Monday, July 25, 2005

Microsoft takes on Google with Virtual Earth: " (InfoWorld) - Microsoft was set to release on Monday a new online local search product that goes head to head with a similar offering from rival Google. MSN Virtual Earth, first announced by the Redmond, Washington-based software giant in May, is similar to Google Maps in that it provides both street-map and satellite views of locations and provides driving directions between locations. Like Google Maps, Virtual Earth also allows users to find specific consumer services around a particular location, such as restaurants and hotels, by typing in keywords. In a later release of the product expected to come out before the end of September, Microsoft also will add a 'bird's eye' view of locations that lets users view aerial images not only from directly above but also from an angle, so they not only see the tops of buildings but also view them from the side, said Mark Law, lead product manager for Virtual Earth. Google Maps does not have that capability today. (Via InfoWorld.) 7:28:07 AM

Just posted! Nikon D50 review: "Just posted! Our full in-depth review of Nikon's most affordable digital SLR, the six megapixel D50. The D50 is Nikon's answer to the recent spate of affordable digital SLR's like the Canon EOS 300D/350D (Digital Rebel/XT) and Pentax *ist DS. The D50's appearance is so similar to the D70 it would be easy to mistake the two, and indeed in use the D50 sacrificies little feeling just as snappy as its elder sibling. See how the D50 performed and how it compared to the competition, read our detailed review!" (Via Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com).) 7:23:51 AM

The Zen of White Balance: "The real purpose of white balance adjustment is to compensate for the color temperature of the prevailing light source so that your image will show accurate color. Whether you do so by making adjustments on your camera before you shoot or on your computer after you shoot, the objective is supposed to be the same. But rather than stopping there, let's look at some other, more creative uses for white balance adjustment...." (Via Earthbound Light Photography Tips.) 7:23:35 AM

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