-edible zone-

Photo Gallery Submissions FAQ:

Q: How do I send in my photos?

A: Send in your photos as "jpeg" image files attached to an email that is addressed to me at:< webmaster@theanalogdept.com >

Q: File size. How large or how small should my image files be?

A: I would prefer to see the image as an un-edited jpeg file straight out of your digital camera. Please allow me to make adjustments for file size, jpeg compression, brightness and sharpness. My web server has ample space for large files and I tend to make image files as large as cable internet can access. (Or 4G cell service ) Even though, many web surfers these days are using much faster fiber-optic internet connections. My email account can handle large file sizes. Figure on as much as 3 to 5mb per image file or as little as 200k per file. Send me something that I can pare down to web size and still have a sharp well defined image.

Q: Are there any standards to be met in regards to image quality?

A: Yes. The photo should be evenly lit and all parts of the equipment should be clearly rendered.

I recognize that not all of us are avid photographers and have the knowledge necessary to make a gorgeous photograph whenever we need to. Compounding this, audio equipment tends to be encased either in bright shiny metallic or dark black finishes. Often times the view presented to the photographer has too much contrast between the bright and dark subjects within the scene to adequately capture the entire image without some part of it being washed out bright or underexposed and dark.

For those of you who already have the know-how, please disregard. For the rest of us here are some tips on providing a good, sharp, evenly lit image for display here in one of the photo galleries:
Don't use the built-in flash on your camera. This will create nasty hot-spots on the shiny parts of your equipment and then create an obvious distraction in your photograph. Rather, increase the ambient light within the room so that all items in your scene are evenly lit. This may simply mean turning on a few existing lights, or it may even mean bringing in some more lights. I don't expect everyone to go out and buy professional studio lights, but if you've got some, this is the time to use them! Also, don't overlook using natural light from nearby windows. Perhaps there is a certain time of day when everything in the room is nicely lit? Another tool to use is a large piece of white foam to reflect light (bounce) from its source onto the subject as a fill light. Usually an assistant is needed to hold and aim the reflector.
It may likely be necessary to use a tripod to steady the camera when shooting in low light conditions. I use a tripod often.



Q: Does my setup qualify for being included into one of the photo galleries here at The Analog Dept.?

A: For the Thorens Gallery I am now seeking models of Thorens that are: a) not already shown, b) exceptional in condition, c) collectible no matter what condition it might be in. For modified turntables with custom plinths, the quality of workmanship should be high. Remember the internet is public. The Analog Dept. generates thousand of hits per day! Lots of people will be looking at your images.

For the Systems Gallery, I am looking for a balance between high-end equipment and the artfully done d-i-y. It doesn't have to be really expensive gear. But there should be some serious thought put into the overall package; the component mix, the support racking and the room, which is actually the most important component. You know it sounds good, but it should look good too.

For the Garrard Gallery there is an increasing popularity of the custom built plinth. I am looking for more examples of Garrard plinth building and also I do restrict this gallery to the 301 and 401 models as well as the Loricraft 501 and the Shindo variation.

The Idler Drives: I'm looking for more examples of idler drive turntables including; American, European and Asian idler designs. The more variation, the better. Also wanted are "inside-the-box" photos showing the internal bits that make the platter spin. I'm looking for growth in this part of the site. Send in the photos you have for "The Idler Drives" pages.

Plinth Builder's Gallery: This page is open to both professional and amateur plinth builders and designers. For the commercial pro, this is yet another place on the net to display your wares. For the talented amateur, this is your opportunity to demonstrate that your stuff is just as good. The quality standards of craftsmanship is high. There is also room for the creative idea that just may be a "diamond in the rough".