Tips For Taking Better Pictures With Your Digital Camera
Digital photography has all but eclipsed traditional film in recent years, and the technology has advanced to the level where you can do just about anything. But there are still a few things to keep in mind to make sure that your digital pictures are the best they can possibly be.
Check your white balance settings. Most digital cameras default to an automatic white balance, which can make images look a little cooler. By switching to the “cloudy” setting, warm colors will be enhanced, with reds and yellows more vibrant.
Take multiple pictures. The onboard memory of most modern digital cameras is big enough that you can shoot freely without worrying about running out of space. The more shots you take, the greater the chance that one will be good. Just make sure to empty your internal memory onto your computer or a hard drive in between photo sessions.
Keep it steady. One of the most common photography mistake is movement of the camera during shooting. It’s worth looking into a wrist brace to make holding your camera steady, but even if you don’t want to do that, try to use two hands to keep it stable.
One of the most useful photography rules is called the Rule of Thirds. By drawing invisible lines horizontally and vertically across your viewfinder to divide it into nine equal shapes, you get a great tool to compose your shots. Put important elements at one of the four intersecting points towards the middle.
Don’t be afraid to practice! It doesn’t cost anything to take more digital pictures. A strange idea can sometimes translate into a really cool image
Book Buzz: Daniel Kahneman’s Thinking, Fast and Slow and John Tierney’s Willpower
Two recently published books have been making waves lately with their profound insight into workings of human behavior. Both Thinking, Fast and Slow and Willpower explore the physiological roots of processes that we as human beings often consider to be entirely based in mental strength and dexterity.
Daniel Kahneman's Thinking, Fast and Slow brings together the years of research that won him the Nobel Prize in Economics. In an incredible tour of the mind, Kahneman lays out the different ways in which we think. The first is fast and emotional, and the second is slower and logic-driven. The way these different types of thinking work together have an incredible impact on our professional and person lives. Kahneman's book is a lively exploration of impulse and intuition.
In Willpower, John Tierney and Roy F. Baumeister examine evidence that the will operates like a muscle, and as such can be both strengthened and overworked. In exploring the biological roots of willpower, the authors brilliantly illustrate ways to build and conserve this capacity's strength in a world full of immediate temptations.
These thought-provoking yet accessible works have far reaching implications, and are a must-read for anyone interested in how people function. In revealing some of the machinery behind our most basic ways of thinking and decision-making, the authors also provide a blueprint in how to improve your own thinking.
J. Alexander’s: Contemporary Fine Dining in a Casual Spot
J. Alexander’s is where the casual restaurant meets upscale dining in South Florida. With locations in Boca Raton, Ft. Lauderdale, Palm Beach, and Plantation, you’ll find a laid-back atmosphere amid an elegant, white tablecloth setting. The investor group that started this popular restaurant chain aimed to create an establishment focused on high quality food and great value, as opposed to gimmicks and themes. And ever since the first J. Alexander’s opened its doors in Nashville in 1991, the concept has been a great success. Inside each restaurant you’ll find an attractive, sleek decor filled with original artwork, impeccable service, a wide selection of fine American wines available by the glass and bottle, and a menu that consists of American-style dishes with a contemporary twist. With hardwood-grilled steaks, baby back ribs, daily fresh seafood selections, and made-from-scratch desserts, it’s no wonder the restaurant has won several awards the country over.
J. Alexander’s
www.jalexanders.com
2415 N. Federal Highway
Ft. Lauderdale, Florida 33305
(954) 563-9077
1400 Glades Road, Bay 200
Boca Raton, FL 33431
(561) 347-9875
4625 PGA Boulevard
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418
(561) 694-2711
8550 West Broward Boulevard
Plantation, FL 33324
(954) 916-8841
Cafe Seville: A Fort Lauderdale Tradition for Spanish Cuisine
They say that more than half of all new restaurants close after their first year. It’s never a sure thing, no matter how good your food and service is. Fort Lauderdale’s Café Seville has been in operation for a staggering 22 years, providing incredible Spanish-influenced food to an appreciative audience of locals, so they must be doing something right. This small bistro, nestled into a cozy storefront, is decorated with a wall mural of Seville and bullfighting posters. On Saturday nights, a live flamenco guitarist plays to appreciative diners as well. It can be very hard to get a weekend reservation, so plan a trip in advance. It’s well worth it, though, as the food here is top notch. Regulars rave about the flavorful paella, which is packed to the brim with delicious seafood, chicken, and sausage. The tapas are also great, and the wine list has won awards year after year.
Café Seville
2768 East Oakland Park Boulevard
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33306
(954) 565-1148
www.casablancacafeonline.com
Valentine Fun: Famous Couples In History
Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Buffalo Chicken Sliders
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon dark brown sugar
2 teaspoons paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne
1 cup hot sauce, such as Frank's Red Hot
12 small rolls, such as Hawaiian or Parker House rolls, buttered and griddled
Ranch dressing, for serving
1 cup blue cheese crumbles
Tomato slices, for serving
Green leaf lettuce, for serving
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Heat a 12-inch ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add in the oil. Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, the brown sugar, paprika and cayenne. Sear both sides of the chicken until golden, about 4 minutes. Add in the hot sauce to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and then place in the oven to finish off, and the chicken registers 160 degrees F on an instant-read thermometer.
Let the chicken cool, and then pull the meat with your hands. Adjust the seasoning if necessary, and then place back in the oven at BROIL until crusty and caramelized on top, about 4 minutes.
Sandwich Build: Place some chicken on the bottom buns, top with ranch, blue cheese crumbles, tomatoes and then lettuce. Serve.
Miami Heat: The Next Dynasty
The people of South Florida are craving a title from their beloved Miami Heat. Last season may have ended with a disappointing showing in the Finals, but that doesn't change the fact that the current lineup in Miami is an almost unbelievable collection of talent. The dream trio of LeBron James, Dwayne Wade, and Chris Bosh are still going strong, and they're still hungry for championship rings. There's plenty of other talent on display, too. Udonis Haslem and Norris Cole are standouts in a team with solid defense all around. Erik Spoelstra continues his duties as head coach, where he has helped the Heat shine for several seasons and shows no sign of slowing down. Now that all of the hype has died down a bit, Miami can get down to business. This is a team for the ages, and if last season didn't bring home a championship, it was the first chapter in what could be the next big NBA Dynasty.
Go to http://www.nba.com/heat for Heat info, including schedules, tickets, and merchandise.
Tips for Eating More Healthfully in the New Year
Many people vow to eat more healthfully in the New Year, but few are successful in their resolution. A common mistake is equating healthy eating with deprivation and food that tastes like cardboard. But this is a myth: healthful food is often delicious food, too. Here are a few easy tips to improve your diet without starving yourself:
Hydrate
In the winter, it’s still important to keep your skin, muscles, and body hydrated by drinking a lot of water. Water consumption also helps you loss weight by keeping you full between meals. Make carrying a water bottle part of your normal routine.
Eat regularly and moderately
Skipping meals makes you feel cranky and low energy, as does gorging every meal. Eat balanced meals at the same times every day, and snack, if you need to, on healthy proteins like nuts and fruit. Carry a couple of granola bars with you. Eating only when you’re actually hungry will help prevent you from binging later!
Variety
Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are buzzwords in healthy diets. You can learn to include them in meals pretty easily by seeking out recipes in books or online. Put vegetables into sauces or dishes with more delicious ingredients. Use fruits in your dessert. Opt for whole grain bread and pasta over starchier varieties. Enjoy!
By The Bay: Traveling To Tampa
If you’re en route to the Big Guava (as Tampa is called by locals), you’re in for a treat. One of the largest cities on Florida’s western coast is overflowing with entertaining stuff to do. This quick guide will point you in the right direction.
Tampa underwent massive surges of growth in the 1950s and 1960s, as post-war prosperity swept the area. The town built two of the most popular tourist destinations in that time – amusement park Busch Gardens and the spectacular Lowry Park. Tampa was voted one of the best outdoor cities in America by Forbes Magazine, and one visit to Lowry Park will show you why. The temperate weather means that the park stays green year-round, with beautiful meadows and forests.
Located in the hip Channel District, the Florida Aquarium is widely regarded as one of the best in the United States, with over 20,000 species of animals and plants represented. While you’re in the area, visit the SS American Victory, a former World War II victory ship that has been transformed into a floating museum.
In late January, Tampa hosts the Gasparilla Pirate Festival, called by many the Mardi Gras of Florida. This rambunctious event kicks off with a flotilla led by the pirate ship Jose Gasparilla and features parades, concerts, street festivals, and more.
Tampa also has a number of excellent restaurants, as the melding of cultures in the region means you can get excellent Cuban, Cajun, French, and much more. Some of the best include Six Tables, Donatello, and Mise en Place.
Hitting The Water: Take A Trip To Key West
The Florida Keys are among the most beautiful destinations in the Sunshine State, and there’s no better gateway there than Key West. The southernmost point of the continental United States, this island has been a destination for sun-seekers and fun-lovers for generations, and there are many great reasons to visit.
Most people head to Key West for the water activities there – the Atlantic Ocean is crystal clear and warm most of the year, and beaches are full of beautiful people catching rays. But there’s more to do here than just enjoy the climate. To learn a little more about Key West, visit the Audubon House and Tropical Gardens, a beautiful museum that was once home to the legendary naturalist.
Key West is also home to one of the biggest sailing events in the United States, the Key West Race Week every January. This annual regatta brings boats from all over the Eastern Seaboard and is thrilling to participate in.
Key West is also a vibrant cultural center, with a number of hip clubs to enjoy live music, DJs, and dancing. Visual arts have a home here as well, with the Studios of Key West, located in the island’s historic armory, providing working space for artists of all stripes.
For some of the best nightlife in town, head to the Duval Street district, which is home to excellent restaurants, bars, and clubs. Everything here is within walking distance, which makes it more convenient.
Equal Housing Opportunity