While working on a comp for SLRPlayground I came up with a few ideas. One of which is reflections in Flash automatically generated in code so I can keep the galleries dynamic.
A side benefit to working on this experiment was getting a chance to use the Matrix Class in Actionscript. I got a lot of help from this article by the one and only Senocular.
Here is some example code from this experiment which basically takes a clip and flips it over to create a reflection. I then use a Gradient mask (created entirely in Code) to blend in the reflection and add to the realism.
import flash.geom.*
var matrix = {a:1.0, b:0, u:0, c:0, d:-1.0, v:0, tx:0, ty:(image._height*2)+2, w:0};
var reflectionTrans:Transform = new Transform(mcReflectionHolder);
reflectionTrans.matrix = matrix;

I will be adding more code from this project and also look out for a tutorial on Scriptplayground covering some of these techniques.
Stock Vault is running a Photography contest where users of all levels get the chance to submit their best photo for a chance to win $1000.
You have until December 10th 2006 at midnight EST to submit a photo.
More information about the contest is available on the Stock Vault site. I know I will submit a photo, will you?
Want to see what others are submitting for a chance at $1000? Check out the contest submission gallery.
While on that site be sure to check out the tons of awesome photos you can use in your work and get an idea of what others are capturing in their viewfinder.

Before someone asks… this post is not an ad in any way. I was not asked to post this, but instead thought others could benefit from knowing about it.
While browsing today I stumbled upon an in-depth review of the Canon EOS XTI/400D. I haven’t had the chance to try it out, but have been informed my local company store has it in stock, so with a little luck I will get to test drive it soon.
Here are some points that make the 400D a good camera:
- Ten megapixel Canon CMOS sensor
- A three part dust reduction system
- Nine point Auto Focus
- New larger LCD and user interface
- Offers a range of improvements over the camera it replaces, the very successful EOS 350D
In depth review
Recently I stumbled upon this awesome designer’s portfolio, where he retouches a series of images to create stunning advertising. Not only is his work amazing but what really caught my eye on the site is the fact he walks the viewer through the process of creating the ads. He shows the scans, comps and revisions that led to the completed picture. Continue Reading »
The PhotoPlus Expo will be held in New York Ciity on November 2-4 2006.
The 2006 Photography & Design Conference is the most comprehensive learning event in the photographic and imaging industries. This year’s conference will offer over 100 in-depth photography and design seminars, including several hands-on workshops, taught by world-renowned experts. You’ll find information-packed, idea-generating sessions at the only conference in the country that’s 100% focused on photography, design & imaging.
If you are going to be in or around the area why not stop by and see what’s going on? I am about 90% sure I will be attending and just like Photoshop World you can find me in and around Colin Smith’s PhotoshopCafe booth.
Here is the pricing and registration info for the show.
Registration Fees
Expo Only
On or before 10/12/06…Free
After 10/12/06……$40
Gold Expo Pass
On or before 10/12/06…$59
After 10/12/06…….$79
Seminars
2 Hour Seminar $80
3 Hour Seminar $105
Hands On Seminar $150
Portfolio Reviews $150
It will be a fun time and if you think you can attend drop me a note.