Tuesday, July 4, 2023

[Don]

Good morning and Happy 4th of July to all in the U.S.  We have already been hearing fireworks for the past couple of days and I'm sure will hear more tonight. Personally not a big fan of fireworks.

I have been thinking about getting a "travel" camera for a while now but never found one that was relatively affordable and had all the features I wanted. But a photographer (professional as it turns out) acquaintance posted some photos she had taken at a concert with a Panasonic Lumix ZS-80 and after doing a bit of research, I decided it would be an ideal carry camera. Shoots RAW, small size, has electronic viewfinder in addition to the rear screen, etc. Went to BH Photographer to order and it was out of stock - same with Adorama. But I found a like new used one at MPB online and pulled the trigger last night. I should get it in about a week. I think it will be a great travel, street photography, and taking with me on the motorcycle camera.

[Dave]

Don, many years ago I used an early Panasonic Lumix and found it to be quite good - clearly superior to its competitors.

I agree with you about fireworks. I just don't understand how making loud noises that disturb one's neighbors and terrorize pets is somehow patriotic. Most people outgrow the fascination of a 12 year old boy with making loud noises, but some never seem mature.

More than 10 years ago my city did not allow the use of fireworks & firecrackers, but the fireworks vendors got a proposition on the ballot and then bombarded voters with ads, so the proposition passed. And they wrote in a clause that makes it virtually impossible to ban fireworks in the future. The city was just chasing dollars. As I emailed every city council member before the voting: "You are encouraging the use of explosive devices by untrained individuals, many of whom have been drinking all day. What could possibly go wrong?"

Damn politicians!

OK, tirade over.

Some unidentified white flower taken yesterday next to the garage...

[Adamphotoman]

Nice Dave,

I have a yellow flowering Potentilla shrub. here is a shot with a very old optical design[Petzval] complete with a swirl. I still need practice to learn how to use it.

   

[Man From Ironbark]

Lovely florals from you both.
There is only one part of Australia where people are allowed to handle their own fireworks. The Northern Territory. You know, where Darwin is., and on only the one day of the year.
Two men were recently admitted to hospital after a fireworks incident. With one man having his lower arm amputated and severe injuries to his chest and abdomen making his condition critical. The other managed to keep his hands but was also severely injured.