Issue 9.2 March / April 2004
Printing Reviews
Print It! 1.1 (MAC)
Print It! 1.1 enables Macintosh OS X users to capture and print anything that can be viewed on their monitor, easily, and with several print-related features. Users can preview jobs before printing, and can add notes and time/date stamps. Multiple selections can be made and printed as one or individually. Operation is initiated with a system-wide hotkey, and advanced features are accessible from the contextual menu. A really handy tool for any digital publisher. $24.95
Contact: Macease, http://www.macease.com,
e-mail: steve@macease.com.
Hardware Reviews
Earthmate GPS (WIN )
Earthmate GPS is an exceptionally small (1 7/8" wide x 2 3/32" long
x 13/16" deep) and compact global positioning device that energizes the DeLorme
Street Atlas USA 2004 software. The combination of the two (with proper cabling
and software versions) can provide a laptop or handheld computer with the routing
capabilities common to built-in car navigation systems—but at a substantially
lower cost. Digital publishers who have a passion for maps or travel, or who have
an aversion to getting lost, should read carefully.
The Earthmate, which sells with the Street Atlas USA 2004 software for $129.95, can be powered directly from its laptop USB connection. The unit provides the computer with coordinates received from orbiting satellites, which causes the computer screen to display the user's position with an accuracy of within three meters. In addition to the advantage of cost, the use of the Earthmate with a laptop computer provides a display that is materially larger than any built into the dashboard of a car, or available as a standalone unit. Like most auto navigation systems, the software provides voice prompts (in a variety of voices) indicating such things as upcoming turns, and responds to spoken input, such as ""Where am I?""
The Street Atlas USA, reviewed previously, contains detailed maps comprising more than four million places of interest. In addition to showing realtime routing, the route directions can be printed, as can the maps. Although the Earthmate and the software are both made by DeLorme, the GPS unit will work with "suitably configured non-DeLorme software."
The Earthmate is a 12-channel NMEA 0183 V.2.0 compliant receiver, and gets its signals from the Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) at no cost to the end-user. It is built around the SiRFstar IIe low-power chipset, and can obtain a GPS signal from a cold start in less than 45 seconds. The unit contains an LED which displays an indication of the current receiving mode: "red for searching, yellow for two satellites in view, and green for at least three satellites in view."
The GPS satellites are the property of the U.S. Department of Defense, and approximately 28 of them make one complete orbit around the earth every twelve hours, at an altitude of about 12,000 miles. The system, developed in order that the military have precise location accuracy, especially for submarines carrying nuclear missiles, reportedly cost $12 billion. The satellites interpret their locations from about 25 ground control stations located throughout the U.S., and share that information with other satellites in the system. The GPS unit, which can only receive radio signalsÉit can't send them, collects the signals from two or more satellites in its range, and establishes its fixed position. The position on the display map changes in realtime as the individual, car, boat, or other means of conveyance carrying the GPS system, moves.
The Earthmate can also be used in a small Bluetooth PowerPack, which enables it to be used wirelessly over short distances with a Bluetooth-compatible laptop or handheld computer. The powerpack can work with either AAA batteries or a lithium-ion battery sold by DeLorme. The Bluetooth alternative eliminates the need for the cable that tethers the GPS to its host, simplifying set-up, and removing cable clutter.
For cabling and accessory options and prices visit http://www.earthmate.com.
Contact: DeLorme, Two DeLorme Drive, POB 298, Yarmouth, ME 04096, 800 452-5931, 207 846-7000, http://www.delorme.com, e-mail: info@delorme.com, fax back: 207 865-7083, fax: 800 575-2244.
Entertainment Reviews
No One Lives Forever (MAC)
No One Lives Forever is spy vs. spy game that is set in the 1960's, pitting secret agent Cate Archer against the notoriously evil H.A.R.M group. The player is armed with an arsenal of super weapons and gadgets, and must solve a mystery in order to save the world. The program is rated "Mature." $29.99
Contact: MacPlay, 2019 N. Lamar St., Suite 240, Dallas, TX 75202-1704, 214 855-5955, http://www.macplay.com, fax: 214 855-5980.
Soldier of Fortune II: Double Helix (MAC)
Soldier of Fortune II: Double Helix is a software adventure offering hours of diversion to the serious digital publisher. The player is a mercenary on a mission to defeat a bio-terrorist group that intends to release their two-pronged Gemini Virus. The program consists of ten single player missions that span 70 levels of difficulty. The program is rated "Mature." $49.99
Contact: MacPlay, 2019 N. Lamar St., Suite 240, Dallas, TX 75202-1704, 214 855-5955, http://www.macplay.com, fax: 214 855-5980.
Additions/Extensions Reviews
SymmetryWorks Version 3 (MAC/WIN)
SymmetryWorks Version 3.0 is one of those rare programs with a very high "wow" factor. The initial reaction to seeing what the program can do is certain to elicit approval, and sustained use will undoubtedly provide equally high levels of productivity and creative expression. What does the program do? It is an Adobe Illustrator plug-in that enables the creation of professional-quality surface designs of extraordinary beauty, complexity, and sophistication. It is like a software kaleidoscope. It is unequalled in its category. It supports the creation of patterns quite easily, producing stunning output from almost any illustration elements (vector) or imported image (raster). The publisher cites its use for producing Web page backgrounds, fabric designs, technical illustrations, quilting patterns, endpaper decorations, and stained glass patterns, however it can be used to produce attractive patterns for virtually any purpose or design application.
A SymmetryWorks pattern is composed essentially of the smallest unit of the pattern, the "seed," which is repeated according to the selection of a "tile." The tile produces a pattern that steps and repeats the seed according to the tile's personality. Any time that the seed changes, the overall pattern changes. The user has complete control over how the seed is expressed, in size, orientation, number of repetitions, etc. The seed object itself may be copied, and form a new unit composed of "replicas."The replicas are hot-linked to the seed and change in response to edits applied to the seed object. A layout, which comprises the area onto which a design is applied, can display one or more replicas.
The plug-in provides an extraordinary amount of control over the generation of a pattern. The user can combine vector and raster elements, clipping a portion of a raster image and generating a pattern, as well as creating a clipping mask around the seed objects (those that are stepped and repeated to form the overall pattern).
Among the program's major features are: a choice of blended or clear-cut units of repetition; control over raster and vector transparency; creation of opacity masks for blending units of repetition; preservation of text editing within a pattern; support for 3D effects; and much more.
Users have extraordinary manipulation over patterns, including access to control paths, which provide the same functionality of an Illustrator bounding box. In addition the user can set the step and repeat pattern to conform to a rectangular grid or deviate from it in a uniform manner. The level of control is outstanding.
In addition to the designs that the user can create, Artlandia offers a CD with royalty-free predrawn designs in several categories, including geometric (two volumes), optical and certificate. We reviewed the certificate collection and were absolutely astounded by the ease in which complete certificate borders and backgrounds could be created. Having admired the designs on stock certificates and other forms of commercial paper, it was incredibly satisfying and empowering to be able to create similar effects. The plug-in is $215 for the download version; The Artlandia Design Collection CD is $149.85 for all four volumes, or $49.95 for each volume.
Contact: Artlandia, Inc., 2015 Barberry Cr., Champaign, IL 61821, toll free phone/fax: 888 972-6366, http:// www.artlandia.com, e-mail: info@artlandia.com.
Instruction/Learning Reviews
Piano and Keyboard Method (MAC/WIN)
Piano and Keyboard Method presents an easy way for individuals to learn the piano. Digital publishers are adept at computer keyboarding, and this program presents them with another way of expressing their creativity...in a different, and more entertaining way. The CD-ROM consists of more than 300 lessons that take the student, step-by-step through the process of hand positions, music notation, and scales...all the way to playing any of the over 100 provided songs. If you want to learn to play the keyboard, then this program is the best bang for your buck.
The instruction, which is presented in video, audio, animated keyboard, and on-screen diagrams, is delivered by Irma Irene Justicia, who has taught at the Juilliard School of Music. The student can plug in an electronic MIDI keyboard and receive feedback on playing errors, both wrong notes and rhythms. The student can choose the speed of a MIDI accompaniment, record and playback lessons, and keep beat with an electronic metronome with audio and visual feedback. $59.95
Contact: eMedia Music Corp., 664 NE Northlake Way, Seattle, WA 98105, 888 363-3424, 206 329-5657, http://www.emediamusic.com.
Total Training for Adobe Photoshop CS (MAC/WIN)
Total Training for Adobe Photoshop CS is a set of seven DVDs that cover the entire feature set of this newest version of Photoshop. It is a captivating presentation, combining straight forward and well organized content along with entertaining, though not distractive, theatrical elements. The training is provided by Deke McClelland, an recognized expert on Photoshop, and the author of several best-selling books on the subject. He has provided a series of sample images that the viewer can use to follow his instruction in real-time, and achieve similar results.
Mr. McClelland's style is non-threatening, and easy-going. He is articulate, and explains the information fully. He not only shows how to accomplish various tasks, but tells when such skills would likely be applied.
This is the best method that we have seen to learn about the new Photoshop capabilities and to acquire and develop the expertise to use them. The user can complete the entire course and then review various chapters at any time, or go directly to a specific topic for immediate instruction. The major topics include: Photoshop Fundamentals; Color Correction & Camera Raw; Select, Paint & Edit; Layers, Blends & Channels; Filters & Distortions; Text, Vectors & Output; and more. $299
Contact: Total Training Inc., 324 Encinitas Blvd, Suite B, Encinitas CA,Ê 92024, 888 DO TOTAL, 760 944-3900, http://www.totaltraining.com, e-mail: info@totaltraining.com.
Total Training Presents: Adobe Photoshop Tips & Tricks (MAC/WIN)
Total Training Presents: Adobe Photoshop Tips & Tricks is a CD-ROM containing eight lessons, extending over three hours, that illustrate the broad range of special visual effects that can be achieved in Photoshop. The videos are presented by Steve Holmes, who is frequently featured by Adobe Systems at their trade show exhibitions, and who possesses a deep understanding of the software. Equally important, Mr. Holmes is able to demonstrate all of the various Photoshop operations clearly. The examples that he uses are representative of real-world imaging problems that confront professionals daily. $49
Contact: Total Training Inc., 324 Encinitas Blvd, Suite B, Encinitas CA,Ê 92024, 888 DO TOTAL, 760 944-3900, http://www.totaltraining.com, e-mail: info@totaltraining.com.
VTC FileMaker Pro 6 Training CD (MAC/WIN)
VTC FileMaker Pro 6 Training CD is a two-volume set of narrated, instructional QuickTime movies covering all aspects of elementary FileMaker operation and use. The ten hours of instruction, consisting of 165 movies, is conducted by David Bylund, a talented architect based in Hawaii. Mr. Bylund uses the example of a Hawaiian merchandiser to illustrate the capabilities of the program. Mr. Bylund is an excellent speaker...clear and easily understood. He has distilled a complete database course into this two CD set.
The lessons are short, each running from about three to five minutes, and are controllable, using VCR-like controls. Users can easily jump to particular areas of interest, and review portions as many times as needed. The user can also have the FileMaker application open, and apply various skills as soon as they are learned.
The content runs the gamut of what a new user would need to know to get started, such as the four FileMaker modes, to sophisticated uses of relational databases. Among the topics are: set-up procedures, database planning, entering and retrieving data, finding and sorting, outputting data in a defined form, importing and exporting data, using specialized field types, performing calculations and scripts, creating layouts, using portals, creating relational databases, providing secure access, network file sharing, and much more. $99.95
Contact: VTC, 2328E Walsh Ave., Santa Clara, CA 95051, 408 492-1051, 888-TRAIN-CD, http://www.vtco.com, email: mark@vtco.com.
Utility Reviews
CDFinder 4 (MAC/WIN)
CDFinder 4 provides an essential capability to digital publishers who, by nature, have large collections of files on various forms of media. This program simplifies the process of cataloging both on-line and off-line files so that they can be located quickly and easily. The program can catalog data on any disk type, including CD-ROM, DVD, floppy, ZIP, hard disc, etc. In the main window the user can see a listing of all catalog files, including a comment field where notes can be included regarding the physical location of the media. The flexible Find dialog enables the user to locate files using multiple search criteria. $25
Contact: CDFinder, c/o Norbert M. Doerner, Mozartstr. 16, D-64546 Moerfelden-Walldorf, Germany, http://www.cdfinder.de.
Retrospect 6.0 for Macintosh Server Edition (MAC)
Retrospect 6.0 for Macintosh Server Edition is the industrial strength back-up solution for Macintosh workgroups. The program is capable of automatically protecting server contents of 1,000 terabytes or more, backing-up the contents of multiple servers to a single central server, as well as supporting up to 100 networked clients residing on desktops or notebooks. The software maintains automated back-ups for clients, eliminating the inconsistent back-up habits of busy and noncompliant users. The server software provides special support for notebook users, automatically detecting when a notebook connects to the network, and backing it up immediately.
The program backs up the mission critical data, applications, operating system files, and associated settings that enable an enterprise to function, and which can severely impede operations when they are not available. Only data that is new, or changed, is backed-up during a session, and the user can apply filters and selectors to ensure that only the files they want will be included in the back-up set. The software is sufficiently intelligent to eliminate files that have been deleted, moved, or renamed between back-up sessions, and data is verified during back-up, by comparing the data on the back-up media to that on the original media.
Data can be encrypted using SimpleCrypt(tm) or the stronger, DES encryption, to protect data from those who should not see it. Data is also compressed, to extend the storage capacity of the back-up media. Version 6 is the first to support Mac OS X Panther, and the package includes Retrospect 5.1 for Mac OS 9 to cover all Macintosh-related back-up needs.
The program is capable of restoring a computer to 100% of its contents on any given day that a back-up has been performed (rolled-back Point-in-Time Restores), and restoring any or all of the versions of any files that have been backed-up. Users can create a custom back-up script that conforms to their scheduling needs using the EasyScript(tm) Wizard. After a session has been executed, a comprehensive report of back-up and restore activities is generated, and can be e-mailed to a system administrator or other functionary. The Retrospect CD is bootable, and can be used to start a computer that can not access its operating system.
Users can also recover a single file or a folder, providing extraordinary flexibility in handling file restorations. Furthermore, the software works in concert with the user's virus protection application to ensure that back-ups are free of viruses.
The program supports the widest variety of back-up devices, including hard drives (including FireWire and USB), tape drives, removable media drives, CD and DVD writers, tape autoloaders and libraries, and FTP servers. Devices are automatically detected, eliminating the need to load and configure device drivers. The software even supports the use of multiple back-up devices, and the shifting of alternate back-up sets from internal (on-site) to off-site. This kind of protection is essential in a digital publishing environment, and this is, without dispute, the best solution available. $580
Contact: Dantz Development Corporation, 4 Orinda Way, Building C, Orinda, CA 94563, 800 225-4880, 925 253-3000, http://www.dantz.com, e-mail: customer_service@dantz.com, fax : 925 253-9099.
Spector for Mac OS X version 3.0 (MAC)
Spector for Mac OS X version 3.0 is a surveillance program that automatically takes hundreds of snapshots per hour, recording all activity on the computer on which it is running. The files that it creates, which can be created in intervals as short as every five seconds, are saved in a hidden location on the hard drive. The program can be used to monitor childrens' use of a family computer at home, or employees' use of a business computer at work. The program records everything that is done on the computer...every application used, Web site visited, e-mail received or sent, keystroke typed, etc.
The program can operate in super stealth mode, totally out of sight, and protected by a password. The recorded activity is viewed using a VCR-like player, with single frame precision. Frames can be exported as BMP, JPEG, TIFF, and other file formats, and can be printed. $99.95
Contact: SpectorSoft, 333 17th St., Vero Beach, FL 32960, 888 598-2788, http://www.spectorsoft.com, fax: 772 770-3442.
TableText (MAC)
TableText is a useful utility for representing tabular information as plain text, and also converting text into a tabular form. In the latter case, it is especially handy for importing text into a database, spreadsheet, or word processor. In the former case, it provides a clean and readable way to represent, in ASCII format, data that originates in a table (http://sigsoftware.com/tabletext/screenshots.html). $20
Contact: Sig Software, http://www.sigsoftware.com, e-mail: sales@sigsoftware.com.
Digital Video Reviews
CatDV Pro 3 (MAC/WIN)
CatDV Pro 3 is a media cataloging and video logging utility application that supports a wide variety of media types for still images (JPEG, GIF, PNG. BMP, TIFF, PSD, etc.), audio formats (MP3, AIFF, AU, WAV, etc.), video formats (QuickTime, MOV, AVI, MPEG, DV, etc.), video editing capture logs and projects (EditDV, Final Cut Pro, Premiere, etc.), and interchange formats (CMX edit decision lists, HTML, tab separated text, and XML). The indexed media files appear as thumbnails, and can be played back either in preview or full screen mode. Large media files are retained off-line and their thumbnails and low-resolution preview movies are captured in the program, which can generate a capture log to use with the batch capture feature of an editing application.
The program enables a user to keep precise information about their DV tapes and the clips that they contain, and the projects that they are used on. Information is maintained regarding timecode "in" and "out" values, thumbnails, and related meta data (clip name, description, project, status, date and time of recording, etc.). All of the information can be used for searching and sorting the catalog.
The program uses automatic scene detection of captured media footage, enabling the user to review each clip and enter an appropriate name, associated keywords and "in" and "out" points.
Clips and images can be imported from a directory to build a thumbnail catalog. During this process a clip record is created for each scene or shot. Users with QuickTime-compatible capture hardware can scan tapes directly.
After a user's stock of clips have been cataloged they can be selected through a flexible search capability, previewed, and then output. Output alternatives include slideshows, media presentations, export as QuickTime movies, batch lists for import into the user's NLE application, or printing as thumbnails or contact sheets. A guided tour, presented as screenshots, is available for viewing at http://www.squarebox.co.uk/catdv/screenshots.html. $275
Contact: Square Box Systems Ltd., Brookland House, The Green, Snitterfield, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 0JG, United Kingdom, +44 7050 372230, http://www.squarebox.co.uk, e-mail: sales@squarebox.co.uk, fax: +44 1789 730898.
MAGIX Movie Edit Pro 2004 (WIN )
MAGIX Movie Edit Pro 2004 masterfully blends the ease of use expected by consumers, with the array of digital editing tools expected by professionals. It simplifies the creation of event-based digital movie making, providing 1,400 special effects and templates, along with soundtrack creation, multi-track editing, and output to either DVD or CD.
First time video makers benefit from two scene trimmers and a built-in automatic scene detection system, which simplify the process of cutting raw footage. The program provides a long list of features related to capture and transfer, importing and exporting, video editing and compositing, dubbing and syncing, adding transitions and effects, and burning to media. $99.99
Contact: Magix, 1680 Michigan Ave., Suite 900, Miami Beach, FL 33139, 888-326-2449, http://www.magix.com, e-mail: us-info@magix.net.
Trans Lucy 1.0.1 (MAC)
Trans Lucy 1.0.1 is a DVD viewing utility that enables users of Macintosh computers with video cards that support Quartz Extreme to view videos transparently, above open applications. The user can both see the video and continue to work on their documents.
The Trans Lucy Controller is similar to that of a home DVD player, with controls for jog/shuttle, displaying the menu, viewing the previous chapter, playing, pausing, stopping, etc. The Opacity dial enables the user to set the degree of transparency, from 100% opaque, to 10% transparent. The opacity can be increased or decreased in 10% increments by clicking. The display can be set to half size, normal size, or full screen, and the user can select to have the display set Above Everything, meaning that it appears over all applications, documents, and the menu bar, or at the Desktop level, wherein it will appear below other applications, documents, and desktop icons. $14.95
Contact: CE Software, 1801 Industrial Circle, POB 65580, West Des Moines, IA 50265, 515 221-1801, 800 523-7638, http://www.cesoft.com, e-mail: sales@cesoft.com, fax: 515 221-2694.
Productivity Reviews
TypeIt4Me (MAC)
TypeIt4Me is a keyboard extender that enables users to assign strings of characters (up to entire paragraphs) to easy-to-remember abbreviations. The abbreviations, or mnemonics, are user-defined, and can reduce keyboard input substantially in cases where there is repetitive input. The program remains available in any application, and can therefore make the entire keyboarding process more efficient. $27
Contact: TypeIt4Me, http://www.typeit4me.com, e-mail: support@typeit4me.com.
Book Reviews
Absolute Beginner's Guide to Networking
Habraken, Joe
A book devoted to the essentials of networking, including peer-to-peer and server-based.
Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0789729113
0789729113 482 pp. $18.95
Contact: Que Corporation, 11711 North College Ave., Carmel, IN 46032, http://www.quecorp.com.
AppleScript: The Definitive Guide
Neuburg, Matt
Finally, what may truly be the "definitive guide" to Apple's powerful OS scripting language. The author has finely crafted a tour of AppleScript with many instructive stops along the way. The trip is well worthwhile.
Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0596005571
0596005571 453 pp. $39.95
Contact: O'Reilly & Associates, Inc., 1005 Gravenstein Highway North, Sebastopol, CA 95472, 800 998-9938, 707 829-0515, http://www.oreilly.com, e-mail: info@oreilly.com, fax: 707 829-0104.
Digital Photography Pocket Guide
Story, Derrick
The author has crammed all of the essential information necessary to take good digital photos in a variety of environments.
Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0596004540
0596004540 144 pp. $14.95
Contact: O'Reilly & Associates, Inc., 1005 Gravenstein Highway North, Sebastopol, CA 95472, 800 998-9938, 707 829-0515, http://www.oreilly.com, e-mail: info@oreilly.com, fax: 707 829-0104.
Digital Video Pocket Guide
Story, Derrick
In a size no larger than the profile of most compact digital video recorders, the author has amassed a storehouse of information related to all aspects of the DV recording process, from identifying parts of the camera, to planning for transfer to a computer.
Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D059600537
059600537 113 pp. $14.95
Contact: O'Reilly & Associates, Inc., 1005 Gravenstein Highway North, Sebastopol, CA 95472, 800 998-9938, 707 829-0515, http://www.oreilly.com, e-mail: info@oreilly.com, fax: 707 829-0104.
How to Do Everything with iLife '04
Hart-Davis, Guy
An all-in-one guide to the applications that comprise Apple iLife '04: iTunes, iPhoto, iMovie, iDVD, and GarageBand. The reader is led through the processes necessary to master the most popular features of each software program. In addition to the dozens of illustrations, the author provides many insightful tips and how-to suggestions.
Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0072232056
0072232056 480 pp. $24.99
Contact: Osborne McGraw-Hill, 2100 Powell St., 10th Floor, Emeryville, CA 94608, 510 549-6600, http://www.osborne.com, fax: 510 549-6603.
iMovie 3 & iDVD: The Missing Manual
Pogue, David
Like other books in this series, it is the book that should have been shipped with the software. Complete, in-depth, and well-presented, it covers the complete gamut of operations necessary for recording video, editing it into a final form, and then transferring it to DVD.
Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0596005075
0596005075 456 pp. $24.95
Contact: O'Reilly & Associates, Inc., 1005 Gravenstein Highway North, Sebastopol, CA 95472, 800 998-9938, 707 829-0515, http://www.oreilly.com, e-mail: info@oreilly.com, fax: 707 829-0104.
Mac Panther Bible, 9th Edition, The
England, et al
The most complete, and likely the most useful single volume ever published about the Apple Macintosh. The team of expert authors cover the whole of the Macintosh universe, including major topic areas such as the system software, storage, printing, peripherals, troubleshooting, productivity and creativity applications, networking, and much more. Readers also get a sense of the twenty-year history of the Macintosh, written by those who lived through the various changes.
Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0321213491
0321213491 1028 pp. $34.99
Contact: Peachpit Press, 1249 8th St., Berkeley, CA 94710, 800 283-9444, http://www.peachpit.com, fax: 510 524-2221.
PERL and CGI for the World Wide Web: Visual QuickStart Guide
Castro, Elizabeth
An intensive, yet easy-to-follow treatment of the use of PERL an CGI scripting to apply interactivity to Web pages. The author distills a complex process into smaller parts that are more digestible.
Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D020135358X
020135358X 272 pp. $18.99
Contact: Peachpit Press, 1249 8th St., Berkeley, CA 94710, 800 283-9444, http://www.peachpit.com, fax: 510 524-2221.
Photoshop CS: The Art of Photographing Women
Ames, Kevin
The author shares his award-winning secrets of photographing glamorous women and manipulating their digital images to produce professional quality fashion photographs. This full-color guide clearly shows how experts remove blemishes, smooth wrinkles, correct skin tones, and sculpt bodies. The book provides a fascinating look into the world of the professional digital photographer.
Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0764543180
0764543180 p368 p. $34.99
Contact: Wiley, Professional/Trade Group, 111 River St., Hoboken, NJ 07030, http://www.wiley.com.
Real World Scanning & Halftones, Third Edition
Blatner, David; Conrad Chavez, Glenn Fleishman, Steve Roth
This book should be the standard textbook for professional scanning methods and techniques. It is thorough, in-depth, and terrifically well presented, with lavish use of color and illustrations. The authors cover the complete scanning workflow, from the original copy, through the preparation of the scanning device and its host-bound software, to the saving of the image. Precise instructions are presented for scanning for prepress, the Web, video, color photo printers, and office applications. Extensive information is provided regarding image correction techniques and procedures for storing images. Eleven chapters are devoted to the creation and reproduction of halftones.
Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0321241320
0321241320 334 pp. $39.99
Contact: Peachpit Press, 1249 8th St., Berkeley, CA 94710, 800 283-9444, http://www.peachpit.com, fax: 510 524-2221.
Robin Williams Mac OS X Book Panther Edition, The
Williams, Robin; John Tollett
Clearly written and profusely illustrated, the authors have written a complete guide to the Apple Macintosh Panther operating system. The chapters are well-organized, logically arranged, and neatly presented. The authors begin with a tutorial to familiarize the reader with the basic computer operations. They then cover basic and advanced operations, the Internet and networking, and conclude with ports and peripherals, the use of the Classic Environment, and an explanation of where previous features are now to be found. Each chapter includes a quiz (with answers provided).
Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0321232968
0321232968 712 pp. $29.99
Contact: Peachpit Press, 1249 8th St., Berkeley, CA 94710, 800 283-9444, http://www.peachpit.com, fax: 510 524-2221.
Windows XP Pocket Reference
Karp, David A.
A very handy, compact guide to the workings of Microsoft Windows XP. Major topics include the basics of the OS, tips and shortcuts, the Registry, commands, and security concerns.
Available for on-line ordering at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=thekleperreporto&path=ISBN%3D0596004257
0596004257 181 pp. $12.95
Contact: O'Reilly & Associates, Inc., 1005 Gravenstein Highway North, Sebastopol, CA 95472, 800 998-9938, 707 829-0515, http://www.oreilly.com, e-mail: info@oreilly.com, fax: 707 829-0104.
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