Weekend Recap for Dec. 15 - 21, 2013

I spent a good part of this weekend with my extended family. We celebrated our annual "Christmas at Grandma's" on Saturday. As such, I didn't quite complete the video portion of this week's Recap. Oh well – enjoy the script if you want a rundown of the week's events!

"This is The-Digital-Picture.com's Weekend Recap for the week ending December 21st, 2013.

In the news...

On Wednesday, we highlighted a fast and easy way to resize and share your photos – with CoolTweak. Using CoolTweak, you can create custom right-click mouse actions for resizing, watermarking, or publishing your images to social media. I highly recommend trying it out!

On Friday, we learned that Lenstag had published mobile apps for iOS and Android. Using the Lenstag app, you can register your own gear, check the serial numbers of used items you wish to purchase, or flag your own gear as stolen. The Lenstag service is free, so there’s no reason not to protect your gear through registration with the site!

Also on Friday, we posted a YouTube video created by NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center which explained the sequence of events that led up to Apollo 8’s iconic “Earthrise” photo. As it turns out, the photo would never have been captured if it weren’t for a fortunate coincidence and some quick teamwork by the astronaut crew.

In site news and reviews...

On Monday, Bryan posted his full review of the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 EX DG HSM Lens. Wide open, the Sigma is not a stellar performer. But its relatively low price and solid build quality will prove enticing for many photographers. Check out Bryan’s review for all the details.

On Tuesday, Bryan posted image quality results and some eye candy for the Sigma 17-70mm DC Macro OS Contemporary Lens. Tests results now available include ISO resolution, flare, vignetting and distortion.

On Wednesday, Bryan posted his review of the Think Tank Photo My 2nd Brain 15 Laptop Bag. Bryan liked the case’s compact design, rugged build quality and surprising amount of storage space. Check out the My 2nd Brain review for more information.

And, for our deal(s) of the week…

Instead of just picking one deal this week, I’m going tip my hat to Adorama for all their fantastic Canon camera and lens deals we posted on Thursday. Some of them are still active, yet even better – now with overnight shipping. Scroll through our news pages if you're needing a special gift to go under the tree!

This has been the The-Digital-Picture.com’s Weekend Recap. Thanks for listening, and as always, happy shooting!"