All of a sudden, there seems to be increasing interest in Mars. Firstly there was the failed UK attempt – the Beagle 2 who had the last rites administered today. Then the US probes, Spirit and Opportunity, landed and made headlines. This was of course followed by an announcement by President Bush of United States, declaring his intention to put men on Mars in years to come.
Seems odd, doesn’t it?
Something to keep in mind in our value-focused society.
“The world never puts a price on you higher than the one you put on yourself.”
Sonja Henie
Had a chance to chat with a colleague from China a few days ago about the local customs during Chinese New Year in his home town. It seems that many of the things that I have always taken for granted may be quite different in different areas in China. Two examples are the reunion dinner, and rice cake.
Just read an article Why digital cameras = better photographers which argues that digital cameras lead to better photographers. Incidentally I don’t personally own a digital camera – still relying on my trusty Nikon F50 and the more recently acquired Yashica T5D – but I do follow closely developments of these digital toys.
While a digital camera does offer lots of convenience (instant feedback) and may help reduce the wasted-holiday-shot syndrome, I can’t help but disagree with the main points of this article. In fact, precisely because of the reduced costs compared to film, from what I have observed, this is more likely to lead to ‘random’ shooting, without necessarily paying extra attention to framing of picture or lighting, etc. So, instead of promoting experimentation as the article suggests, I feel a digital camera in the hands of a typical casual photographer is more likely to lead to ‘fast-food’ photos – lots of mediocre shots which are bland, but acceptable.
Then again, maybe I am slightly biased. 🙂
Today ushers in the Monkey year according to the Chinese lunar calendar. Happy New Year to all!
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