Sometimes, as photographers, we need to step back from our subjects and get things in perspective. One of the best ways to do that is to view some of the images taken by the Hubble Telescope.

According to the Hubble’s official web site, “The Hubble Space Telescope (HST) is a space-based telescope that was launched in 1990 by the space shuttle. From its position 353 miles (569 km) above Earth’s surface, the HST has expanded our understanding of star birth, star death, and galaxy evolution, and has helped move black holes from theory to fact. In its first 15 years, the telescope recorded over 700,000 images.

Hubble’s view is so spectacular because of its location above Earth’s atmosphere. Shifting pockets of air distort light from space — that’s why stars seem to twinkle when viewed from the ground. Furthermore, the atmosphere blocks some wavelengths of light partially or entirely, making space the only place where it is possible to get a truly clear and comprehensive view of the universe.”

You can check out some of the images here:  http://www.hubblesite.org

360 Degree 80 gigapixel photo of London

It may be hard to keep up with who’s winning the world’s largest photo race, but the leader thus far must be this 360 degree panorama of London. Clocking in at 80 gigapixels (that’s 8000 times the resolution of a typical point-and-shoot camera), this panorama is phenomenal.

Check it out here: London 360

$20 Million, and a Million Downloads

Imagine building an iPhone application, and having over a million downloads within three months. Well, that’s what the makers of photo-sharing application Instagram are enjoying. The application has a simple approach: using the device camera and GPS capability, users take a photo and post it to the Web (with geotags) in a few clicks.

The photo page simply shows the image, along with a pitch for the viewer to download the app.

What makes it powerful is that you can use one of 11 filters to give your image a different feel; furthermore, you’re able to follow friends’ photo streams within the app. Think of it as a visual version of Twitter, where 140 characters are replaced by a single image.

It’s doing great business too. In its second month, it managed to raise $20 million for an application being given away, with no built-in advertising or monetization streams.

Where will Instagram go? We’ll have to keep an eye on it. Meanwhile, try the app and take some pictures yourself!

Hello and Welcome to the St. Tammany Photographic Society blog.  Members will be able to post comments and information of interest to the group.

Formed in October 2008, we are group of photographers who meet to share techniques, take pictures, and pursue various interests within the world of photography.

Everyone who has an interest in photography is welcome to join our society. We cater to all levels of experience from the most inexperienced newcomer right through to the professional.

Regular meetings are held on the second Thursday of each month, at 7:00 pm in the St. Tammany Art Association Art House at 320 N. Columbia, Street in Covington.

Additional events and meetings may be scheduled as desired by the members.