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Download Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 Sample AVCHD Lite Video Featuring 12x Zoom

Friendly User — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 15:40:00 +0000

Here is another AVCHD Lite video sample for free download, from the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3. This sample video, available as an unedited MTS file, features the 12x zoom capability of the camera; the Panasonic ZS3 can zoom while recording video. The video begins at the widest angle, at 1x zoom, then zooms in at its top speed until it reaches the maximum 12x zoom. This should give a good idea of the high picture quality that is maintained throughout the zooming up through the maximum 12x zoom, as well as the speed and smoothness of the zoom function. The video is recorded handheld, without a tripod.

The purpose is to allow you to download and sample the original MTS files, in an uncompressed form to view and edit on your computer. These videos are taken straight out of the camera, with no post-processing of any kind. This can be useful if you do not have access to the Panasonic ZS3, and want to inspect the video quality, the audio quality, the zoom, the quality of video playback on a computer, and the ease of video editing on a computer for MTS video files made by the Panasonic ZS3. Videos made by the Panasonic TZ7 will be identical in quality to Panasonic ZS3 videos, but with a different limit on recording time.

Panasonic ZS3 AVCHD Lite Video Sample (MTS File)

Note: To download, click “Download Now” at the bottom of the download page linked below.

Sample Video – 1280 x 720 resolution, 720p HD video
http://www.filefactory.com/file/a1e2320/n/zs3-unedited-avchd-lite-hd-sample-05.MTS
Format: AVCHD Lite, MTS file
Video Length: 50 sec
File Size: 92.7 MB

More sample unedited AVCHD Lite HD video from the Panasonic ZS3, as MTS files, are available here.

Related Information

Download Sample MTS Files of AVCHD Lite HD Video for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3
Convert and Edit DMC-ZS3 AVCHD Lite Video for Free
Sample AVCHD Lite HD Videos: Is the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 A Camcorder Replacement?
HD Video Record Time Limit: Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 vs DMC-TZ7 (AVCHD Lite)
Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3/DMC-TZ7 10MP Camera – Wide Angle with 12x Zoom

Free Download Links for MTS Video Players

Media Player Classic – Free Video Player
VLC Player – Free Video Player

Download Sample MTS Files of AVCHD Lite HD Video for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3

Friendly User — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 13:00:46 +0000

Here are two sample HD videos in the AVCHD Lite format, presented for free download as original and unedited MTS files. They were filmed using the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 digital camera. The purpose is to allow you to download and sample the original MTS files, in an uncompressed form to view and edit on your computer. These videos are taken straight out of the camera, with no post-processing of any kind. This can be useful if you do not have access to the Panasonic ZS3, and want to inspect the video quality, the audio quality, the zoom, the quality of video playback on a computer, and the ease of video editing on a computer for MTS video files made by the Panasonic ZS3. G2VB4TCHREX9 EXXBMPYGYUK6

Please note, these videos were not originally made for use as video samples, thus they were not filmed under controlled conditions (i.e. please excuse the bit of shakiness and imprecise zooming in these samples). But this may give you a representation of real-world use and conditions, where people get in your view to throw off the camera’s focus, or you may zoom in a little too much only to zoom out a bit which makes the camera work harder to focus. Overall, the Panasonic ZS3 does well under these conditions and is easy to handle. The emphasis in these samples is on the zoom power, and the picture quality or sharpness.

Scene for Filming AVCHD Lite Sample HD Videos

Here is a un-zoomed photo of the scene used in the sample videos, to give some perspective on the zoom power used in the Panasonic ZS3 video samples below. This photo is also unprocessed, and is only reduced in size.

Panasonic ZS3 AVCHD Lite Video Samples (MTS Files)

These MTS video files from the Panasonic ZS3 are available for free download from the links provided below. Videos made by the Panasonic TZ7 will be identical in quality to these Panasonic ZS3 videos, but with a different limit on recording time. Again, please excuse the bit of shakiness and imprecise zooming in these samples as they were not taken in controlled conditions.

Note: To download, click “Download Now” at the bottom of each download page linked below.

Sample A – 1280 x 720 resolution, 720p HD video
http://www.filefactory.com/file/a1d6780/n/zs3-unedited-avchd-lite-hd-sample-02.MTS
Format: AVCHD Lite, MTS file
Video Length: 28 sec
File Size: 51.9 MB

Sample B – 1280 x 720 resolution, 720p HD video
http://www.filefactory.com/file/a1d68ge/n/zs3-unedited-avchd-lite-hd-sample-04.MTS
Format: AVCHD Lite, MTS file
Video Length: 31 sec
File Size: 58 MB

More sample unedited AVCHD Lite HD video from the Panasonic ZS3, featuring its 12x zoom while recording, are available here as MTS files.

Related Information

Convert and Edit DMC-ZS3 AVCHD Lite Video for Free
Download Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 Sample AVCHD Lite Video Featuring 12x Zoom
Sample AVCHD Lite HD Videos: Is the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 A Camcorder Replacement?
HD Video Record Time Limit: Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 vs DMC-TZ7 (AVCHD Lite)
Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3/DMC-TZ7 10MP Camera – Wide Angle with 12x Zoom

Free Download Links for MTS Video Players

Media Player Classic – Free Video Player
VLC Player – Free Video Player

Reduce Noise in Panasonic DMC-ZS3 Photos For Free

Friendly User — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 13:55:41 +0000

Under less-than-perfect conditions, or low light conditions, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 may take photos that have too much noise in them, or at least more than you would like. Noise basically refers to imperfections in the photo that give the photo a grainy appearance, that is not as sharp or as smooth as would be ideal. Noise can affect all types and models of digital cameras, so the noise problem and noise reduction solution described here can be applied to photos taken by any camera, though the level of success may vary depending on the original photo quality.

Some basic photo post-processing can make your photographs look better. Using the free demo version of Neat Image noise reduction software, JPEG photos taken with the Panasonic ZS3 (or any other camera) can be improved or cleaned-up by following a simple process.

Before Processing Photos from the Panasonic ZS3

Note: Download links can be found at the end of this article.

There are a few free software programs that you will need before you can carry on with the noise reduction of your Panasonic ZS3 JPEG photos.

Neat Image, noise reduction software, free demo edition.
(optional) FastStone Image Viewer, a free image viewer, or any other software to compare images side-by-side.
(optional) PhotoME, a free EXIF data viewer/editor, restores the original photo’s EXIF data to the processed photo. The demo version of Neat Image does not save EXIF data.

Reduce Noise in Panasonic ZS3 JPEG Photos

Note: Make sure to always keep an unaltered backup copy of the original photo JPEG file.

In Neat Image:

Click "Open input image" and select the image you wish to apply noise reduction to. If you have multiple copies at different resolutions for the same photo, please use the largest resolution photo you can.
Click the "Device Noise Profile" tab, then click "Auto Profile".
Click the "Noise Filter Settings" tab, then choose a "Filter Preset" from the drop-down menu.

Under the "Advanced" menu of the "Filter Preset" drop-down menu, choose a setting that matches what needs to be fixed in your photo. For photos that need only noise reduction, without having any other issues, the filter settings that will work well are "Remove only half of stronger noise (keep fewer details)" and "Remove only half of weaker noise (keep more details)". Of course, other settings may work best for your particular photo, depending at the degree and type of noise in your photo.
Click "Preview" and adjust the zoom to preview the changes. Click the left mouse button and drag the white square outline to choose which area you want to preview the changes for. Release the left mouse button to preview the changes. If you are not satisfied with the changes, or just want to see what effect other filter presets would have on your photo, then go back to step 3 above to choose and preview another filter preset.
When you are satisfied with the chosen filter preset, click the "Output Image" tab, then click "Apply" to apply the changes to the image. Then click "Save output image" to save the changes.
The first time you save an image after opening Neat Image, you will see this pop-up describing the limits of the demo version of Neat Image. For most users these limits will not be an issue, since the image file is saved at a high quality, and the EXIF data can be copied from the original image to the processed image using a tool such as PhotoME.

After Processing Panasonic ZS3 Photos with Neat Image

Once you have finished processing your photo with Neat Image, then you may want to compare the processed photo to the original photo. You may want to use the free software program FastStone Image Viewer, or else any other software of your choice that can compare photos side-by-side.

In the free FastStone Image Viewer, make sure the "Smooth" checkbox in the toolbar is unchecked. Select the two photos you wish to compare, then in the file menu go to "Tools" and select "Compare Images" (or use the keyboard shortcut "P" key). Inspect the photos side-by-side and at different zoom levels to see if the results are an improvement.

Save Photo EXIF Information

The demo edition of Neat Image does not save or transfer the original photo EXIF information to your processed photo. But you can still transfer the original photo EXIF information to your processed photo with free software, such as the free software program PhotoME.

In PhotoME, open the original photo. Use "Open file" from the file menu, or use the PhotoME file browser by clicking the icon next to the words "File Menu". It is faster to use the PhotoME file browser if working with many files.

Then select "Export Exif data" from the file menu and save the EXIF data for the original photo. Open the processed photo, then select "Import Exif data" from the file menu. Click "Save file" to save your processed photo with the photo’s original EXIF information.

Related Information

Convert and Edit DMC-ZS3 AVCHD Lite Video for Free
How To: Fix Yellow Spots or Blotches in Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3/DMC-TZ7 Photos
Download Sample MTS Files of HD Video for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3
Sample AVCHD Lite HD Videos: Is the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 A Camcorder Replacement?
HD Video Record Time Limit: Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 vs DMC-TZ7 (AVCHD Lite)
Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3/DMC-TZ7 10MP Camera – Wide Angle with 12x Zoom

Free Download Links

Neat Image – Noise Reduction Software (Free Demo Edition)
FastStone Image Viewer – Free Image Viewer
PhotoME – Free Digital Photo Metadata Editor

CrossLoop: Help Fix Another Computer’s Problems From Your Computer With Free Software

Friendly User — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 18:25:02 +0000

CrossLoop is a free remote assistance software program that allows you to remotely access another user’s computer from your own computer, over the Internet. Using CrossLoop, you can help another user to solve their computer problem, by controlling their computer from your own. The user in need of some help, or the “Needy-User”, shares their screen with you, the “Helper”, and allows the you to control their computer’s mouse movements, as if you were physically in front of the Needy-User’s computer. This way, instead of spending a lot of time instructing the Needy-User on how to solve their computer issue, you can just fix it for them.

CrossLoop is an easy-to-use alternative to the Remote Assistance tool in Windows, because it requires no additional work on by either user, other than for both sides to start the CrossLoop program and for the Needy-User to giving an Access Code to the Helper (likely through phone or email). The Access Code ensures a secure connection. Neither modifying firewall settings, or changing router settings, is needed as CrossLoop is able to establish a connection on its own, saving a lot of time and trouble, since the Needy-User is likely not an expert on firewall or router settings.

Overview of How CrossLoop Works

Both the Helper and the Needy-User will need to have CrossLoop installed on their computers to proceed.

Signing up for an account is not necessary, but it is free to sign up for an account if you do.

The Needy-User will need to pass along an Access Code to the Helper, in order for the two computers to be connected. Once connected, the Helper can control the Needy-User’s mouse movements, and thus control the Needy-User’s computer, until one of the sides ends the session.

Detailed Step-By-Step Instructions for CrossLoop

The same procedure can be followed every time you need to help another person via CrossLoop.

Both users start the CrossLoop remote assistance software program.
Users then can either login with their CrossLoop account email and password, or they can skip the login if they don’t have a CrossLoop account. You don’t need an account to use CrossLoop.
Both users will then need to connect using CrossLoop.

a. The Needy-User will need to click on the grey “Share” tab. There will be a 12-digit “Access Code” there that will need to be passed along to the Helper, for example, by phone, email, Skype, or instant-message.

b. The Helper will need to click on the green “Access” tab, if it is not already displayed. The 12-digit “Access Code” from the Needy-User will need to be entered here, in the “Access Code” blank space.
When the Helper has the Access Code and is ready, then both users can click on the green “Connect” button in the bottom right corner of the CrossLoop program.
For the Needy-User, CrossLoop will then ask if they want to allow the Helper to be able to control the mouse on their computer. Once the Needy-User clicks to allow this, then the two computers will be connected and the Helper will be able to control the Needy-User’s computer. The Helper can then proceed to fix whatever problems the Needy-User is having with their computer.
When finished, in the CrossLoop software window, either user can click disconnect to end the session, then close the program.

Why CrossLoop Is Useful

CrossLoop can be a free, quick, and simple way to help fix the computer problems of a parent, friend, or relative who is not very knowledgeable with computers, and may be in another city or country. Or they simply have a computer issue that you know how to solve, but it would take too much time or trouble to walk another person through the instructions to fix it.

Used in combination with a service such as Skype, which you can use to exchange the Access Code or to exchange information on the issue to speed up the process, CrossLoop can be a hassle-free way to help someone else with their computer problems.

Download CrossLoop

More Information

Skype “Pay As You Go” Credit vs Monthly Subscription
CrossLoop Website

Panasonic GF1: Collected Sample HD Video for Outdoor, Daytime Recording Conditions

Friendly User — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 13:10:09 +0000

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 is a micro four-thirds type (4/3 type) digital camera, with interchangeable lenses, that is capable of recording 720p HD video in the AVCHD Lite video format (MTS file, 1280 x 720 resolution), as well as in the Motion JPEG video format. Some sample unedited HD video is shown below, for outdoor and daytime recording conditions, as a resource for new or potential owners looking to compare video quality for this camera with others. Unedited here refers to video that not has any video effects applied to it to change the video’s appearance.

The Panasonic GF1 HD video samples below cover a wide range of conditions, but are focused on outdoor videos shot in the daytime:

a lot of movement in the video and very little movement in the video
sunny and cloudy conditions
focusing and auto-focus

Keep in mind that although the original videos may be at 720p HD quality video (1280 x 720), uploading to online video sharing sites (YouTube, Vimeo) causes the video to be resized and quality downgraded compared to the original file.

Note: Videos were not created by TechUserFriendly.com. Credit for individual videos belong to individual video uploaders.

Panasonic DMC-GF1 HD Video Samples: Outdoor, Daytime

Video Features Highlighted: Unedited video (straight from GF1), outdoors, day time, sun light, low light, natural light, motion, close-ups, focus.

Video Features Highlighted: Unedited video (straight from GF1), outdoors, face-detection, auto-focus, day time, natural light, people.

Video Features Highlighted: Unedited video (straight from GF1), outdoors, strong wind, cloudy, low light, day time.

Video Features Highlighted: Unedited video (straight from GF1), outdoors, auto-focus, natural light, day time.

Video Features Highlighted: Unedited video (straight from GF1), outdoors, natural light, sound quality, day time, cloudy.

Converting AVCHD Lite Video

The Panasonic GF1 records AVCHD Lite video, which can be difficult to view on some computers, and to edit without paid software programs. A method is described here to convert and edit AVCHD Lite video files using free software tools.

More Information

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 – HD Video Recording Length

Link: 15 Free Guides on Internet Use, Computers, Phones

Friendly User — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 12:15:18 +0000

Here is a great free resource for users interested in tech-related topics. Recently posted on another site, is an article with links to "15 Free Guides That Really Teach You USEFUL Stuff", as the title of the post says. These guides really break down the basics for several tech-related issues, and can be useful for users of all levels of expertise on a topic. They are free to download as PDF files or to read online.

Free to Share Manuals on a Variety of Topics

From makeuseof.com:

Over the past months, we’ve written quite a few PDF manuals for you, on all kinds of diverging subjects, including BitTorrent, iTunes, iPhone, Twitter, Mac, Linux, Photoshop and several other topics.

Initially available only for subscribers, there are now multiple manuals released every month, for everyone to enjoy. After releasing 15 manuals and nearly half a million downloads we thought it was about time to look back and review what has been published so far.

Enjoy! No sign up need, downloads are free, no strings attached.

Do us a favor by sharing those manuals friends!

Topic Listing for Free Manuals

Movies on the Internet: About downloading movies, streaming movies, fixing video files.
Music on the Internet: About free music sharing, music downloading, tracking your favourite music acts online.
Mac: Tips, tricks, and free applications for the Mac.
iPhone: Details on how to get the most out of your iPhone.
Twitter: Features, tips, and tricks.
Windows Mobile Phone: Features and applications.
Productivity: Productivity mistakes, time organization, and workflow.
Building a Home Media Center: Hardware, software, and media extender options.
Networking: Network setup and overall guide.
BitTorrent: Using BitTorrent.
Linux: Getting started with Linux for newcomers.
Photoshop: Photoshop basics and shortcuts.
iTunes: Tips and tricks.
Building a PC: Beginner’s guide for building a computer.
Buying a Laptop: Buying guide for 2009.
(Bonus Guide) PSP Upgrade/Downgrade: For beginners, methods and tricks.

Sample AVCHD Lite HD Videos: Is the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 A Camcorder Replacement?

Friendly User — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:00:10 +0000

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 is capable of recording 720p HD video (1280 x 720 resolution) in the AVCHD Lite video format (MTS files), as well as in the Motion JPEG video format.

The Panasonic ZS3 can, in many ways, act as a camcorder replacement, because of its unlimited recording time, ability to zoom while recording, 720p HD quality video, dedicated video record button, 16:9 aspect ratio option, and stereo sound microphone. Of course, a video camcorder specializes in capturing video, while the Panasonic ZS3 does not, though it features the AVCHD Lite video format.

But in the AVCHD Lite HD video samples below, you can judge for yourself if the video quality is at least closely-comparable to a video camcorder. Does the video quality plus the Panasonic ZS3’s features (size, portability, convenience, photos) make it a suitable camcorder replacement in your daily life? Or at least could the Panasonic ZS3 be a camcorder replacement for those days where it would be easier to carry a pocket-sized camera around, instead of a camcorder?

(The Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 and European version Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ7 are identical cameras except for the video restrictions on the TZ7.)

The Panasonic ZS3 HD video samples below cover a wide range of different types of video shooting conditions:

indoors and outdoors
daytime and night time
a lot of movement in the video and very little movement in the video
low light conditions and bright conditions
sunny and cloudy conditions
up to 12x zoom capability
focusing and auto-focus on zoom
macro close-up ability

For videos on Vimeo.com, log in to download a copy of the video file and to see how it will playback on your computer. If you want to experiment, then some videos are available for download as MTS files, and you can then try the method described here to convert and edit the MTS file shot by the Panasonic ZS3.

Sample HD Videos for the Panasonic ZS3

Note: The below videos were not created by TechUserFriendly.com. Credit for individual videos belong to individual video uploaders. Click here for additional HD videos (AVCHD Lite, MTS files), created by TechUserFriendly.com, that are available as free downloads.

The videos below can be played on this page. To open a video in a new window, click on the video title link below each video. Some videos are indicated below to have original MTS files available for download. For those, you will need to open the video in a new window, to login and download the file.

“FirstTakes Panasonic TZ7/ZS3″ on Vimeo.
Video Features Highlighted: Daytime, indoor, outdoor, focus.

“Panasonic Lumix ZS3 Movie Sample (Night)” on Vimeo.
Video Features Highlighted: Night time, outdoor, powerful zoom, auto-focus, MTS file.

“Hard Rock Cafe, Live karaoke” on Vimeo.
Video Features Highlighted: Low light, indoor, dark, stereo sound, people.

“Panasonic Lumix ZS3 Movie Sample (Compare #1)” on Vimeo.
Video Features Highlighted: Daytime, outdoor, bright, zoom, macro close-up, MTS file.

“Quick Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ7 HD Test” on Vimeo.
Video Features Highlighted: Day time, indoor, outdoor, bright, macro close-up, zoom.

“Dance Rehearsal Spectrum (Low Light Test Lumix TZ7 / ZS3)” on Vimeo.
Video Features Highlighted: Low light, indoor, dark, zoom, stereo sound, people.

More HD Samples for the Panasonic ZS3

"TZ7 zoom test" on Vimeo.
Video Features Highlighted: Daytime, powerful zoom, with action/movement.

"Lumix DMC-ZS3 Test – Atlanta Morning" on Vimeo.
Video Features Highlighted: Indoor, outdoor, macro close-up, zoom, bright.

"Essai Panasonic TZ7 (ZS3)" on Vimeo.
Video Features Highlighted: Daytime, outdoor, bright, zoom.

"Panasonic ZS3 Movie test" on Vimeo.
Video Features Highlighted: Daytime, outdoor, cloudy, zoom.

"Basketball TZ7 ZOOM Night" on Vimeo.
Video Features Highlighted: Night, powerful zoom, dark, outdoor, people, with action/movement.

"Panasonic TZ7 / ZS3: first test: Berlin, Hallen Am Borsigturm" on Vimeo.
Video Features Highlighted: Daytime, outdoor, bright, shadows, people.

"ZS3 test" on Vimeo.
Video Features Highlighted: Daytime, outdoor, bright, zoom, macro close-up.

Related Information

Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 10MP Digital Camera with 12x Wide Angle
Download Sample MTS Files of HD Video for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3
Download Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 Sample AVCHD Lite Video Featuring 12x Zoom
Convert and Edit DMC-ZS3 AVCHD Lite Video for Free
HD Video Record Time Limit: Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 vs DMC-TZ7 (AVCHD Lite)
How To: Fix Yellow Spots or Blotches in Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3/DMC-TZ7 Photos
Reduce Noise in Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3/DMC-TZ7 Photos For Free

Fix Yellow Spots or Blotches in Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 Photos

Friendly User — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 13:55:13 +0000

Depending on how you use the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 camera, in certain lighting conditions, you may notice that yellow spots (or yellow blotches) can appear on your photos. Perhaps not many ZS3 owners notice though, or at least it seems that this yellow spot issue does not bother or impact most Panasonic ZS3 owners, since there is not much discussion about the issue online.

To those owners that do notice, it can be a fairly significant annoyance. But these yellow spots can be largely fixed by using some freely available software. This issue has also been seen in other cameras, so the solution described here can apply to photos taken with many other cameras as well.

Seeing Yellow Spots May Need a Closer Look

In cases where there are yellow spots or blotches on your photos, you may not notice the yellow spots unless you zoom in to inspect your photos.

This may be especially true if owners use it as a true point-and-shoot camera, and do not do much post-processing or inspection, in which case the yellow spots or blotches are likely not noticed by them. Also if most photos are quickly uploaded online at smaller sizes (to Facebook, Flickr, Picasa, etc.), then this issue would likely not be noticeable to these Panasonic ZS3 owners.

These yellow spots can be removed for the most part, though of course, it is preferable to prevent them from appearing in the first place. In the section of a zoomed-in photo shown below, which was taken indoors in the daytime, the yellow spots or blotches are visible throughout the photo.

When Do Yellow Spots or Blotches Appear in ZS3 Photos?

Typically, these yellow spots (or yellow blotches) do not always appear, but when they do it is usually in photos taken indoors (day or night) with less than ideal light, in the shadow areas of otherwise well-lit photos, or in photos taken under low light or dark conditions.

These are not likely visible on the LCD screen display of the Panasonic ZS3, and will be easier to see on a desktop or laptop monitor. The yellow spots will not likely be noticeable unless you zoom in on the photo.

To avoid or reduce these yellow spots or blotches from appearing in the first place, you can try to use a higher ISO setting or use the flash. When using the flash, these yellow spots are not likely to appear at all. Of course, taking photos in a more well-lit area with natural light is the best way to prevent these yellow spots or blotches.

Yellow spots or blotches typically do not appear under more "perfect" shooting conditions, such as in photos taken outdoors (day or night, sunny or cloudy), and in photos taken in well-lit areas.

Software Needed to Fix Yellow Spots or Blotches

Note: Download links can be found at the end of this article.

Some free software programs are needed to achieve the most effective yellow spot or blotch removal.

Neat Image (free demo version), a photo noise reduction software program.
PhotoShop, or any other photo editing software that can adjust Hue and Saturation on a photo, such as Paint.NET.
(optional) PhotoME, a free EXIF data viewer/editor, restores the original photo’s EXIF data to the processed photo. The demo version of Neat Image does not save EXIF data.

How to Fix Yellow Spots or Blotches

Note: A comparison of before and after photos, processed using this method, is shown at the end of this article.

In Neat Image:

Click "Open input image" and select the image you wish to fix. If you have multiple copies at different resolutions for the same photo, please use the largest resolution photo you can.
Click the "Device Noise Profile" tab, then click "Auto Profile".
Click the "Noise Filter Settings" tab, then change the Noise Filter Settings to match the image below. Or, if you have a preset for the Noise Filter Settings, load the preset then skip ahead to step 5.
Save the Noise Filter Settings as a preset. For example, name the preset "Yellow Spot Removal" or similar for use on future photos.
In the "Noise Filter Settings" tab, click "Preview" and adjust the zoom to preview the changes. Click the left mouse button and drag the white square outline to choose which area you want to preview the changes for. Release the left mouse button to preview the changes.
Click the "Output Image" tab, then click "Apply" to apply the changes to the image. Then click "Save output image" to save the changes.
The first time you save an image after opening Neat Image, you will see this pop-up describing the limits of the demo version of Neat Image. For most users these limits will not be an issue, since the image file is saved at a high quality, and the EXIF data can be copied from the original image to the processed image using a tool such as PhotoME.
The yellow spots or blotches in the processed image may reduced enough to meet your needs. You can stop here if you are happy with the results, but for better yellow spot removal, proceed to work with PhotoShop as described below (or use any other photo editing software that allows you to change the hue and saturation values such as Paint.NET).

In PhotoShop:

Open the image in PhotoShop.
Open the Hue/Saturation settings by selecting from the file menu, Image > Adjustments > Hue/Saturation.
Adjust the Hue/Saturation settings, and adjust the Global/Master Saturation setting to "+10".

Select "Yellows", next to "Edit", and adjust the Lightness setting to "+42".

Select "Blues", next to "Edit", and adjust the Saturation setting to "-21" and the Lightness setting to "-31", then click "OK".

Depending on the photo, you may want to experiment with different values here to get a better result. Otherwise, using the settings as described should produce good results.
Save the file.

The yellow spots or blotches should now be greatly or completely reduced in the processed photo. As another further step to improve how the finished photo looks, you may choose to reduce the resolution or size of the photo, especially if you intend to upload or share the photo.

Additional Notes on Removing Yellow Spots from Photos

Some further comments:

Save the original: It is recommended that you always keep your original photo files, as a backup.
Sharpness trade-off: Processed photos using this method will be slightly less sharp or detailed as the original, but that is the trade off for removing the yellow spots.
Sharpness improvement: While the sharpness is decreased using this method, you may still be able to improve the sharpness of the processed image, by using additional filters and software.
Copy EXIF data: The demo version of neat image will not save the original image’s EXIF data (photo shooting settings, time, camera model, etc.). Use another program, such as PhotoME, to copy the EXIF data to the processed photo. In PhotoME, export the EXIF data from the original file, import it to the processed file, and save.

Helpful Forum Discussion Thread

Topic: FZ18-Yellow Spots at High ISO settings?
Full Forum Thread

Thread Summary: This thread has Panasonic FZ18 users discussing the yellow spot, or yellow blotch, issue. The issue is exactly the same as that experienced with the Panasonic Lumix ZS3, often occurring in lowlight situations. Some more photo examples are shown. Since the thread topic involves the Panasonic FZ18, some of the features and fixes (such as shooting in RAW) do not apply. Other software discussed includes Noise Ninja and Capture One beta, however the free versions of these either have too many restrictions or else they do not produce results as good as Neat Image does. The actual solution described above was suggested by user "DD70".

Comparison of Before and After Photos – No Flash

Unprocessed photo with yellow spots or blotches:

Full size, zoom at 100% – unprocessed photo with yellow spots or blotches:

Processed photo with greatly reduced yellow spots or blotches:

Full size, zoom at 100% – processed photo with greatly reduced yellow spots or blotches:

Side-by-side comparison (unprocessed photo on the left, processed photo on the right):

Comparison of Before and After Photos – Flash

Unprocessed photo (using flash) with yellow spots or blotches:

Full size, zoom at 100% – unprocessed photo (using flash) with yellow spots or blotches:

Processed photo with greatly reduced yellow spots or blotches:

Full size, zoom at 100% – processed photo with greatly reduced yellow spots or blotches:

Side-by-side comparison (unprocessed photo on the left, processed photo on the right):

Related Information

Reduce Noise in Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3/DMC-TZ7 Photos For Free
Convert and Edit DMC-ZS3 AVCHD Lite Video for Free
Download Sample MTS Files of HD Video for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3
Sample AVCHD Lite HD Videos: Is the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 A Camcorder Replacement?
HD Video Record Time Limit: Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 vs DMC-TZ7 (AVCHD Lite)
Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 Digital Camera
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ18K Digital Camera

Free Download Links

Neat Image – Free Demo Edition
PhotoME – Free Digital Photo Metadata Editor
Paint.NET – Free Image Editing Software

HD Video Record Time Limit: Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 vs DMC-TZ7 (AVCHD Lite)

Friendly User — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 12:30:24 +0000

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 is a compact digital camera that is also known as the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ7 in Europe. These two models, the ZS3 and the TZ7, both can record HD video in the AVCHD Lite video format and the Motion JPEG video format. The ZS3 and TZ7 are identical except when it comes to their HD video recording time limits. The main difference is that the Panasonic ZS3 can record continuous video of unlimited length for HD video (no time limit, maximum video length depends on memory card), while the TZ7 has time limits on the length of continuous HD video it can record.

To find out if the Lumix ZS3 or TZ7 that you are considering has a HD video recording time limit, the only factor to consider is the model number. No, the ZS3 does not have any time limits for recording HD video. Yes, the European model TZ7 does have time limits for recording HD video.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 – No Video Time Limit

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 is capable of recording 720p HD video (1280×720) in the AVCHD Lite video format. There is no video time limit, or maximum video length, for the video while recording in the AVCHD Lite video format. The video length is only limited by the size of the SD memory card.

On the ZS3, the Motion JPEG video format has a 2 GB size limit, but no specific time limit or maximum length. The video length will only depending on the SD memory card capacity and the ZS3 video quality setting (HD, WVGA, QVGA, VGA) that is used.

From the DMC-ZS3 manual (p. 61):

A maximum of approx. 2 GB of continuous motion pictures can be recorded in MOTION JPEG format. (Even if there is more that 2 GB of available space on the card, the available recording time will be calculated for a maximum of 2 GB.) To record more than 2 GB, press the motion picture button again. In AVCHD Lite format, recording may be continued until the card is full.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ7 – Video Has Time Limit

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 is known as the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ7 in Europe. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ7 has the same HD video capabilities of the ZS3 when it comes to video quality, but the video lengths of HD video are restricted by certain time limits.

The TZ7 model has a 15 minute video time limit for AVCHD Lite HD Video:

Individual video clip is limited to 15 minutes.

This time limit is also referred to in the original press release for the ZS3/TZ7:

*Motion pictures can be recorded continuously for up to 15 minutes in some countries.

There is also a time limit for the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ7, when recording in the Motion JPEG video format:

For Europe, motion pictures can be recorded continuously for up to 29 minutes 59 seconds. The maximum continuous recording time (up to 29 minutes 59 seconds) is displayed on the screen.

Approximate Lengths of Panasonic Lumix ZS3 Videos

For the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3, the approximate maximum video lengths are shown at the official ZS3 product page for different size memory cards and different video quality settings:

	AVCHD Lite Video			Motion JPEG Video
	L (9 Mbps)	H (13 Mbps)	SH ( 17 Mbps)	Motion JPEG Video
2 GB	29 min	20 min	15 min	8 min 20 sec
4 GB	1 h	40 min	30 min	16 min 20 sec
8 GB	1 h 54 min	1 h 20 min	1 h	33 min 30 sec
16 GB	4 h	2 h 40 min	2 h	1 h 7 min
32 GB	8 h	5 h 20 min	4 h	2 h 15 min

Related Information

Download Sample MTS Files of HD Video for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3
Download Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 Sample AVCHD Lite Video Featuring 12x Zoom
Convert and Edit DMC-ZS3/DMC-TZ7 AVCHD Lite Video for Free
Sample AVCHD Lite HD Videos: Is the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 A Camcorder Replacement?
Reduce Noise in Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3/DMC-TZ7 Photos For Free

Make Money from Google Adsense At Xomba.com

Friendly User — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 16:30:57 +0000

Xomba.com is a web site whose central purposes are to share ideas (by writing and commenting), make friends, and get paid. This article deals with that last one, getting paid, and goes through the basics of how to make money online through Xomba.com. Xomba.com makes it more user friendly to not only make some extra income online, but also to help publicize either your own work or other useful/interesting material online, through their version of social bookmarking.

Xomba.com uses Google Adsense, so that Xomba.com itself does not pay you, but rather, you are paid through your Google Adsense account, which is free if you do not have one. For those who are new to online income, the process of making money online, with a free Xomba.com account, is simplified here.

Reasons to Join Xomba.com

From the Help section on Xomba.com:

Everything you write on Xomba then gets placed into powerful search engines which deliver an audience of interested readers directly to your work. Others have the opportunity to read your article, thus allowing them to discover fun, interesting, and useful information. Your chance to earn money comes from this audience, and your chances of article exposure are much greater than any standard blog or forum, because of this community.

How to Make Money Online with Xomba.com

Typically, to earn revenue online involves a combination of getting paid for advertisements or getting paid for creating content (i.e. writing articles). Xomba.com combines these two on its web site, in a very user friendly way, that only requires users to do two basic steps after registering:

Get a free Google Adsense account and link it to your Xomba.com account, or use your existing Adsense account if you have one.
Write content.

There’s no need for any further set up, maintenance, or promotion, such as that which would be necessary with a blog.

In exchange for the convenience and large community of readers, the revenue generated through the user’s content, is evenly shared (50/50) by both the user and Xomba.com. Revenue is generated when ads are clicked by someone while reading a user’s content. This is explained in a bit more detail below.

How Xomba.com Works

There are two types of posts on Xomba.com:

Xombytes: A full piece of writing (150 word minimum) that can be a blog-type post, article, review, or fictional piece. While Xombytes can include links to other web pages, the main focus of a Xombyte is the text of the Xombyte itself.
Xomblurbs: A short and descriptive piece of writing (50 word minimum) that is meant to function more like a social bookmarking tool. A user would write a Xomblurb if they want to share a link to another web page, with other Xomba.com users. The main focus of the Xomblurb text is the content of the linked web page.

In both cases, the writing should be unique and in the user’s own words. Direct quotes can be used, but not as the focus, and so they should be kept to a minimum.

There are a few basic restrictions to keep in mind when writing either Xombytes or Xomblurbs:

You can write about whatever topic you like within reason, but you cannot copy another writer’s work. Also be careful about using too many quotes, as this may be seen to be copying and could result in your account being temporarily suspended.
A Xomblurb cannot link another to another Xombyte. One reason for this, most likely, is to stop lazy users from profiting by quickly writing Xomblurbs that just link to another Xomba.com user’s work in a Xombyte.

Xomba.com Shares Google Adsense Revenues with Users

Just how much income do you earn with Xomba.com? Your Xombytes and Xomblurbs are published on Xomba.com along with Google ads. These ads are rotated so that half of the time, the displayed ads will pay you if clicked (these are linked to your Google Adsense account), and the other half of the time the displayed ads pay Xomba.com (these are not linked to your Google Adsense account). Revenue generated by your work is essentially split 50/50 between you and Xomba.com.

So basically, if you have interesting content with interesting titles, then you would potentially have more readers for your work. Xomba.com would likely have more readers than a new blog, and more readers means more potential ad clicks and more revenue for you.

More Information

Click here to join Xomba.com (or to just look around first).