What is Falling from the Sky?

There are weird things falling from the sky and no, my name is not Chicken Little. Last Monday, the people of Austin, Texas saw a fireball streaking through the sky. Most people might think it was a meteor, but the fireball was seen during the day. While that is not completely unheard of, it does seem to be fairly rare. And, it wasn’t mass hysteria – it was caught on video! The videographer, Eddie Garcia, said he didn’t know what it was, but it was “burning and falling really fast.” At first, officials thought it might be debris from when … Continue reading

Can You Take Your Video Camera on an Airplane?

Yes, you can; however, using it to record images onboard a commercial aircraft is an entirely different story. It’s a lesson I learned the hard way during my recent flight to Hawaii. Since the birth of my daughter I have diligently brought my camcorder on all of our family’s vacations. When we fly I simply place my video camera in my carry-on bag and shoot at will. However, during our recent flight departing from Chicago to Honolulu I was told that shooting at will was no longer acceptable. Actually, this is a more precise recounting of what happened on board … Continue reading

Photography Week in Review for March 16-22, 2008

Whether you are planning your family’s spring vacation or getting a jumpstart on your annual summer trip this blog will come in very handy. This week I covered what you need to know prior to taking your camera on an airplane. From film and airport security screening areas to tips on protecting your camera from drastic temperature changes, here’s a recap of what you might have missed: March 17th—–Why You Should Never Pack Unused Film in Your Suitcase. It’s a lesson I almost found out the hard way during my recent trip to Hawaii and I tell you all about … Continue reading

Why You Shouldn’t Have Your Film Go Through Airport X-Ray Machines

In my previous blog I reminded you of the TSA’s rule, which prohibits travelers from packing unused rolls of film in checked luggage. The airport’s sophisticated, high intensity x-ray machines used to screen checked bags have been proven to destroy unused rolls of film. However, the TSA maintains film (both used and unused) can safely be screened in x-ray machines used for carry-on bags. But camera experts disagree. They recommend travelers have all their film hand inspected by airport security personnel. TSA agents are schooled to inform passengers that the x-rays used to screen carry-on bags will not damage or … Continue reading

Rules to Remember Before Taking Your Camera on an Airplane

Yesterday I blogged about how a TSA agent spared me from destroying unused rolls of films I inadvertently packed in my checked in luggage during a recent trip. Today I thought it would be helpful to review the rules airlines have in place in regards to flying with photo equipment. Here’s what you need to know before you take your camera on your next flight: YES. You can take your camera on the airplane, though I would recommend packing it in your carry-on bag rather than in your checked suitcase given the number of bags the airlines’ loses each year. … Continue reading