, Kimberly Wilson, Chris Kotcamp, Krista Penno, Kurt Nank, Kristen Paolello, Malima Wolf, Jeff Swearingen, Carla Kumm, Mike Leonard, Jeff Sims, Jen Renaud, Danielle Mahoney, Dan McDonald, Ed Hogan, Vickie Woods, Brandon Wilson, Arthur Hutchinson, Mark & Meg Wilson, Julie LaChance, Elaine Johnson, Tim Rachuba, Jim Newman, Kristen Baustert, David Lizewski, Monica Maury, Joe, Larry Carter, Tom Michel, Paul Perrin, Karen, Ann Fowler, Dan Hawkins, Dennis Baylis, Katie Rohrbach, Maria Mounsey, EG, Melissa Wheeler, Ken Kleiner, Regina L Tipton, Patricia Ovesny, Rebecca Payne, Amanda Campbell, Luis Rodriguez, Lauren, Garland Cox, Nathan Firth, Mary Virginia Bartlett, Anderson Dun, Ron Harper, Nick Straka, Morgan Tosczak, Nate Clements, Frank F. Fincken III, Leslie Tischler, Jeff Kincaid, Brian Yesutis, Mary Brennan, Scott Stout, Michael Gainey, Jackie Revoir, Melissa Blackwell, Kim Moore, Tina, Jennifer Tremley, Sheila Saey, Heather McFall, Dina Hodara-Bono, Sally Fralix, Kathy Francis, Becky Rodriguez, Kelly DeLeon, Jan Thompson, Scott Weber, Tim Cooper, David Lampl, James Hajek, Katrina Drillien, Chip Vermette, Brian Martsolf, Denise Dossat, Pat Holt, Ken Fischler, Ed Crawford, Karen Korcheski, Tara Jachimczak, Dolly Desiderio, Boyd, Emily Foreman, Tara M., Jennifer Cicchetti, Denise Duggan, Joan Weisse, Christine Schuler, James Hickey, Jim Hammell, Arthur, Jamie Poynton, Chris Bertelmann, Cathy Messer, Sharon Lee, Jamie Gardner and Robert Flaherty all gave the correct answer and were entered in the January winner's drawing.

Phew - that was a lot! Now, drumroll please... the prize winner for this month is Erica Andrews.

For this next challenge, I am looking for a little more detailed of an answer than usual. There is something very special about this photo. In addition to where it is located you have to be able to tell me what is special about it. Do you know? Starting this week, please send in your answer before the end of the day on Thursday to be entered in the contest.
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Challenge #25: Where in the world is this and what is special about it?

Where in the World #25

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, by clicking HERE!
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Posted by Barrie Brewer on January 27, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

February 3, 2008

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #26

This was Challenge #25:
Where in the World #25

And here's the answer:
Cinderella’s Horse
Copyright © 2008 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/60s shutter, f5.6

This beautiful horse lives on Cinderella’s Golden Carrousel in the Magic Kingdom. There are 90 horses on this fanciful carrousel and no two are alike. What makes it special is that this is the only one with a gold ribbon on its tail, signifying that it is Cinderella’s own horse.

Congratulations to Angie Young, this week’s winner. In addition to Angie, 127 people knew that this is the tail of Cinderella's horse. Morgan Tosczak, Carol, Sharon Pierce, Sharon Martinez, Jennifer Kaufman, Cheri Fitz, Miranda Brooks, Sarah Biggs, Brandy White, Lisa Leonard, John Agnew, Vicki Vaught, Amy Szabo, Heather Young, Sarah Smee, Belicia Dawson, Melissa Ruggieri, Jennifer Bourg, Tom Carty, Kelly Scott, Mark Carty, Melissa Wheeler, Vera, Neil Taylor, Robin Fitts, David Lizewski, Hillary, Leslie Budd, Rebecca Rodgers Johnson, Lisa Jones, Tim Rachuba, Lora Myers, Lynn Barber, Bev Carson, Greg Tucker, Bill Sosebee, Sara Lewis, Corey Vail, Marie Bertini, Chris Bertelmann, Patti Sturgis, Amy Cole, Debbie Hudson, Cindy Haley Higgins, Katie Whitehurst, Debra Kuklinski, Judy Brodersen, Kimberly Wilson, Nick Straka, Melissa, Karen Robertson, Ken Fischler, Kari Kane, Kathy Larson, Jennifer Schwing, Gregg Letts, Melissa Blackwell, Julie Ellis, Sharon Lee, Noreen Rachuba, Kathryn Hughes, Bob Hendrix, Megan, Paula Potts, Kelley, Jill Caltagirone, Terri McAleer, Karen Nelson, Kerry Ross, Shiraz Biggie, Karen Litzau, Genevieve Obrien, Brian Yesutis, Marianna Clark, Amber Keen, Jacquelin Schmidt, Paul Ignudo, Jr., Laura Pranaitis, Michelle Raimist, Lynn Brown, Emily Rennie, Kali Murry, Lisa Honard, Jaime Thomson, Karen DeSantis, Phillip T. Stewart, Evelyn Cowdell, Jennifer Cox, Austin O'Blenis, Casey Lawler, Karen Dresser-Smith, Ron Renz, Claudia Rosani, Josh Rohrbach, Ann Fowler, Amanda Campbell, Archie, Annette, Jessica, Nick, Nicholas, Christina Romano, Denise Montgomery, Chip Vermette, Carinne Kight, Kimm Bunch, Paula Chapman, Luis Rodriguez, Eileen Miller, Kelli Vancil, Brian Gallant, Jennifer Henson, Deborah Shauan, Sara Beth Wade, Dave Cole, Heather Fresa, Sue Peters, Peggy Saeger, Matt Brethauer, Wendy Ewing, Robert Lee, Becky Sutton, Dianne Brady, Joy Ludtke, MIke Keneally, Jamie Poynton, Felice Ciccione, Frank Valenti, Michelle Ellis, Leslie Losee, Hollie Hinton and Kyle Ellis all gave the correct answer and will be entered in the February winner's drawing.
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Challenge #26: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #26

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, by clicking HERE!
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Posted by Barrie Brewer on February 3, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

February 10, 2008

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #27

This was Challenge #26:
Where in the World #26

And here's the answer:
Grotesque
Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 0.4s shutter, f4.5

This sculpture is in the lobby area of the Impressions de France film in Epcot’s World Showcase. I've always thought that this was a gargoyle but I just learned that this replica of a stone carving from atop the Notre Dame in Paris is actually a grotesque. Grotesques were believed to ward off evil spirits.

A gargoyle has its roots in plumbing. A gargoyle is a grotesque that directs water away from a building via a spout in its mouth. Since this carving does not have a water spout, it is technically considered a grotesque rather than a gargoyle.

Language does have a way of evolving though. Nowadays it's common and acceptable to use the term gargoyle to describe both grotesques and gargoyles. Either way, he's still kind of grotesque!

Congratulations to Kathy Love , this week’s winner. Jacquelyn Law, Mike Kaczanowski, Brian Gallant, Monica Alderman, Garland Cox, Sharon Lee, Roye Ann Morris and Allison DiBiase also all gave the correct answer and will be entered in the February winner's drawing.
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Challenge #27: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #27.jpg

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, by clicking HERE!
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Posted by Barrie Brewer on February 10, 2008 5:05 AM | Comment | Permalink

February 17, 2008

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #28

This was Challenge #27:
Where in the World #27.jpg

And here's the answer:

Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1.0s shutter, f8

Sam’s BBQ is from the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights. This spectacular holiday display can be found at Disney’s Hollywood Studios during the Christmas season.

Congratulations to Derek Carty, this week’s winner. Jim Thompson, Patty Carty, Nick Romano, Christina, Sarah and Chris Kotcamp also all gave the correct answer and will be entered in the February winner's drawing.
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Challenge #28: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #28

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, by clicking HERE!
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Posted by Barrie Brewer on February 17, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

February 24, 2008

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #29

This was Challenge #28:
Where in the World #28

And here's the answer:
ADH%20med%20size.jpg
Copyright © 2006 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 55-200, 1/400s shutter, f10

The Atlantic Dance Hall is a gorgeous art deco club on Disney’s Boardwalk. I originally fell in love with this place several years back when they played swing music. A local swing dance club would liven up the place on weekends. They wore great clothes from the 1940s and were a lot of fun to watch. Now they have 1980s DJ dance music. Most times that I’ve stopped in recently the place has been fairly deserted. It’s too bad because it really is a beautiful club. I’d love to have a big old party there someday… maybe a fiftieth birthday bash… you’ll all be invited!

Congratulations to Evelyn Cowdell , this week’s winner. Merry Shippee, Kristen Eby, Kim Lawton, Erin, Jim Szlachta, Jude Toups, Gloria Martin, Jaime Thomson, Sarah Haas, Frank F Fincken III, Jennifer Tremley, Noreen Rachuba, Melissa Ruggieri, Gregg Letts, Mike Kaczanowski, Karen Schlumpf, Katelyn Palermo, Nora Beirne, Patty Carty, Chloe' C, Jeanine Yamanaka, Dominic Cooper, Tim Rachuba, Susan, Jared Nishida, April, Leslie Budd, Elisa Dillon, Karen DeSantis, Jennifer Horst, Jane Bradley, Melissa Littman, Ken, Michelle Raimist , Ed Aleszczyk , Sue McDonald , Ann Carr , Jim Senft , Chip Vermette, Melissa DeMonbreun, Heather Young, Neil Taylor, Ruth Cookson, Larry Carter and Suzanne Brown also all gave the correct answer by Thursday and were entered in the February winner's drawing.

Here we are at the end of another month already. We had 191 winning answers this month! Unfortunately, there can only be one prize winner and this month that person is Kathy Love. Congratulations Kathy! You will receive Steve Barrett’s newest Hidden Mickey book, along with some other great AllEars gifts.
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Challenge #29: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #29

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, by clicking HERE!
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Posted by Barrie Brewer on February 24, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

February 25, 2008

Focus on Disney World - March Calendar

If you read my December 25, 2007 blog, you know that my holiday gift to you is that each month I will post a photo calendar page that you can print out and use at home or work during 2008.

Here is March’s calendar page for downloading. This photo is of the Main Street Philharmonic, a 12-piece brass and percussion band that performs on Main Street in the Magic Kingdom. Their antics are very fun to watch as they perform old-time favorites like "Take Me Out to the Ballpark" and "76 Trombones".

By zooming in close and filling the frame with the band members I was able to to create the illusion that this was a large marching band. Having band members that extend beyond the frame of the photo tricks the eye into thinking that they go on forever.

You will need to have Adobe Reader on your computer to download the calendar(s). Just click on the photo to download the calendar you want.

This one prints out at 8.5" x 11". It's handy if you need a calendar that you can write on.

This one prints out at 4.75" x 4.75", the perfect size for a CD Jewel Case frame.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on February 25, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

March 2, 2008

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #30

This was Challenge #29:
Where in the World #29

And here's the answer:
Royal Feast
Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/8s shutter, f4.8

This was a tough one! By far, the most popular guess was Pirates of the Caribbean. However, the correct answer is that it can be found in the United Kingdom pavilion at Epcot. This little piggy is part of the Royal Banquet window display in the Sportsman’s Shop across from the Rose & Crown.

Congratulations to Trygve Cumpston, this week’s winner. Sharon Lee, Alan Broome, Heather, Theresa Ruicando, Heather Coursen, Linda Crosby, Kellie Carter, Lynda Champion, Ida Williamson, Noreen Rachuba, Jorge, Sarah Haas, Tim Rachuba, Chris Freeman, Jennifer Shipley, and Michael also all gave the correct answer by Thursday and will be entered in the March winner's drawing.

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Challenge #30: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #30

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, by clicking HERE!
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Posted by Barrie Brewer on March 2, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

March 9, 2008

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #31

This was Challenge #30:
Where in the World #30

And here's the answer:
Dolphin Resort
Copyright © 2008 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/60s shutter, f4.5

You just never know… I thought everyone would guess this one right away. Not a single person got it though. Challenge #30 is from the façade of the Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort. I took this in January when I was there for the marathon.

This is such an interesting building. It was designed by Michael Graves, who has won numerous awards for his post-modern designs. I am always drawn to take photos of this hotel. There are so many ways you can take really unusual photographs of it. Normally I tend to shy away from taking any photos that are perfectly centered, but in this shot I deliberately lined everything up in a very symmetrical pattern. When you take a photo like this it’s important to be precise about the way you compose it. Even a slightly crooked line will ruin the effect.
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Challenge #31: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #31

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, by clicking HERE!
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Posted by Barrie Brewer on March 9, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

March 14, 2008

Photographic Innoventions: Before the Moment

Last week, I talked about Joe McNally's book, The Moment It Clicks. However, to start making photographs instead of snapshots, you have to think a bit before clicking the camera's shutter. It takes practice. So, when you are in a Disney park or an event and things start to happen fast or you are with family or friends and have to work fast, they become second nature to you to check the following:

1. Is my Shutter Speed correct to capture my subject properly?
2. Is my selected Focal Length or my Positioning optimal to capture my subject?
3. Have I chosen the proper Depth of Field to best highlight my subject?
4. Is my subject in Focus?
5. Have I checked the Edges of my frame to minimize distracting elements?

These were taken from 5 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Tripping the Shutter.

I would have put "Is my subject in focus" in the number one slot. For me, if the main subject of a photo is not in focus, it takes away from the impact. Sometimes it's not always possible to get all of your subject in focus. In that case, select the most important part to you. For example, for people or animals photos, always try and get the eyes sharply focused.

If you are photographing action subjects like sports, shows or parades. You want to capture the action at it's peak points. By using your camera's burst mode to shot many frames per second, you can shot an entire sequence. Later, you can find all the gems you got. Try this the next time you are photographing the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular action scenes. For something moving repetitively, like a themepark ride, it's easy to find a place and wait for the action to come to you.

In the photo below, while I like it, I wish I had waited for the light to fully fill the "rocket thrust". I'll get it next time!

Mission Space...To Infinity and Beyond. © Scott Thomas Photography 2008
Nikon D70/18-200VR, 1/250s, f/8, ISO 200, 0 EV, 32mm Focal Length

Further Reading: More Questions to Ask Before Pressing the Shutter (Some of these are redundant but not all.)

Posted by Scott Thomas on March 14, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

March 16, 2008

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #32

This was Challenge #31:
Where in the World #31

And here's the answer:
Bazaar
Copyright © 2008 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/1600s shutter, f5.6

High atop the Agrabah Bazaar in Magic Kingdom’s Adventureland is what looks to me like some kind of bird house. I wonder if that is really what it is though, or if it is something completely different. Does anyone know?

I was really surprised that no one got this answer. I thought for sure that everyone would have seen this, especially anyone who has ridden on the Magic Carpets of Aladdin. That’s two weeks in a row that I have stumped you. Let’s see how many of you know this next one.
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Challenge #32: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #32

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, by clicking HERE!
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Posted by Barrie Brewer on March 16, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

March 20, 2008

Focus on Disney World - April Calendar

If you read my December 25, 2007 blog, you know that my holiday gift to you is that each month I will post a photo calendar page that you can print out and use at home or work during 2008.

Wow - it's already time for the April calendar. Here it is, ready for downloading. This is Expedition Everest at Disney's Animal Kingdom. Isn't it just beautiful at night? Boy does Disney know lighting!

I took this photo from the seating area behind Flame Tree Bar-B-Que. It's a long exposure, for which a tripod was necessary. If you look closely, you can just barely see the blur of the train as it enters the mountain.

Because Animal Kingdom normally closes earlier than the other parks, it's hard to get night time photos - especially in summer when it stays light later. If you want to get night shots here, you really have to pay attention to when evening Extra Magic Hours are and plan accordingly.

Here's another tip - don't forget your bug repellent. It's hard to concentrate on getting a good shot when the misquitos are chowing down on your ankles!

You will need to have Adobe Reader on your computer to download the calendar(s). Just click on the photo to download the calendar you want.

This one prints out at 8.5" x 11". It's handy if you need a calendar that you can write on.

This one prints out at 4.75" x 4.75", the perfect size for a CD Jewel Case frame.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on March 20, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

March 23, 2008

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #33

This was Challenge #32:
Where in the World #32

And here's the answer:
Big Thunder Mountain
Copyright © 2008 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/800s shutter, f3.8

Yay! I was beginning to wonder if anyone was playing anymore. I'm glad to know you’re still with me. The winner for this week was Angie Young. She was the first to let me know that Challenge #32 was from Big Thunder Mountain in the Magic Kingdom. You can see the scull at the base of the mountain, just above the train engine.

More than 200 readers knew the answer to this past week’s contest and sent it in before the end of Thursday: Mike Kaczanowski, Tricia Dean, Jennifer Tremley, Michele, Mary Kuks, Allison Dibiase, Dana Schirnhofer, Heather Coursen, Kim Riley, Suzy Kozicki, Kelly Jean Clarkson, Dolly Dolores Guerrera, Lisa Ann Pompa, Anne Hainsworth, Michele Gaudet, Heidi Goodhue, Alicia Reimer, Margie Addington, Michelle Sergot, Alan Lichtman, Robert Flaherty, Mark Robertson, Barbara Turner, Kristi Humphrey, Mandy P, Melissa Rebelo, Meg Comeau, Ella, Betsey, Felice Ciccione, John Silvestri, Kate Fanning, Becky Myers, Noreen Rachuba, Elizabeth Squires, Melissa, Cathy Evans, Michelle O'connor, Jennifer Gatti, Kelli Vancil, Maureen Tavrell, Kimberly, Marcia Thompson, Chip Vermette, Melanie Woodall, Leslie Tischler, Patti Sturgis, April Haddock, Julie Ellis, Sherri Chavis, Kristi Marks, Walter N Clark, Jeremy Hardy, Trish Avery, Bev Carson, Lisa Hall, Tom Linder, Liz Moreau, Anna Eldred, Linda Kuehnle, Christina Rose Cooper, Aimee Hewitt, Kelly Geyer, Christine Mckay, Bill Sosebee, Mary Butler, Heather F, Janet Theriault, Natalie Covey, Amy, Stacey Magee, Sharon Leitgeb, Debra Kuklinski, Bob Sertic, Merry Shippee, Mary Ellen Domeseck, Todd & Lily Drebnisky, Eric Bouchet, Chris & Alison, Beth Dickerson, Sheila Saey, Barbie, Rhonda Foss, Kathy Mcneal, Paula H, Abbie, Amie Mumpower, Andrea Roberts, Kellie Carter, Jackie Purcell, Tyra Trueblood, Melesia Love, Jaime Thomson, Karyn, Patricia Ovesny, Megan K, Kristin Coon, Lisa Stamey, Chris Bertelmann, Chris Connors, Ann Carr, Bsherwin, Shirley Mclaughlin, Shannon Milair, Amanda Campbell, David Wickware, Amy Miller, Alyssa Nutter, Lora Myers, Hollie Hinton, Trish Babler, Nick Straka, Juliet, Holley Blyler, Richard Caprio, Gary Genteman, Melissa Blackwell, Diane Blanchard, Shiraz Biggie, Nicole Lassiter, Karen Dresser-Smith, Jason, Jude Toups, Melissa Mathias, Michael Gainey, Jennifer Spraker, Penny, Jen Campbell, Laura Pranaitis, Susieh1957, John, Ken Jackson, Sarah Smee, Brian Gallant, Bryan Timko, Tina Lefante, Becky Davies, Aruna Mohan, Ken Kleiner, Loretta Reed, Wendy Snelgrove, Bruce Lawson, Megan, PaulIgnudo, Lisal Hoffman, Carinne Kight, Eric Hoffman, Jessica Longdon, Jared Orth, Steve Benson, Trygve Cumpston, Ken Fischler, Rachel Sipes, Lynn Barber, Garland Cox, Sharon Lee, Barry Fisher, Lauren, Tim Rachuba, Deb Ragno, Gloria Martin, Michelle Ellis, William Ellis, Chris Thomas, Lisa Pompa, Heather B, Sabrina, Kris Dunkeson, Sharon Pierce, Brian Harrigan, Denise, Linda Mac, Christine Benoit, Jim Thompson, Hillary W, Jennifer Lalli, Leslie Budd, Katie Wetzel, Nora Beirne, Jon Ward, Kendall Huffman, Theresa Rucando, Kyle Carty, Jennifer Horst, Kelley H, Robin Fitts, Willie Tople, Kathy Lowe, Melissa Nute, Kathryn Hughes, Erica Andrews, Amy Schweizer, Maryann Eckenrode, Stacey Barboza, Emily Rogers, Judy Koslowski, Ann Fowler, Rob K, John Agnew, Caryn Schill, Rick Shea, Aaron Hale, Brittany Irish, Scott Cullen, Belicia Dawson, Karen Nelson, Patty Sindone, Evelyn Cowdell, Dan Record, Frank F Fincken III, Christina, Austin O'Blenis, Jane Bradley, Elisa Dillon, Brandy White, Darlene Harmon, Heather Young and Josh Rohrbach. Whew!

And now for the BIG winner of the month… Richard Caprio has won the March drawing for the Hidden Mickeys book and AllEars goodies! Way to go Richard!

Here’s a special shout out to Brian Stake who wrote in to say, “In relation to your question of if that is a bird house or not... that is exactly what it is! I am currently stationed overseas in Baghdad, Iraq and we have a rather large birdhouse on Forward Operating Base Victory that looks very similar to that.” Thanks Brian!
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Challenge #33: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #33

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, by clicking HERE!
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Posted by Barrie Brewer on March 23, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

March 30, 2008

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #34

This was Challenge #33:
Where in the World #33

And here's the answer:
Muppet Vision 3D
Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/3s shutter, f3.5

Brandy White was the first one to send in the correct answer this week. Brandy knew right away that our photo was from Muppet Vision 3D at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. These are the Great Gonzo Stunt Props from the pre-show area. I’d really like to know what’s in the box of really weird stuff right below it!

Congratulations to all the readers who knew the answer to this past week’s contest and sent it in before the end of Thursday: Jodi Fox, Danusia Rogacki, Andy Apple, Neil Taylor, Alan Lichtman, Carissa Totleben, Karen Pizzuta, Catherine Moore, Suzanne Davis, Traci Stocker, Bob Hite, Shannon Wright, Amy Rupp, Laura Heacox, Sharla Manglass, Kim Adams, Kathleen Mcgrath, Lisa & Tony Battaglia, Heather Coursen, J Albrecht, Kathi Allen, Wendy S, Aruna Mohan, Carrie Mcdermott, Marie Bertini, Bev Carson, Janet Kodra, Kim O'Brien, Ruth Fell, Sharon Dale, Trey Morris, Louis Grilli, Sarah Davies, Dana Hall, Lisa Edmonson, Tim Sayler, Christine Benoit, Kerri Schafer, Katie Fry, Eve Cunning, Alyse, Jennifer Tremley, John Sloboda, Jaca Rogers, Greg Gebhart, Chrissy Palmerlee, Kyle Buff, Sara Lewis, Allison Collins, Kelly Jean Clarkson, Jaime Thomson, Scott Button, Nick Straka, Marie Hodur, Katherine Gast, Tim Rachuba, Andrew Bentz, Baines Family, Kellie Carter, Bryan Timko, Chris & Alison, Erica Andrews, Kye Layton, Debbie Hicks, Kerry Ross, Charrissa Lin, Jullie Petrie, Stephanie Visco, Melissa Mathias, John Dupre, Christie Condit, Nora Beirne, Katelyn Palermo, Garland Cox, Dan Record, Hillary W, Josh Rohrbach, Jennifer Lalli, Beth Finn, Deb Ragno, Tina Lefante, Pollyanna Buff, Dave Wang, Mark Antry, John Pasqueralli, Dawn Bach, Craig Bendele, Curtis Bille, Tim Wingfield, Katie Wetzel and Monica Alderman.

Remember, to be included in the drawing you must send in your answer before the end of the day on Thursday.
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Challenge #34: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #34

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, by clicking HERE!
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Posted by Barrie Brewer on March 30, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

April 6, 2008

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #35

This was Challenge #34:
Where in the World #34

And here's the answer:
Toluca Legs Turkey Co.
Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/400s shutter, f10

I don’t think I’ll ever get used to guests walking around the parks, gnawing on giant turkey legs! I haven’t tried one myself, but I have friends who consider this a “must do” when they are at Walt Disney World. Belicia Dawson was the first one to let me know that Toluca Legs Turkey Company is located in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. That’s the answer to challenge #34.

Congratulations to all the readers who knew the answer to this past week’s contest and sent it in before the end of Thursday: William Ellis, Michelle Ellis, Jennifer Schwing, Hollie Hinton, Marie Hodur, Holley Blyler, Bryan Timko, Wendy Cacka and JR Cacka. Each of you will be entered in the April winner's drawing.
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Challenge #35: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #35

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, by clicking HERE!
_______________________________________________________________________

Everyone who sends in a correct answer to a Where in the World Challenge this month will be entered in a drawing at the end of the month for some special AllEars® goodies and a copy of PassPorter's Walt Disney World by Jennifer Marx, Dave Marx, Allison Cerel Marx!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on April 6, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

April 13, 2008

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #36

This was Challenge #35:
Where in the World #35

And here's the answer:
Dinner Time!
Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/320s shutter, f9

The Harambe Reserve at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is home to these reticulated giraffes. You can catch a glimpse of them wandering the savannah when you take a ride on the Kilimanjaro Safari. Did you know that even though the giraffe’s neck is taller than most humans are, it is still made of only seven bones? This is the same number of bones that are in the human neck. Click here to learn more about reticulated giraffes.

This week’s bragging rights go to Darlene Harmon, who was the first to send in the correct answer to challenge #35. Nice going Darlene!

Congratulations to all the readers who knew the answer to this past week’s contest and sent it in before the end of Thursday: Rusty Podbelski, Nicole, Chris Kotcamp, Kirby Double, Dawn Bach, Hollie Hinton, R.A. Curtis, Clare O'Connor, Bruce Lawson, Karen Dresser-Smith, Sara Beth Wade, Jean Smith, Leah Miscavage, Laura Brown, Sandra Miller, Sherri Pell, Kathy Smith, Walter N. Clark, Anjanette Tournillon, Gary Allen, Jami Kliethermes, Kim Wimberg, Karen Bortz, Shana Stewart, Jim Szlachta, Chris Thomas, Melissa Abreu, Allison Dibiase, Christine, Heather Coursen, Tom Swan, Kate, Kelly Nienhueser, Becky Terjung, Liz Moreau, Mary Jo Collins, Trish Babler, Diane Brunner, Joseph Zafia, Janet Theriault, Richard Nussbaum, Chris Bertelmann, Karen Akers, Debra Kuklinski, Jennifer Bogdan, Stacey Barboza, Amy Miller, Jim O., Lisa Forsythe-Kane, Lynn Hart, Mhairi Stirling, Heather Webb, Eulette Mckneely, Heather Stevens, Chad Coppess, Anita Burns, Jennifer Farrell, Jennifer, Elizabeth, Marie, Carinne, Liza Graham, Luis Rodriguez, Chris Connors, Melissa Santana, Janelle Farmer, Stephanie Visco, Kathleen Stevens, Marie Hodur, Merrie Tesh, Erica Adkins, Melissa Mathias, Julie Fahrner, Garland Cox, Doug Armstrong, Karen Korcheski, Laura Pranaitis, Emily, Wendy Snelgrove, Theresa Rucando, Cameron Lange, Dana Schirnhofer, Susan, Paula Potts, Heather Timko, Diane Blanchard, Debra Ulicny, Nick Straka, Dan Brian Huebner, Kendall Huffman, Lisa Gale, Kameo Crea, Melissa Demonbreun, Jennifer Tremley, Danusia Rogacki, Maryann Eckenrode, Vicki Vaught, Holley Blyler, John, Chris & Alison, Jennifer Bourg, Aaron Hale, Danielle Murgia, Jeff Schoeling, Brittany Irish, Belicia Dawson, Deb Ragno, Pollyanna Buff, Eli Young and Darlene Harmon. Each of you will be entered in the April winner's drawing.
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Challenge #36: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #36

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, by clicking HERE! !

Picture This! Photo Blog Survey! Take a few minutes and provide feedback on our Photo Blogs.
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Posted by Barrie Brewer on April 13, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

April 15, 2008

Focus on Disney World - May Calendar

If you read my December 25, 2007 blog, you know that my holiday gift to you is that each month I will post a photo calendar page that you can print out and use at home or work during 2008.

This photo of Buzz Lightyear was taken during the Stars and Motor Cars Parade at Disney's Hollywood Studios. That parade has now been replaced with Block Party Bash which debuted on March 14, 2008. Check out Mike Scopa's Parade Moving 101 blog for a great article on what it takes to move a parade more than 2,000 miles.

Back to old Buzz though... the trick to getting a photo like this during any of the parades is to think about the lighting. Start by scoping out your location in advance. Make sure you aren't looking into the sun. If the sun is directly behind your subject you will have a hard time seeing them because of the backlighting. They will show up as a silhouette or, in the very least, be dark and hard to see.

The best spot will have the sun a little to the side of you, on the same side that the parade is coming from. This way, the cast members won't be looking into the sun when they look at you, which means you'll get more face shots.

Second, make sure your subject won't fall under the shadow of a large building or tree. Even dappled shade isn't that great. It will cast shadows on your subject that could make the difference between a really great photo and just an ok shot. Now unfortunately, this means that you will probably also have to stay out of the shade - but as my mother always said, "we have to suffer for beauty"! I don't think she was talking about photography, but it fits.

Finally, and I know this seems silly but, use your flash. Even on a bright, sunny day a flash will help to fill in any stray shadows that may occur - like the shadow from a big costumed hand waving at the crowd.

You will need to have Adobe Reader on your computer to download the calendar(s). Just click on the photo to download the calendar you want.

This one prints out at 8.5" x 11". It's handy if you need a calendar that you can write on.

This one prints out at 4.75" x 4.75", the perfect size for a CD Jewel Case frame.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on April 15, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

April 20, 2008

Focus on Disney World - Where in the World? #37

This was Challenge #36:
Where in the World #36

And here's the answer:
China Architecture
Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/50s shutter, f5

The three-tiered, circular Hall of Prayer for Good Harvest is a one-half scale reproduction of its counterpart inside the Temple of Heaven complex near Beijing. Disney’s version of this beautiful temple serves as the entrance to Reflections of China, a 360 degree CircleVision movie.

With a telephoto lens I was able to zoom in close to pick up the detail on the outside of the building and create an unusual composition of this pavilion. The late afternoon sun really helped to give it a nice golden glow.

This week’s bragging rights go to Evelyn Cowdell, who was the first to send in the correct answer to challenge #36. Nice going Evelyn!

Congratulations to all the readers who knew the answer to this past week’s contest and sent it in before the end of Thursday: Lisa, Jessica, Colleen Gaudette, Sara Clemenson, George Zeimbekakis, Jami Kliethermes, Jennifer Schwing, Mike Venere, Bruce Lawson, Tara Lenharth, Mike Kaczanowski, Meridith Yeoman, Luis Rodriguez, Maureen U, Kevin Toomey, Doug Armstrong, Allison Dibiase, Barclay Bakkum, Lacy Gerrard, Jennifer Tremley, Carissa Totleben, Wendy May, Matt Naldzin, Tom Higbee, Sarah Phipps, Richard Nussbaum, Ed Nawrocki, Sherri Pell, Patricia Auger, Renee Soderberg, Melissa Demonbreun, Christina Rotella, Sharon Dale, Kim Watson, Kristen Chrzanowski, Jarrod Babel, Aaron Hale, Sara Lewis, Chris Bertelmann, Nick Straka, Alan Lichtman, Renee Hardiman, Heather Timko, Angela Brown, Wendy Cacka, Michael Gainey, Jen Campbell, Marie H, Jude Toups, Amy Miller, Brian Gallant, Jared Orth, Megan Stallings, Heather Young, Trish Babler, Sharon Lee, Noreen Rachuba, Melissa Hallenbeck, Ann Fowler, Karen Desantis, Dawn Bach, Kelley H, Jennifer Horst, Jerrimy Patzke, Gloria Martin, Anjanette Tournillon, Dan Record, Sherry Klinefelter, Garland Cox, Trygve Cumpston, Shannon Milair, Bill Androckitis Jr., John Dupre, Maci Schau, Amy Schweizer, Amy and Eli Young, and Pollyanna Buff. Each of you were entered in the April winners’ drawing.

It’s time again for another monthly winners’ drawing. This month’s prize is a copy of PassPorter's Walt Disney World, as well as some AllEars gifts. There were 290 correct answers this month, but unfortunately, there can only be one winner. Tina Lefante was randomly chosen to receive April’s prize package. Congratulations Tina!
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Challenge #37: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #37

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, by clicking HERE!
_______________________________________________________________________

Posted by Barrie Brewer on April 20, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

April 21, 2008

Focus on Disney World - June Calendar

If you read my December 25, 2007 blog, you know that my holiday gift to you is that each month I will post a photo calendar page that you can print out and use at home or work during 2008.

Surprise! Two calendars in one month! Several people asked on our survey that I post the calendars sooner. Well, your wish is my command. I'm jumping ahead so that you can have more time to add appointments, birthdays, etc. to your calendar before the start of the month. Now you'll have about six weeks lead time instead of two.

Thank you very much to everyone who completed our survey. We were thrilled with the number of responses we received. We really appreciate all the feedback and recommendations. If you didn't get a chance to weigh in, or if you ever have anything you want to share with us, please use the comment link at the bottom of each post. We love hearing from you!

You may recognize this as the Sorceror's Hat from Disney's Hollywood Studios. Some people love it and some hate it. To me it's just another cool thing to photograph!

You will need to have Adobe Reader on your computer to download the calendar(s). Just click on the photo to download the calendar you want.

This one prints out at 8.5" x 11". It's handy if you need a calendar that you can write on.

This one prints out at 4.75" x 4.75", the perfect size for a CD Jewel Case frame.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on April 21, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

April 27, 2008

Where in the World? #38

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This was Challenge #37:
Where in the World #37

And here's the answer:
Main Street Clock
Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/50s shutter, f5

This lovely clock is on Main Street USA in the Magic Kingdom. Angie Young was the first to send in the correct answer. Nice going Angie!

Here’s a special hello to Mrs. Mumpower’s first grade class! Like many people this week, they guessed that this clock was at the train station. That was pretty close, but not quite right. As you can see, the clock is actually about halfway down Main Street. I bet you’ll know the answer to this week’s challenge though.

Until next week, adios! (Hmm, I think that might be a hint!)

Congratulations to all the readers who knew the answer to this past week’s contest and sent it in before the end of Thursday: Becky Myers, Baines Family, Lynn Barber, Bruce Lawson, Richard Nussbaum, Mary Williams, Abbey Williams, Carl Williams, Sharon Pierce, Heather Coursen, Mike Fisk, Tina Panzarella, Sharon Dale, Nancy Hannah, Betsey Pickard, Evelyn Cowdell, Jim Greenhouse, Tim Rachuba, Jen Maciok, Mike, Jennifer Tremley, Raymond Hatch, Chris Connors, Jennifer G, Jared Orth, Trish Babler, Maryann Eckenrode, Karen Dresser-Smith, Ken Fischler, Jeff Christiansen, Mike Kaczanowski, Jacquelyn Law, Ed Nawrocki, Pat Whitson, Hollie Hinton, Chris Bertelmann, Aaron Hale, Lisa Gale, Neil Taylor, Nicole Cyr, Kelley H, Patty Lue Roosa, Holley Blyler, Sherry Klinefelter, Theresa Rucando and Heather Young. Each of you will be entered in the May winners’ drawing.
_______________________________________________________________________

Challenge #38: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #38

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, by clicking HERE!
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Posted by Barrie Brewer on April 27, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

May 3, 2008

Where in the World? #39

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This was Challenge #38:
Where in the World #38

And here's the answer:
Mexico Pavilion Epcot
Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/5s shutter, f3.5

You’ll find this fountain in the marketplace of the Mexico Pavilion in Epcot’s World Showcase. Mexico is a great place to get beautiful, colorful photographs. Because it is so dark, you have to be extra careful to keep your camera steady. For this shot I balanced the camera on the ledge at the entrance to the pavilion.

John Agnew was the first to send in the correct answer this week. Congratulations John!

Congratulations to all the readers who knew the answer to this past week’s contest and sent it in before the end of Thursday: Jennie K, Nancy, John Pasqueralli, Kevin Toomey, Gary E Genteman, Esther Muldur, Stephanie Visco, Chris Kotcamp, Mary Dannahey, Kelli Vanil, Kelley H, Reynic Compton, Amy Smith, Ramona Gaylor, Jennifer Schwing, Jennifer Bogdan, Heather Coursen, Monica Guerra, Jamie Hammond, Julie Mcclure, Renie Mistretta, Jillian Hoffman, Shana Wilson, Carinne Kight, Barclay Bakkum, Tammra Daugherty, Richard Ouellette, Melissa Olson, Julie Williams, Sara Stanfield, Emily Nussbaum, Amy C, Roye Ann Morris, Maria Rubi, Cheryl Lemmy, Martha Vance, Margaret West, Jorge Caso, Betsey Pickard, Angie Young, Sara Lewis, Debra Moscara, Alan Lichtman, Caitlin Blaney, Ana Marlett, Carrie Mcgugin, Patty Sindone, Sarah Bajek, Eric King, Sharon Dale, Lisa, Jennifer, Lisa Stamey, Michael Ciarrocchi, Brenda Double, Anjanette Tournillon, Susan Kolmetz, Jennifer Tremley, Karen Schlumpf, Katarina Whitmarsh, Denise, Marie, Kye Layton, Wendy Snelgrove, Jullie Petrie, Ashley Salters, Becky Myers, David Lizewski, Sherrytrapp, Laura Pranaitis, Emily Rennie, Vincent Maltese, Rob Stewart, Margaret Vattes, Patrick Albrecht, Sarah Smee, Catherine Chiarello, Mike Fisk, Tamara Gary, Mrs. Mumpower's Class, Kim Peters, Lisa Honard, Susan Williams, Karen Dresser-Smith, Stuart Hale, Sabrina, Sharon Lee, Julie Fahrner, Heather Timko, Julie Ellis, Anderson Dun, Jeremy Hardy, Bryan Timko, Trish Babler, Ann Carr, Jen Campbell, Sara Clemenson, Jeff Christiansen, Michael Gainey, Shirley Mclaughlin, Hollie Hinton, Josh Rohrbach, Brenda Strohmeyer, Monica Hatch, Donna Ports, Abbey Williams, Emily Russo, Danusia Rogacki, Jeff Schoeling, Cindy, Heidi Summers, Vicki Vaught, Susan Pitts, Elizabeth Akerley, Patty Carty, Kendall Huffman, Derek Carty, Garland Cox, Robin Fitts, Dave Cole, Rebecca Payne, Tim Rachuba, Rose Guarracino, Shannon Milair, Judy Koslowski, Chloe' C, Christine Dagney, Kevin Scharf, Becky Terjung, Luis Rodriguez, Chris Bertelmann, Jennifer Cox, Aaron Hale, Patty Lue Roosa, Mike Kaczanowski, Brian Haas, Scott Cullen, Belicia Dawson, John Dupre, Austin O'Blenis, Deb Staples, Damon Carter, Sherry Klinefelter, Nicole, Erin Hammer, Holley Blyler, Brandy White, Evelyn Cowdell, Brian Gallant, Anne Hainsworth, Richard Uhler, Ed Aleszczyk, Katie Wetzel, Heather Young, Jude Toups, Sandra Shaw, Caryn Schill, Melody Salemi, Erica Sipich, Brittany Irish, Jacquelyn Law , Maryann Eckenrode and Nora . Each of you will be entered in the May winners’ drawing.
_______________________________________________________________________

Challenge #39: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #39

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, by clicking HERE!
_______________________________________________________________________

Posted by Barrie Brewer on May 3, 2008 12:29 AM | Comment | Permalink

May 12, 2008

July Disney Calendar

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

If you read my December 25, 2007 blog, you know that my holiday gift to you is that each month I will post a photo calendar page that you can print out and use at home or work during 2008.

Here's an unusual shot of Illuminations from inside the China Pavilion in Epcot's World Showcase. Generally, China is considered to be one of the worst places to view Illuminations from because there is an island in Showcase Lagoon that sits right between China and where Illuminations is staged.

However, when I was at MouseFest last year, I happened to be coming out of the China pavilion right when the fireworks started and I loved the silhouette of the arch against the fireworks. But, I didn't have my tripod with me. It was my last night in WDW so I had to wait until my next visit to photograph it. This is what I captured then.

I want to try it again though, because I don't think I was in just the right place. I'd like the arch to be more centered with fewer of the trees in the frame. Next time... it's always nice to have a reason to have to go back!

You will need to have Adobe Reader on your computer to download the calendar(s). Just click on the photo to download the calendar you want.

This one prints out at 8.5" x 11". It's handy if you need a calendar that you can write on.

This one prints out at 4.75" x 4.75", the perfect size for a CD Jewel Case frame.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on May 12, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

June 8, 2008

Where in the World? #41

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This was Challenge #40:
Where in the World #40

And here's the answer:
Pirates of the Caribbean sign at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World
Copyright © 2008 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/500s shutter, f5.6

I’m back! Thanks for putting up with me taking a vacation. I had a wonderful time on my Adventures by Disney tours of Italy and France. I’ll be sharing some photos from my trip with you soon.

Several people thought that challenge #40 might have been part of the shipwreck of the Albatross at Stormalong Bay. I thought that was a pretty good guess but it wasn’t quite right. Austin O'Blenis was the first to tell me that this scrawny pirate can be found in the Magic Kingdom, keeping watch from the crow’s nest above the Pirates of the Caribbean sign.

Congratulations to Austin and all the readers who got the answer right: Nancy Bennett, Marissa D'Ambrosio, Walter N. Clark, Candace Dadswell, Bruce Lawson, Willie Tople, Lisa Pompa, Joey Roggenbeck, Robert Mcclean, Gary Burke, Mary Williams, Nan Newton, Don Williams, Chip Vermette, Jill Strand, April Haddock, Nora Beirne, Susan Mcdonald, Evelyn Cowdell, Debra Kuklinski, Dawn Bach, Jessie Romano, Marissa D'Ambrosio, Jennifer Tremley, Tabatha Lawson, Stacey Van Dyke, Juliet, Karen Dresser-Smith, Nancy Bennett, Dawn Suarez, Liz Moreau, Tom Linder, Theresa Peake, Nora Zajac, Christine Rotella, Laurie Parr, Heather Coursen, Heather Stevens, Becky Myers, Beth Dickerson, Nancy Crossman, Kate Fanning, Kelli Vancil, Beth Dye, Kim Phillips, Margaret West, Marisa Sanderson, Brian Haas, Jeremy Hardy, Carrie Gardner, JJ, Jamie Hammond, Janet Theriault, Lisa Battaglia, Jane Treppa, Tina Panzarella, Heidi Leshko, Sheila Saey, Heidi Summers, Debbie Hudson, Tim Sayler, Paul Ignudo, Jr., Alan Lichtman, Mark Carty, Brian Gallant, Noreen Rachuba, Christi Ison, Jennifer Schwing, Carinne Kight, Jen Campbell, Kimberly Kusser, Ashley Salters, Amy Cole, Mary Williams, Stacey Barboza, Marie H., Sherry Klinefelter, Kellie Carter, Ann Carr, Betsey Pickard, Chris Connors, Debra Moscara, Heather Timko, Sharon Powers, Dina Grassi, Dana Schirnhofer, Chad Ryan, Melesia Love, Robin Fitts, Emily Rennie, Wendy Snelgrove, Jesse Kline, Mike Venere, Paula Potts, Tim Rachuba, Sharon Pierces, Robin Mcconnell, Karen Schlumpf, Maryann Eckenrode, Michael Mclucas, Marie Bertini, Jaime Thomson, Ed Nawrocki, Josh Rohrbach, Christina Cella, Sharon Dale, Theresa Rucando, Amy Schweizer, Patty Carty, Hillary W, Kim Davis, Kevin Toomey, Louis And Susanpassauer, Deb Ragno, Brad Weaver, Erica Adkins, Sarah Bajek, Lynn Barber, Joseph Tortorici, Sara Lewis, Katarina Whitmarsh, Ann Fowler, Chris Bertelmann, Kelley H, Anne Hainsworth, Diane Ramos, Lisa Allison, Chloe' C., John Dupre, Garland Cox, Ed Aleszczyk, Jacquelyn Law, Kelli Olthoff, Stephanie Visco, Chris Thomas, Trygve Cumpston, Anthony Dearman, Belicia Dawson, Patty Sindone and Brandy White. Each of you were entered in the May winners’ drawing.

Jennifer Tremley’s name was randomly chosen as the winner of this month’s drawing. Congratulations Jennifer! You are now the proud owner of some special AllEars® goodies and a copy of PassPorter's Walt Disney World by Jennifer Marx, Dave Marx, Allison Cerel Marx.

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Challenge #41: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #41

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, June 12, by clicking HERE!
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Posted by Barrie Brewer on June 8, 2008 5:08 AM | Comment | Permalink

June 9, 2008

Camera Safety and Comfort Tips

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

The past two years of lugging my dslr and related equipment around the resorts and parks have taught me a few things. Here are a few tips I have compiled for travelling safely and more comfortably with your camera while vacationing at Walt Disney World. They aren’t in any particular order – just random thoughts I put into a list. Maybe there will be something here that is helpful to you.

My Top 10 Tips for Camera Safety and Comfort in Walt Disney World

1. I use a Tamrac Adventure 6 backpack to carry my camera, flash attachment, extra lens and batteries, etc. It is the perfect size – just big enough to hold everything I need, but still small enough to be comfortable all day long. I used to use a shoulder bag but after 3 days of carrying it around I found that my back really started to ache. I haven’t had that problem at all since I switched to a backpack.

2. Inside my backpack I carry a small kitchen size garbage bag just in case of downpours. It takes up very little space and I’ve only ever needed it once, but boy was I glad I had it when I did. It made a perfect raincoat for my backpack. I got totally drenched running from the awning at the International Gateway entrance of Epcot to the Friendship loading area just a few feet away – seriously, it was raining that hard. But my backpack and all my gear stayed perfectly dry. That bag is also handy for wet rides like Kali River Rapids.

3. On rides where it doesn't fit well into the holder they provide for personal items, I just put my backpack on the floor with one of my feet through one of the straps. For instance, this works well on Expedition Everest.

4. Be aware when standing in lines with a backpack. I've never had any problems but it is possible for someone to get into your pack without you knowing it. It's not something I would fret about, just don't be a space cadet either. If you're in a situation that doesn't feel comfortable, take the pack off and carry it in front of you. A trick I discovered while travelling in Europe is to weave the strings attached to the zipper pulls through each other. It’s a pain if you have to get in and out of your bag a lot but there’s no way someone can easily open your pack without you knowing it either.

5. Keep in mind that when you’re using your camera there is a lot happening around you that you can't see or might not notice. Be aware of your environment so that you don't trip over small children or get run down by an ECV. Try to get in the habit of keeping both eyes open when you are looking through your viewfinder.

6. If you're not carrying your camera on your neck, be sure to wrap the strap around your wrist for added protection, especially if you are taking photos on rides.

7. When it is on your neck, remember to hold onto it when you bend over (like to tie your shoe or look at merchandise) or you may bang it into something.

8. Another major improvement in my comfort level was when I switched to an Op/Tech camera strap - wow, was that ever a good find. Your camera will feel much lighter with this cushioned strap.

9. Be careful when using the viewfinder if you are taking pictures on bumpy rides (like on the Kilimanjaro Safari). Getting bumped in the face with a 3-4 pound weight doesn't feel that good, this I know from experience!

10. Don’t ever let your camera out of your site. For instance, don’t leave it in your stroller while you go on a ride or leave it on the table when you go to get more napkins. Just always be aware of your camera - it's easy to get distracted.

My best advice is to think of your camera as you would a newborn and you'll be fine. Well, I might not put a newborn on the floor of my Expedition Everest car but you know what I mean! What tips can you think of to share? Send them in and I’ll put together another list.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on June 9, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

June 14, 2008

Year of the Monkey

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

Epcot Flower and Garden Festival Chinese Topiary
Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/400s shutter, f5.3

The China Pavilion in Epcot celebrates the Flower and Garden Festival with a display of Chinese Zodiac topiaries. My Pic of the Week is a topiary depicting the year of the monkey. If you were born in 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992 or 2004 you’re a monkey person!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on June 14, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

June 15, 2008

Where in the World? #42

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This was Challenge #41:
Where in the World #41

And here's the answer:
Chandelier at Disney’s Boardwalk Inn
Copyright © 2008 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/60s shutter, f5.6

This amazing chandelier is located in the lobby of Disney’s Boardwalk Inn. It’s breathtaking the first time you see it. This photo only shows one quarter of the massive fixture. There are actually four giant hippocamps* and four angels holding candelabras. It really is an incredible piece of art.

*Creatures with the head and foreparts of a horse and the serpentine tail of a fish are known as hippocamps in Greek mythology. Believed to be the adult form of a seahorse, they were ridden by Poseidon. (I learn the most interesting things when I write this blog!)

Dawn Bach was the first to send in the correct answer this week! Congratulations to Dawn and all the readers who got the answer right: Kim, Nora Beirne, Michael G, Nicole Cyr, Poopymail, Eric, Heather Coursen, Jeremy Hardy, Amy, Damon Carter, Jamie Poynton, Kellie Carter, Noreen Rachuba, Tim Rachuba, Maryann Eckenrode, Ed Aleszczyk, Hillary W, Josh Rohrbach, Katelyn P, Jennifer Horst, Susan Pitts, Heather, Ed Nawrocki, Jacquelyn Law, Austin O'Blenis and Garland Cox. Each of you will be entered in the June winners’ drawing.
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Challenge #42: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #42

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, June 19, by clicking HERE!
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Posted by Barrie Brewer on June 15, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

June 16, 2008

August Disney Calendar

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

If you read my December 25, 2007 blog, you know that my holiday gift to you is that each month I will post a photo calendar page that you can print out and use at home or work during 2008.

I thought a photo from the Mexico pavilion in Epcot's World Showcase was a good fit for August, usually the hottest month of the year here in the states. Can't you just feel the balmy breeze of a warm summer evening when you look at this scene? Hmm... margarita anyone?

You will need to have Adobe Reader on your computer to download the calendar(s). Just click on the photo to download the calendar you want.

This one prints out at 8.5" x 11". It's handy if you need a calendar that you can write on.

This one prints out at 4.75" x 4.75", the perfect size for a CD Jewel Case frame.

Click here to see all of the calendars from past months.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on June 16, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

June 18, 2008

Canon's Color Accent

Light Meter by Lisa K. Berton

I dedicate this blog to all my fellow Canon peeps. :secret handshake:

Camera companies are always competing in the sense that one brand's cameras can do something that another's doesn't. One of Canon's specialties is Color Accent. You'll find it in the SD750, SD890 IS, SD 1100 IS, S5 IS, and the G9 just to name a few.

I borrowed my neighbors' Canon Powershot S5 IS (the same camera that Deb Wills shoots with) for my latest Walt Disney World adventure. I can tell you that I already knew I wanted this camera before I even borrowed it. The S5 IS is in high demand everywhere, actually, so if you can find one, buy it.

What Color Accent does it it lets you pick out a single color from those in your picture, before you take it. The remainder of the image will turn black and white with the possible exception of green, which is the default color.

Here's how it works on the Canon Powershot S5 IS.

1. Turn the Mode Dial to SCN (Scene).

2. Press the control pad's right side until you see the icon for Color Accent.

3. Press the button for ISO.

4. The liquid crystal display (LCD) will show you a bar at the bottom and inside a box, the selected color to retain. The featured color will be the last one you used or it'll be green by default if you haven't used this setting before.

5. Point your camera at the color you want the camera to keep. Make sure that color is in the center of your frame. Now press the left side of the control pad.

6. Press the ISO button again to lock in your selected color.

7. Now take your picture.

Important note: Let's say you aim your camera at a blue shirt in hopes of using blue as your accent color but when you take your photo, it's of something that doesn't have any blue in it, like a chicken. Your image will be black and white without any blue. In order for the Color Aceent to work, the color you select has to be in the image you shoot.

I started off by aiming my camera at this yellow flower.

I set the camera to pick up the bold yellow and then recomposed my shot and took this picture.

It not only picked up the yellow in the chateua but it retained green, the default color as well.

I then took this shot and you can see a pale yellow in the stones.

Shop AllEars Net's Amazon store for the Canon Powershot S5 IS.

Posted by Lisa Berton on June 18, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

June 19, 2008

Dumbo's Night Flight

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

Dumbo ride in Disney's Magic Kingdom
Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 7secs shutter, f10, ISO 200

My ride Pic of the Week was taken while whirling high above the Fantasyland crowds on Dumbo the Flying Elephant. I used an extra long shutter speed to blur the lights of Cinderella’s Carrousel as I passed by.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on June 19, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

June 22, 2008

Where in the World? #43

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This was Challenge #42:
Where in the World #42

And here's the answer:
Hollywood and Vine sign at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/10s shutter, f5.3, ISO 800

Only a few people recognized this as the sign from Hollywood & Vine, a full-service buffet restaurant in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Hollywood & Vine is home to a character breakfast and lunch featuring the Little Einsteins and JoJo and Goliath. Dinner is a non-character buffet.

Susan McDonald was the first to send in the correct answer this week! Congratulations to Susan and all the readers who got the answer right: Heather Coursen, Linda, Jamie Poynton, Cameron Lange, Tim Rachuba, Wendy Snelgrove, Bob Kowalski, Kyle, Pollyanna Buff and Dan McDonald. Each of you will be entered in the June winners’ drawing.
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Challenge #43: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #43

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, June 26, by clicking HERE!
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Posted by Barrie Brewer on June 22, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

June 24, 2008

Disney Pics of the Week: Night Photos

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This week Lisa, Scott and I will be sharing night photos in our Pic of the Week series. One of the most common questions I hear is, “When is the best time to visit Walt Disney World?” My favorite answer to that question is “After dark!” It’s less crowded, cooler and absolutely beautiful! There’s no better place to take night photos than Walt Disney World.

Grauman's Chinese Theatre at Disney's Hollywood Studios
Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1.2 second shutter, f8

My Pic of the Week is from Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This is Grauman’s Chinese Theatre which houses the Great Movie Ride. I love how dramatic the lighting makes this building look against the dark sky.

Be sure to check back on Thursday and Saturday to see Scott and Lisa's night photo picks.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on June 24, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

June 29, 2008

Where in the World? #44

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This was Challenge #43:
Where in the World #43

And here's the answer:
Anandapur Bus at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Copyright © 2006 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/160s shutter, f6.3

This highly decorated and colorful bus is actually a refreshment stand found in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. It is located on the path to Asia as you are heading towards Expedition Everest. There were many guesses but only a handful of people got it right. I’ll try to go easier on you with this week's challenge!

Darlene Harmon was the first to send in the correct answer this week! Congratulations to Darlene and all the readers who got the answer right: Karen Dresser-Smith, Karen Schlumpf, Aruna, Becky Hartness, Jen Cox, Anne-Lise Hagevig, Katt Stanley, Sharon Dale, Neil Taylor, Melissa Blackwell, Marie H., Kevin Toomey, Cameron Lange and Evelyn Cowdell. Each of you will be entered in the June winners’ drawing.
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Challenge #44: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #44

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, July 4, by clicking HERE!
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Posted by Barrie Brewer on June 29, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

July 5, 2008

Here Comes the Disney Parade!

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

Parade at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World
Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/1000s, f5.6

My Pic of the Week is from the Disney Dreams Come True Parade in the Magic Kingdom. I was standing in front of the flagpole where I was able to get an unobstructed head-on view of the Grand Marshall, Mickey Mouse, leading the parade down Main Street USA. By using my telephoto lens I was able to exaggerate the size of the castle, making it look as if it towered over the parade.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on July 5, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

July 6, 2008

Where in the World? #45

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This was Challenge #44:
Where in the World #44

And here's the answer:
Cinderella Mosaic at Disney’s Magic Kingdom
Copyright © 2006 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/25s shutter, f4

This is just a tiny portion of one of the beautiful mosaics that can be found in Cinderella’s Castle in the Magic Kingdom. There are five mosaics in the passageway under the castle that leads from Main Street USA to Fantasyland. Together the five panels tell the story of Cinderella in glass tiles. But most of you knew that, now, didn’t you?!

John Agnew was the first to send in the correct answer this week! Congratulations to John and all the readers who got the answer right: Barbara Styles, Stacey Barboza, April Ramey, Jenny Beeker, Karen Hotchkiss, Tammy Kallenbach, Nancy, Vicky, Kim Riley, Sharon Powers, Barclay Bakkum, Robert Flaherty, Cheryl, Heather Mulvihill, Felice Ciccione, Marie H., Kevin And Karyn, Marita Sarad, Roye Ann Morris, Katie Fry, Chris Freeman, Melanie, Chloe', Wendy Nelson, Tricia Noble, Kendall Huffman, Nicole Lopresti, Mary Williams, Candace & Rebecca Dadswell, Allison Dibiase, Melissa Demonbreun, Kate Fanning, Gary Allen, Michelle, Alan Lichtman, Christa Polstein, Kelli Vancil, Becky Creviston, Jami Kliethermes, Tammy Thompson, Kendra Sands, Marcie Soderlund, L Stephens, Michelle, Jamie Hammond, Genevieve Bouchard, Vicki, Kimberly Watson, Sharon, Heather Coursen, Jane Rose, Mary Ann Cook, Maria Root, Mary League, Georgine Kamradt, Clare C., Chip Vermette, Angela Haire, Michele Downs, Lee Grant, Ashley Autin, Melissa O., Patti Sturgis, Tacey Atkinson, A. Cole, Jeremy Hardy, Nicole, Luis Rodriguez, Dana Hall, Elizabeth Doda, Joy Bennett, Emily Nussbaum, C Sherwin, Charles Giles, Melissa Santana, Laney, Diane Ramos, Alicia Henderson, Sharon Leitgeb, Carinne, Janet Theriault, Heid Leshko, Vickie Scioneaux, Marie Bertini, Marjorie Schmitt, Terry Guenther, Roberta, Jennifer Cobb, Christina Rotella, Jeanette Ehlert, Brent Bolte, Don Williams, Jamie Poynton, Catherine Sinclair, Tamara Gary, Kathy Smith, Susan, Sarah Steill, Kimberly Kusser, Kathy Lutz, Karen Schlumpf, Neppie Russell, Stephen Hafke, Suzanne Brown, Erin Worley, Chris Bertelmann, Melissa Jennings, Debra Moscara, Merrie Tesh, Amy Miller, Dana Schirnhofer, Carrie Kenney, Paul Jeffers, Dennis Blackburn, Debbie Hicks, Danielle Friend, Sara, Hillary W, Laura Pranaitis, Wendy Snelgrove, Mukta, Kayla Anulies, Glenn Meyer, Emily Pickle, Jamie Difatta, Shane Stack, Karen Dresser-Smith, Michael Gainey, Angie Loranger, Theresa Rudy, Eulette Mckneely, Melissa Blackwell, Dina Grassi, Tina Lefante, Amber Keen, Scott Greene, Karen Desantis, Noreen Rachuba, Emily Rennie, Denise Cayz, Dwayne Fontenot, Tina George, Amy Schweizer, Betsey Pickard, Christi Ison, Kevin Toomey, Paul, Jodi Kloss, Vicki Vaught, Erin Hammer, Margaret Vattes, Molly Swenson, Andrea Foster, Melissa Littman, Denise O., Sarah Haas, Tim Rachuba, Kim Peters, Jaron Goldberg, Brian Gallant, Heather Young, Jeanine, Dave Cole, Neil Taylor, Mike Kaczanowski, Kye Layton, Sharon Lee, Jen Campbell, Trish Babler, Monique Fisher, Damon Carter, Debra Kuklinski, Sara Clemenson, Joanna Snow, Jennifer Siwula, Kelly M., Double Family, Kelly Jean Clarkson, Kim Davis, Caryn Schill, Ashley Salters, Sarah Biggs, Deborah Shauan, Kali Murry, Lana, Kameo Crea, Barbara Cerimele, Spring Smith, Candice Cheven, April Tucker, Gloria Martin, Lin Fales, Danusia Rogacki, Jennifer Lalli, Sharon Dale, Ali S, Michele, Jennifer Tremley, Lesley Strawderman, Amanda Campbell, Nick Straka, Allison Burgess, Judy Koslowski, Theresa Rucando, Eric Hoffman, Lisa Hoffman, Anne-Lise Hagevig, Nicole Cyr, Susan Pitts, Deb Ragno, Kelley H, Megan Krainski, Nora Beirne, Baines Family, Karen, Sabrina, Jennifer Chartier, Erica Adkins, Kayleigh Dawson, Willie Tople, Christie Condit, Annie Hulsey, Elisa Dillon, Kelli Olthoff, Anne Hainsworth, Sharon Pierce, Lizanne Allen, Chris & Alison, Susan Thompson, Christine Dagney, Garland Cox, John Dupre, Jennifer Bourg, Stephanie Visco, Scott Cullen, Belicia Dawson, Jen Cox, Katie Wetzel, Jared Orth, Brittany Irish, Danielle Murgia, Sherry Klinefelter, Dawn Bach, Cari-Ann Smith, Robin Fitts, Patty Carty, Carol B., Will, Kyle, Dan Mcdonald, Shannon Milair, Evelyn Cowdell, Bob Patterson, Victoria Janak, Julia Wickware, Brandy White, Kristi Zieh, Pollyanna Buff, Angie Young, Bryan Timko, Julie Ellis, Ken Fischler, Karen S. Nelson, Daniel Record, Allie Reckendorf, Alyssa Nutter, Tom Linder and Lisa Miller. Each of you were entered in the June winners’ drawing.

It’s time for another monthly drawing… drum roll please! And the winner is… Lizanne Allen! Congratulations Lizanne, you are the lucky recipient of a Passporter’s Walt Disney World guide and some really cool AllEars schwag!
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Challenge #45: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #45

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, July 10, by clicking HERE!
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Posted by Barrie Brewer on July 6, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

July 7, 2008

MouseFest Photowalk Invitation

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

Have you heard of photowalking yet? Photowalks are a great way to spend time with other photography enthusiasts, get a little fresh air, exercise, and have some fun taking pictures. Technically, photowalking is defined as “the act of walking [or wheeling] with a camera for the main purpose of taking pictures of things that the photographer may find interesting”. Pretty simple, eh?

You can do solo photowalks, but organized group photowalks are where it’s at! It’s really fun to spend some social time with other photographers, doing what we all love to do – taking photos!

Group photowalks are for everyone. There are no special skills or equipment required. Just show up with a camera, ANY kind of camera, and that’s all you need. You can use a simple point and shoot that fits in your pocket or a fancy dslr with a whole bag of lenses. Really, the only thing you need to join a photowalk is the desire to walk with other people and take photos.

It works like this: someone schedules a photowalk and then invites other people to join in, usually via the internet. On the day of the walk, everyone gets together at the starting place and time and introduces themselves. After a few minutes of milling about and discussion, the group takes off on their pre-determined route to take photos. Everyone goes at their own pace, chatting and chimping* along the way. When they reach the end of the route, there is likely to be a little time to gather and do some more chimping, usually over coffee or beer! Then when everyone goes home, they upload the photos they took to a group site on the internet so they can see what everyone else thought was interesting enough to photograph. And that’s how friendships are formed!

Well, Lisa, Scott and I are all about photography, fun and making friends, so we’ve decided to host a photowalk at MouseFest this year and you’re all invited! You’re all going to MouseFest, right? Of course you are! So, here are the details:

What: Picture This! Photowalk meet at MouseFest 2008
Date: Saturday, December 13, 2008
Time: 7am - 9am (yup – that’s the crack of dawn!)
Where: Disney's Boardwalk - meet at the Wedding Pavilion, finish at Boardwalk Bakery
Who: Everyone is welcome!

We’ve set up a Flickr group with more information, including a map of the route we’ll be following. That is where everyone can RSVP, introduce ourselves and chat about the meet. Afterwards, this is where we’ll share our photos. You’ll need to join Flickr to RSVP but it’s free and safe, I promise. You won’t get any spam from them.

We’re very excited about this meet and hope to see lots of you there. And who knows, there may even be some goodies available for those who attend**.

For a more in-depth article on photowalking, check out this post by Jeff Revell. To find a photowalk in your area check out photowalking.org or just google “photowalk” and your city.

Don’t forget to RSVP on the Flickr site.

*looking at each other’s photos on their lcd screens
**There's nothing wrong with a little bribery!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on July 7, 2008 7:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

July 10, 2008

The Lost Expedition - Expedition Everest

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

Expedition Everest queue at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/20s shutter, f3.8, 800 ISO

I think the best queue in all of Disney World has got to be the Expedition Everest queue at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. I could spend hours in that line just looking at all the amazingly cool stuff! Of course, that doesn’t keep me from using Fastpass whenever possible!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on July 10, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

July 13, 2008

Where in the World #46

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This was Challenge #45:
Where in the World #45

And here's the answer:
Disney’s Old Key West Lighthouse
Copyright © 2003 Barrie Brewer, Nikon E3100, 18-200VR, 1/470s shutter, f5.6

This lighthouse can be found at Disney’s Old Key West Resort. I took this photo from a boat that Sutree and I rented at Downtown Disney. Tooling around on the waterways near the resorts is a really nice way to enjoy a lazy afternoon.

Anne Hainsworth was the first to send in the correct answer this week! Congratulations to Anne and all the readers who got the answer right: Theresa Rucando, Sharon Pierce, Debbie Hudson, Ed Aleszczyk, Denise, Merrie Tesh, Jennifer Haas, Garland Cox, Tom Armstrong, Chris &Amp Alison, Heather Young, Chris Bertelmann, Sharon Dale, Austin O'blenis, Nicole Cyr, Christie Condit, Neil Roeper, Tim Rachuba, Debra Kuklinski, Jen Cox, Tim Wingfield, Eric Hoffman, Lisa Hoffman, Michael Gainey, John Agnew, Brian Gallant, Lauren Cameron, Noreen Rachuba, Trish Hennessy, Christi Ison, Cameron Lange, April Pangburn, Sue Vanvleet, Jaron Goldberg, Deb Ragno, Colleen Gaudette, Rusty Podbelski, Double Family, Emily Chronas, Dana Hall, Betsy Podbelski, Katelyn P., Amy Miller, Laura Pranaitis, Ken Geiser, Barbara Styles, Michael Barker, Sara Clemenson and Marie H. Each of you will be entered in the July winners’ drawing.

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Challenge #46: What is this young woman doing and where in the world is she?

Where in the World #46

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, July 17, by clicking HERE!
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Posted by Barrie Brewer on July 13, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

July 14, 2008

September Disney Calendar

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

If you read my December 25, 2007 blog, you know that my holiday gift to you is that each month I will post a photo calendar page that you can print out and use at home or work during 2008.

These flower baskets hang from the poles lining the pathway in front of Germany in Epcot's World Showcase. I wanted to capture the beautiful red geraniums but I deliberately composed the shot to include part of the building in the background as well. This is a nice way to take a not so typical vacation photo and a more interesting flower photo at the same time.

You will need to have Adobe Reader on your computer to download the calendar(s). Just click on the photo to download the calendar you want.

This one prints out at 8.5" x 11". It's handy if you need a calendar that you can write on.

This one prints out at 4.75" x 4.75", the perfect size for a CD Jewel Case frame.

Click here to see all of the calendars from past months.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on July 14, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

July 15, 2008

Disney Pics of the Week - Resorts

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This week Lisa, Scott and I will be sharing photos from the Disney resorts in our Pic of the Week series. Disney really does it right when it comes to creating beautiful and interesting resorts. Some are fun and whimsical, while others are just plain gorgeous. From the value resorts to the deluxe, there’s no shortage of fabulous photo opportunities. It was hard to narrow it down to just one photo this week.

Disney’s Boardwalk Villas and Inn
Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 8.7secs shutter, f8, ISO 200

I decided to lead us off with my favorite place to stay, the Boardwalk Villas in Walt Disney World. This Disney Vacation Club resort is especially pretty at night with all the lights reflecting on the water. It was so quiet and peaceful when I took this shot. It’s hard to imagine all the bustling activity that took place earlier in the evening.

Don’t forget to check back on Thursday and Saturday to see Lisa and Scott’s resort photo picks.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on July 15, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

July 20, 2008

Where in the World #47

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This was Challenge #46:
Where in the World #46

And here's the answer:
Fossil Fueler Game in Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Copyright © 2006 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/500s shutter, f5.6

She’s playing Fossil Fueler, one of the wacky carnival games in Chester & Hester’s Dino-Rama! Located in Dinoland USA in Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Dino-Rama is a fun and colorful tribute to the carnivals we all grew up loving.

Evelyn Cowdell was the first to send in the correct answer this week! Congratulations to Evelyn and all the readers who got the answer right: Angie Young, Patty Carty, Ed Aleszczyk, Garland Cox, Jennifer Tremley, John Dupre, Erica Andrews, Alyssa Nutter, Nicole Cyr, Stephanie Visco, Jen Cox, Karen Hotchkiss, Sharon Pierce, Amie Mumpower, Chloe, Diane Furtado, Damon Carter, Kerianne Magee, Karen Nelson, Dave Cole, Diane Ramos, Matt Martel, Dan Hwkins, Jon Sander, Cheryl Costello, Gretchen Payne, Cecilia Hale, Monica Hatch, Stacy Patterson, Erin Hammer, Ken Fischler, Krista Knowles, Eileen Krause, Kimberly Watson, Victor Gonzalez, Candice Cheven, Wendy Snelgrove, Evan Dworkin, Clay Anthony, Dan Potts, Kathleen Catalano, Melissa Destito, Noreen Rachuba, Paul Murray, Georgine Kamradt, Kerry, Greg Stevens, Hans Reller, Shandy Brickler, Rickey Yarbrough, Melissa Rebelo, Ron Lewis, Paul Hicks, John Pasqueralli, Paul King, Kelly Montgomery, Carrie Dienna, Mike Gillardi, P. Carrick, Jennifer Saylor, Crista Kostrzewski, Frank Miller, Jennifer Woods, Chris Courson, Mike Haeberle, Tara Mccauley, Lisa Mcbride, Gary Huusko, Howard Schreiber, Mary Wangerin, Kenneth Cox, Jessica Persinger, Heather M, Jason Scott, Katie Wetzel, Missy Carroll, Karen Durisch, Chuck Sands, Michael, Jay Lewandowski, Austin O'blenis, Tim Davis, Sara Wood, Liz Barranco, Marita Sarad, Heather Kelly, Jennifer Kelly, Janet Druce, Sharon Runciman, Dawn Erickson, Jennifer Lindhurst, Brian Miller, Renee Zarycki, Allen Cohen, Leslee Rigoli, Dawn-Marie Badame, Jennifer Romano, Dave Peters, Gerry Spooner, Bruce Hinterleitner, Rachel E, Jessica Reed, Pam Bowyer, Brent Nyberg, Angie Grimes, Andrew Browne, Nicole Laskin, Jaime Breheny, J. Thomas, Ashley Mucha, Joseph Ragona, Vickie Mcgee, Shannon Watts, Cedric Ching, Kenny Cruz, Emily Nussbaum, Eddie Cusson, Samantha Sim, Jennifer Smith, Christopher Handa, Heather Fresa, Lori Theilken, Mhairi Stirling, Scott Sabourin, Katy Pettis, Janet Deane, Katherine Smith, Cathie Hemesath, Mary Falcone, Wendy, Karen Dresser-Smith, Robert Layman, Robert, Melissa Allore, Jessica Gottlieb, Kari Morrison, Kathy Howitz, Dominic, Kimberly Mueller, Jay Bellemare, Clarissa, Karen Schlumpf, Sabrina Rolle, Gay Krahling, Danusia Rogacki, Jennifer Hacker, Alica Byars, Kenny, Debbie Hicks, Judy Brodersen, Deborah Rich, Dustin Woodley, Chris Maslowski, Catherine Zori, Amanda Mccandless, Emma Poprock, Kellie Carter, Jacqueline Sadler Rose, Kirk Sheppard, Kathy Maffei, Tom Wert, Mark Mills, Dawn Godaire, William Lawson, Colette Seller, Andrea Mayo, Debbie Roach, Jeremy Forehand, Larry Gandy, Christina Cella, Diane Bunn, Lisa Mcneill, Adam Boerhave, Jason Comegys, Kelly Zanauskas, Erick, Sara Cavallon, Jessica, Shawn Guthrie, Frank H, Mark Mainka, Tacey Atkinson, Renee Lambertus, Brian Berger, Maryanne Taragano, Sean Hyland, Eric, Erin Morrison, Jillian Clark, Gail Perry, Marie Rogowski, Brett, Kyle Bliven, Kelly Mager, Christy Hodge, Cat Birkett, Apryl Thomas, Susan, Amanda Heller, Joe Mahoney, John Pulcini, Diana Archambault, Joel Freer, Rebecca Sacks, Sal Derose, Kristin Trexler, Kevin Csizmar, Kelly Johnston, Anderson Dun, Kim V, Gino Caputa, Jon Strickland, Ann Toback, Erich, Cori Lehman, Jennifer Stafford, Catherine Zori, Garry Lauter, Julie Lauter, John Dean, Melina Hillis, Joe O'leary, Tom Koval, Jamie Poynton, Daniel Brace, Holley Blyler and Jess Ro. Each of you will be entered in the July winners’ drawing.

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Challenge #47: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #47

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, July 24, by clicking HERE!
_______________________________________________________________________

Posted by Barrie Brewer on July 20, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

July 26, 2008

Fantasyland Detail

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

Detail2_Cinderellas_Carrousel_at_Disneys_Magic_Kingdom.jpg
Copyright © 2008 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/13s shutter, f5.6

My Pic of the Week detail comes from Cinderella’s Golden Carrousel in the Magic Kingdom. Along the top of the carrousel are several vignettes, each featuring a different scene from Cinderella’s story. These are just a couple of the panels. I’ll leave the rest for you to capture on your next trip.

Detail1_Cinderellas_Carrousel_at_Disneys_Magic_Kingdom.jpg
Copyright © 2008 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/20s shutter, f5.6

Posted by Barrie Brewer on July 26, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

July 27, 2008

Where in the World #48

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This was Challenge #47:
Where in the World #47

And here's the answer:
Epcot Character Spot Sign at Walt Disney World
Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/500s shutter, f11

This is the sign for the relatively new Character Spot sign in Epcot. Head to Innoventions West to meet Mickey Mouse and his friends. It’s a great place to have your pictures taken with the characters. Each picture will feature you and your favorite character in front of a brightly colored backdrop depicting the different lands of Future World.

Cari-ann Smith was the first to send in the correct answer this week! Congratulations to Cari-ann and all the readers who got the answer right: Cori Lehman, Katie Shade, Holley Blyler, Patty Lue Roosa, Emma Poprock, Erica Andrews, Dan Molczyk, Ann Fowler, Eric Bouchet, Linda Mac, Robin Fitts, Bob Kowalski, Sharon Pierce, Tom Durr, Abby Steill, Rebekah Anguish, Sharon Dale, Jenn G., Jennifer Romano, Jennifer Tremley, Hillary W, Lynn Brown, Tim Rachuba, Amanda Penhale, Noreen Rachuba, Stephanie Christiansen, Kerianne Magee, Cara Richards, Dina Grassi, Jon Thomas, Tom Koval, Patrick Albrecht, Heather Frase, Melissa Rebelo, Juliann Ruffing, Heather Coursen, Allison Caputa, Brian Gallant, Diana Archambault and Jessica Reed. Each of you will be entered in the July winners’ drawing.

_______________________________________________________________________

Challenge #48: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #48

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, July 31, by clicking HERE!
_______________________________________________________________________

Posted by Barrie Brewer on July 27, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

July 31, 2008

Sitting Pretty!

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

Chimpanzee at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/1000s shutter, f5.6

I chose this chimpanzee from Disney’s Animal Kingdom as my Pic of the Week for mammal week. This was as close a shot as I could get with my 18-200mm telephoto lens. What I wouldn’t do for a 400mm lens at Animal Kingdom!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on July 31, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

August 3, 2008

Where in the World #49

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This was Challenge #48:
Where in the World #48

And here's the answer:
Warden Post at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/1000s shutter, f4

This is Warden Post No. 4, another example of how much detail Disney includes in its attractions. When you exit Kilimanjaro Safari at Disney’s Animal Kingdom you pass by this post. Only a few people got this one right. I bet a lot of people miss this because they're in a rush when they get off the Safari to get to the next attraction.

Paula Potts was the first to send in the correct answer this week! Congratulations to Paula and all the readers who got the answer right: Amy Miller, Zack Dameron, Anne Hainsworth, Melina Hillis, Regina Reed, Jessica Reed and Kim Riley. Each of you were entered in the July winners’ drawing.

It’s monthly drawing time again! This month’s winner is Andrea Mayo! Congratulations Andrea, you are the lucky recipient of a Passporter’s Walt Disney World guide and some really cool AllEars schwag!

For this week's challenge, everyone will have two weeks to get your guesses in. I won't be posting a new challenge until August 17 because I am on vacation. See you then!
_______________________________________________________________________

Challenge #49: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #49

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, August 14, by clicking HERE!
_______________________________________________________________________

Posted by Barrie Brewer on August 3, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

August 5, 2008

Disney Pics of the Week - Characters

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

Who is more popular than a rock star, signs more autographs than a movie star and poses for more photos than a top model? Just about any Disney character, that’s who! This week in our Pic of the Week series, Lisa, Scott and I will be sharing a few of our Disney character photos with you.

Winnie the Pooh at Disney’s Magic Kingdom
Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 1/320s shutter, f9

Winnie the Pooh is one of my favorite characters. What a lovable ball of fur! Here he is on his float in the Disney Dreams Come True Parade at the Magic Kingdom.

Don’t forget to check back on Thursday and Saturday to see Lisa and Scott’s character photo picks.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on August 5, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

August 10, 2008

Looking for Where in the World?

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

Hi everyone! In case you missed my note last week, I am on vacation and won't be posting a Where in the World challenge this week. That means you you still have time to enter last week's challenge!

See you next Sunday!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on August 10, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

August 11, 2008

October Disney Calendar

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

If you read my December 25, 2007 blog, you know that my holiday gift to you is that each month I will post a photo calendar page that you can print out and use at home or work during 2008.

I love going to Walt Disney World in autumn. The weather is perfect, the crowds are low, the decorations are fabulous - and who doesn't love Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party or the Food and Wine Festival?! This photo was taken by the train station in the Magic Kingdom. The Mayor was one of several jack-o-lantern people on display.

You will need to have Adobe Reader on your computer to download the calendar(s). Just click on the photo to download the calendar you want.

This one prints out at 8.5" x 11". It's handy if you need a calendar that you can write on.

This one prints out at 4.75" x 4.75", the perfect size for a CD Jewel Case frame.

Click here to see all of the calendars from past months.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on August 11, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

August 24, 2008

Where in the World #50

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This was Challenge #49:
Where in the World #49

Hi everyone – I’m back! Thanks for putting up with my extended vacation. The last Where in the World photograph that I left you with was a can of Blort. I don't know what Blort is exactly, but I'm sure it's quite the tasty treat. You’ll find it in this vending machine in the queue of Monster’s, Inc. Laugh Floor Comedy Club. Mike Wazowski is the one-eyed monster host of this show, located in Tomorrowland at the Magic Kingdom.

Kevin Cowdell was the first to send in the correct answer this week! Congratulations to Kevin and all the readers who got the answer right: Cheryl Costello, Sherry White, Neil Taylor, Sharon Dale, John Dupre, Carrie Butcher, Debbie Hudson, Deb Ragno, Brian Yesutis, Laura Dawson, Jen Cox, Jennifer Bourg, Holley Blyler, Regina Reed, Jessica Reed, Patty Lue Roosa, Kevin Toomey, Theresa Rucando, Austin O'blenis, Chloe', Nick Straka, David And Melissa Lizewski, Kelly Jean Clarkson, Bob Kowalski, Maria Madsen, Maria Madsen, Jeff Christiansen, Vivian Abraham, Kristen Gainey, Angela Brown, Linda Mac, Melina Hillis, Craig Webb, Trish Babler, Dave Cole, Clarissa M, Kameo Crea, Sharon Lee, Kevin Scharf, Cam Lange, Irene Kleintop, Becky Terjung, Chris And Alison, Paul Ignudo, Jr., Rob Stewart, Melissa Mathias, Pat Moritz, Jean Scanlon, Emma Poprock, Bryan Henshaw, Shane Stack, Emily Pickle, Jamie Poynton, Pollyanna , Sara Lewis, Anna Keene, Willie Tople, Emily Nussbaum, Jeremy Hardy, Aruna Mohan, Bryan Timko, Glenn Meyer, Jerelyn Flores, Michael Pyle, Heather Fresa, Heather Coursen, Marita Sarad, Suzanne Queen, Victor Gonzalez, Rachel Law, Katie Whitehurst, Marcie Soderlund, Jennifer Smith, Noreen Rachuba, Christine Bishop, Krista Penno, Tim Rachuba, Melissa Rebelo, Scott Estabrook, Nicole S., Beth Dye, Michelle Castro, Nicole Lopresti, Stephanie Visco, Heather Timko, Jeff Dunn, Sharon Andersen, Chris Bertelmann, Catherine Chiarello, Angela Horan, Allison Caputa, Baines Family, Angie Young, Jeremy Coto, William Reed, Cindy Dore', Bic Bakkum, Julie Fahrner, Lee Anastasi, Deborah Shauan, Tom Koval and Alecia Brown. Each of you will be entered in the August winners’ drawing.

_______________________________________________________________________

Challenge #50: Where in the world is this?
Where in the World #50
Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, August 28, by clicking HERE!
_______________________________________________________________________

Posted by Barrie Brewer on August 24, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

August 25, 2008

The Time is Right

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

Here’s a quick tip: If you change time zones when you travel to Walt Disney World, remember to reset your camera’s clock so that your photos are stamped with the correct time. It didn’t occur to me to do this when I travelled to Europe. I organize my photos by date and I had a heck of a time sorting them out when I got home. Now, I’m careful to make sure the camera has the right time set before I start taking photos in a new locale.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on August 25, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

August 26, 2008

Disney Pics of the Week - Indoor Photography

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This week’s theme for Pic of the Week is indoor photography. Although it might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of taking pictures in Walt Disney World, there are loads of great indoor photo opportunities. Lisa, Scott and I have chosen three very different examples to share with you this week.

In the World Showcase at Epcot, Mexico is a wonderful place to practice your indoor photography. This dragon is one of the Oaxacan wood carvings that you’ll see when you first enter the pavilion.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on August 26, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

August 31, 2008

Where in the World #51

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This was Challenge #50:
Where in the World #50

The Walt Disney World Railroad boasts an old-fashioned steam train that makes three stops as it circles the Magic Kingdom. This photo was taken in the Frontierland train station, which is between the Main Street and Toontown stations.

I’m so surprised that no one guessed it this week. This is all in fun and I just hate it when everyone is stumped. From now on, if I don’t have a correct guess by Tuesday, I’ll post a hint. If you don’t know the answer, be sure to check back on Wednesday to see if I’ve offered up any last minute clues!

It’s monthly drawing time again! This month’s winner is Cheryl Costello! Congratulations Cheryl, you are the lucky recipient of a Passporter’s Walt Disney World guide and some really cool AllEars schwag!
_______________________________________________________________________

Challenge #51: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #51

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, September 4, by clicking HERE!
_______________________________________________________________________

Everyone who sends in a correct answer to a Where in the World Challenge this month will be entered in a drawing at the end of the month for some special AllEars® goodies and a cool Disney book!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on August 31, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

September 6, 2008

Wish You Were Here!

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

There is no such thing as a simple sign in Disney World. My Pic of the Week is the postal and shipping area in Disney’s Wonderful World of Memories store at Downtown Disney. I’m notoriously bad at writing but this just makes me want to send someone a postcard!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on September 6, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

September 7, 2008

Where in the World #52

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This was Challenge #51:
Where in the World #51

Tom Sawyer’s Island is a great place to take a little breather from all the hectic activity in the rest of the Magic Kingdom. Did you know that the gears inside Harper’s Mill creak to the tune of Down by the Old Mill Stream? There’s Tom’s raft resting on the shore in front of the mill. I wonder what he’s up to.

Trygve Cumpston was the first to send in the correct answer this week! Congratulations to Trygve and all the readers who got the answer right: Sharon Pierce, Sharon Pierce, Angie Young, Jaclyn Koller, Theresa Rucando, Ed Aleszczyk, Bryan Timko, Alex Karr, Holley Blyler, Emily Rennie, John Dupre, John Agnew, John Dawes, Chris Bertelmann, Dylan Weidner, Belicia Dawson, Scott Cullen, Krystal Thomas, Jen Cox, Heather Young, David And Melissa Lizewski, Charles Wright, Zoe Cullen, Kayleigh Dawson, Neil Taylor, Andrew Michuda, Kendall Huffman, Jennifer Tremley, Denise, Brad Weaver, Frank F. Fincken Iii, Bonnie Smith, Terri Thornton, Angela Brown, Kelly Jean Clarkson, Hillary W, Emma Poprock, Michelle Thompson, Rick Shea, Melina Hillis, Jessica Reed, Regina Reed, Fred Williams, Shannon Milair, Amy Lucas, Brian Haas, Patty Lue Roosa, Sharon Dale, Tim Rachuba, Leah Rollins, Gary E Genteman, Dan, Cara Richards, Jennifer Schwing, Amy Miller, Paul Ignudo, Jr., Cameron Lange, Garland Cox, Mike Kaczanowski, Amanda Campbell, Tim Sayler, Liz Moreau, Alicia Henderson, Chip Vermette, Evelyn Cowdell, Anne Hainsworth, Barclay Bakkum, Matt Naldzin, Heather Coursen, Wendy Kinkade, Allison Dibiase, Suzanne Brown, Jill, Wayne Haney, Ed Charbonnet, Sarah Haas, Lee Anastasi, Scott Button and Scott Button. Each of you were entered in the September winners’ drawing.

An honorable mention goes to Zack Dameron for the most creative wrong answer of the week – thanks for the laugh Zack!
_______________________________________________________________________

Challenge #52: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #52

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, September 11, by clicking HERE!
_______________________________________________________________________

Everyone who sends in a correct answer to a Where in the World Challenge this month will be entered in a drawing at the end of the month for some special AllEars® goodies and a cool Disney book!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on September 7, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

September 11, 2008

End of the Line

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

My Pic of the Week is a photo from my favorite Disney mountain, Expedition Everest, in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. We had nearly reached the summit when I took this picture of the damaged track up ahead. Obviously, there was no getting past that point! Hopefully, it’ll be fixed and we’ll make it past the Yeti when I return to Anandapur for another go at reaching the top.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on September 11, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

September 14, 2008

Where in the World #53

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This was Challenge #52:
Where in the World #52

This mischievous tiki can be found at the Polynesian Resort. He stands outside the window peering in at his mate who is behind the register in BouTiki. BouTiki is the resort's largest gift shop, located on the first floor of the Great Ceremonial House.

Amy Young was the first to send in the correct answer this week! Congratulations to Amy and all the readers who got the answer right: Deb Ragno, Sharon Dale, Debbie Hudson, Joey Price, Cameron Love, Sara Lewis, Denise, Hillary W, Joy Johnston, Alicia Henderson, Chris Bertelmann, Tim Rachuba, Jennie Connelly, Melea Broekers, Paul Ignudo, Jr., Laura Pranaitis, Gaylin Chev, Derek Carty, Jennifer Horst, Sarah Haas, Sunny Skyes, Jamie Poynton, Jenny Anderson, Heather Coursen, Jeremy Reichelt, Mary Dannahey, Hope Schiemer, Linda Mac, Chris Freeman, James Boyd and Kim Steiner. Each of you were entered in the September winners’ drawing.

_______________________________________________________________________

Challenge #53: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #53

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, September 18, by clicking HERE!
_______________________________________________________________________

Everyone who sends in a correct answer to a Where in the World Challenge this month will be entered in a drawing at the end of the month for some special AllEars® goodies and a cool Disney book!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on September 14, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

September 15, 2008

November Disney World Calendar

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

If you read my December 25, 2007 blog, you know that my holiday gift to you is that each month I will post a photo calendar page that you can print out and use at home or work during 2008.

The adorable Winnie the Pooh will be your companion for the month of November! I took this photo of Pooh as he rode on his float in the Disney Dreams Come True Parade at the Magic Kingdom.

You will need to have Adobe Reader on your computer to download the calendar(s). Just click on the photo to download the calendar you want.

This one prints out at 8.5" x 11". It's handy if you need a calendar that you can write on.

This one prints out at 4.75" x 4.75", the perfect size for a CD Jewel Case frame.

Click here to see all of the calendars from past months.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on September 15, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

September 16, 2008

Disney Pic of the Week: Black and White

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

A good way to add drama to a digital photograph is to convert it to black and white. This week we’ll showcase some black and white photos from around Walt Disney World and Disneyland. Look for Lisa and Scott’s Pic of the Week photos on Thursday and Saturday.

I really love black and white when it’s applied to portraits of people. This is Malificent in front of Cinderella’s Castle at the Magic Kingdom. She looks very foreboding, doesn’t she? She really knows how to give someone the eye!

In the color version of this photo, your attention is drawn very much to the bright colors of her make-up and costume. Also, the color in her staff and some of the stage decorations that are behind her are distracting.

When I converted it to black and white, the photo looked much more striking and dramatic. In black and white, the distractions become less noticeable and the focus of the photo is shifted to Malificent’s intensity. Anytime you can draw attention to an emotion in your photo it is going to make it more interesting. Black and white photography can really help to do that.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on September 16, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

September 21, 2008

Where in the World #54

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This was Challenge #53:
Where in the World #53

This supply boat is docked on Discovery River in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. As you go over the bridge from Discovery Island to Asia, you will see this boat over the right side of the bridge. It is docked behind Drinkwalla, a snack stand that sells cokes and chips.

Sharon Pierce was the first to send in the correct answer this week! Congratulations to Sharon and all the readers who got the answer right: Sharon Dale, Shannon Milair, Alex Karr, Kelly Jean Clarkson, Lindamac, Psychic Powers Lisa, Olivia Lobaugh, Alicia Henderson, Dave Cole and Elizabeth. Each of you were entered in the September winners’ drawing.

_______________________________________________________________________

Challenge #54: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #54

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, September 25, by clicking HERE!
_______________________________________________________________________

Everyone who sends in a correct answer to a Where in the World Challenge this month will be entered in a drawing at the end of the month for some special AllEars® goodies and a cool Disney book!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on September 21, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

September 27, 2008

Sitting Pretty

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

For my Pic of the Week I chose this photo of a Snowy Egret I took in Frontierland last January. He didn’t seem to have a care in the world. Perhaps that is because he has feathers instead of fur!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on September 27, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

September 28, 2008

Where in the World #55

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This was Challenge #54:
Where in the World #54

As you can see, this birdhouse is on the Splash Mountain Fastpass distribution sign, located in front of the Frontierland railroad station.

Sharon Dale was the first to send in the correct answer this week! Congratulations to Sharon and all the readers who got the answer right: Caryn Schill, Ryan Stevens , Emma Poprock, Nancy, Chloe', Zach C, Josh Rohrbach, Alicia Henderson, Tim Rachuba, Jennifer Schwing, Marie H, Lorrie, Nancy, Katarina Whitmarsh, Kellie Carter, Nicole Cyr, Jamie Poynton, Lee Anastasi, Chip, Kameo Crea, Karen Schlumpf, Michael Joel Gainey, Sharon Leitgeb, Dana Hall, Veronica, Chip Vermette, Mickey Eckert, Heidi Summers, Emily, Heather Coursen, Christine Claeys, Diane Jones, Holley Blyler, Karen Dresser-smith, Emily Rennie, Diane Ramos and Kim Garabed. Each of you were entered in the September winners’ drawing.

Holley Blyler gets a special mention for entertaining me this week. Holley went out on a limb, WAY out on a limb, when she provided her answer. Thanks for the laugh Holley!

It’s monthly drawing time again! This month’s winner is Heather Young! Congratulations Heather, you are the lucky recipient of a fabulous Disney book and some really cool AllEars schwag!

_______________________________________________________________________

Challenge #55: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #55

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, October 2, by clicking HERE!
_______________________________________________________________________

Everyone who sends in a correct answer to a Where in the World Challenge this month will be entered in a drawing at the end of the month for some special AllEars® goodies and a cool Disney book!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on September 28, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

October 2, 2008

Japan Pavilion

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

Choosing a Pic of the Week for architecture was really hard! Walt Disney World is an amazing place to take architectural photos and I love that kind of photography. So let’s just say I have more than a few photos that would have worked for this week. Narrowing it down to just one was definitely a challenge. I ended up picking this night time photo of the Japan pavilion in Epcot for no other reason than it makes me remember being there.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on October 2, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

October 5, 2008

Where in the World #56

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This was Challenge #55:
Where in the World #55

Getting a hot dog at Casey’s Corner on Main Street USA is a “must do” whenever I am in the Magic Kingdom. You can always find this guy hanging out in front just waiting for someone to holler, “Batter up!”

Scott Price was the first to send in the correct answer this week! Congratulations to Scott and all the readers who got the answer right: Aj Perras, Alicia Henderson, Allie Reckendorf, Allison Dibiase, Allison Meredith Lowry, Amber Keen, Amy Lucas, Angela Jones, Anna Mansfield, April Ramey, Barbie Lawless, Belicia Dawson, Brenda, Brian Petras, Brian Sherwin, Brian Yesutis, Bruce Arnold, Bruce Lawson, Cameron Love, Cari-ann Smith, Carol Donoghue, Caryn Schill, Chris And Alison, Chuck Sands, Colin And Katy Christenson, Damon Carter, Dan Record, Dana Schirnhofer, Danielle Destefano, Dave Cole, Debbie Hudson, Derek Carty, Diane Furtado, Dina Grassi, Double Family, Ed Nawrocki, Elizabeth Akerley, Emma Poprock, Erin Hammer, Erin Kubicki, Glenn Meyer, Heather Coursen, Heather Mcfall, Holley Blyler, Jackie K, Jared Orth, Jeanne Cundiff, Jen & Ansley, Jen Cox, Jen Norris, Jennie Connelly, Jennifer H., Jennifer Tremley, Joanna Snow, Joy Johnston, Jude Toups , Julie Fahrner, Kameo Crea, Katarina Whitmarsh, Kate, Kathy Francis, Kathy Lutz, Katie Rich, Kellie Harpel, Ken Fischler, Ken Kleiner, Kevin Cowdell, Kevin Toomey, Kim Garabed, Kristopher Nixon, Kye Layton, Leslie Dameron, Marcie Soderlund, Marie Phillips, Mark Trigg, Matthew Waga, Merrie Tesh, Michael Gainey, Michael Nanney, Michelle Buchecker, Michelle Whalen, Neil Taylor, Noreen Rachuba, Paul Amico, Paul Ignudo Jr, Penny Urell, Richard Nussbaum, Robin Fitts, Ron Harper, Ronni, Rusty Podbelski, Ryan Stevens , Sarah Steill, Scott Cullen, Scott Junkin, Shane Stack, Sharon Dale, Sharon Leitgeb, Sharon Powers, Shelly Ranney, Stuart Hale, Tammie Sparks, Theresa Rucando, Tim Rachuba, Tim Sayler, Tom Koval, Tom Linder, Tommy Carty, Trish Babler, Vicki Vaught and Wendy Snelgrove. Each of you have been entered in the October winners’ drawing.

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Challenge #56: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #56

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, October 9, by clicking HERE!
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Everyone who sends in a correct answer to a Where in the World Challenge this month will be entered in a drawing at the end of the month for some special AllEars® goodies and a cool Disney book!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on October 5, 2008 5:06 AM | Comment | Permalink

October 7, 2008

Disney Pic of the Week - Fireworks

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

The theme for this week’s Pic of the Week is Fireworks! The fireworks shows in Disney parks are truly spectacular events. This week, Lisa, Scott and I will be sharing some of our favorite photos from the breathtaking fireworks displays that Disney produces.

This photo was taken at Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, during Hallowishes. I like standing right in front of the Partners statue, where the Photopass photographers set up shop, to photograph the fireworks at the Magic Kingdom. The backlighting of the castle and the fireworks gives me a nice silhouette of the statue from this spot.

Here’s a tip. It’s usually pretty crowded there at the hub, but if you set up your tripod right next to the Photopass photographer’s tripod, people will be less likely to stand right in front of you or trip on your tripod legs. Give it a try next time you are there.

How to Photograph Fireworks

Posted by Barrie Brewer on October 7, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

October 12, 2008

Where in the World #57

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This was Challenge #56:
Where in the World #56

This one turned out to be trickier than I thought. So many people guessed It's a Small World or the Enchanted Tiki Room, Under New Management in the Magic Kingdom. I took this photo during Finding Nemo, the Musical in Disney's Animal Kingdom. I finally had a chance to see it when I was in Walt Disney World a couple of weeks ago. What a great show - I just loved it!

Sharon Dale was the first to send in the correct answer this week! Congratulations to Sharon and all the readers who got the answer right: Eli And Amy Young, Brandy White, Alicia Henderson and Bonnie Smith. Each of you have been entered in the October winners’ drawing.

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Challenge #57: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #57

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, October 16, by clicking HERE!
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Everyone who sends in a correct answer to a Where in the World Challenge this month will be entered in a drawing at the end of the month for some special AllEars® goodies and a cool Disney book!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on October 12, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

October 13, 2008

December Disney World Calendar

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

If you read my December 25, 2007 blog, you know that my holiday gift to you is that each month I will post a photo calendar page that you can print out and use at home or work during 2008.

Peace on Earth. I can't think of a better sentiment to bring a close to 2008. This beautiful scene is from the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights at Disney's Hollywood Studios.

I can hardly believe it's been nearly a year since I began posting these calendars! I've had such fun putting them together and sharing them with you that I've decided to go ahead and keep posting them into 2009. Hope that's ok with you!

You will need to have Adobe Reader on your computer to download the calendar(s). Just click on the photo to download the calendar you want.

This one prints out at 8.5" x 11". It's handy if you need a calendar that you can write on.

This one prints out at 4.75" x 4.75", the perfect size for a CD Jewel Case frame.

Click here to see all of the calendars from past months.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on October 13, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

October 18, 2008

Epcot Water Fountain

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

My Pic of the Week for water is the reverse waterfall fountain, or water-rise, in Epcot in front of the Journey into Imagination Pavilion.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on October 18, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

October 19, 2008

Where in the World #58

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This was Challenge #57:
Where in the World #57

Right on! There are a lot of people really paying attention to Disney’s details! This photo was taken outside of the LEGO Imagination Center in Downtown Disney. Here, LEGO Dad is videotaping the LEGO Dragon.

Everyone who guessed the LEGO store and Downtown Disney will be entered in the October winners’ drawing this week - and those of you who told me the photo came from the camera will be entered in the drawing twice!

Sharon Pierce was the first to send in the correct answer this week! Congratulations to Sharon and all the readers who got the answer right: Sharon Dale, Neil Taylor, Bryan Timko, Ed Aleszczyk, Angie Young, Debbie Hudson, Lesley Strawderman, Cameron Love, Scott Cullen, Belicia Dawson, Mike M., Brianne, Laura Tarbet, Danielle Murgia, Willie Tople, Holley Blyler, Caitlin Barringer, Debra Kuklinski, Chloe Williams, Jeff Schoeling , Michael Thrash, Alex Karr, Zachary Dameron, Amanda Campbell, Jessica Reed, Amy Sooy, Eric Hoffman, Lisa Hoffman, Kelley H, April Haddock, Chris Bertelmann, Michael Gainey, Brandy White, Alicia Henderson, Joanna Snow, Kameo Crea, Tim Rachuba, Cam Lange, Teresa, Gretchen Freudenheim, Baines Family, David Uchtman, Lee Anastasi, Amy Wenzel, Zach C, Jared Orth, Jennifer Schwing, Christine Mckay, Jamie Poynton, Glenn Meyer, Nancy, Lynn Barber, Heather Stevens, Kim Garabed, Angie Winter, Mary Jo Collins, Bethany Mattiuz-king, Carinne Kight, Heather Coursen, Norma Hatfield , Ruth Cookson, Jodi Cook, Cheri Palmisano, Cheryl Costello, Noreen Rachuba, Theresa Rucando, Jen Cox, Carla Leger, Allison Lowry and Nathan Firth.

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Challenge #58: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #58

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, October 23, by clicking HERE!
_______________________________________________________________________

Everyone who sends in a correct answer to a Where in the World Challenge this month will be entered in a drawing at the end of the month for some special AllEars® goodies and a cool Disney book!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on October 19, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

October 23, 2008

Tam Tams of Congo

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

Here’s my Pic of the Week for street performers. I always love watching the drummers from Tam Tams of Congo, a percussion and dance group who perform in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. You’ll find them next to the Dawa Bar in Africa several times throughout the day.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on October 23, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

October 24, 2008

Spirit of Walt Disney World

Photographic Innoventions by Scott Thomas

I recently read a wonderful book on travel photography. Since most of us travel to Walt Disney World, I found lots of great information which can be used there, elsewhere and at home. It talks about finding the spirit of where you are. This is how I approached all my photography before I even knew this was how many others also described their vision. The book, Spirit of Place: The Art of the Traveling Photographer, was written by Bob Krist, who's a contributing editor at both National Geographic Traveler and Outdoor Photographer, back in 2000. The year it was written is important as digital photography was in it's infancy then. Most of the equipment he talks about in the book is still SLR equipment but is not digital. However, it all has equivalents to today's digital SLR and advanced Point and Shoot world of today. Digital photography has come a long way in just 8 short years. So, keep that in mind if you decide to read the book.

The first part of the book goes in depth as to the equipment Bob uses, composition of a good travel photograph and how to get the best technical photo possible. Very good for a beginning photographer and an excellent review for those who have been shooting for awhile. All this information is geared towards a working travel photographer which we all are when visiting Walt Disney World with our cameras. Right?

The part I most enjoyed was Bob giving tips on how to photograph people all over the world. Walt Disney World is unique in you can do that all in one day at Epcot. It's a bit easier in WDW but still takes a little effort to ask non-character cast members for their picture. If you are traveling without children, remember characters will pose for your camera, too. I have seen many great character portraits on message forums and photo sharing sites like flickr.

Bob talks about how to capture the essence of a city. Written before the advent of Yahoo or Google, it is much easier today to research a location then his advice. No need to write to a travel bureau when you can "google" it in seconds on our computers. Still, what to look for is very relevant and Bob tells you the best kind of things like festivals, parades, holidays, historical events and other cultural happenings. Researching a trip to Walt Disney World is the same. When you go, there are different things going on depending on the time of year and you need to know what they are and when they happen. One advantage for us is there's usually a schedule online for us to find out these things.

There's even a chapter on photographing in the tropics. Great tips on how to get good photographs even at midday on a bright, sandy beach. While he is referring to Caribbean Islands, central Florida poses the same challenges.

Throughout the book, Bob goes over how to create stories with photographs. Many of us do produce these in trip reports to our friends, family and Internet communities. Bob shows how to do it like an editor would. Giving ideas and examples on how to wrap up all those hundreds of images into interesting essays using all the techniques and equipment he introduces us to in each chapter.

The book is filled with Bob Krist's exquisite photographs taken on his many assignments for National Geographic Traveler, Outdoor Photographer, Smithsonian, Travel/Holiday and many other publications. Yes, the book is a little dated when it comes to the equipment he talks about but the rest is timeless information for us who enjoy photographing the places we travel to and live in.

How do I capture the spirit of Walt Disney World in a photograph? For me, Walt Disney's spirit lives on in the parks and some of it rubs off on all of us who visit. Of course, there are many kinds of spirits, below is one of magic. A man's vision of two dimensional characters brought to life and giving a family's children and their parents a gift in a photograph to cherish for the rest of their lives. You can find Donald and Daisy Duck (and other lovable Disney characters) on Mickey Avenue in front of their On-Location Hollywood Star trailers in Disney's Hollywood Studios.

The spirit of Walt Disney can been seen in the faces of these children posing for their parents with Donald and Daisy Duck in Disney's Hollywood Studios, Walt Disney World, Orlando, Florida.

The spirit of Walt Disney can been seen in the faces of these children posing for their parents with Donald and Daisy Duck.
Nikon Coolpix 995, 1/100s, f/3.6, ISO 100, EV 0

Posted by Scott Thomas on October 24, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

October 26, 2008

Where in the World #59

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This was Challenge #58:
Where in the World #58

This cool tile wall is in front of the Universe of Energy in Epcot’s Future World. It’s a great place to take some really fun pictures.

Angie Young was the first to send in the correct answer this week! Congratulations to Angie and all the readers who got the answer right: Sharon Dale, Deb Ragno, Darlene Harmon, Allison Lowry, Maryann Eckenrode, Jodi Cook, Brittany Irish, John Dupre, Brandy White, Steve And Kala Bieniek, Jennifer Chartier, Austin O'blenis, Ken Jackson, Chris Bertelmann, Scott Cullen, Belicia Dawson, Bryan Timko, Nancy Ahlsen, Linda Mac, Richard Uhler, Amanda Campbell, Neil Taylor, Elizabeth Akerley, Jennifer Tremley, Dale Knight, Brianne F, Ben Dameron, Sherry Klinefelter, Evelyn Cowdell, Debbie Hudson, Jen Campbell, Alicia Henderson, Bonnie Smith, Becky Terjung, Cam Lange, Tim Rachuba, Carrie Kenney, Sabrina Bogart, Karen Schlumpf, Diane Cripps, Elizabeth Scarborough, Hollie Hinton, Kendra Hettel, Jen Cox, Dave Cole, Jaime Thomson, Kellie Carter, Russell Hickerson, Pollyanna Buff, Kim Garabed, Hayley Lawson, Betsey, Suzanne Brown, Carla Leger, Kevin Toomey, Cheri Palmisano, Jamie Poynton, Lauren Seymour, Amy Wenzel, Brian Haas, Cheryl Costello, Bruce Arnold, Jerry Marceau, Karen Pizzuta, Jennifer Bogdan, Danielle Destefano, Patti Sturgis, Roye Ann Morris, Liz Moreau, Chris Kotcamp, Mike Kaczanowski, Jen Norris, Bruce Dormuth, Allison Dibiase, Maria Root, Matt Naldzin, Tammy Persons, Cheri Palmisano, Jen, Kathy Lowe, Robin Mcconnell, Jen Harrelson, Eric Bouchet and Noreen Rachuba. Each of you were entered in the October winners’ drawing.

It’s monthly drawing time again! I’m happy to announce this month’s winner is Sharon Dale! Sharon’s name may look familiar to you. She’s been the first one to get the answer in the weekly contest more than once. Congratulations Sharon, you are the lucky recipient of a fabulous Disney book and some really cool AllEars schwag!

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Challenge #59: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #59

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, October 30, by clicking HERE!
_______________________________________________________________________

Everyone who sends in a correct answer to a Where in the World Challenge this month will be entered in a drawing at the end of the month for some special AllEars® goodies and a cool Disney book!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on October 26, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

October 28, 2008

Disney Pic of the Week - Halloween

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

Happy Halloween! Guess what the theme is for this week’s Pic of the Week! That’s right… Halloween!

During Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, you’ll find that one of the ghosts from the Haunted Mansion has made her way outside to taunt and haunt the guests arriving at the mansion. Be sure not to miss her - she has a lot of attitude!

As always, Lisa and Scott will be sharing their Pics of the Week on Thursday and Saturday. The three of us love sharing our photos with you each week, but we've decided it's just not enough. We think it would be great fun to see your photos too! So beginning this week, we’d like to invite you all to join in on Disney Pic of the Week. If you'd like to play along, you can share your favorite Halloween photos here.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on October 28, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

November 2, 2008

Where in the World #60

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This was Challenge #59:
Where in the World #59

You’ll find this sign on the tour operator’s desk in the queue for Kali River Rapids in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. It’s near the end of the queue, just before you reach the boarding area.

I haven’t spent a lot of time in this queue because I don’t fancy getting wet, but on my last trip I decided to go through the line just to take pictures. I lucked out because I happened to hit the ride at the end of the day when there wasn’t any line. I was able to wander around taking photos to my heart’s content - something to keep in mind for future Where in the World challenges – hint, hint!

Michael Pyle was the first to send in the correct answer this week! Congratulations to Michael and all the readers who got the answer right: Belicia Dawson, Scott Cullen, Marie Wolfe, Lauri Phillips, Leslie Dameron, Dave Wang, Lee Anastasi, Maryann Eckenrode , Matt Cofone, Angela Brown, Dave Cole, Debra Moscara, Angela Youngblood, Jeffrey Dunne, Amy Wenzel, Emily Rennie, Tammy Persons, Carla Leger, Marcie Soderlund, Karen Schlumpf, Cheri Palmisano, Bethany Mattiuz-king, Kelli Olthoff, Christina Rotella and Michael Gaineya. Each of you will be entered in the November winners’ drawing.
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Challenge #60: Where in the world is this?
Where in the World #60

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, November 6, by clicking HERE!
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Everyone who sends in a correct answer to a Where in the World Challenge this month will be entered in a drawing at the end of the month for some special AllEars® goodies and a cool Disney book!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on November 2, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

November 8, 2008

Hot Stuff!

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

I like how nonchalantly the guys with the fire extinguishers walk up to this woman engulfed in flames. It’s as if they see this kind of thing everyday… oh yeah, they do! These cast members are stunt performers in the Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. They do an amazing job of showing us all how some of Hollywood’s most dangerous stunts are performed.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on November 8, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

November 9, 2008

Where in the World #61

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This was Challenge #60:
Where in the World #60

These colorful gondola mooring poles are in the water of the World Showcase Lagoon, in front of the Italy pavilion in Epcot. Uniquely painted poles were used to designate gondola “parking spaces” for various Venetian families. You can still see these multicolored poles in the canals of Venice, although they are more decorative than functional these days.

Chris Masse was the first to send in the correct answer this week! Congratulations to Chris and all the readers who got the answer right: Neil Taylor, Deb Ragno, Jennifer S., Heather Yjoung, Patrick Albrecht, Sherry Klinefelter, Brittany Irish, Brandy White, Jen Snapp, Jodi Cook, Dawn Bach, Barbie Lawless, Anjanette Tournillon, Marguerite Massett, Debbie Hudson, Lee Anastasi, Leslie Dameron, Sharon Dale, Penny, Ed Aleszczyk, Alyssa Nutter, Hollie Hinton, Becky Terjung, Kris, Jennifer Tremley, Kim Garabed, Elizabeth Akerley, Joyanne Johnston, Lauren Seymour, Amy Wenzel, Linda Mac, Ben Howell, Samuel Shotick, Diane Cripps, Laura, Christina Dominique Cooper, Sharon Pierce, Sharon Powers, Lauren Foss, Jennifer Horst, Julianne Williams, Melea Broekers, Kelley H, Sarah Smee, Hillary W, Michelle Wilinski, Allison Lowry, Tina Roberts, Kellie Carter, Jennifer Rupert, Dan Record, Zach C, Alicia Henderson, Jeremy Hardy, John Agnew, John Dawes, Jill Fogg, Bonnie Smith, Angie, Amy, And Eli Young, Bob Patterson, Anne Hainsworth, Mike Thomson, Jennifer Schwing, Shannon Milair, Elizabeth Scarborough, Patricia Shea, Stephanie Servaites, Karen Schlumpf, Ashley Salters, Tim Rachuba, Judy Koslowski, Noreen Rachuba, Laura Barnes, Amy Miller, Becky Sterusky, Paul Ignudo, Jr., Amanda Diresta, Kye Layton, Allison Burgess, Karen Dresser-smith, Anderson Dun, Cindy Carrigan, Hope Schiemer, Kate Lavoie, Sarah Haas, Chris Bertelmann, Douglas Beasock, Ken Jackson, Jeffrey Dunne, Dina Grassi, Katarina Whitmarsh, Kelli Olthoff, Christine Angelo, Matt Cofone, Dana Hall, Carol Donoghue, Amy Cole, Sherri Pell, Jennifer Bogdan, Katy Robinson, Beth Dye, Michelle Gates, Amy Gamble, Barclay Bakkum, Heather Coursen, Rachele Hawkins, Wendy Snelgrove, Amy Kleinfieldt, Lisa Hoffman, Eric Hoffman, Allison Dibiase, Patti Sturgis, Bethany Mattiuz-king, Heidi Summers, Sue Castanien, Alison, Maryann Mignano, Beth Kandravi, Theresa Rucando, Wendy Cacka, Carinne Kight and Ryan Conway. Each of you will be entered in the November winners’ drawing.
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Challenge #61: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #61

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, November 13, by clicking HERE!
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Everyone who sends in a correct answer to a Where in the World Challenge this month will be entered in a drawing at the end of the month for some special AllEars® goodies and a cool Disney book!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on November 9, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

November 16, 2008

Where in the World #62

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This was Challenge #61:
Where in the World #61

You guys are good! This was a hard one. This postal box is in the United Kingdom, in Epcot’s World Showcase. I’ll go easier on you this week…

Anne Hainsworth was the first to send in the correct answer this week! Congratulations to Anne and all the readers who got the answer right: Leslie Dameron, Neil Taylor, Heather Young, Walter Fletcher, Lauren Seymour, Amy Wenzel, Debra Kuklinski, Joyanne Johnston, Anita Ponton-brown, Glenn Meyer, Sarah Smee, Sharon Lee, Julie Ellis, Wendy Snelgrove, Ruth Woodhouse, Julie Wickware, Michelle Shewbridge, Liz, Kevin Jones, Peter Tucker, Steve Green, and Melea Broekers. Each of you will be entered in the November winners’ drawing.
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Challenge #62: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #62

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, November 20, by clicking HERE!
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Everyone who sends in a correct answer to a Where in the World Challenge this month will be entered in a drawing at the end of the month for some special AllEars® goodies and a cool Disney book!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on November 16, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

November 18, 2008

Disney Pic of the Week - Boardwalk

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

Everyone has that one special thing that they have to do on every trip to Walt Disney World. It might be a particular ride that can't be missed or a favorite snack that just doesn't taste as good anywhere else. For me, a Disney vacation just isn't complete until I spend some time on the Boardwalk. That's our theme for Pic of the Week this week, my favorite place in all of Walt Disney World - the Boardwalk.

These rockers outside the lobby of the Boardwalk Inn are the perfect place to take a breather from the hustle and bustle of the parks. Add a good book and a refreshing beverage and you may never want to get up again.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on November 18, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

November 21, 2008

2nd Annual dSLR Christmas Gift Giving Guide

Photographic Innoventions by Scott Thomas

Another year, another Black Friday is almost upon us. I'd like to add to the list I started last year giving you some more ideas for gift giving if you own or know somebody who does own, a digital SLR camera.

More Great Photography Books

Bryan Peterson is back this year with a follow up book to his very popular Understanding Exposure, called Understanding Shutter Speed: Creative Action and Low-Light Photography Beyond 1/125 Second. It picks up where Understanding Exposure left off about how to best use shutter speeds in photography. The tandom together will quickly get you "up to speed" in learning photography.

Scott Kelby released Volume 2 of his Digital Photography Book series earlier this year. I call it a series now as he has announced there will be a Volume 3 coming out sometime in 2009. The Digital Photography Book, Volume 2, delves more into the use of flash in digital photography de-mystifying a subject many try to avoid. Volume 2 revisits Travel, Wedding, Landscapes and Portrait photography in Kelby's unique, one page = one topic format. If you need to know something fast, The Digital Photography Books are excellent learning references.

I reviewed one of this year's best selling photography books last Spring, Joe McNally's The Moment It Clicks has been on Amazon's top seller list the moment it was listed. If you are interested in how this working pro did his magic over the last 20 some odd years, you'll find this book a real treat.

More Great Photography Stuff

Last year I glanced over external hard drives. The newest dSLR cameras being brought out today produce larger image files than ever before. The best way I have found to handle this was to purchase extra storage space. Since I use a laptop, I opted for an external hard drive by Western Digital called a MyBook. They come in various sizes at excellent prices. Last year I bought a 500GB (Gigabyte) version which worked perfectly with my Apple laptop. This year I'd recommend the 1TB (1 Terabyte= 1,000 Gigabytes) MyBook for less than $200.

You know I've raved about my Nikon 18-200VR lens here in the past. This year, Canon released their version called the Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Standard Zoom Lens. If you are looking to lighten your camera bag when you travel, these two lenses will fit the bill for Nikon and Canon dSLR owners.

A great lens to have in your bag is what's called a "Nifty-Fifty". A Nifty-Fifty is a 50mm fast prime lens with apertures opening up to f/1.8 and cost around $100 or less. Here are links for Nikon and Canon versions. These are great lenses to use in low light and night photography as well as in dark rides where flash photography is not allowed. Being a prime lens, they tend to be much sharper than zoom lenses.

Speaking of bags and other photographic accessories, Barrie, Lisa and I have listed some of our favorites in the All Ear's Amazon store.

Hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving but get some rest to hit up the stores and malls early on Black Friday!

Posted by Scott Thomas on November 21, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

November 23, 2008

Where in the World #63

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This was Challenge #62:
Where in the World #62

Nobody specifically mentioned Shrunken Ned’s Junior Jungle Boats in their answer this week, but that’s ok - I didn’t lose my head over it! Everyone who named the Jungle Cruise is a winner. You’ll find both at the Magic Kingdom in Adventureland.

Joseph Tortorici was the first to send in the correct answer this week! Congratulations to Joseph and all the readers who got the answer right: Theresa Rucando, Sharon Pierce, Maryann Eckenrode, Zack Dameron, Caryn Schill, Holley Blyler, Evelyn Wilson, Debbie Hudson, Jared Orth, Danielle Murgia, Barbie Lawless, Sharon Lee, Tom Carty, Benjamin Dameron, Vicki Vaught, Olivia Lobaugh, Chris Connors, Austin O'blenis, Lee, Amanda Campbell, Katarina Whitmarsh, Ramona Gaylor, Jennifer Schwing, Jennifer Romano, Hillary W, Pollyanna Buff, Josh Rohrbach, Alicia Henderson, Chrstina Rotella, Curtis Bille', Scott Junkin, Cameron Lange, Sabrina Bogart, Tim Rachuba, Wendy Snelgrove, Noreen Rachuba, Lauren Seymour, Amy Wenzel, Kye Layton, Cara Richards, Brian Haas, Paul Ignudo, Jr., Valanie, John Thurman, Lauren Foss, Julie Ellis, Betsey, Jennifer Horst, Emily Rennie, Alan Lynn, Dan Record, Kevin Edwards, Rebecca Krull, Mike Kaczanowski, Carinne Kight, Heather Coursen, Kelli Vancil, Nicole Lopresti, Stacy Alello, Stacy Alello, Patti Sturgis, Bill Mckim, Jeremy Coto, April Haddock and Jamie Poynton. Each of you were entered in the November winners’ drawing.

And speaking of that monthly drawing… this month’s big winner is Alan Lynn! Congratulations Alan, you are the lucky recipient of a fabulous Disney book and some really cool AllEars schwag!
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Challenge #63: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #63

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, November 27, by clicking HERE!
_______________________________________________________________________

Everyone who sends in a correct answer to a Where in the World Challenge this month will be entered in a drawing at the end of the month for some special AllEars® goodies and a cool Disney book!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on November 23, 2008 5:06 AM | Comment | Permalink

November 29, 2008

Japanese Garden

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

Being a gardener myself, I really appreciate the work of the landscaping crews at Walt Disney World. They do such a wonderful job of transporting us to the corners of the earth with the gardens they create. My landscaping Pic of the Week was taken near the Japan pavilion in Epcot’s World Showcase. If you didn’t know better, you’d never guess this picture was taken in Central Florida.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on November 29, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

November 30, 2008

Where in the World #64

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This was Challenge #63:
Where in the World #63

Woohoo! I knew there’d be a lot of correct answers this week. The Haunted Mansion in the Magic Kingdom is one of the most popular attractions at Walt Disney World. Be sure to visit the AllEars Haunted Mansion page for lots of interesting facts about this beloved attraction.

Neil Taylor was the first to send in the correct answer this week! Congratulations to Neil and all the readers who got the answer right: Anne Hainsworth, Evelyn Wilson, Ken Fischler, Clarissa K, Angie Young, Sharon Pierce, Kim Davis, Heather Young, Ed Aleszczyk, Da, Robin Fitts, Jennifer S., Tommy Carty, Leslie Dameron, Deb Ragno, Pollyanna Buff, Cheryl Costello, Daniel Meagher, Rochelle, Alice Aucoin, Jamie Kelly, John Dupre, Caryn Schill, Diane Ramos, Katelyn Anguish, Mike M., Barbie Lawless, Danielle Murgia, Dawn Bach, Sherry Klinefelter, Belicia Dawson, Scott Cullen, Kayleigh Dawson, Kye Layton, Allison Caputa, Lee, Colin Christenson, Sharon Lee, Tim, Joseph Tortorici, Travis Grim, Kevin Cowdell, Chris & Alison, Matt Cofone, Vicki Vaught, Ryan Conway, Christie Condit, Rich Kacprowicz, Alex, Debbie Hudson, Bethie Vechiarelli, Robert Greenwood, Denise Owen, Jennifer Tremley, Steve Bieniek, Mary Beth Tarbet, Frances Phebus, Kathy Lowe, Amanda Campbell, Hillary W, Chris Bertelmann, Angela Brown, Christine Dagney, Sarah Smee, Teresa Huynh, Spring Smith, Derek Carty, Megan Krainski, Sabrina Bogart, Hayley Lawson, Debra Kuklinski, Dan Record, Ed Nawrocki, Melina Hillis, Jeremy Hardy, Jim Logue, Linda Mac, Louise Barton, Cameron Lange, Lynn Barber, Sarah Connors, Kim Riley, Jennifer Schwing, Elizabeth Scarborough, Kirsty Butler, Dennis Dunkman, Scott Junkin, Jared Orth, Erin Hammer, Stephanie Whitehouse, Brian Haas, Wendy Snelgrove, Hope Schiemer, Lisa Zitek, Gary Genteman, Paul Ignudo, Jr., Sharon Powers, Shane Stack, Christine Mckay, Mike Venere, Karen Dresser-smith, David Singer, Tim Rachuba, Rodney Green, Jen Norris, Amy Sooy, Gary Sooy, Amy Miller, Kelly Kobiela, Lisa Hoffman, Eric Hoffman, Debby & Andrew Webber, Holley Blyler, Debbie Hicks, Steve Benson, Emily Rennie, Tom Hermes, Chuck Sands, Alicia Henderson, Julie Fahrner, Mike Kaczanowski, Berton, Lisa Berton, Katarina Whitmarsh, Christopher Bourassa, Doug Armstrong, Glenn Meyer, Bill Mckim, Tracy Discher, Carla Leger, Lesli Smith, Cheri Palmisano, Maria Root, Jamie Poynton, Shannon Milair, Laura Pranaitis, Kathy Coppola, Cindy Vaught, Melissa Littman, Michele Loffredo, Amy Wenzel, Heather Stevens, Janet Theriault, Liz Moreau, Vickie Scioneaux, Kala Bieniek, Sheila Saey, Sheila, Dana Hall, Paula Terrill, Bob Sertic, Danielle Destefano, Walter N Clark, Patti Sturgis, Shirley Garcowski, Sharon Murphy, Chip Vermette, Matt Naldzin, Jessica Reed, Barclay Bakkum, James Hickey, Kristen Costa, Bethany Mattiuz-king, Troy Vandeschraaf, Heidi Summers, Amy Kleinfieldt, Heather Coursen, Allison Dibiase, Dan Mcdonald, Sharon Dale, Shelley D., Joseph Zafia, Ellie Argaluza, Richard Waters, Del Rhea Watson, Bob Patterson and Anjanette Tournillon. Each of you will be entered in the December winners’ drawing.
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Challenge #64: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #64

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, December 4, by clicking HERE!
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Everyone who sends in a correct answer to a Where in the World Challenge this month will be entered in a drawing at the end of the month for some special AllEars® goodies and a cool Disney book!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on November 30, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

December 1, 2008

January Disney Calendar

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

Welcome to 2009! Here’s your first calendar for the new year. I thought I’d start us off with a trip to Europe. This is the Disneyland Hotel and the entrance to the Disneyland Resort Paris. Again this year, each month I’ll post a new calendar that you can print off to use at home or work. Hopefully, they will bring a little Disney magic everyday!

You will need to have Adobe Reader on your computer to download the calendar(s). Just click on the photo to download the calendar you want.

This one prints out at 8.5" x 11". It's handy if you need a calendar that you can write on.

This one prints out at 4.75" x 4.75", the perfect size for a CD Jewel Case frame.

Click here to see all of the calendars from past months.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on December 1, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

December 4, 2008

Breakfast of Champions

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

I had such a hard time finding a picture of food for Pic of the Week this week. It seems that although I can definitely appreciate a good meal, I’m not drawn to photographing it. I have thousands of photos from Walt Disney World, but only four are photos of food. I finally found this one of breakfast. What? It’s just apples and cereal – sounds like breakfast to me! These yummy treats can be found on Main Street in the Magic Kingdom at the Confectionery.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on December 4, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

December 5, 2008

Disney dSLR Travel Kit

Photographic Innoventions by Scott Thomas

As I was thinking about my upcoming trip to Walt Disney World (leaving in just 5 days!), I thought you might be interested in what I bring and why. I laid out the equipment in the photo below. Last year, Lisa gave us her list for an upcoming trip.

Scottwdw's Disney Photo Travel Kit

dSLR Camera and Zoom Lens - hard to take photos without the camera! The choice of zoom lens is a personal one for many. Depending on things like what one can afford and the kinds of photos you like to take. In my case, I like the Nikon 18-200mm VR lens so much, it hardly ever comes off the camera. Many people when they first get a dSLR camera buy it with a kit zoom lens. Most are around 18-55mm which is an excellent range for the parks.

Manuals - when traveling, I always pack my camera's manual. In a crowded park or queue line, your camera might get jousled enough to have a button pressed or a dial moved and, without the manual, it's hard to find out what happened. If you own a speedlight flash unit, like I do, bring that manual, too.

Speedlight - for those times when you need more light, a small speedlight is a great asset. Most are TTL (Through the Lens) and work with your camera's light meter to properly give the correct amount of fill light. Please, don't use it during a ride or show where you are asked NOT to use flash. Let's be curteous to our fellow guests.

Flash Bouncer - to give more natural looking photos using flash, I recommend bouncing it off ceilings or walls. However, sometimes that can't be done because the ceilings or walls are too far away (or don't exist at all if you are outdoors) or the color of the ceiling or wall will be reflected. That's when I pull out the handy flash bouncer you see attached to the flash in the photo.

Extra Batteries & Charger - the worst feeling in all the world is when you have the perfect photo in your viewfinder and, when you press the shutter button, nothing happens but a flashing message saying the camera's battery is dead. To stop that from ever happening to you, make sure you have, at least, one spare battery or set of batteries with you. Buy rechargable batteries and have the charger with you. Every night when I come back to my room, I charge all my batteries to full for the next day's adventures.

Fast Prime Lens - for those times when you can't use flash and need as much light as you can get to your camera's sensor, a fast prime lens comes in handy. While you can spend thousands of dollars on getting the fastest lenses made today, surprisingly, you can get the fast Nifty-Fifties I talked about previously for around $100 or less.

Memory Cards - the next worst feeling is running out of memory on your card and not having one to replace it with. I have recently upgraded my cards from 2GB to 4GB thanks to some great Black Friday sales. One 4GB should be more than enough for one day but I will have a spare with me just in case.

Lens Filter - in this day of Photoshop, lens filters are not as necessary as they used to be. I still enjoy using one type of filter which is the Circular Polarized Filter. This filter cuts down glare off water and other shiney surfaces and deepens the blue of the sky. It also cuts down the light reaching through a lens by 1 to 2 stops which can help in the bright Florida sunshine. I'll be covering all the benefits of this filter in an upcoming blog entry.

Sensor Cleaning Bulb, Brushes and Fluid - remember when Barrie discovered sensor dust on one of her trips to Walt Disney World? Though she found a way around the dust, if she had brought along a Giottos Rocket Blaster and some sensor brushes and fluid for her camera, she would have been able to clean her sensor during the trip. Most of the time, all it takes is a blast from the Giottos to remove the dust.

Microfiber Lens Cloth (not shown) - for safely cleaning lenses and viewfinders. You can find these at any camera shop.

Plastic Bag (not shown) - in case of a Florida downpour, I carry a large Zip Lock plastic bag I can put my camera and lens in to keep it dry.

Camera Bag (not shown) - of course, you need to put all this stuff in something so it can be transported with you. While some of this I leave in the room, most find a way into the belt bag or fanny pack I use. Others like to use backpacks or over-the-shoulder bags.

All the above items, I consider essential for any trip I take to Walt Disney World. The next few items I feel are optional depending on the time you have to devote to photography.

Table Top Tripod - there are all types. Make sure the one you decide on can handle the weight of your camera and lens you intend to use with it. I found the Joby Gorillapods (shown in the photo) to be extremely handy for the restaurant photography I do. They are small, sturdy and, with their bendable legs, can attach to all sorts of things.

Standard Tripod - larger tripods are not easy to carry. Most can fit into the lockers you can rent at the Disney themeparks so that's an option. If you want to get the best photos of the wonderful firework shows and the beautifully lighted streets and buildings that you can, a tripod will be your best bet. I have not carried one in all my visits to Walt Disney World but will this time. I'll share my thoughts about it when I get back.

Remote Shutter Release - a remote allows me not to add camera shake vibrations by physically pressing the shutter button when the camera is on a tripod. You can also use your camera's builtin timer if you don't have a remote.

Extra Lenses - on my last trip to Walt Disney World, I only brought the Nikon 18-200mm VR super zoom lens and was extremely happy with all the photos I took. Never having to change lenses when you are walking around Walt Disney World was a new experience for me and I really enjoyed it. I did miss having a wider angle lens at times though. Then there's those times in Disney's Animal Kingdom I thought if I only had a longer lens. You get the picture. While I will always tell myself that the best lens on my camera is the one ON my camera, one of the reasons for having a dSLR is so you can change lenses. All that to say, I will be bringing along a couple of extra lenses on this trip: an ultra wide angle and a super zoom telephoto. Mainly for the fun of using them at Walt Disney World and to share my experiences with all of you.

Laptop Computer - this is essential for me as I like to load my photos at the end of each day at Walt Disney World and then upload them to an online photo storage service for save keeping. That way, no matter what happens, I can retrieve my photos later.

External Hard Drive - maybe you don't want to spend $9.95 a day to access the Internet when you are at Walt Disney World. There are many small USB external hard drives available today for less than $100 to back up your photos on.

Did I miss anything? Do you have something you pack for every trip to increase your enjoyment of photographing in a Disney themepark? Let us know by leaving us a Comment.

Posted by Scott Thomas on December 5, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

December 7, 2008

Where in the World #65

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

This was Challenge #64:
Where in the World #64

Off Kilter is a fabulous Celtic rock band that entertains guests near the Canadian pavilion in Epcot. This is Jamie Holton, the band’s bagpiper and front man. I wasn’t sure what kind of answers I was going to get this week. What I found amazing was that not only did folks know that these legs belonged to someone in Off Kilter, several people actually identified them as Jamie’s legs. Now that’s a little scary!

Bryan Timko was the first to send in the correct answer this week! Congratulations to Bryan and all the readers who got the answer right: Dusty Cheatham, Deb Ragno, David Wickware, Sandra Shaw, Jennifer Lazzaro, Jacquelyn Law, Alan Law, Deb Gallo, Erika Loboda, Devin, Austin O'blenis, Angie Young, Sherry Klinefelter, Leslie Dameron, Ed Aleszczyk, Kye Layton, Brian Harrigan, Patrick Albrecht, Sharon Pierce, Sharon Lee, Debra Kuklinski, Kathy Love, Dennis Dunkman, Ken Maikowski, Lori Posey, Kim Davis, Lauri Phillips, Brian Gallant, Jen Cerce, Jeremy Hardy, Jeff Kulisek, Mary Beth Tarbet, Trish Babler, Jackie Purcell, Melissa Demonbreun, Kelly Jean, Clarissa K, Joyce Tofflemire, Lisa Edmonson, Debbie Poole, Tim Wingfield, Joanna Snow, Shannon Milair, Hayley Lawson, Amanda, Michelle Wilinski, Dawn Bach, Kevin Toomey, Jeffrey Dunne, Gregg Mcglasson, Dallas Hamilton, Melesia Love, Krystal Pound, John Dupr, Robert Mcclean, Greg Gallo, Tim Rachuba, Elizabeth Scarborough, Debbie Hicks, Siobhan Mason, Jude Toups, Karen Schlumpf, Dan Mangini, Wendy Snelgrove, Sarah Haas, Nicole Lassiter, Carla Leger, Paula Bender, Evelyn Wilson, Glenn Meyer, Cheri Palmisano, Karen Dresser-smith, Rick Shea, Keith, Lisa, Tommy Montgomery, Luis Rodriguez, April Tucker, Anne Hainsworth, Allison Caputa, Marie Bertini, Angela Brown, Gloria Keenan, Heather Stevens, Janet Guay, Joanne Snoots, Matt Cofone, Patti Sturgis, Ken Taylor, Kathy Berry, Harry Wilson, Bob Sertic, Katie Fry, Kevin Cowdell, Morgan Stalker, Kristine Gallatin, Melissa Boyle, Sam Mortellaro, Lisa Zitek, Lisa Hoffman, Kelli Vancil, Kim Steiner, Patricia Ovesny, Regina L Tipton, Ruth Cookson, Patricia Siebert, Kurt Schmidt, Mlke Verlinghieri, Kirk Hardy, Terri Thornton, Cari-ann, Liz Patterson, Tere Rudy, Nancy Ahlsen, Lauren Foss, Mickey Eckert and Bruce Arnold. Each of you will be entered in the December winners’ drawing.

I’ll be taking the next two weeks off from the Where in the World challenge to attend MouseFest. That gives everyone some extra time to get your answers in for challenge #65. Challenge #66 will appear on December 28.

If you’re attending MouseFest this year, don’t forget to join Lisa, Scott and me at our Picture This! Photowalk meet on Saturday morning. You’ll find all the details here.
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Challenge #65: Where in the world is this?

Where in the World #65

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, December 25, by clicking HERE!
_______________________________________________________________________

Everyone who sends in a correct answer to a Where in the World Challenge this month will be entered in a drawing at the end of the month for some special AllEars® goodies and a cool Disney book!

Posted by Barrie Brewer on December 7, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink

December 8, 2008

February Disney World Calendar

Focus on Disney World by Barrie Brewer

February's calendar features a meercat from the Pangani Forest Exploration Trail in Africa at Disney's Animal Kingdom. These little guys (and gals) are so cute!

You will need to have Adobe Reader on your computer to download the calendar(s). Just click on the photo to download the calendar you want.

This one prints out at 8.5" x 11". It's handy if you need a calendar that you can write on.

This one prints out at 4.75" x 4.75", the perfect size for a CD Jewel Case frame.

Posted by Barrie Brewer on December 8, 2008 5:00 AM | Comment | Permalink