The next Steve Jobs biopic

Leonardo DiCaprio has become a movie star god in the recent years, having delivered an array of blockbuster and brilliant performances in films like Django Unchained, The Great Gatsby and The Wolf of Wall Street. But, to the dismay of cinema-lovers everywhere, he is yet to win that coveted and much-deserved Academy Award for his work.

But the possibility of Leonardo playing Steve Jobs in the latest biopic about the Apple Inc. co-founder could very well put him in the running for his work finally being recognized. Although the film has not begun shooting yet, if he is in the cast, there’s no doubt Leonardo will turn out a mesmerizing performance as usual. In the last 13 months alone, he's been associated with nine films. 

The last film revolving around the life of Steve Jobs was released last year, titled Jobs, directed by Joshua Michael Stern and starring Ashton Kutcher and Dermot Mulroney. The film wasn’t a major success or even critically acclaimed. The latest biopic with Leonardo possibly (and hopefully) in the role of Jobs will be directed by ace-filmmaker Danny Boyle (Slumdog Millionaire, 127 Hours) after he took over from David Fincher who reportedly wanted Christian Bale in the lead. Boyle also won the Oscar for Best Picture in 2009 for Slumdog Millionaire, which became a worldwide phenomenon.

Aaron Sorkin, who won the Oscar for Best Writing for an adapted screenplay for The Social Network, will be penning the script for the film, roughly entitled “Steve Jobs”, based on the Walter Isaacson biography of the same name. Sony acquired the rights to the biography following the Apple mogul’s death in 2011.

If Leonardo is cast in this role, it will be the first time in almost 14 years that he will be working with Boyle, after they collaborated on The Beach in 2000. A release date has not been announced for the film yet but we will definitely be waiting with baited breath, if Leonardo is cast, for another captivating performance. And it would be a mistake not to cast him, because it seems as if everything he touches turns to gold at the box office.

The Samsung Galaxy S5 vs. the Apple iPhone 6

The rumours so far about the smartest smartphones

The rivalry that began not too long ago between Samsung and Apple is set to continue this year as the two manufacturers – arguably the best in the electronics business – will be releasing their latest top-of-the-range smartphones; the Samsung Galaxy S5 and the Apple iPhone 6.

The first Apple iPhone was released in 2007, running on Apple’s iOS software while the first Samsung Galaxy was released in 2009 with an open-source Android operating system. Both the brands are keeping the specs and features of the smartphones under wraps until they are officially released. The Internet is mostly abuzz with rumours of what the two phones will have to offer. The latest release approximation is that the Samsung Galaxy S5 will arrive soon around April this year, while the iPhone 6 will hit the market in the latter part of the year in November.

Apple may continue using the same 8-megapixel setup as with their iPhone 5S or up it. But there’s more; a new patent filed by Apple suggests the new camera technology inside the iPhone 6 could feature Lytro-like capabilities. Lytro is a type of camera which allows the capturing of an image and then to dynamically select (and re-select) a focal point later on. This form of wizardry is achieved using something called "plenoptic" technology, and the idea is you can shoot an image and then re-focus it later. This is pretty amazing if it is true.

An interesting bit of information is that apparently Steve Jobs had met with Lytro's founder to discuss a partnership before he passed away. This patent was filed in September 2011 and various sources have claimed that most of Apple's products released since he passed away were developed in accordance to blueprints laid out by the late CEO-genius. In light of this, it's quite viable that the iPhone 6, complete with the Lytro-like camera, could be a part of his posthumous plan and legacy.

It has also been leaked that the iPhone 6 might even have a name change. The most recent snippets claim that this iPhone will have a chassis of only 6mm thick. And so may be called the iPhone Air as a result of this and to keep up with the iPad Air re-branding. The screen will be approximately 4.5mm thick, definitely another record-breaker for smartphones. If there’s one thing that Apple has in the bag, with all their products, it’s the sheer beauty of their sleek designs and creations.

The early release date of the Samsung Galaxy S5 will certainly set the manufacturer up for major sales around the world. But the pre-Christmas release of the iPhone 6 is even more strategic, ensuring that the smartphone will be on a lot of festive season shopping lists. In terms of spec info, the latest news about the Galaxy S5 is that it might feature eye-scanning technology, a security feature of remarkable proportions. If this is true, it does seem a bit like outright competitiveness with Apple, mimicking their fingerprint-scanning technology that was included in the iPhone 5S. Another rumoured component is that the Samsung will include a full 4GB of RAM.

The body of the Galaxy S5 is also rumoured to be more rugged and might even be metal, unlike its plastic predecessors, making it dust- and waterproof. There are mixed reports that the smartphone might have a 13- or 16-megapixel camera. While the megapixel count with the S4’s camera is 13, the S5’s unit features more advanced anti-shake image-stabilisation. The unit is said to support anti-shake correction of up to 1.5 degrees, while existing image-stabilisation for smartphones tops out at 0.7 degrees.

But whatever the specs and features will be from these two smartphones, technology is undoubtedly ever-changing and far too fascinating to be comprehended. Samsung and Apple have been the two heavyweights when it comes to electronics, and most importantly smartphones and computers, so if their unsaid rivalry and competition bring about some of the most amazing, sci-fi-like developments in the tech world, all the better for us.

Instagram : June 2013

I've been on a little break from the blogging world. I'm back and will be doing a new feature on the blog - hopefully a monthly feature.
Instagram highlights from the month.

My instagram username is: @leefolkard

This is the June highlights:

Umhlanga Lighthouse from The Oyster Box Hotel :: Hot Chocolate :: Yeezus album launched
Tasha's Hazelnut Latte :: Orange Cappuccino from iwantmycoffee :: Meals on Wheels with Peugeot Pinetown
Cindy & Angela at LIVE The Venue for Veranda Panda Album launch :: Decor :: Fresh Salad  
Annelise Shoot :: Dominique Shoot :: Belgium Caramel Tart from Chateaux Gateaux 

The iPhone 5

“The biggest thing to happen since the iPhone.”

No other devices have quite the name and status as Apple’s “i” range. The iPhone has revolutionized the technology of smartphones and the way the world sees them. The iPhone is the smartphone; there is no doubt about it. Those who have it, love it and those who do not, want it.

The iPhone 5 has an all new design. It doesn’t seem possible but Apple has managed to cram more into the phone than before. There is a larger display, a faster chip, ultra fast wireless technology, and an 8 megapixel iSight camera yet the phone is still as light and thin as ever. The 4-inch retina display lets you see more of everything and everything that you do see is vivid and almost better than real-life. Although the display is bigger, the size of the iPhone 5 is the same as the iPhone 4S. It’s pretty darn amazing when you think about the cutting-edge technology packed into such a little device.

The iPhone 5 is the sixth generation of the iPhone and was launched on September 12, 2012. After Apple started taking pre-orders on September 14, 2012, over 2 million were ordered within 24 hours without the phone even being seen by the majority of people ordering them. This is proof that Apple’s brand supersedes itself and has met the expectations of their supporters and users.

Having managed to secure an iPhone 5 here in SA, a day after launch - i can confirm that there a minor changes that benefit us here in South Africa - however any die-hard apple fan will still want the newest version of their favourite device. 

The iStore at Gateway apparently has stock if i am to believe the emails they keep sending me. 

What is your take on the iPhone 5? 

My Top 5 Apple Apps

I first discovered the wonderful world of apple apps via the istore about 3 years ago when i purchased an iPod Touch. I was instantly hooked and this followed with my iPad and now my iPhone. Luckily they can all sync and i can utilize the apps on any of these magical devices!

Here are my Top 5 Photography Apps on my iPhone. There are many many many more - so, shop around browse and enjoy.

5. DSLR Camera Remote Lite/Pro ($1.99/$19.99)

The DSLR Camera Remote app from Oregon-based onOne Software lets you remotely adjust settings (shutter speed, WB, aperture, etc.), view previously taken images and trigger the shutter on your Canon or Nikon DSLR from your iPhone or iPod Touch. If LiveView is one of the features on your DSLR then consider it a feature on your iPhone, too.

The Pro version is a hefty $20 but comes fully featured while the Lite version costs $2 and only fires the shutter.

4. Adobe Photoshop Express (FREE)

This is a great app for the iPhone from the photo editing giant Photoshop. It allows you to edit photos easily and quickly.

3. Camera + ($1.99)

Every camera needs a great lens, and Camera+ is just the ticket. The app has every feature you could think of for taking photos with your iPhone: an option to use the LED flash as a flashlight, the ability to set exposure on one part of an image and focus on another, a stabiliser that waits until the iPhone is being held perfectly still to take the photo, a grid to banish crooked shots and many, many more. The features don't just end at shooting photos either; once you've taken the photo, you can add a number of effects, crop, rotate, add a border and use the apps built-in auto corrector "Clarity" to bring things out of shadows and into the light. You can also share taken photos to Twitter and Facebook to show your friends your masterpieces.

2.  Hipstamatic ($1.99)

Digital photography never looked so analog. The Hipstamatic brings back the look, feel, unpredictable beauty, and fun of plastic toy cameras of the past! The Hipstamatic keeps the the quirks of shooting old school but gives you the ability to swap lenses, film, and flash settings all with the swipe of a finger.

1. Instagram (FREE)

15 million users love Instagram! It’s a free, fun, and simple way to make and share gorgeous photos on your iPhone.

Pick from one of several gorgeous filtered effects or tilt-shift blur to breathe a new life into your mobile photos. Transform everyday moments into works of art you’ll want to share with friends and family.

My instagram account name is: leefolkard

Hope you've enjoyed the list. What is your favourite photography app? 

The DSLR Camera Remote app from Oregon-based onOne Software lets you remotely adjust settings (shutter speed, WB, aperture, etc.), view previously taken images and trigger the shutter on your Canon or Nikon DSLR from your iPhone or iPod Touch. If LiveView is one of the features on your DSLR then consider it a feature on your iPhone, too.
The Pro version is a hefty $20 but comes fully featured while the Lite version costs $2 and only fires the shutter. A list of compatible Canon and Nikon DSLRs can be found here.


Read more: http://techland.time.com/2010/03/02/the-10-best-camera-apps-for-the-iphone/#onone#ixzz1nf7bls00

The DSLR Camera Remote app from Oregon-based onOne Software lets you remotely adjust settings (shutter speed, WB, aperture, etc.), view previously taken images and trigger the shutter on your Canon or Nikon DSLR from your iPhone or iPod Touch. If LiveView is one of the features on your DSLR then consider it a feature on your iPhone, too.
The Pro version is a hefty $20 but comes fully featured while the Lite version costs $2 and only fires the shutter. A list of compatible Canon and Nikon DSLRs can be found here.


Read more: http://techland.time.com/2010/03/02/the-10-best-camera-apps-for-the-iphone/#onone#ixzz1nf7bls00

The DSLR Camera Remote app from Oregon-based onOne Software lets you remotely adjust settings (shutter speed, WB, aperture, etc.), view previously taken images and trigger the shutter on your Canon or Nikon DSLR from your iPhone or iPod Touch. If LiveView is one of the features on your DSLR then consider it a feature on your iPhone, too.
The Pro version is a hefty $20 but comes fully featured while the Lite version costs $2 and only fires the shutter.


Read more: http://techland.time.com/2010/03/02/the-10-best-camera-apps-for-the-iphone/#onone#ixzz1nf7yUBKG

The DSLR Camera Remote app from Oregon-based onOne Software lets you remotely adjust settings (shutter speed, WB, aperture, etc.), view previously taken images and trigger the shutter on your Canon or Nikon DSLR from your iPhone or iPod Touch. If LiveView is one of the features on your DSLR then consider it a feature on your iPhone, too.
The Pro version is a hefty $20 but comes fully featured while the Lite version costs $2 and only fires the shutter. A list of compatible Canon and Nikon DSLRs can be found here.


Read more: http://techland.time.com/2010/03/02/the-10-best-camera-apps-for-the-iphone

2011 - The year that was.

As January 2012 rolls forth i look back at 2011 and smile. Smile not only because of the awesome memories and moments of the year that past but more importantly, i smile because of the endless possibilities that the year ahead holds.

2011 brought us: The end of Project 365. The concept shoots - Doll Me Up, The Midas Touch and VIVID. We had Project One and it's winner - Roxi Richards. The Wild Thing shoot that came about as her prize was my best shoot of 2011. It saw me step into the wonderful world of Apple - well half way there - for now. Lee Folkard Photography took on more corporate work nearing the closure of the year - which was a different experience with its own pro's and cons. The website also got a revamp.

What does 2012 have in store? More of course!

Thank you to all who have stuck around and all who have referred Lee Folkard Photography to someone else. In the words of Lil Wayne(whom I shot), "I ain't shit without you!"

Steve Jobs - Legend

“Here’s to the crazy ones.

The misfits. The rebels. The troublemakers.

The round pegs in the square holes.

The ones who see things differently.

They’re not fond of rules. And they have no respect for the status quo.

You can quote them, disagree with them, glorify or vilify them.

About the only thing you can’t do is ignore them.

Because they change things. They invent. They imagine. They heal. They explore. They create. They inspire. They push the human race forward.

Maybe they have to be crazy.

How else can you stare at an empty canvas and see a work of art?

Or sit in silence and hear a song that’s never been written?

Or gaze at a red planet and see a laboratory on wheels? …

While some see them as the crazy ones, we see genius.

Because the people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world, are the ones who do.”

-Ad campaign by Apple Inc.

Rest in Peace Steve Jobs. Your innovation will live on.

My New Gadget :) The iPod Touch 4G

My new toy :)

The new iPod Touch is thinner and lighter featuring 2 built-in cameras with built-in HD video recording and editing

Features

Camera:

iPod touch now has two built-in cameras—one on the front for FaceTime calls and one on the back for recording HD video. Rear camera can take quick stills (960 x 720) and front camera can take VGA-quality stills —both great for uploading to social networking sites.



FaceTime:

Make video calls over Wi-Fi networks to any other FaceTime-enabled iPod touch or iPhone 4



Retina display:

Everything looks amazing on the Retina display because its pixel density is so high the human eye is unable to distinguish individual pixels. Graphics and text look smooth and continuous at any size



HD Video recording:

Record memorable moments with iPod touch, which has built-in HD video recording and editing.



A4 processor:

The Apple-designed A4 processor is powerful yet power efficient. It can easily perform jobs like multitasking, editing video, and FaceTime.



Sensors:

iPod touch now includes a built-in, three-axis gyroscope. When paired with the accelerometer, the gyro allows iPod touch to sense advanced motion—like acceleration, full 3D attitude, and rotation rate—for an even better gaming experience.



iOS 4.1 Software:

Includes iOS 4 features like multitasking, folders, enhanced mail, and iBooks, plus Game Center, iTunes TV show rentals (US only), iTunes Ping, and HD video uploads to YouTube and MobileMe.



Game Centre:

The new Game Center app on iPod touch lets customers expand their social gaming network by inviting others to join and by sharing leader boards and achievements.



Built-in mic:

iPod touch has a built-in mic to use with HD video recording, Voice Memos, Voice Control, and other applications that use a mic.



Battery:

Music: Up to 40 hours

Video: Up to 7 hours

Retails in South Africa; 8 gig - R2200.00 | 32 gig - R2999.00 | 64 gig - R3999.00

If you haven't found the perfect xmas gift, i would highly recommend this nifty gadget.

Upcoming blog: On applications for photographers and other cool apps for normal people as well ;)