Monday, September 24, 2012

Garrison Art Center in New York for Photocentric 2012, Article and Exclusive Interview with Featured Photographer, Nelson Conde



More Than Meets The Eye | The Mind Behind The Lens 
Inside The Artistic Mind of Photographer, Nelson Conde

By Alexandra Christina Dedovitch, Creative Director for H and B Digital

I had the opportunity to meet with financial banker turned artistic photographer, Nelson Conde, at the International Center of Photography in Manhattan last week to discuss his most recent art exhibitions in which his unique approach to photography, the culturally diverse environment of New York City and the inspiration of other artists have played a vital role in his rising success as one of New York’s top photography newcomers.

Photo Credit | Gary B. Miller
Conde is a featured artist for the second year since 2010 in several of New York’s exclusive art and photography exhibitions held this year. One of his winning photos entitled “Occupy,” was featured at Barrett Art Center’s, Photowork 2012, on May 12th. Another photo entitled “Sun Capped Grace,” is currently on exhibit at Garrison Art Center's, Photocentric 2012, until September 30th

For both exhibitions, less than 60 winners were chosen out of the 1000+ submissions received and were hand-selected by the judges, some of whom are world-renown and leading figures in the art community. Conde, who steers clear of labeling himself as a “Photographer,” doesn’t let the glory get to his head and expresses a gracious attitude towards his achievements. “My photos won in 2010 so when I didn’t win in 2011, it was a humbling experience. Success is developed through failure. Know that you will fail but also remember that it’s what you do with that failure that will determine your success in the future. Whatever you do, don’t put yourself in a bubble. Step outside of your safety zone but be humble about it,” says Conde.

Both of Condes winning photos reflect his unique approach to photography which he says is “a combination of design and psychology. By taking the negative and positive space, I can transform the image into something new, without extensive post-processing, by simply clicking the shutter button.” This interesting approach can be found in the contrasting color and juxtaposition of the coordinated businessmen and the disjointed mannequins in “Occupy,” or of the Grace Building on 6th Avenue that is visually transformed into a snow topped mountain towering above New Yorkers in “Sun Capped Grace.” 


"Occupy" By Nelson Conde
"Sun Capped Grace" By Nelson Conde

Native New Yorkers like Conde, who was born and raised in Brooklyn, have a knack for wearing many different hats in their everyday lives which can be accredited to the cultural diversity surrounding them on a regular basis. Conde gracefully embraces this diversity by using it as a positive source of inspiration to fuel his own creative energy and as a way to give back to others.  During the day he works as the head of finance for a major bank in Manhattan, but on his free time he is busy organizing and promoting events for musicians, painters, photographers and artists, many of whom are masters of their crafts and some of Conde’s closest friends. “There are three people in my life who have inspired my photography, the first happen to to be painters and art gallery owners, Steve and Barbara Riddle, the second is a jazz musician, Chris Crocco and the third is a photographer, Lori Adams.” In this way, Conde receives inspiration from different types of artists working in varying mediums and not only shows his appreciation but also supports their form of artwork by creating and organizing events that will pay tribute to and showcase their artistic talents.


Photo Credit |  Lori Adams
You might call Conde, the underground art scene's "Superman," who spends the daytime hours guised as Clark Kent, a professional and career-oriented figure then transforms into a superhero at night, or in the case of Conde, a creative maverick eagerly participating in and advocating for the arts in his own visionary way. “It’s important to speak with other artists who work with different tools and mediums, painters with the brush, musicians with the instrument…and find out what’s in their hearts by asking them how they see and transform space and light. My tool is my camera,” says Conde. Being exceptional at your artistic craft comes from “being true to your truth of art and your truth of thoughts. It will reflect in your artwork.” 

Olympus PEN E-PL1
Conde’s formula for transcendence even extends to the types of cameras he chooses to use when shooting. "Occupy" was shot with a Canon PowerShot G10 and "Sun Capped Grace" was shot with the Olympus PEN E-PL1.  The Canon PowerShot G10 is a compact digital camera that offers standard point-and-shoot features with an additional option of shooting with “Manual Mode,” which allows photographers, like Conde, to adjust the cameras settings such as aperture, shutter speed and white balance. Most professional photographers prefer to shoot with digital SLR cameras which offer a wider variety of advanced features in addition to more lens and camera accessory options. However, the downside of digital SLRs is that they are typically bulkier in size, heavier in weight and more expensive than even the highest-end compact digital camera. “I prefer point-and-shoots over Digital SLRS because they give me the freedom to shoot life as it happens. However, the Micro Four Thirds series is another option if you want the ability to change lenses” says Conde. 

A primary advantage of point-and-shoot cameras is the compact and lightweight design making them easier for users to carry around and to travel with. Conde will shoot with the Olympus PEN E-PL1, one of the compact models in the Olympus Micro Four Thirds interchangeable lens system when he wants the ability to use various lenses without having to upgrade to a digital SLR. According to Conde, “DSLRS are excellent tools to add quality to technical essence but the art comes from the person.”  


Olympus XZ-1 Digital Camera
Recently, Conde purchased the Olympus XZ-1 from H and B Digital, a small but cozy photography and electronics shop nestled in the heart of Midtown, Manhattan. Although, H and B Digital is one of the lesser-known photography stores in New York, Conde prefers H and B Digital "because of their integrity and because Tony, the store manager, cares about customers. He will go out of his way to make sure you are satisfied with any product you purchase." The Olympus XZ-1 is a new compact point-and-shoot which also offers "Manual Mode," in addition to a variety of other impressive features. Conde was kind enough to supply us with some shots he took over the weekend with his new digital camera.


Nelson Conde | Olympus XZ-1

Nelson Conde | Olympus XZ-1

Nelson Conde's approach to his own life story beautifully illustrates the approach he takes to photography and art. As a full-time professional businessman working in Manhattan and a family-man who resides just outside of the city with his wife and their three children, it might be difficult to imagine how he can also thrive as a flourishing artist, photographer, jazz music promoter, event organizer, with an innovative but totally down-to-earth  personality as well. And yet, it appears that he may have truly mastered that delicate balance between work and play that many of us struggle to achieve or struggle to sustain. He knows when to think inside the box and when to step outside of it, making him both a successful businessman and a successful artist. So to all aspiring photographers, artists and simply any juggler of life, a few words from a true New York renaissance man and real lover of the arts -  “Know all the rules...and then break them.




Nelson Conde is a longtime photography friend of H and B Digital.  Any of the digital cameras mentioned in this article can be purchased at discount prices from H and B Digital.com.

Wednesday, September 19, 2012

New Canon Releases! Two Innovative Cameras: Canon PowerShot SX50 HS and Canon PowerShot G15

Canon has upgraded the G-series compact with the G15, and created the world's first 50x optical zoom compact camera with the creation of the SX50 HS. The G15 is a successor to the G12 and is built around a 12 megapixel, 1/1.7-inch CMOS sensor. Its lens also gets a fine-tuning. While retaining its 28-140mm range but adding a maximum aperture of F1.8-2.8. Although it does lose the G12's articulated screen it gains a higher-resolution, 920k dot panel. Meanwhile the SX50 HS features a remarkable 24-1200mm equivalent 50x zoom, thanks to its smaller 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor.
Canon PowerShot SX50 HS and Canon PowerShot G15 pre-order banner
Available for pre-order online or in-store @ H and B Digital

The PowerShot G15 and PowerShot SX50 HS are two new innovative compact cameras that certainly demonstrate Canon’s expertise in next-generation lens design. The PowerShot G15 features the brightest lens in a PowerShot G-series model to date and also includes a new f/1.8-2.8, 5x zoom lens. This provides photographers with an extra-wide aperture throughout the camera’s entire focal range. As stated above, the PowerShot SX50 HS is the world’s first 50x optical zoom compact stills camera which offers ground-breaking power alongside advanced manual control and RAW format support.
Canon powershot g15 product photo front
New Canon PowerShot G15 Digital Camera

PowerShot G15 – key features:

  • Bright f/1.8-2.8, 28mm, 5x zoom Canon lens
  • 12.1 MP CMOS; HS System with DIGIC 5
  • 4-stop Intelligent IS
  • 7.5 cm (3.0”) LCD; OVF
  • Front Dial, Full Manual, RAW
  • Full HD movies, HDMI-CEC
  • Quick auto focus
  • Smart Auto and Face ID
  • HDR mode
  • Range of accessories



These new Canon PowerShot models are designed for advanced users looking for premium quality, class-leading performance and compact bodies.  They feature Canon’s renowned imaging technologies, delivering superior quality stills and Full HD movies. Additionally they both feature the acclaimed HS System, which offers outstanding low light performance and exceptionally low noise levels in all conditions. Canon’s optical Image Stabilizer with Intelligent IS ensures the sharpest image quality throughout each camera’s zoom range, while manual control and RAW file support provides photographers with maximum control over how images are captured and post-processed.
Canon powershot sx50 hs product photo
New Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera

PowerShot SX50 HS – key features:

  • 50x ultra wide-angle zoom
  • 4.5-stop optical Image Stabilizer. Intelligent IS
  • 12.1 MP HS System with DIGIC 5
  • Full HD, HDMI
  • 7.1 cm (2.8") vari-angle LCD, EVF
  • Manual modes, RAW
  • Enhanced Zoom Framing Assist
  • Smart Auto, Multi-area WB
  • High-speed Burst HQ

Available for pre-order online or in-store

Both the Canon PowerShot G15 and the Canon PowerShot SX50 HS models are available for pre-order online @ H and B Digital.com or you can visit H and B Digital storefront located @ 29 West 46th Street, between 5th & 6th avenue in NYC.


Tuesday, September 18, 2012

New Olympus PEN Series Models Announcement: The PEN E-PL5 and The PEN E-PM2 Digital Cameras

Ever since the Olympus PEN series cameras came onto the digital camera scene, Olympus enthusiasts and photographers alike have rejoiced over their arrival. The Olympus PEN models have superior optics, interchangeable lenses and multimedia capabilities which combine the creative freedom of a sophisticated
digital SLR with the simple controls and portability of a point-and-shoot. Just announced today, Olympus is welcoming two new models into the PEN generation family - The Olympus PEN E-PL5 & the PEN E-PM2.

photo of the olympus pen epl5 digital cameras black, white, silver
Olympus PEN E-PL5 Models in White, Black and Silver

According to Olympus, "The Olympus PEN E-PL5 and PEN E-PM2 feature the image quality of the OM-D E-M5 with a 16 MP Live MOS image sensor and TruePic VI image processor for outstanding image quality in a compact, lightweight body.  With E-PL5 and E-PM2 you get the results you want, fast.  Both feature 8.0fps sequential shooting, F.A.S.T AF technology and immediate response Touch Shutter AF system.  The new Olympus PENs also have all the technology you've come to expect from Olympus, including a superior Dust Reduction System, In-Body Image Stabilization and an incredible line-up of lenses and accessories."

photo of all the new olympus pen epm2 digital cameras red, black, white, silver
Olympus PEN Mini E-PM2 Models in Black, White, Silver and Red


The Olympus PEN E-PL5 & PEN E-PM2 are available in both Body Only and in a 14-42mm Lens & Camera Kits:
olympus pen epl5 olympus pen epm2 all colors
Above: PEN E-PL5 | Below: PEN E-PM2

E-PL5 Body Only
$649.99        
E-PL5 w/ 14-42mm
$699.99       
(3 Colors)

E-PM2 Body Only
$549.99        
E-PM2 w/ 14-42mm
$599.99        
(4 Colors)





Both the new Olympus PEN digital cameras are available for pre-order online at H and B Digital.com or visit our storefront @ 29 West 46th Street in New York City.

Monday, September 10, 2012

New Canon PowerShot SX500IS with 30x Superzoom Digital Camera Sample Photos and Key Features

Canon has released the new Canon PowerShot SX500 IS,  a mid-range super zoom digital camera. The SX500 IS features the a 16MP CCD sensor and DIGIC 4 processor plus  a 30X optical zoom, 24-720mm equivalent lens. Additionally, the Canon SX500 IS has a faster autofocus and less shutter lag than previous models. This new model is currently available in-store at H and B Digital.

canon powershot sx500 is photo of camera in hand
Canon PowerShot SX500 IS has a compact design with a large optical zoom lens
Canon PowerShot SX500 IS
With a 24mm wide angle lens and an incredible 30x optical zoom (up to 720mm) packed into a compact design, the PowerShot SX500 IS enables users to pull subjects in close and capture stunning, high-quality images with a 16.0 megapixel sensor and powerful DIGIC 4 image processor. With such incredible zoom capabilities, the camera is also equipped with Canon's Intelligent IS system for rock-steady images and HD video even at full-telephoto zoom.

Canon PowerShot SX500IS 30x optical zoom 24mm lens preview
Canon SX500 IS features a 30x optical zoom 24mm lens
A 3.0-inch LCD screen makes operation easy and intuitive, and displays the scene with brilliant clarity. In addition, the camera is equipped with a Zoom Framing Assist feature - a Canon technology that makes zooming-in and framing subjects quick and effortless. This feature is a tremendous benefit for those times when you lose sight of your subject after zooming in. By simply pressing the Zoom Framing Assist button located on the lower front left of the camera, the lens will quickly zoom out to help you re-locate and frame your subject. A frame box appears on the LCD as a guide to place your subject in and releasing the button quickly brings the camera back to the initial "zoomed-in" range. The lens retraction and extension is faster using the Zoom Framing Assist button than the zoom lever, and allows the photographer to keep the camera more stable for the shot, this is particularly helpful for those trying to zoom in and shoot pictures of animals or moving subjects.


canon powershot sx500 IS key features tech spec icons
Canon PowerShot SX500 IS Key Features and Highlights

Sample Photos from the new Canon PowerShot SX500 IS in Manhattan, NYC:


The New York Times Building photo with Canon SX500 IS
The New York Times Building Outside the Port Authority Bus Terminal
Midtown, Manhattan NYC Photo Canon PowerShot SX500 IS
Midtown, Manhattan
Port Authority Police image Canon PowerShot SX500 IS
Port Authority Police Officer
The HeartLand Brewery at Port Authority NYC Photo taken with Canon SX500 IS
The Heart Land Brewery at The Port Authority on 42nd Street
New York City Subway Station Canon PowerShot SX500 IS
Times Square New York City Subway Station



Canon powershot SX500 IS front view



The Canon PowerShot SX500 IS is available at our storefront located in Midtown, Manhattan at 29 West 46th St. (Between 5th & 6th Ave) NYC or you can purchase the SX500 IS at our online store, www.HandBDigital.com.