Canon Central and North Africa (www.Canon-CNA.com) is thrilled to announce its partnership with KidZania Cairo, to introduce a Canon Photography Studio at KidZania in Cairo, Egypt. The new innovative space is designed to provide children from 8-14 years of age with a unique opportunity to explore the world of photography, learn about Canon’s cutting-edge technology, and unleash their creativity in a fun and interactive environment.

The Canon Photography Studio at KidZania Cairo is set to become a captivating and creative play space where children can engage in a variety of activities related to photography. The aim is to create an immersive experience that not only entertains but also educates and empowers young minds while igniting their creativity.

“We are delighted to embark on this exciting collaboration with KidZania Cairo. Canon has always been committed to inspiring creativity and nurturing a passion for technology and innovation. The Canon Photography Studio at KidZania Cairo is more than a play space; it’s a gateway for children to explore the captivating world of photography, learn about leading-edge technology, and, most importantly, have fun while doing so. The indoor city built to scale for kids, is an innovative and educational concept where children can engage in various role-playing activities and simulate real-world jobs and professions. We believe in the power of education through experience, and this collaboration aligns perfectly with our mission to empower the next generation of photographers,” says Amine Djouahra, B2C Business Unit Director, Canon Central and North Africa.

Building upon the success of the Canon Academy Juniors programme, the studio at KidZania Cairo adopts a similar educational empowerment approach tailored to children’s unique scale, level, and language comprehension. Much like the forementioned initiatives, the studio at KidZania Cairo aspires to instil valuable knowledge and empower young minds in a way that resonates with the dynamic and creative world of children.

For many years, Canon has been committed to empowering young people and providing them with tools and opportunities for personal and educational growth. Initiatives like this with KidZania Cairo play a vital role in enabling young people, providing them with opportunities for skills development and access to education, and fostering personal growth.

“The collaboration between KidZania Cairo and Canon marks a significant stride towards enriching educational experiences for children. By integrating Canon’s expertise in photography with KidZania’s immersive learning environment, we are poised to provide a unique platform for young minds to explore the realms of creativity and technology. Together, we aim to inspire the next generation of photographers and creators, equipping them with valuable skills and insights that will shape their future endeavours,” says Ahmed Ibrahim Habib, CEO for KidZania Cairo. 

The Canon Photography Studio at KidZania Cairo will feature a diverse range of activities. Children will also learn the art of composing a visually appealing photograph. Through interactive games and activities, they will understand the importance of angles, lighting, and framing.

Additionally, they will get hands-on experience with Canon’s latest technology. After capturing memorable moments, they will have the chance to bring their creations to life by using a Canon printer to print their photographs. Canon and KidZania Cairo are committed to providing children with a unique and enriching experience. Equipped with newfound experience in camera operation, lens variation, and the intricacies of capturing and printing images, children will emerge with a well-rounded skill set that transcends the fundamentals of basic photography. By combining play and learning, the Canon Photography Studio at KidZania Cairo aims to leave a lasting impression on young minds, inspiring the future generation of photographers.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA).

Media enquiries, please contact:
Canon Central and North Africa
Mai Youssef
e. Mai.youssef@canon-me.com

APO Group – PR Agency
Rania ElRafie
e. Rania.ElRafie@apo-opa.com

About Canon Central and North Africa:
Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) (www.Canon-CNA.com) is a division within Canon Middle East FZ LLC (CME), a subsidiary of Canon Europe. The formation of CCNA in 2016 was a strategic step that aimed to enhance Canon’s business within the Africa region – by strengthening Canon’s in-country presence and focus. CCNA also demonstrates Canon’s commitment to operating closer to its customers and meeting their demands in the rapidly evolving African market.

Canon has been represented in the African continent for more than 15 years through distributors and partners that have successfully built a solid customer base in the region. CCNA ensures the provision of high quality, technologically advanced products that meet the requirements of Africa’s rapidly evolving marketplace. With over 100 employees, CCNA manages sales and marketing activities across 44 countries in Africa.

Canon’s corporate philosophy is Kyosei (https://apo-opa.co/3SvVhrS) – ‘living and working together for the common good’. CCNA pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its own environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon’s products, solutions and services. At Canon, we are pioneers, constantly redefining the world of imaging for the greater good. Through our technology and our spirit of innovation, we push the bounds of what is possible – helping us to see our world in ways we never have before. We help bring creativity to life, one image at a time. Because when we can see our world, we can transform it for the better.

For more information: www.Canon-CNA.com

Car photography is hard. If you don’t believe me, just take a quick scan through the latest vehicle images on your social media platform of choice. Sure, you’ll see the occasional picture perfect vehicle photo, likely captured by a paid professional. But for every gorgeous automotive visual you’ll see dozens of photos with issues ranging from sloppy cropping to unflattering angles to lackluster lighting. And we haven’t even gotten into busy reflections and distracting backgrounds.

If you’re a connoisseur of vehicle photography you celebrate those all-too-rare instances where everything comes together, creating visual automotive perfection. And if you’re Ted7, you take pride in being a provider of said perfection. Ted is an avowed automotive enthusiast, inspired by a father who frequently returned from international trips with toy cars from faraway lands. This inspired Ted to buy full-sized performance cars as an adult. Initially a Volkswagen GTI fan, Ted’s passion peaked behind the wheel of a Caterham 7, his current and favorite ride. Thus, Ted7.

Ted7’s photographic journey started where so many automotive photographers start, at his local Cars & Coffee event. What began as a simple habit of shooting vehicles as they left the event evolved into a request by a one of those drivers to shoot his car. “He paid me,” Ted7 told me with a bit of surprise in his voice. “Then I met other people, like Hillbanks/Superformance, and I started shooting for them. All their inventory cars like GT40s, Shelby Cobras and Cobra Coupes. I shot probably over 200 cars for them.”

As Ted7’s photography income ramped up his work at his “real job” — an SEO expert — ramped down. After 18 months he was able to leave the SEO world behind and focus solely on automotive photography. That was 12 years ago, with brands like Vorsteiner and HRE wheels, Evan Paul Motorcars, GMG Racing, and Ring Brothers among his early clients. Later work included vehicle photography for The Wall Street Journal and The Petersen Automotive Museum, where he got his first taste of car photography in a studio.

The Petersen has an area called “the cove” featuring a clean white background and controlled lighting. Ted7 initially shot hundreds of museum vehicles in the cove, and he soon started renting it out for his own customers that wanted studio photography. Ted7’s cove shoots at The Petersen, between 2017 and 2021, included photography for Gunther Werks and car brokers in Beverly Hills and Malibu. This experience convinced Ted7 to partner with LongTail Rally (where he’s the official photographer) to build his own studio, which opened in Orange County in June of 2021.

With the studio open Ted7’s business has snowballed. His images of high-end cars, appearing in high-profile locations like Bring a Trailer’s website or Bonham’s, Broad Arrow’s, and Sotheby’s auction houses, has put the car broker world on notice. Ted7 is now shooting approximately 600 cars a year. His protocol is to shoot a maximum of three cars in the morning, allowing time for photo editing in the afternoon and a turnaround time of 1-2 days. While advance notice is preferred, Ted7 says he’s used to working on short notice for brokers needing a quick turnaround.

If you’re in need of premium vehicle photography at the level seen here, or in the above gallery of 20 iconic cars, you can reach Ted7 at his website or through Instagram. He may have an open photo session slot in the next 24 hours, or it may take up to a week to schedule. But if you’re seeking that all-too-rare example of visual perfection in automotive imagery, it’s probably worth the wait.

The world of astrophotography and beyond mourns the tragic loss of Alyn Wallace, a talented photographer and beacon of inspiration. He tragically passed away last week at only 34 years of age.

Alyn was born in Wales, but he lived in Istanbul, Turkey, where he passed on March 28, 2024. His parents, Pauline and Ian, shared the heart-wrenching news on Instagram. They revealed that Alyn had been battling a pre-existing condition that compromised his immune system. A recent infection related to a gallbladder stone escalated rapidly, sadly leading to him losing his life. This tragic development has left a void in the hearts of those who knew him and admired his work.

About Alyn Wallace

Alyn Wallace was not just a gifted astrophotographer. He was also a prolific educator and author, and many of you knew him for his YouTube channel. It boasts nearly 150,000 subscribers and hosts hundreds of videos capturing the majestic beauty of the night sky.

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His remarkable contributions to astrophotography were widely recognized. Alyn was the author of Photographing the Night Sky, a comprehensive guide that has served as an indispensable resource for both aspiring and seasoned photographers. His exceptional skill and creativity earned him numerous awards. Furthermore, his work graced the pages of esteemed publications such as National Geographic, BBC Earth, The Guardian, and many others.

But perhaps Alyn Wallace’s most profound legacy is the impact he had on the community of photographers and astronomy enthusiasts. He inspired so many of us to explore the night sky with awe and reverence. He selflessly shared his knowledge and passion through his videos, workshops, and writings. The outpouring of tributes from fellow photographers on Instagram, astrophotography forums, and Facebook speaks volumes about the respect and admiration he garnered within the community.

Alyn’s journey, though tragically cut short, was marked by a relentless pursuit of beauty and knowledge. he has left an indelible mark on the world of astrophotography and beyond. Alyn’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations to gaze up at the night sky with wonder and curiosity, searching for the same magic that captivated him throughout his life.

On behalf of the entire DIYP team and myself, we offer our deepest condolences to Alyn’s family and friends. Alyn, thank you for inspiring us, teaching us, and igniting a passion for photography that will forever burn bright. We will miss you dearly.

Bard College presents ‘Returning Home: A Contemporary Native Photography Exhibition’

Annandale-On-Hudson, N.Y.— From April 6th through April 12th, Bard College presents ‘Returning Home: A Contemporary Native Photography Exhibition,’ an exhibition curated by Rethinking Place Post-Baccalaureate Fellow Olivia Tencer and Rethinking Place Administrative Coordinator Melina Roise.

The exhibition, centered around narratives of Indigenous families, particularly women and children, will delve into the experiences of Native peoples facing settler colonialism, focusing specifically on Indigenous child removal practices and policies.

“Returning Home” aims to highlight Indigenous representation, narrative, survivance, futurism, and resilience through contemporary Native art. The show will include pieces from the Forge Project’s collection, as well as a written commission from Bonney Hartley, who is an MFA candidate at Institute of American Indian Arts. An accompanying publication will provide in-depth contextualization of land dispossession in the United States, forced removal of Native peoples in New York State, and the impact of Indian boarding schools.

This groundbreaking exhibition features works by four contemporary Indigenous photographers, Kali Spitzer (Kaska Dena/Jewish,) Dana Claxton (Wood Mountain Lakota First Nations,) Cara Romero (Chemehuevi Indian Tribe,) and Wendy Red Star (Apsáalooke (Crow),) along with a written commission by Bonney Hartley (Stockbridge-Munsee Mohican) and archival records of local land transfers and the United States’ Indian boarding school history.

The exhibit is on view from April 6th through April 12th at Montgomery Place Mansion at Bard College in Annandale-On-Hudson. It is free and open to the public. More information including a schedule of readings and events can be found online. 

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Hotel On North to exhibit ‘Jazz Visions II,’ works by Berkshires watercolorist Marguerite Bride

Pittsfield— From Friday, April 5th through May 31st, Hotel On North will exhibit “Jazz Visions II,” works by Berkshires watercolorist Marguerite Bride.

This solo exhibit will feature 25 “jazz-infused” paintings. First introduced in 2016, this collection has grown significantly now depicting scenes of local jazz events including many of the Berkshires’ beloved musicians. Best known for her work on paper, Bride’s exhibit will include several pieces on canvas, an unusual medium for watercolors and one that often has an unexpected visual impact.

April is National Jazz Appreciation Month and in celebration, profits from the sale of the original painting “The Master’s Hands,” signed by the artist and Dave Brubeck will be donated to Berkshires Jazz.

The exhibit runs from Friday, April 5th through May 31st at Hotel On North on North Street in Pittsfield. There will be an opening reception on Friday, April 5th from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. in conjunction with Pittsfield’s First Friday ArtsWalk. More information can be found online. 

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Clarion Concerts presents the Shanghai Quartet at Hudson Hall

Hudson— On Saturday, April 6th at 7 p.m., in honor of Eugenia Zukerman, extraordinary flutist and outgoing Artistic Director of Clarion Concerts, Clarion Concerts presents the Shanghai Quartet at Hudson Hall.

Over the past 40 years, the Shanghai Quartet has become one of the world’s foremost chamber ensembles. Their elegant style, impressive technique, and emotional breadth allows the quartet to move seamlessly between masterpieces of Western music, traditional Chinese folk music, and cutting-edge contemporary works.

The program includes Haydn’s “Quartet in D major, Op. 20, No. 4,” Zhou Long’s “Selections from Eight Folk Songs,” and Grieg’s “Quartet No. 1 in G minor, Op. 27.”

The concert is on Saturday, April 6th at 7 p.m. at Hudson Hall at the historic Hudson Opera House on Warren Street in Hudson. Tickets start at $28. Tickets and more information can be found online. 

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Berkshire Art Center’s annual dance party returns with ‘Rococo Raku Revelry’

Pittsfield— On Saturday, April 6th at 7 p.m., Berkshire Art Center’s annual dance party returns with “Rococo Raku Revelry.”

Berkshire Art Center’s annual benefit and dance party is back and happening at The Colonial Theatre in Pittsfield. Discover the unexpected with this year’s theme, Rococo Raku Revelry. The grand setting of the Colonial Theatre will be host to an evening filled with one-of-a-kind sights and sounds, including special performances with local drag queen, Bella Santarella, DJ BFG spinning vinyl on the big stage, and projections by local artist, Joe Wheaton.

Partygoers are already devising their costumes as they creatively combine ornate French Baroque with Japanese minimalism. Just like in Berkshire Art Center’s art programs – there is no right or wrong way to express your creative self here! Come in your finest wigs & lapels, your Louis-heels and Pagoda sleeves, or wear it all. More more more meets less less less. Who will you be?

The party is on Saturday, April 6th at 7 p.m. at The Colonial Theatre on South Street in Pittsfield. Tickets are $25 for general admission. Tickets and more information including information about special tickets and the silent auction can be found online. 

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Berkshire Art Association 2024 BAA Fellowship Show

Pittsfield— From Saturday, April 6th through April 30th, the Berkshire Art Association presents the 2024 BAA Fellowship Show.

The Berkshire Art Association will showcase the work of 17 exceptional college artists at the 2024 BAA Fellowship Show. The show was juried by a panel representing several visual art disciplines. Of 141 works submitted, 36 were chosen for exhibition. With the help of a generous grant from the Feigenbaum Foundation, cash awards totaling $5000 will be presented.

The exhibit will run from Saturday, April 6th through April 30th at the Lichtenstein Center for the Arts on Renne Avenue in Pittsfield. There will be an opening reception on Saturday, April 6th from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. It is free and open to the public. For gallery hours, call 413-499-9348.

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Shakespeare & Company announces 2024 ‘Behind the Curtain’ lecture series

Lenox— On Saturday, April 6th, Shakespeare & Company’s free “Behind the Curtain” lecture series, led by Shakespeare scholar Ann Berman, resumes.

Featuring directors, cast, and design team members as guests, Berman examines various themes surrounding both the Shakespeare and contemporary productions slated for Season 2024 through talks designed to be accessible, engaging, and interactive.

Berman holds a Master of Arts in Shakespeare Studies from King’s College, London, and explores topics ranging from historical parallels in Shakespeare’s plays to the effect costumes, scenic design, lighting, and more can have on audience response to a performance.

Behind the Curtain lectures for the 2024 Season include:

• Saturday, April 6 – The Winter’s Tale with Founding Artistic Director Tina Packer
• Saturday, April 20 – The Comedy of Errors with Director Kate Kohler Amory
• Saturday, June 22 – Shakespeare & Music with Artistic Director Allyn Burrows
• Saturday, July 13 – The Comedy of Errors with Director Kate Kohler Amory
• Saturday, July 27– Flight of the Monarch: Penning New Plays with playwright Jim Frangione
• Saturday, August 10 – The Winter’s Tale with Founding Artistic Director Tina Packer
• Saturday, August 24 – Three Tall Persian Women; guest to be announced

Spring talks will be held in the Jane Iredale Lobby at the Elayne P. Bernstein Theatre, while Summer sessions will be held outdoors at the tented Rose Footprint Theatre in the Rose Meadow. All Behind the Curtain lectures are free, but tickets are required. More information can be found online or by calling 413-637-3353.

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Free documentary film screening at Mason Library

Great Barrington— On Saturday, April 6th at 7 p.m., The Mason Library presents a free screening of “Subject,” a film which examines the impact that well known documentaries have had on the lives of their subjects.

The 95-minute documentary asks the question: in the golden age of documentaries, who benefits? The film focuses on the ethics and responsibilities inherent in documentary filmmaking and on the unintended consequences, the good, bad, and complicated, of having your life shared on screen. The protagonists of acclaimed films “The Staircase,” “Hoop Dreams,” “The Wolfpack,” “Capturing the Friedmans,” and “The Square” are featured.

The screening is on Saturday, April 6th at 7 p.m. at The Mason Library on Main Street in Great Barrington. The doors open at 6:30 p.m. for a free wine, cider, and cheese social. A short discussion will follow. All are welcome. More information can be found online. 

Middlesex County is hosting the 2024 Picture Middlesex County, an annual photography contest that started March 19 and is currently accepting photo submissions until June 11 to highlight and acknowledge the photo-taking skills of aspiring photographers.

Shannon Tambini, Director of Marketing, said, “All photos submitted must be taken within the contest timeframe and within Middlesex County, NJ.”

According to the Middlesex County website, this contest is open to all New Jersey residents, and they could be beginners or professional photographers, as well as participants of any age; however, individuals 17 and under require their parent/guardian to sign the entry form.

According to the website, a judging committee from the County will choose winners anonymously, and the winning pictures will be uploaded to a new photo album on the County’s Facebook page.

Tambini said the categories for this year’s photography contest include Nature and Scenery, Macro and Micro, Pop of Color, and Community Events.

According to the website, participants can enter up to two photos in each of the five photo submission categories.

Tambini said that participants can click on a category on the website to submit their photos using that form.

She said, “Our Picture Middlesex contest is a way for residents to engage with us, to be able to share and celebrate the essence of Middlesex County through their unique perspectives.”

She said, “ I hope this contest inspires residents to get out and explore the County, to take a closer look at their surroundings and snap away!”

Arielle Flores, Educational Opportunity Fund Program Coordinator, said, “I personally think that the contest is a great idea… It exposes anyone who’s just interested in the art of photography to join in. It’s a great teaching moment, too.”

She said seeing that both beginners and professional photographers can participate in this contest allows those who aren’t too experienced to see the professional photos and possibly have the opportunity to be mentored by those experts. 

Flores said it is great that there is no age limit to this contest because there are children and elderly individuals who are phenomenal at photography and could have the chance to show their skills.

Flores said she thinks this contest can positively impact the college community by benefiting the photography students and anyone who likes photography as a hobby.

She said, “I think it exposes the college ability.”

Annie Hogan, Chair of the VPMA Department, said, “The opportunity can benefit the college community through our student participation. Having students make images in and around Middlesex County allows our students to show off where they live, and show off their skills. 

She said, “If they (our Media Arts and Design students) become finalists, they have the opportunity to be published via the many ways in which Middlesex County is highlighted both in print and online.”

Hogan said, “I love the categories, as our students have a proclivity to gravitate toward what they do or shoot best. Some can really make stunning portraits, some make fantastic images of the built environment, or some concentrate on the power of color.” 

She said, “It seems the competition caters for those with any level of experience, and this is a great way our students can put into action what they learned in class. Publicity for an image a student has made, is a positive way to recognize publicly their passion for their craft.”

“I love that there is a contest in Middlesex County. The fact there are five areas that students can submit up to two images toward: nature and scenery, macro and micro, pets and wildlife, pop of color and community events, means there is an opportunity for everyone,” Hogan said.

Asfra Kazmi, a first-year student, said, “I feel like opening this photography contest to a diverse group of people and also providing them with such a variety of topics will allow people to be more creative.”

Hogan said, “Whether you are a professional photographer or a novice, having recognition of your work is a bonus. Students can put it on their resume, and as all images will be posted on the County’s Facebook page, means many thousands of people will view them.”

For more information about the categories and guidelines, visit https://discovermiddlesex.com/picture-middlesex-county/.

Nikon has announced the Nikkor Z 28-400mm F4-8 VR, a ‘superzoom’ lens with a 14.2x zoom range. 

The 28-400mm F4-8 is made up of 21 lens elements in 15 groups, which includes three aspherical and four ED lens elements, alongside nine aperture blades. It has a close focus distance of 0.2m at 28mm and 1.2m at 400mm, and uses a 77mm filter thread.

The lens also includes Nikon’s vibration reduction (VR) technology, which offers 5 stops of image stabilisation at 400mm, and up to 5.5 stops using Nikon’s Synchro VR technology when paired with select Nikon cameras, including the Z8 and Z9, that feature in-body stabilisation. Additionally, a stepping motor powers the AF, and manual focus includes support for a linear focus response.

The lens weighs 725g, and is 85mm in diameter and 142mm long in its closed form. It’s also dust and drip-resistant.

The Nikkor Z 28-400mm F4-8 VR is available for pre-order now, and will set you back $2,199. You can find out more on the Nikon website.