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  • Tips For Giving The Perfect Camera Bag Gift

    Posted on July 21st, 2009 joediv No comments

    If you have a friend who’s heavily into photography, a camera bag is always a great gift idea. Photographers, whether they’re amateurs or pros, are always looking for another bag for their cameras and gear. They may want one for carrying all of their gear to a major photo shoot, another one for streamlined carrying and a third one for those in-between times. Giving someone a great new camera bag will tell the recipient you understand how important photography is to them and that you support their hobby or career.

    The most important thing you need to know is what kind of bags they already have and what kind they could use. If you have the chance, take a look at the camera bag they’re using when they’re with you. Is it a huge bag with lots of pockets that is slung over the shoulder, or a smaller bag that straps around the waist?

    Ask a few questions to get some more information. Do they have any other camera bags? Does the one they’re using have any limitations or drawbacks? Do they wish they had one that was arranged better inside? Most camera buffs love to talk about their gear so you should be able to get a pretty good feel for what kind of camera bag would fill in the gap for them.

    Some things to look for when shopping for a camera bag include:

    * Wide, padded straps are always best. It makes carrying a camera bag easier and more comfortable.
    * If you are buying a bag large enough for the camera, lenses and some attachments, make sure you get one with dividers inside that will keep things in place and cushion the individual components.
    * For even more versatility, consider a camera bag with movable dividers that can be rearranged depending on which camera and gear the recipient wants to use on any given day.
    * Consider the elements. Does your friend use their camera outside or in damp conditions? If they are nature photographers or sports photographers, it’s almost inevitable that the bag will get wet. Having a zip closure with oversized teeth will reduce the chance of the zipper sticking when it is wet or dirty.
    * Look for added protection such as a fold-over flap that keeps the zipper covered.
    * Does your friend shoot a lot of action pictures? Look for a camera bag that zips open from both sides. This provides quick access for using the camera on the fly.
    * An inside pocket that snaps or zips closed is a nice safety feature for keys or other personal items.
    * Water resistant materials are more practical than the luxurious and tempting leather versions. Keep in mind that while a leather camera bag might look great indoors, if the photographer goes anywhere at all that is dirty, dusty or damp, a leather camera bag will quickly get ruined.
    * Be sure to read the warranty included with the bag. These will vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, but the top camera bag manufacturers will usually offer a lifetime warranty against defects.

    If you’ve compared different brands and styles of camera bags and still aren’t sure what to get, consider talking to a friend of the person you’re shopping for. He or she may have great suggestions that will help you find the perfect camera bag for the ideal gift.

  • Do You Need a New Camera Bag?

    Posted on July 18th, 2009 joediv No comments

    You’ve got a great new camera – congratulations! It may have a basic camera bag with it, or you may have purchased or received a camera that doesn’t have a bag at all. Before you tell yourself you don’t really need a camera bag, stop and consider the ramifications of lugging your camera around or wearing it on a strap around your neck all the time.

    - If you have a camera of any decent size, you can carry it on a strap around your neck, but that can get old pretty quick. It’s fine when you’re quickly moving around and snapping pictures, but if you have a long break between sessions or are done for the day, that camera is going to get in your way. Tucking it into a camera bag gets it out of your way so you can move freely. Carrying a camera bag is more comfortable than hanging your equipment around your neck.

    - If you’ve been using a photographer’s vest, you may be realizing the shortcomings of carrying gear this way. Fumbling around with small pockets is the least of your problems. Vests that will hold enough gear for a serious photographer tend to be cumbersome and hot. When you’re working in a warm environment or want to be able to move around freely, you’ll quickly shed the vest, leaving your equipment and camera in a heap on the floor with the vest. Wouldn’t a camera bag be a better idea? You can take out only what you need instead of having every possible lens, flash and piece of gear hanging off your body. Setting down your camera bag so you can quickly dig through it is also a plus – much easier than groping all over your vest while you’re wearing it. Another bonus – your gear isn’t likely to fall out of your bag, but if you’ve stowed multiple items in your photographer’s vest, it’s inevitable that something will fall out while you’re moving around.

    - Some people don’t get a camera bag for their compact digital camera because it’s small enough to tuck into a pocket or purse. It’s a huge mistake; the lens of the camera will quickly be scratched up from shoving it into a denim pocket or letting it rattle around inside a purse where it will get banged up against who knows what. Using a small camera bag will protect your camera even if you tuck it into a pocket or handbag, giving you years more use and a much clearer shot when taking pictures.

    - A small camera case protects your camera from the elements when it’s not in use. If you set it down on a table while you’re at an event, a spilled drink, crumbs from food and a number of other mishaps can gum up your camera or seriously damage it. Every time you set your compact digital camera down, tuck it into a small camera bag to protect it from accidents.

    - Any time you get new camera equipment, you may discover your old bag isn’t working well for you anymore. Although it costs a bit extra, getting a new, roomier bag increases your versatility. You’ll be tempted to leave some gear or a lens behind if your old bag doesn’t hold everything, but wouldn’t you hate to see the perfect sunset or find the perfect action spot, only to realize the one lens you really need is at home because it didn’t fit into your camera bag? Do yourself a favor and get a larger bag for those times when you just can’t predict what you might need.

    The price of a good quality camera bag is worth it every time. If you find yourself wondering whether you need a new camera bag, the answer is probably yes.

  • Silk Sleeping Bag Liner

    Posted on July 15th, 2009 joediv No comments

    A silk sleeping bag liner is not what you would expect when you read the label. These bag liners are perfect for using in a hotel or other place you may need to sleep. These liners are easily put inside your traditional bag to add warmth to your sleeping bag. The liners can add up to ten degrees of heat to a regular bed roll. They can also extend the life of your sleeping bag by preventing frequent washings.

    You can use the silk bag liner as a barrier against questionable mattresses or other sleeping areas. These are great for people who may have sensitive skin, or are susceptible to allergies. The sleeping liners protect your skin from chemicals that may be used while laundering sheets.

    If you just prefer sleeping on high quality silk, rather than an average sheet, these sleeping liners are the perfect solution. A silk sleeping bag liner ensures you can have a luxurious bed wherever you may be.

    These silk liners are very lightweight, making them very easy to carry around. Some of these liners come with their own travel bags making it even easier to tote them around.

    The sleeping liners are available in several different sizes. They are available in king, queen, full or twin size bags. The bag liners are available in a variety of colors as well. You can choose to make your own silk liner if you are crafty enough.

    These liners are fairly low cost, and start around $40.00 a liner. This is a great low cost item, that can be used by everyone in the whole family.

    Read more about Silk Sleeping Bag Liner. Visit our site for lots of army sleeping bag Information.

  • Punching Bag Mounts And Hangers: How To Hang a Heavy Bag

    Posted on July 12th, 2009 joediv No comments

    While hanging a punching bag may seem like common sense to some, there are some important aspects that shouldn’t be overlooked to achieve optimal workout settings and maintain safety. There’s nothing worse than then having your wall or ceiling come crashing down a day or two after hanging your brand new bag, especially if you happened to be training at the time.

    Find a strong support beam that you are sure can more than handle the weight of the bag to accommodate both the bag weight and the extra force due to the bag swinging upon impact. If you are not sure whether a beam is strong enough to support a bag, do your research first! Again, if a bag comes crashing down and you are lashed by a chain or hook, you won’t be happy. Also, make sure you follow the manufacturer’s directions.

    Be sure that the support from which you choose to hang the punching bag is a reasonable place within the room. If it’s too close to a wall, the bag may swing into the wall, potentially breaking the wall or rebounding unpredictably. The best place in my opinion is in the middle of a room, or at least six feet to the nearest wall. This allows the trainer to circle the bag and work on footwork and punches from all angles.

    Once you finally have pinpointed where you want to hang the bag, pre-drill a hole in the support and install an eyebolt using a screw driver as a lever to turn the bolt. Avoid using hooks as punching bags can potentially fall off a hook if struck hard enough. Last but not least, connect each corner of the bag together with the provided chains and use the S-hook to connect the top of the punching bag chains to the eyebolt.

    If you find you don’t have a good support beam or want a more mobile solution, there are stands available on wheels that are readily mobile. There are also standing punching bags where the base can be filled with water or sand to provide as much as 300lbs towards a steady base. While these bags may help save space and take away the hassle of initially mounting a bag, they don’t have the sway and feel that you’d expect from a true hanging bag. Hope this has helped with your bag setup. Be safe. Train hard.

    Dave Toub is the owner of http://www.punchingbagspro.com>Punching Bags Pro and absolutely loves the sport.

  • Choose Your Hand Bag

    Posted on June 29th, 2009 joediv No comments

    In American English, a purse is a small bag, also called a handbag or a pocketbook.

    In British English, a purse is a small money container similar to a wallet, but typically used by women and including a compartment for coins, with a handbag being considerably larger; indeed, a purse is often kept in a handbag.

    A purse or handbag is often fashionably designed, typically used by women, and is used to hold items such as wallet, keys, tissues, makeup, a hairbrush, cellular device or personal digital assistant, feminine hygiene products, or other items

    The word purse is derived from the Latin bursa, from the Greek βυρσα, meaning oxide.

    Purses are usually carried by women, though men sometimes carry one as a smaller alternative to a backpack; such a purse is sometimes termed a mares or man bag (portmanteaus “man” with “purse” and “handbag” respectively). It can also be called a man-purse. Such bags are often similar or identical to messenger bags

    Types of handbags

    Satchel

    Satchel is a large bag with small handle that is carried on the arm rather than on the shoulder. Satchel is used to carry books, and other objects in. It has one, sometimes two, large straps that goes over one shoulder and across the body. Many students use them at universities and colleges. Like all bags, satchels are easily customized with patches and various other creative textiles

      Duffle:

      A duffel bag (or duffle bag) is a large cylindrical bag made of cloth with the closure at the top, often also referred to as a kit bag or gym bag.

      The name comes from Duffel, a town in Belgium where the thick cloth used to make the bag originated. More recently, a duffel bag typically refers to the specific style of bag, though the phrase may also be used to refer to any large generic hold all or a bag made of thick fabric.

      It is often used to carry luggage or sports equipment by people who travel in the outdoors. Duffel bags are also often used by military personnel. When used by sailors, they are sometimes called sea bags in this capacity.

      Tote:

      A tote bag is a large handheld bag or purse that is used to carry things, such as books, beach wear, or everyday items. A tote bag is normally made of treated canvas, nylon or heavy pebbled leather. Some totes come with a zipper compartment that divides the bag into sections. The term tote, meaning “to carry” can be traced back to the 17th century but was not used to describe bags until 1900

      Messenger bag

      A messenger bag (also called a courier bag) is a type of sack, usually made out of some kind of cloth (natural or synthetic), that is worn over one shoulder with a strap that winds around the chest resting the bag on the lower back. Messenger bags are often used by bicycle messengers, though they are increasingly becoming an urban fashion icon.

      Sling bag :

      LEATHER , LEATHER WALLETS , LEATHER HAND BAGS , LEATHER PURSES , LEATHER MOTORCYCLING TOOL BAGS , LEATHER MOTORCYCLING SADDLE BAGS, STYLISH LEATHER WALLETS, SLING BAGS, MASSENGER BAGS, TOTE BAGS

      A sling bag is a type of bag that is worn over one shoulder with a strap that winds around the chest resting the bag on the lower back. Although they are similar to a Messenger bag, sling bags are often smaller and are worn in a slightly different way. Besides allowing regular items to be placed into sling bags, they are also used to carry UMPC’s. Often, as these devices are used frequently by males that carry them in these bags, the bags are often called man purses

    • Everlast Punching Bag Favorites : The Teddy Atlas Angle Bag

      Posted on June 27th, 2009 joediv No comments

      Although there are various punching bag brands out there, my favorite bags are Everlast brand. This article is not meant to knock other manufacturers/ brands – It is meant to review some of the benefits of the Teddy Atlas Angle Bag and what is has to offer. What makes these bags unique and how can they help you to achieve your boxing and MMA training objectives, beyond the standard bag drills?

      The Teddy Atlas Uppercut Bag (aka Teddy Atlas Workout System), is an 100 lb. bag where the bag is split into two sections. The lower 50-60% of the bag has a smaller radius than the upper part of the bag. The smaller radius section must extend about a half a foot outward to conform to the upper larger radius, creating various angled faces to emulate real angles one would encounter in a real fight.

      Because of the angles faces, this is a great tool for learning or practicing hooks and uppercuts. Because uppercuts, hooks, jabs, and crosses are inherently different punches, they require slightly different pivoting and weight transfer to achieve the optimal effectiveness. Actually practicing with different angled faced allows you to figure out these subtle differences and to better your game across the whole spectrum of shots.

      What’s really nice is the bag is designed with checkered targets, designated spots outlined on the bag to work the most common angles. Each target is numbered, enabling simplified combo drill creation and execution (2-4-2-3, 2-6-5-6,etc). This bag can also double as a normal punching bag since the bottom section is flat.

      Last but not least, because the bag is double ended, it is very stable. It has some give but won’t fly all over the place so it really lets you work on making a flush contact point to really feel when your punches hit home. If the bag is flying all over, a pro boxer will learn to deal with it over time. For those looking to learn right the first time, this is a definite plus.

      So am I biased? Of course. Anyone who writes an article is biased and writes to express what he/she believes. If you already agree that this is one of the best products out there, awesome. If not, don’t knock it till you try it. – Get to a gym and run some quick drills on it. All I know is my uppercuts and hooks are killer and it

    • Shopping For Your Perfect Travel Bag!

      Posted on June 19th, 2009 joediv No comments

      For those of you on the hunt for the coolest over sized bag around, Jesselli Couture’s ‘Large Paisley Tote’ will definitely do the trick. Talk about putting the fun in functional, this twelve by nineteen by one-inch bag has room for just about everything! Its roomy interior boasts an inside lining zip pocket perfect for storing your phone, keys, or anything you don’t want floating around, while its size is a huge plus for traveling. You can fit books, sweaters, make up, and just about anything you might need. And, you can do it in style! We love the over sized paisley print (so in right now!), and exterior clear sheen. Plus, its vaguely bowling bag shape, thin loop shoulder straps, we love the standout lines of this bag against a feminine figure. Weighing in at just one pound, you won’t be toting an excess weight with this coated cotton travel bag! Made in Italy, and available in a natural, black, or orange and gold combination, you can nab this fabulous bag for just $92.00 (and as low as $73.60 on sale.)

      Taking the travel bag a totally different way, we’re looking to Baggallini’s ‘City Bag – Crinkle Nylon’ for the ultimate tiny tote with pockets for just about everything. For those of you who truly feel that less is more, this is the best bag for you. This fabulous cross-body bag boasts loads of pockets in a sleek and accessible way. Plus, its adjustable strap makes it easy to sport in just about any way you like. Standing eleven by eight-and-a-half by three-inches, this fabulous water resistant bag boasts enough room for the essentials without adding any extra bulk. We love the exterior fashion pockets gone functional, and with a price of just $79.95 at full retail, and $67.96 on sale, Baggallini definitely stands behind its “less-is-more” design. Something else seriously cool about this little bag with a big punch is its range in colors; with ten total, you can choose from red/tomato, all the way to leaf green/mango.

      If you feel like we’re moving in the right direction with Baggallini’s color choices, but aren’t to keen on a solid, TOKYObay’s ‘Lines Sport Bag’ has a funky fashion that’ll satisfy your cute craving, while also holding just what you need. Taking the bowling bag shape we saw from Jesselli Couture, and rounding it off, this bag stands as a nice in-between option size-wise. Standing at thirteen by fifteen by five-inches, you’ll definitely have plenty of space for your stuff, but its rounded edges and taller (as opposed to wider) stature leaves a very finished look. For a bag that size, weighing in at just one pound, twelve ounces is not too shabby, at all. Plus, its cotton/canvas exterior makes for one durable exterior. Available in beige/orange or black/sky blue, this beautiful bag goes for just $81.00 full retail, and as low as $31.99 on sale.

    • Punching Bag Strength Workout

      Posted on June 16th, 2009 joediv No comments

      The punching bag is one of the best strength buildings tools out there. This workout is not just for hardcore boxers but for anyone who wants a good anaerobic workout. Many have turned to boxing and working the bag over weight training because it’s not as monotonous and because if done properly, results in less pressure on joints.

      One of the most important things to remember is to warm up to avoid injury. I prefer a minute of jumping jacks followed by general calf/quad/arm stretching. Please, please, please, do not skip this step. It is better to take an extra 5 minutes a day warming up than an hour sitting at home missing your workouts wishing you weren’t injured.

      When working for strength, the way in which your hand contacts the bag is very important. Ensure that the flat part of your middle and pointer fingers make contact with the bag (not your knuckles) and that your wrist stays straight. A very common mistake is hitting the bag with your knuckles and not aiming for your middle and pointer fingers. If you strike a bag hard enough and make contact with your middle and ring knuckles, you are very likely to fracture or break your hand.

      The key to strong punches isn’t arm strength; its throwing your whole body weight behind each punch. Try to step in three inches to a foot following up every punch you throw, trailing the left hand with the left foot and the right hand with the right foot. Additionally, the left foot should pivot for a right cross and the right foot shoot pivot for a left jab. Pivoting will help transfer weight from your hips into your punch. Along the same lines, imagine a target about a foot behind the bag or your opponent. By punching through your bag/opponent, you will achieve a much greater force, especially when following with a step to throw your body weight behind it.

      The most important aspect to strength training with a heavy bag in my opinion is variability. Don’t just throw jabs or crosses or preset combos all day. Mix it up and keep in mind the tips discussed above and apply them to all of your moves. Try for four short sessions of about 3 minutes with one minute rest in between. Remember to wrap your hands, avoid punching with your knuckles, and drink plenty of water in between sessions.

    • Your Toiletry Bag is More Than Just Great Storage

      Posted on June 12th, 2009 joediv No comments

      Gone are the days when a toiletry bag was just a storage place during your travels. Today, it serves a much higher purpose ‘ to elevate your fashion status and enhance your look, while guarding your deepest, darkest beauty secrets. The toiletry bag of today is more like a mini-travel bag, and with the trendy range of colors and designs available in this collection, it is easy to see why. Here are some great looks in women’s toiletry bags that will serve you well during the coming holidays.

      For a great looking handled toiletry bag check out Betseyville’s Polka Dot 3-piece Cosmetics bag. You can carry all your essential toiletries and cosmetics in this single-handle bag. Made of nylon and shiny synthetic patent leather, this is a bag that is not only functional but also looks great carried on your arm. Forget owning a toiletry bag that needs to be hidden away in your luggage ‘ get one that you will be proud to carry around in public instead!

      The tote toiletry bag collection is great for women on the go. The eBags Value Set features the spacious and lightweight Gallery Shopper Tote, which is perfect for storing everything you need to accompany you on your holiday ‘ from makeup and brushes, to accessories and bathroom essentials, and even some light reading materials. It comes with perfectly-matching Parlour Pouches that serves as a great way to organise your items into neat compartments and avoid having to dig frantically through your bag to unearth its contents. This is a definite must-buy before you go on your holiday. They would also make great Christmas gifts for your jet-setting girlfriends.

      If you’re looking to upgrade your style, then you must check out the leather toiletry bag collection. There are some unique designs here, which will ensure that your bag stands out from the crowd and is not mixed up with the other luggage. Betseyville delivers again with the Paint Python Weekender. Made of python-embossed synthetic leather, this bag is a real looker. If you love bags with many compartments, you will love this one, because it has various pockets to store all your little travel essentials. It also comes with dual handles and a removable cross-body strap for easier lugging.

      For a simple and classic toiletry bag, check out Jimeale’s Cosmetic Travel Bag. This is perfect to throw all your daily make-up in and keep it in a neat package. It’s small enough for an overnight bag, and large enough to store slightly bigger items such as creams and facial wash. The range of polka-dot designs gives it a modern feminine touch. This basic necessity also comes at a very affordable price, so there is no excuse not to buy one immediately.

      If you want easy access to your toiletries and easy storage, you will love the hanging toiletry bag. With multiple interior compartments, it can store all your travel necessities in one neatly bundled package. Toss Design’s Medallion Hanging Valet Clutch is perfect if you want to cause a stir while on your holiday. With a pretty ribbon-tie closure, this cool looking vinyl-covered-canvas bag is both light and durable. Simply chuck it in with the rest of your clothes when you pack, and you can be assured that all your toiletries will remain intact upon arrival. This is a throwback to the traditional toiletry case, with a fresh new twist.

      Make sure you are well-equipped and hassle-free during your holidays with the help of these handy and cool toiletry bags. Happy traveling!

    • Bean Bag Chairs – A Trendy Option For Home Decor

      Posted on June 3rd, 2009 joediv No comments

      Bean bag chairs are the latest trend in Home-décor. They have gained popularity over the past few years because of their comfort and ease of movement from one place to another. On a chilly winter evening there is nothing better than snuggling up in your cozy bean bag and reading a book or watching a movie.

      The invention of bean bags is yet to be known. Some say that Italian designers made it in the late 1960s, and called it a “Sacco”. Its popularity grew ever-since, until today, when they are available in all shapes and sizes and a variety of designs in the market. They are even popular on the internet and list among the largest goods shipped via internet. So you can figure out how much everyone likes Bean bags for their homes.

      A Bean bag is originally a stuffed bag with a sturdy covering. The stuffing is usually of fur, vinyl, and cotton or velvet material. The cover is usually made of leather, cloth or other tough materials. It is like a stuffed sack which compresses under your weight when you sit on it. It is thus very comfortable and cozy.

      Bean bags are very popular among kids and young people as it gives the room an interesting and youthful theme. Kids love to snuggle into it and read their favorite books, or lie and play video games. It is also preferred by college students, bachelors and young couples, because it is very portable and also comfortable at the same time. They are very light owing to the stuffing and hence can be moved from place to place immediately.

      Now bean bags are being modified into 2 or 3 seat sofas, bean bag chairs and also bean bag beds. These are easy soft and comfortable and also trendy at the same time. They provide support to your neck and back and don’t hurt you even if you sit in it for long hours.

      Now are you worrying about how to clean the bags? Let me tell you, that bean bags are really long lasting and durable. They are patched near the zippers so that the kids do not fiddle with it. Also the bean bags mostly come with washable covers. All you have to do is take out the cover, wash it and on putting it back your bag will look as good as new. It does not need any maintenance and there is no fear of the bag exploding under weight or pressure because the covering material is very tough.

      One important aspect that drives so many people to buy the bean bags is because of the varied designs and themes they are available in. They come in all ranges from a decent or formal looking bean bag to a sporty or funky or even an adventurous theme. You can choose from a variety of colors. Nowadays just for kids, these bean bags are being shaped like a duck or a turtle, so that when the kids sit on it, they feel they are actually riding an animal.