Cafe La Boheme: made in Japan, thriving in LA

WEST HOLLYWOOD, Calif. -- Like a Toyota built in Kentucky, the new Cafe La Boheme is a Japanese import that finds itself right at home in America.

Cardenas, who has closely studied the service practices and standards at the Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons hotel chains, pointed out that he reviewed 200 applications and conducted 100 interviews before hiring an 18-person service staff that has since been reduced to 10 servers -- half of whom previously worked either at a Ritz-Carlton or Four Seasons property.And, with the fortunes then being made in banking, who would be satisfied with that? Hodges had a more ambitious plan: "If we cleaned it up, instituted standard loan procedures, built a good international loan department and real estate department, we could sell NBW to a big international bank, a Madrid bank, a London bank, a Japanese or Arab bank. And I was convinced that Washington would be an international financial center. Everyone was." Hodges drew up a timetable, with 1992 as the target date, for making NBW appealing to an international buyer.With the launch here of the first U.S. branch of his nine-unit Cafe La Boheme chain, Tokyo restaurateur Kozo Hasegawa and chef Koh Kikuchi have made strong bids to join the sizable roster of their countrymen who have made names for themselves at such worldly Los Angeles restaurants as Chaya Brasserie, Chinois on Main, Matsuhisa, Spago, Cafe Katsu and Symphonie.Hodges had his work cut out for him. NBW's unionized workforce, creaky computer system, and Palookaville real estate portfolio looked like liabilities to potential buyers. In 1980, the bank, which had been perhaps too conservative in its lending, had assets of $859 million, and about half its loans were at fixed rates to small borrowers. But more money and more aggressive management could change all that. Hodges set about recruiting directors who could wire him into elite Washington society--because, of course, that's where the money is.The photograph shows a room with a silver chandelier and a gilded ceiling, pale light filtering through high windows, and balconies festooned with flowers. At the bottom of the photo, five thin, elderly men in frayed suits cluster together like a poorly dressed choir. One man is missing a leg, another has a scar running from his nose to his chin. In the background one can discern a laughing crowd and a banner reading "Bank of the Working Man."Because the city in question was Washington, these investors weren't the faceless Kiwanis types you're used to seeing assailed in banking stories, but people with national influence and reputations, men like Brent Scowcroft and Thomas Boggs. These investors knew little about banking but a lot about doing favors for their friends--local developers like Conrad Cafritz and politicians like Gary Hart.Among Cafe La Boheme's signatures are spaghettini dishes, one with taraco caviar and seaweed, $9, and another with baby clams and Shimeji mushrooms, $10. In addition to a standard three-cheese pizza with basil and tomato, $9, the restaurant features a "roast drunken chicken" pizza with an herb-and-nut base and Middle Eastern spices, $11.50.Nevertheless, the current climate of Japan-bashing in this country has managed to dampen slightly the enthusiastic reception accorded Cafe La Boheme and its staff. Explains general manager Cardenas: "I'm a little hesitant to say" who owns the restaurant, when patrons or prospective customers ask. After he does tell, "maybe one out of 20 walks out" never to return, Cardenas fears. "I think there is that possibility."NBW did survive plenty, from the Depression to union corruption to the Latin American debt crisis. What it didn't survive was a takeover by Washington's self-dealing power-brokers. As bank failures go, the $330 million that NBW's 1990 collapse will cost the shaky taxpayer-backed FDIC insurance fund isn't grand. Given the grim state of the economy, even the fact that 900 NBM employees lost their jobs and pensions seems to merit barely a footnote. But the story behind the NBW failure is important, because it encapsultates all that went wrong with so many banks and S&Ls during the Reagan years: From serving as a reliable, if troubled, lender to small city business, NBW was transformed into a cash cow for investors drawn from the ranks of the city elite.The men are survivors of the Battle of Blair Mountain, a two-day war in which hundreds of poorly armed miners fought the Kentucky mineowners' private militia, which was equipped with machine guns, mortars, and even a bomber. The miners lost. But in 1949, their union, the United Mineworkers of America (UMW), was rich enough to buy the National Bank of Washington (NBW), the bank that rebuilt Washington after the War of 1812 and erected the Washington Monument a few years later. John L. Lewis, the UMV president, had the Blair Mountain survivors shipped in for good luck, to show that the bank could survive anything.Per-person checks are averaging a relatively modest $30 at dinner and $12.50 at lunch, with wine and bar items accounting for about 25 percent of the cafe's business. Food costs are budgeted at 27 percent of sales."We thought service in L.A. was a lost art," said general manager Cardenas, who regards customer satisfaction as the restaurant's top priority. "We trained service," he stressed.Hodge's podgeSince its debut on Santa Monica Boulevard late last year -- in a high-ceilinged, gable-roofed structure suggestive of a Tuscan villa -- Cafe La Boheme has become a high-traffic haunt of chic, young gourmets and entertainment celebrities.A restaurant with crystal chandeliers and lace tablecloths. The pate is excellent. But why do all the waiters have heads like insects and voices like kotos? They must be playing Julie Frith's Music for Restaurants, mood music for the slightly deranged.Entrees range from grilled salmon with thyme and citrus sauce and tortilla salad, $16, to roast rack of lamb with apple-horseadish sauce and eggplant gratin, $18.50, and pork "Kakuni" with julienne vegetables, $14.Once the menu's ethnic premise is stated, however, the kitchen ventures off on globe-trotting tangents to showcase its versatility.Chef Kikuchi -- a veteran of French restaurants in Tokyo and Kyoto and, in Los Angeles, of such places as Katsu, Chaya Brasserie and Maple Drive -- reveals more of his repertoire on the new lunch menu, which offers such appetizers as a Thai glass noodle salad, $5.75, and stuffed chicken with oregano and tomato, $6.As NBW's early history demonstrates, getting a major loan from an American bank has always been as much a matter of who you know as how balanced your books are. But the Reaganauts injected two new elements into this insider culture: an almost messianic faith in growth and a disregard for oversight. NBW became one of the more than 500 banks in the past three years to overdose on this lethal mix of old and new banking attitudes, of country-club chumminess and free-market fever."When you look for a board of directors," he explains, "you look for statute, reliability, character, and connections. You need men who are part of the fabric of local business activity. In Houston, you pick men who drill oil, in Detroit, men who make cars, in Milwaukee, it would be beer. Here in Washington, it's not men who build or make things, it's lawyers and real estate developers. Even though they don't know much about banking, they can bring business to the bank through their place in the world."Among lunch entree choices are a fried mahi- mahi sandwich with pomme frites, $9.50; a precisely composed salmon-and-spinach lasagna with a tomato beurre blanc sauce, $11.50; and a grilled minute steak with Japanese wafu sauce, $15. A daily prix-fixe lunch men is $18.Hasegawa's dramatic newcomer springs from the city's more recent crop of Euro-Californian dining spots with Japanese chefs and Pacific Rim accents, including such places as Shiro, Carrots, Cafe del Rey and Cafe Gale.Appetizer choices include calamari fritti with a Neapolitan sauce, $7.50, and several starters with Asian inflections: a quick-smoked tuna dish, $10, is garnished with daikon strands and horseradish sauce, while a "melange of seaweed," $7.50, has a Dijon-sesame dressing.

"There are no young kids here or guys in a ponytail who say, 'Hi, I'm so and so,'" Cardenas remarked, adding that his elite service cadre is nonetheless inspected before each shift. "We check every fingernail, every shoe shine," he explained, citing elements of Cafe La Boheme's "guest-first" policy, "and people are coming back because of this."

Author: Richard Martin

Pure Photographic 'Special Effects' Without a Computer or a Darkroom!

The discovery of this technique was the result of an accident. The chance projection of a slide without having the screen in place resulted in a portrait appearing partly on some fabric and partly on the wallpaper. The curved fabric distorted the image and when the picture was clearly focussed the weave and texture of the materials forming a type of screen became part of the portrait. This result was sufficiently intriguing to leave the projection as it was and to study the possibilities of this occurrence.

At other times an idea occurs and a clearly defined image forms in the mind. However, whilst trying to create this picture, it is not so unusual that one strays across a certain amount of accidental inspiration. This can be the chance blending of two images in a way never thought of before, that looks just too good to ignore! The best thing to do then is to be prepared to change direction, and pursue the new study, rather than the original concept. The first attempted creation can always be tried again later on.Photography has the advantage of instantly reproducing an image in a number of ways. Just by the selection of film the image can be in black and white, colour or in either of these choices it could also be in negative form. All these can be projected!Even if they are not optically of use with the camera, if used between the projector condenser lens, and the film, they can influence the colour of the projected image, without any optical problems. With care it is also possible to change the colours of specific parts of the projected image.Pendant lighting is perfect in places like dark corners where more light is needed such as over the breakfast table or even over the easy chair in the living to provide more light for reading. There is almost no limit to the effective use of pendant lighting in your household.Spectacular patterns can be created by the use of crystals or prisms. Apart from the special effect types available for use on the camera, remember these can be used with the projector too, it is also interesting to use old crystals designed to form a chandelier.IMAGE BLENDINGExperiment with different crystals placed in front of the projector lens, not always square on, and see how the image scatters according to the cut. The best results are often found to be with a fairly small image within the transparency frame.For example an original portrait was projected on to a clamshell, amongst other shells, and the contours of the shell influenced the projected image. With careful masking using a diffused mask behind the lens, allowed light to illuminate other parts of the scene too.Pendant lighting is simply light fixtures that hang down from the ceiling. They have a unique look and this type of lighting is perfect in the kitchen, above the wet bar and in other such locations. This type of lighting is best mounted about 30 inches or so above the area that you wish to be lighted for the best effect. Dramatic Effects The wonderful thing about these light fixtures is that they can be used to create dramatic effects by hanging the lights at varying heights, and in fact, if hung properly, the lights can be raised or lowered at will effectively changing the appearance of the set.If it is possible to work behind the lens, then the nearer to the film, the sharper the shadows edge will be. It is then simple to perfectly blend different images when working with more than one projector.The projector however offers so many more possibilities than the darkroom enlarger to create pictures. Take any image on any film; it is just as easy to project negatives or transparencies in colour or black and white on to what ever is desired. Consider the potential when projecting an image on to; fabrics (not always flat), textures, or even on to other objects, then try bouncing the projected photograph off a reflective surface and focus it on to a screen, or have a look at what happens if a crystal is placed near to the projector lens (behind the lens as well as in front). Colour filters can be used, or parts of the image can be masked (again compare the results obtained in front, as against behind, the projector lens).'Spirit of Spring' is a well-known award winning study that won much acclaim for the author. This transparency of a portrait was projected over; a second projected colour negative image of a red tulip. A variation of this concept is plate 59 (Poetic portfolio) where another profile of Susan was blended with a colour negative of the centre of a tulip. (See this and other photos in the author�s �Poetic portfolio� link below).There have been times when instead of masking with black card a transparent opaque plastic has been preferred, this avoids a black shadow forming, especially if the second projection is not adding much in that particular area. Tracing paper has been effective for this purpose normally placed behind the lens near to the film.With two projectors it becomes possible to mix film effects together in a way not possible before. It is so easy to blend negative images with transparencies, in colour or black and white. Instead of transparencies in both projectors, one of them could be projecting a black and white negative or a colour negative just as easily.MASKINGOften the author has decided on a theme, or it could be just a thought about a pattern or composition that exists in the mind, in an abstract way, as yet unexpressed. Perhaps the last portrait taken inspires the desire to do more with it. Whilst considering and projecting certain images, to blend with such a portrait, something can suddenly be seen that fires the imagination.Where to find Pendant LightingThe most satisfying time spent is without doubt in the creation of the work. Frequently regardless of the medium used, if an artist is truthful, the end result obtained is not always exactly as initially conceived.DISTORTIONSOther UsesThere have been a number of occasions when four projectors were in use together. However three have been the most that have normally been used, with the fourth one occasionally; simply projecting the author's signature in to the scene.Before considering a second projector, with just one, there are now an amazing amount of possibilities that can be achieved with the projected image. However with two projectors the additional special effects are quite sensational.All photographs including those techniques already described can be made into patterns rather like a kaleidoscope by the use of mirrors. By positioning mirrors at right angles to each other, with the image projected on to a choice of screen in such a way, that the reflections are repeated in the mirrors will then form a pattern that can be photographed. The possibilities of scale and size are no problem when projecting images, the biggest building in the world can easily be projected between a couple of small mirrors or on to a small object!The palace is the best option for those who want to explore the history of over 800 years. The Hampton Court Palace is among the finest palaces in the entire world. Visitors usually get an introductory exhibition, a guide who will take you through the Tudor Kitchens, and also a costume guide tour. In addition to this, you will get an opportunity to see the state apartments of the Queen, the king�s apartment, and also the Wolsey and Georgian rooms. Do not miss one of the most imposing sights that are the Great Hall. It is the last and greatest medieval hall, which is adorned with sumptuous tapestries.Quite a different pattern will be formed, by moving the crystal behind the lens. Obviously as these crystals are not optically perfect, the projected image will lose some definition, but it can still be useful as a background image.Ideally, two identical projectors should be used, if possible with zoom lenses. Should this prove impractical then variations in performance of the second projector can be allowed for, by masking the brighter of the two, just in front of the lens to achieve the same brilliance from both projectors.REAR PROJECTIONTo see a more detailed version of this article with all the Plates please visit: - It was the accidental chance projection of a slide, without having the screen in place, that resulted in a portrait appearing partly on some fabric and partly on the wallpaper. The curved fabric distorted the image and when the picture was clearly focussed the weave and texture of the materials forming a type of screen became part of the portrait. This was sufficiently intriguing to leave the projection as it was and to study the possibilities of this occurrence.'Spirit of Spring' is a well-known award winning study that won much acclaim for the author. This transparency of a portrait was projected over; a second projected colour negative image of a red tulip. A variation of this concept is plate 59 (Poetic portfolio) where another profile of Susan was blended with a colour negative of the centre of a tulip. (See this and other photos in the author's 'Poetic portfolio' link below).To enhance the quality of the results one can achieve with this technique, there is an advantage in obtaining a screen designed for rear projection.The excitement and pleasure one feels when inspired in this way is hard to describe. So even if one starts with just a vague concept, it is worth spending some time experimenting. Think of it as being the stage where the artist is selecting and mixing the paints on his palette, still unsure of what he might paint, but just feeling the need to make a start. Whilst thinking of the various possibilities, surprising relationships can develop, that might well become the basis of the final picture. It is only really by actually making a start that you create the opportunity for something exciting to happen.INSPIRED ACCIDENTSHowever, more often than not, distortion can be a very interesting effect if used carefully. It can even be a very dramatic tool. Any image can easily be elongated and stretched, or squashed and made wider. It just depends on the angle of the projector, or the camera, to the screen.The only way of avoiding distortion is to project square on to the choice of screen and to rephotograph the image with a plate camera. Then one can correct the angle of view with the lens movements as used for architecture or perspective correction.So experience the major and breathtaking palace of the medieval times. You can easily found yourself dating back to the centuries.Pendant lighting fixtures can be found in most home remodeling stores, and they come in a wide range of styles and colors. The most popular of styles seems to be those that consist of stained glass or etched crystal. They are generally made of hand blown glass and pricing can range anywhere from $30 per fixture to $500.00 or more for each one depending on the workmanship involved. Indeed many online stores offer special deals including free shipping, and even when free shipping isn't available when they offer special sales and discounts on pendant lighting fixtures. Research, then research some more because the worst possible thing you can do is settle for a product that is less than desirable to you, only to find something that you like better when having a look online. Whatever your budget is, with the number of locations available online and off that offer pendant lighting you are sure to find something that appeals to your taste and remains within the budget allowed for the expenditure. As for me, I would take pendant lighting over a chandelier anytime!Now, when we take a deeper look at pendant lighting, we begin to understand why it is gaining in popularity. Among those reasons is the fact that the lighting is so versatile and practical to use. This lighting can be and is in many cases even more elegant than the finest chandelier because of this versatility. Considering any layout of the lighting that you can think, whether it's a circle, swirl, square, oval or whatever, and then the lighting hanging at varying heights, the end result can certainly be quite breathtaking. The very first thing that you will want to do before settling on any style and making a purchase, is to compare the various styles of pendant lighting that is available on the market today. There are literally hundreds of styles available, and with the advent of technology on our heels, there is no longer any reason why we have to "settle" for what's available at our local store.Read travel guide on Hampton Court Palace http://www.traveleurope360.com/hampton-court-palace.htmlFor those preferring pure photography, rather than digital manipulation, this is an exciting technique that anyone can do with very inexpensive equipment. The projector is all that is required (the magic lantern) is really magical.Should the rear projection screen simply be used to provide a background scene, often expected to be in a softer focus, an expensive screen is then not needed. Even tracing paper will do!To see a more detailed version of this article with all the Plates please visit: - http://www.jncohen.net/Photo_magic/index.htmToday, the palace remains open to the public and huge number of tourist�s throngs to see a glimpse of the palace. This makes the Hampton Court Palace a renowned tourist destination. The palace is managed by an independent charity named the Historical Royal Palaces. This charity does not receive any funding from the government or from the Crown. It is the spot where annual Festival Flower Show take place.The first option with the projector is to mount two pieces of film, sandwiched in the same mount, and project the combined images on to a screen. By focusing on one of the images, the one in true focus will dominate and soften the other. Much depends on the slide carrier used, but if there is room to insert more than two mounts in to the carrier, then the more space between the two films the greater the effect of one image dominating the other. Should both images need to be in focus then the closer they are to each other the better.There are some valuable advantages in having a rear projection screen especially when owning more than one projector. The first advantage that comes to mind, after the obvious one of avoiding distortion, with at least one of the images, is the opportunity to add a light coloured background when photographing projected images on to other objects.This method involves using two projectors, but one has then an exciting way of blending any two previously created pictures, with far more control!Something special that the palace is so renowned and tourists rush to see is its attractions. The Hampton Court Palace houses many works of art and furnishings, which is from the Royal Collection. These collections are mostly during the time of those two prime periods that is � the construction of the palace. Tourists get fascinated by seeing the single most significant works, which is Mantegna�s Triumphs of Caesar. You can find this beautiful work in the Lower Orangery. The Victoria and Albert Museum houses the Raphael Cartoons that was once kept by the Hampton Court Palace.With more than one projector it is possible to combine and superimpose with perfect control more than one image. By projecting these images, one on top of the other, and then masking away the overlapping parts of each image, that are no longer required, a totally new picture can be formed.The use of a texture in portrait work is particularly attractive, some of the beauty and character found in painted portraits is lacking in photographs. But the realism of the photograph becomes more abstract simply by adding a texture and this can bring out more expression or character than was evident before. This does not mean that one is copying paintings as totally different images are created from those ever painted, but that this abstract quality that so enriches portraits, can also apply to photographs.Another fascinating way of manipulating a projected image is to consider reflections. The principle involved is basically to rephotograph a projected image as seen in a mirror, or bounced off a mirror. But instead of using a mirror, there are many other options. Try a piece of acetate film as this material allows one to bend or twist it, and so distort the image seen, by forming a flexible mirror.Best of all, the combined images are there to be seen all the time, until the desired result is formed. There is no need to rely on guesswork, as so many other special effects seem to demand, with these methods so no film really should ever be wasted.Even a highly reflective surface can be used such as coins. The camera was directly in front of the top coin, so that the projected image from the projector was to the left of the camera. This meant that the camera lens avoided the very bright reflection. Even the edges of the pages of a book have been used.Hoping that readers having reached this far will agree that the possibilities described, offer photographers working in colour so much more than simply recording reality. Trusting readers will also agree that this form of photography really justifies recognition in the art world, as it has certain qualities that are quite unlike those of any other media.It can be fascinating to take your projector for a walk! Use an extension lead and just project a selection of slides on to everything in sight. By focusing on to a wide range of objects, you will be able to see what happens - expect to be surprised at some of the possibilities that will no doubt come to light!The technique is simple; just project both images separately on to the same choice of screen. However, these images can now be positioned whichever way one might wish, one image could be much larger than the other, or by masking parts of each image, a different blend of the two pictures can be created. This is how any parts, of any picture, can be blended together and all the time one can see exactly what is to be photographed.COLOUR, BLACK & WHITE OR NEGATIVE IMAGESYou will be completely lost outside where the most renowned maze in the world lies. Head to the Privy garden that is restored to its glory similar to the time of 1702. The palace remains open during winter from morning 10 to evening 16.30, and during summer the opening time is from morning 10 to evening 18. The ticket price of the palace, maze and gardens for adults is �13.30, where as, children will have to pay 5-16 - �6.65.DOUBLE EXPOSURE - PROJECTOR STYLE!Negatives can be unusually beautiful in themselves and they should not just be regarded as the means of obtaining a print. The choice of projected images should not be restricted to transparencies but include film in all its forms. Black and white images positives or negatives can be projected and used. Colour can still then easily be added to the black and white projected images by the choice of screen, as well as by the introduction of colour filters.To SummarizeThese are the basic principles, which with infinite variety are used to mould, form and relate at will, all that has ever been photographed. It is in fact the projector that provides all the magic; such is the diversity that can be achieved with it. The older type of projectors are often of more use than the modern automatic ones, as it is then likely to be easier to gain access to the space behind the lens. That facility is of great advantage with these techniques - so one should look out for cheap second hand ones!This has been published with the hope that photographers will not just create strange pictures or gimmickry, but produce works of true artistic merit.When sandwiching films in this manner it is possible to insert one or the other upside down, on its side, or the other way round. But there is little more opportunity with this technique of controlling the end result, so it is only a little bit better than double exposure as at least one can see what the result looks like first.TWO PROJECTORSOnce the full potential of using two projectors is realised, there will be a need for quite different types of images, these are what are referred to as background shots, in the advertising world. A completely new stock of photographs will have to be taken, with blending potential in mind, no matter how many pictures are available from the past.CRYSTAL PATTERNSThe easiest way to begin is to experiment with the projected image, try projecting a favourite portrait on to a selection of textured surfaces, to be used as a screen. An enormous variety of textures are possible to use, they do not always need to be white, nor do they always need to be flat.Besides the work, you can even see the original furniture�s that are dating back to the 17th and 18th century. Furniture�s include tables made by Jean Pelletier, India back walnut chairs done by Thomas Roberts and clocks and a barometer done by Thomas Tompion. The best part in this is the furniture�s that are still kept in their original positions like the Throne Canopy located in the Privy Chamber of the king. Exploring the room will give you amazing experience, as the room consists of a crystal chandelier of circa 1700. May be this is the first charming chandelier in the entire country.There are a number of other objects that have been used in this way; a butterfly with a river scene, an orchid, a ball of wool and a Siamese cat, a coin, or a decaying holly leaf.There are many reflecting surfaces that can be used. They do not always need to be smooth, a highly polished old silver cigarette case, with a machine finished pattern as an over all design, has been used to advantage.Many filters are available for the camera, and these can be used with the projector too. But any bits of coloured cellophane can also be used with the projector. There are hundreds of colours easily available, as one only needs such small pieces.There are two quite different effects achievable even with the flexible mirror in a fixed position and the same image projected. The first method is to project the image on to a screen and to photograph the reflection seen. The other is to project the image into the flexible mirror, so that it bounces off it, on to the screen; it is this new image that is then to be photographed.

For those preferring pure photography, rather than digital manipulation, this is an exciting technique that anyone can do with very inexpensive equipment. The projector is all that is required (the magic lantern) is really magical.

Author: John N. Cohen

Hampton Court Palace: An Attraction Dating Back To 17th Century

Hampton Court Palace, which is located in southwest London, is actually a royal palace where tourists from all over the world and the country visit to experience its beauty. It lies in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames. The Hampton Court Palace was the house of the British royal family before the 18th century. The palace lies at a distance of 11.7 miles towards the southwest of Charing Cross and also towards the upstream of central London on the River Thames.

These are the basic principles, the projector provides all the magic, such is the diversity that can be achieved with it. The older type of projectors are better than the modern automatic ones, because it is easier to gain access to the space behind the lens. An important advantage with these techniques - so one should look out for cheap second hand ones!It is not difficult to move on to other objects that can do more than just act as a screen. These are items that become an important part of the subject of the new photograph just as essential as the projected image.MORE PROJECTORSMAKE THE SUBJECT THE SCREENThe Hampton Court Palace was originally built for the favorite of King Henry VIII whose name was Cardinal Wolsey. It was during the year 1529 as Wolsey fell from favor, it was handed over to the king who later extended the palace. The subsequent century, the palace was under rebuilding and expansion project. Due to rivalry, the work was even halted in the year 1694 that led the palace into two different architectural styles, which are domestic Tudor and Baroque. It was an accident that the palace was built in different styles, but the unity could be seen from the use of pink bricks. The symmetrical, albeit vague that is balancing the succeeding low wings also increases the pride of the palace.Masking is best achieved by using black card that is stiff enough to stay upright; yet is easily cut into whatever shape is required. It works well in front or behind the projector lens. If masking in front of the lens it will quickly become apparent that the nearer to the screen the mask is placed, the sharper the shadow cast. The ideal is to always use a soft edge shadow so the mask will not be very far forward of the lens.If this effect could be photographed, then one can photograph projected images on other textures or even on other objects. This proved to be the basic approach to gain full control of all images. Providing a completely new way of superimposing and controlling every aspect of photographs. Obviously if one can see it, one can photograph it!ADDING TEXTURE

Read travel guide on Hampton Court Palace http://www.traveleurope360.com/hampton-court-palace.html

Author: Gia Loren

Home Decor: Uses of Pendant Lighting

Pendant Lighting

PLATE 3Now each image can be simply modified: The brightness of one image, as against the other, can be controlled. By masking and shading just parts, of each image, can be blended. Colours of certain areas can be altered with filters. The position of each image, relative to each other, can be adjusted. Or even the size, of one image as against the other, can easily be altered. One of the images could be distorted, reflected, or be changed in to a pattern by the use of a crystal. The possibilities are quite staggering!So far it has been shown how an image can be influenced by; the addition of a texture, the effect of distortion, the use of colour filtration, and the use of negatives or black and white films.FILTERSThere is likely to be an element of distortion, as it is not possible to have the camera lens in exact alignment with the projector, but do not worry about this yet, distortion can be useful as described later.There are no reasons why more than two images should not be projected all at once, providing the projectors are available.

Now, when we take a deeper look at pendant lighting, we begin to understand why it is gaining in popularity. Among those reasons is the fact that the lighting is so versatile and practical to use. This lighting can be and is in many cases even more elegant than the finest chandelier because of this versatility. Considering any layout of the lighting that you can think, whether it's a circle, swirl, square, oval or whatever, and then the lighting hanging at varying heights, the end result can certainly be quite breathtaking. The very first thing that you will want to do before settling on any style and making a purchase, is to compare the various styles of pendant lighting that is available on the market today. There are literally hundreds of styles available, and with the advent of technology on our heels, there is no longer any reason why we have to "settle" for what's available at our local store.

Author: Dan Brown

Thirty-2 Advanced Dentistry: New Dental Office That Is Already Turning Heads Prepares to Celebrate Their Grand Opening

Thirty-2 Advanced Dentistry is currently open for business and has a fabulously lavish grand opening celebration planned for February 22nd from 5-7 pm at their office on Santa Monica Blvd in West Hollywood. The event is open to the public and will include a ribbon cutting ceremony, after-party and entertainment by LA Photo Party.

Anyone with a credit card can book a fancy dinner for two. Big ceal. How's this for an attention getter? Take a drive along the crashing coast to Pillar Point Harbor, just north of Half Moon Bay, to chat up the fishermen who hawk skittering Dungeness crabs off the back of their boats. Not sure what to do once you get home? We'll walk you through the prep (sunset.com/crabprep) and, because you need a real feast to pull off this romantic gesture, hand you some swoon-worthy recipes (sunset.com/crabrecipes). -L.T.CALL: 0904 280 0001Add to Digg Bookmark with del.icio.us Add to NewsvinePreferably Pearls. By that, we mean Perle de Vigne, Perle de Nuit, and Perle d'Or, three Champagnes, or more correctly, cremants, made in the Burgundy region of France. Yes, yes, you're in Healdsburg, but instead of questioning why a newly opened tasting room, Boisset Taste of Terroir, is pouring French wines here, just cozy up at the marble-top communal table lit by a Marie Antoinette chandelier and order side-by-side Pearl flights. That's three chances to toast each other. $12 tasting; 320 Center St., Healdsburg; 707/473-9707. -CHRISTINE CIARMELLOSee Tahoe in a whole new Light on a nighttime snowshoe tour at North-star. When the moon is full (Feb 17-18), tromp into the snowy woods for a quiet moonlit explore--holding hands encouraged. Hot chocolate, s'mores, and live music by the fire most definitely included. $40 per person; 800/466-6784.

For media inquiries, please contact: Destiny Gensemer Tel: 310 454 3080 Fax: 310 943 1978 Email Contact

4 ways to amp up the love in your life

1 Clink flutes of bubby.

If you want to ignite real passion this Valentine's Day, then Baccarat is the perfect gift. Famous for creating luxurious crystal chandeliers and accessories for the home, the new Baccarat jewellery range is the musthave fashion accessory for 2011 and it is also exclusive to Fultons in Ireland.2 Smooch in the snow.Thirty-2 Advanced Dentistry is located in West Hollywood and accepts most health insurance plans. It is owned and operated by Dr. Farnaz (Naz) Tofigh, a licensed dentist who has 19 years of experience and is a member of the American Dental Association.Only Thirty-2 Advanced Dentistry's dentists and technologies are more impressive than the interior design. Dr. Naz, owner and primary dentist, focuses on full-mouth care, not just teeth: "In order to create a beautiful smile, one must consider the surrounding periodontium, that is why it's so important to have an in-house periodontist to have a perfect balance between teeth and the surrounding tissue." Dr. Naz will manage each patient's dental care and will orchestrate treatment with her team, comprised of the most qualified dentists and specialists for cosmetic surgery, pediatric dentistry, periodontology, endodontics, and general dentistry. Thirty-2 Advanced Dentistry offers a number of services including power bleaching, dental implants, Invisaline, porcelain veneers, biocompatible composites, the safe removal of mercury fillings and more.* In San Francisco, a rez at Japantown's Hotel Kabuki lands you a pass to bake, steam, and soak at the Kabuki Springs & Spa around the corner. Which, on a rainy weekend, beats the hell out of dinner and a movie. From $109; book at jdvhotels.com -L.T.For media inquiries, please contact: Destiny Gensemer Tel: 310 454 3080 Fax: 310 943 1978 Email ContactWhether you want to seduce someone special on the most romantic day of the year, make a real statement or add a vintage twist to your look, Baccarat has something for everyone.3 Forage and make a feast.For your chance to win, correctly answer the question above and telephone or text in your answer, leaving your name, address and DAYTIME telephone number. Good luck! Fultons has over 50 years experience in providing stylish solutions in interiors, flooring, furniture and home accessories. They have three stores in Belfast, Lurgan and Enniskillen. Visit www.fultons.co.uk for more information on your local store.

* In San Francisco, a rez at Japantown's Hotel Kabuki lands you a pass to bake, steam, and soak at the Kabuki Springs & Spa around the corner. Which, on a rainy weekend, beats the hell out of dinner and a movie. From $109; book at jdvhotels.com -L.T.

WIN HIS 'N' HERS DESIGNER JEWELLERY

WE'VE teamed up with Ireland's home and gift experts Fultons to give readers the chance to win over pounds 1,200 worth of jewellery courtesy of French designer brand Baccarat.

Hollywood's leading ladies are huge crystal fans too with Gossip Girl's Blake Lively and pop princess Katie Perry spotted in the latest coloured and metallic crystals from the brand- so now is your chance to create your very own 'A list' look in Northern Ireland.West Hollywood's newest dental office, Thirty-2 Advanced Dentistry , is where science, luxury and comfort come together at a competitive price. Designed by Marco DiMaccio, Thirty-2 Advanced Dentistry is worlds apart from other dentists' offices. Patients are greeted by a 16 foot chandelier and flat-screen televisions in the luxurious and opulent reception area. Antique mirrors line the hallway to the consultation rooms where patients can relax in heated massage chairs while watching their favorite shows on large, flat-screen televisions.* If you need to up the ante, book a midmountain snow picnic for two at Heavenly. At $275, it ain't cheap, but they lay it on thick with china, bubbly, and a lavish spread of food, all delivered to your snow table (paired with a cozy snow bench for two). Your waiter knows when to duck out of the way--after all, the lake-view setting has been used more than once to pop a certain special question. 530/542-5153. -LISA TROTTIERWe have two super stylish prizes up for grabs from the latest collection: Prize One- a B Mine necklace worth pounds 145, a romance choker worth pounds 180 and a set of crystal cufflinks for him worth pounds 220.Q. How many Fultons stores are there in Northern Ireland?Prize Two- baby coeur earrings worth pounds 190, a B Mine necklace worth pounds 125, a set of crystal cufflinks for him worth pounds 220 and a red crystal heart paperweight valued at pounds 155.TERMS & CONDITIONS - Entries cost pounds 1. Calls from mobiles cost more. Standard network charges apply on SMS. Lines close at midnight on Monday, February 7. Service Provider: Phonovation, PO Box 6, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin, 0870 0600 322. Prizes are as stated and cannot be exchanged. First prize winner will get their choice of either prize 1 or 2. There is no cash alternative. Prizes must be collected from Fultons, Boucher Road, Belfast, by calling 028 9038 4700. Pictures are for illustration purposes only. Std Trinity Mirror Rules apply, see www.mirror.co.uk/rules.>4 Slip away for a night.* A night at Berkeley's elegant Claremont Hotel gets you not only two full days to chill at the vast pool/hot-tub/gym area but, more important if you have kids, three hours each day of on-site (but out-of-your-room) child care. 'Nuff said. From $193; claremontresort.com

TERMS & CONDITIONS - Entries cost pounds 1. Calls from mobiles cost more. Standard network charges apply on SMS. Lines close at midnight on Monday, February 7. Service Provider: Phonovation, PO Box 6, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin, 0870 0600 322. Prizes are as stated and cannot be exchanged. First prize winner will get their choice of either prize 1 or 2. There is no cash alternative. Prizes must be collected from Fultons, Boucher Road, Belfast, by calling 028 9038 4700. Pictures are for illustration purposes only. Std Trinity Mirror Rules apply, see www.mirror.co.uk/rules.

Author: Anonymous