Laxman-Jhula-over Ganga, Rishikesh India

Recently I visited Rishikesh, In Uttarakhand near Haridwar, All these shots are near "Laxman Jhula", a suspended Iron bridge was build in 1939.

Its named before a character of Ramayana, the younger brother of Lord Ram. It is said that "Lakshman" crossed Ganga on jute ropes between the place where this bridge is built.

Its very famous amoung tourists. There is a very similar "Ram Jhula" nearby.

This is the main medium of transport over Ganga here in Rishikesh

Many adventure clubs are present there, who organise River rafting, mountain climbing etc.

Ganga is coming from this side, from its source "Gangotri"

Suspension bridge-another ange

There is famous Lord Shiva temple "Neel kanth" whish is around 13 KM from Risikesh. Very difficult and tight pathway there. Many tourists reach there by foot and it can be adventuress.

Drought like Situation? not in Punjab.

Half of India is facing drought like situation, 246 districts declared drought affected. Today I visited Punjab state and found it lush green fields everywhere with paddy crops.

Reason being the level of underground water is not that bad and Farmers here can afford the cost of other means of irrigation like tubewells etc.

But the story is a bit different in other states, with very marginal rain, crops damaged and due to that there is going to be a steep rise in prices of essential commodities.

Fujifilm FinePix REAL 3D W1

FinePix REAL 3D W1 is the world’s first 3D digital camera features FinePix REAL 3D Technology, two Fujinon lenses and two CCDs to capture 3D images.

That will be interesting to see the final 3D image from this tiny cam.

Its each lens taking the shot from a different angle. The two images are then processed by the RP (Real Photo) Processor 3D - a newly developed processor that evaluates all photographic factors from focus and brightness to color tonality, and then merges the left and right images in a single 3D image. The camera also features a 3D LCD Monitor System showing 3D images.

A young boy in countryside India

He was herding his cows in fields along side the road.
Taken in Uttarpradesh (U.P.)

Camera: Nikon D80
Exposure: 0.002 sec (1/640)
Aperture: f/6.3
Focal Length: 62 mm
ISO Speed: 400
Exposure Bias: -1/3 EV

Sunrise at foothills of Himalaya

I took this shot during my trip to Shivalik range, in the foothills of Himalaya mountains.

Camera:	Nikon D80
Exposure:	0.002 sec (1/640)
Aperture:	f/6.3
Focal Length:	135 mm
Exposure:	+0.25
ISO Speed:	200

Shiv temple at Dehradun

This is a famous temple at Dehradun-Mussoorie road

15th Aug our Independence day

Its a great occasion to remember the Heroes of our Independence battle. We salutes to them.

Vande Mataram

Understanding different metering modes of Digital Cameras

Metering

To understand Metering system we can say that to burn the image on camera sensor, camera determines how much light is required. The measurement of light is called metering. And that measured final value is called Exposure.

This is automatically done in all modern digital cameras. You just need to select right metering mode out of 3 available.
These modes are

1.Matrix
2.Center-weighted
3.Spot

By selecting metering mode we are instructing which part of the image we want to be exposed. And all these 3 modes are used in specific lighting situations. Name of these modes may vary according to camera brands, but on my Nikon (D80) metering mode names are as stated above.

Choosing correct mode is not a difficult task as normally 80 % situations demand Matrix metering, I personally too use Matrix metering most of the time.
Am trying to explain the situations in which these are used as follows.

1. Matrix Metering

This mode normally offers best exposure and this is used when we want every part of the image is important and each area center or corner should be exposed properly. In this mode the scene is divided into matrix zones and each zone exposure is measured independently.
In Nikon cameras Matrix metering evaluates whole scene but more attention is given to the point of focus selected. Suppose your selected focus point is Center, then camera will try to expose whole scene but center of scene or whatever focus point is, will be developed more accurately.

2. Center-weighted

This is the mode which was most used one in old times when metering was not that much improved. But still it is used. This method averages the exposure of the entire frame but gives extra weight to the center.

3. Spot Metering

Spot metering allows you to meter the scene at the selected focus point only. Some cameras dont allow to select the focus point and just meters at center of scene, but Nikon & Sony allows and Spot metering can be done for any selected focus point. Only a small area of the whole frame is metered and the exposure of the rest of the frame is ignored. Spot metering needs to be used very carefully. It is useful for brightly backlit, macro, moon shots & night shots.

But you should ask how camera determines exposure with all these different modes, Camera does that by adjusting Shutter speed.

At Spot metering shutter speed is increased and at Matrix metering shutter speed is deceresed to get more light and expose whole scene

Everything-everywhere

Gary has vast collection of travel photos, he has 80k plus fans on Twitter. H site has too much widgets, bells & rings to lost into it. But it looks nice here is link : http://everything-everywhere.com

Great travel gallery : mattphoto.com

I really liked this site. Its Matt McClure who traveled to Africa and various other countries. He has beautiful travel collection. Must visit : http://www.mattphoto.com

Cold Winter days

I am reminding myself how cold it was in last winters, when I travelled Haridwar in December. By reminding it I hope I can get my self relieved from this hot & humid atmosphere of Aug in India.

Visit My New Blog Unseen India at Wordpress

Unseen India

An old man - A Cobbler

Everybody seems to be interested, must be precious to all.

Village-shopkeeper-sadhu

Shri-Krishna-Janmashtami-on-14th-Aug

Krishan-Radha at ISKCON,Chandigarh

Shri Krishna Janmashtami is on 14th Aug. I visited local ISKCON temple here in Chandigarh. Really enjoyed the love of Lord's devotees.

Devotees doing "Mala Jaap"Maha Mantra on newly built track, along side temple

there are 108 numbered tiles at floor.

Below is inside of temple

Few poses of Radha-Madhav

And this is Swing"Jhoola",

people are standing in long queues to swing it for once.

Overall its really wonderful experience. You pls do pay a visit to local temple on Krishna Janmashtami on 13-14th Aug. 09

More information here

Panipat-Flyover

This shot I took when I was returning to Chandigarh from Delhi. Its 2.45 am, lights looking interesting to take a click.

Today is Rakhi (Celebration of Sisters love for Brothers)

Rakhi-Raksha Bandhan (One of lovely festivals of India)

Today is great day for Sisters & Brothers. This is day to mark how much affection this relation has and how much we brothers care for our sisters.

Brothers take oath to care, help & protect their sisters for whole life. They pray to God that their sisters have good joyfull life with their family. And sisters tie a holy thread to protect their brothers from bad waves of world, and they pray to God to make their brothers strong, healthy and may live long, prosperous life.

In return brother give a gift as a token of love to their sisters.

For more information see here.

NIKON D300s PRO-LEVEL DX-FORMAT D-SLR

Fast. Precise. Agile.Evolution in Motion
Extraordinary still and HD video imaging performance converge in the fast and agile 12.3-megapixel, DX-format D300S, delivering D-SLR versatility.
Price: $1,799.95 *ESP

After D700 this is my dream cam :)
I like HD video at 24fps with more advanced Autofocus

Key Features

• 12.3-megapixel DX-format CMOS Image Sensor Delivers stunning high resolution, low-noise images with striking detail and tonal gradation.
• Continuous Shooting up to 7 fps High speed shooting and fast response—essential to versatile performance in a wide variety of shooting disciplines.
• Nikon EXPEED Image Processing Drives breathtakingly rich image fidelity, low noise and fast image processing.
• D-Movie HD Video Capture cinematic 24 fps, 720p HD movie clips, enhanced by NIKKOR interchangeable lens quality and versatility—featuring external stereo Mic input and AF operation.
• One-button Live View Hand-held and Tripod Live View Modes, activated with one-button, for challenging studio and remote shooting conditions.
• 3-inch Super-density 920,000-dot VGA LCD Monitor Every monitor is factory-calibrated to assure accurate color for critical still image review and Live View or D-Movie shooting.
• Low Noise ISO Sensitivity from 200 to 3200 Additional expanded ISO settings of Lo-1 (ISO 100 equivalent) and Hi-1 (ISO 6400 equivalent) extend versatility to match shooting requirements.
• Fast, Accurate 51-point Autofocus Features 4 Dynamic AF modes including 3D Focus Tracking for precise autofocus and razor sharp images.
• 1,005-Pixel 3D Color Matrix Metering II Nikon’s unique RGB metering—the only sensor that also evaluates color information when determining exposures with remarkable accuracy.
• Scene Recognition System Referencing an onboard image database and teamed with RGB metering, SRS enables even more sophisticated determination of exposures and auto white balance, along with faster, more accurate autofocus.
• Dual memory card slots (CF and SD) Assign card functions from a variety of storage options, optimizing available memory and file handling.
• Dynamic Integrated Dust Reduction System Ultrasonic process combats the accumulation of dust in front of the image sensor, safeguarding image quality.
• Picture Control Settings Select from 4 preset image capture preferences (Standard, Neutral, Vivid and Monochrome, plus 9 user customizable settings) controlling Sharpening, Contrast, Brightness, Saturation and Hue.
• Nikon's Active D-Lighting Optimizes shadow and highlight detail in real time—Selectable values and 5-frame ADL bracketing offer complete control.
• In-Camera Image Editing Exclusive in-camera image editing, featuring Edit movie, D-Lighting, Image Overlay, Monochrome, NEF (RAW) processing and more.
• Rugged and Durable The strength and precision of magnesium-alloy construction with advanced dust and moisture countermeasures is teamed with a shutter mechanism tested to beyond 150,000 cycles for real-world reliability.
• 100% Viewfinder Accuracy
• Virtual Horizon Graphic Indicator
• Up to 950 shots per EN-EL3e battery charge*Shoot as many as 2,950 shots with the body’s EN-EL3e battery installed and the optional MB-D10 Multi-Power Battery Pack with an EN-EL4a Rechargeable Li-ion Battery*.* based on CIPA standards/guidelines.
• Price: ESP $1799.95* D300S Body only (Product Number 25464). Other outfits available

PRESS RELEASE

NIKON D300s REVITALIZES THE STANDARD AND MEASURE OF AGILE, PRO-LEVEL DX-FORMAT D-SLR DESIGN AND PERFORMANCE
Nikon announced the D300s digital SLR, combining professional-level performance with agility and enhanced D-Movie capabilities to deliver a new benchmark for creative versatility. Engineered to leverage proven Nikon technologies, including a 12.3-megapixel CMOS sensor and 51-point autofocus system; the addition of HD video capture; and faster 7 frame-per-second (fps) continuous shooting, the Nikon D300s balances form factor, performance, versatility and reliability for serious photo enthusiasts and professionals.

The D300s can record HD video clips and high fidelity audio with an external stereo microphone input, offering users a D-SLR with full multimedia capabilities. Dual card slots afford users the ability to seamlessly record stills and video to one CompactFlash™ (CF) and one Secure Digital™ (SD) card separately, while one-button Live View, a new Quiet Shutter Release mode and Active D-Lighting bracketing help users to capture stunning images like never before.

“Today’s photographer demands excellence and value from high-performance digital SLRs – and the Nikon D300s delivers,” said Edward Fasano, general manager for Marketing, SLR System Products at Nikon, Inc. “It’s no secret that more photographers need to gather multimedia content. In addition to proven technologies, such as the 51-point autofocus (AF) system and 12.3-megapixel CMOS sensor, we are more than confident that the D300s’ HD movie mode, along with a host of additional performance enhancements, will broaden the appeal of the camera to those seeking exceptional still image quality and video versatility.”

The Benchmark of Speed, Performance and Reliability
Whether on the front lines of spot news or behind the scenes at a spring wedding, users of the D300s can record HD video clips at 720p resolution with a smooth cinematic 24 fps rate. In addition, the D300s also records high fidelity audio—either with the convenient built-in microphone or by using the external stereo microphone input. Photographers can trim video length on the fly and apply Picture Controls to video, modifying the tone and color. Additionally, users can autofocus while recording video, using contrast detect AF, and do so while composing on the D300s’ bright three-inch 920,000-dot LCD screen.

Nikon’s applauded AF system, with 51 high density focus points, performs even faster and more accurately on the new D300s. The Multi-CAM 3500DX AF module uses 15 cross type sensors to provide unparalleled focus performance across the frame. The D300s offers multiple focus modes, including single-point AF mode, and a dynamic-area AF mode, where users can select from nine, 21 or 51 AF points with 3D tracking. Additionally, the added Face Detection System lets users instantly zoom in on a human face in playback mode on the high-resolution LCD monitor to check critical focus.

The Nikon exclusive and newly-accelerated Scene Recognition System (SRS) further refines Nikon's AF performance and light metering. In conjunction with the 3D Color Matrix Metering II system, the SRS uses precise color and brightness information from the 1,005-pixel RGB sensor to propel AF, auto exposure, i-TTL flash control and auto white balance to unprecedented accuracy.

The renowned 12.3-megapixel DX-format CMOS image sensor in the D300s delivers extraordinary image quality and low noise throughout the entire ISO sensitivity range from 200 to 3200 (Lo-1 at 100 and 6400 at Hi-1). The D300s captures image data using 14 bit A/D conversion, processed through a 16-bit pipeline for optimal performance, resulting in images with sharp details and smooth tonal gradations.

The D300s also incorporates Nikon’s exclusive EXPEED™ image processing. EXPEED image processing uses an accumulation of sophisticated Nikon intelligence and technologies to ensure impeccable quality for both still images and movies, while also achieving high-speed processing and low power consumption. When using the included EN-EL3e Li-Ion rechargeable battery, photographers can achieve as many as 950 shots under normal shooting conditions. The optional Multi-Power Battery Pack MB-D10 extends shooting comfort and supports three types of batteries: R6/AA-size batteries, along with Nikon's Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL3e and the EN-EL4a Rechargeable Li-ion Battery. It combines added stability with extended shooting of up to 2,950 shots*1 per charge and enables faster high-speed continuous shooting at up to 8 fps*2.

The reinforced magnesium alloy body is lightweight, ruggedly constructed and comprehensively sealed and gasketed against the elements at key points, and the shutter has been proven to a demanding 150,000 cycles. Additionally, the D300s employs the Integrated Dust Reduction System countermeasures that combat the accumulation of image-degrading particles on the optical low-pass filter.

World Class Versatility
With the D300s, Nikon introduces the ability to bracket Active D-Lighting (ADL). By localizing tone control, ADL restores shadow and highlight detail typically lost in high contrast situations, such as backlit subjects or while outdoors with strong sunlight. ADL bracketing provides users with the ability to bracket up to five frames of ADL strength to help ensure perfect contrast throughout the frame, putting an end to the guesswork behind the shot with a bride’s intricate white dress and a groom’s tuxedo in the same frame, for example.

Additionally, the D300s features two memory card slots—one CF and one SD, used simultaneously in a variety of configurations to match users’ preferences. Among the many options available, stills and video can record to separate cards or slots can be assigned for JPEG and RAW recording. The D300s offers “overflow” or “backup” modes, and when shooting D-Movie clips, it allows you to select the slot containing the card with the most available capacity. Users can also copy and paste files between cards.

Also added to the D300s is a Quiet Shutter Release mode, which substantially reduces the sound of the mirror while shooting. Quickly accessed by selecting “Q” on the release mode dial, this feature is ideal for the photographer who wishes to remain unobtrusive.

To further expand versatility, users have the ability to fine tune their images using Nikon’s Picture Controls to adjust sharpening, brightness, contrast and color hue. The D300s offers users four presets including Standard, Neutral, Vivid and Monochrome; while Landscape and Portrait settings can be downloaded from the Nikon website. While the D300s offers a versatile built-in flash with wider coverage for a 16mm lens, the camera is also compatible with Nikon’s Creative Lighting System and is capable of controlling up to two groups of remote units as a master / commander for Advanced Wireless Lighting.

System Expandability
In addition to compatibility with more than 60 NIKKOR lenses and a broad array of system accessories, the D300s will also perform well with the recently announced AF-S NIKKOR 70-200 f/2.8G ED VR II and the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200 f/3.5-5.6 ED VR II lenses.

Price and Availability
The Nikon D300s camera body will be available at Nikon Authorized dealers beginning in late August 2009 at an estimated selling price of $1799.95.**

Image courtsy: www.nikonusa.com.

Villagers along highway

These villagers returning their home. This shot was taken along Chandigarh-Delhi highway.

Girls are always involved in this routine home jobs and mostly deprived of study, boys are favoured to study and saved from extra work.

Now the thinking is changing and more and more girls going to schools,

but still they have to help their mom's in routine home affairs.

(Click for larger view)