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OCTOBER 2024
WILLIAM'S PHOTO DIARY
PELLETSTOWN TO ASHTOWN
I recently walked along the Royal Canal from Pelletstown to Ashtown, hoping to experience the upgraded Royal Canal Greenway. However, as of 12th October 2024, this section has yet to be fully completed. Despite this, the walk was still enjoyable, offering a glimpse of both the area's history and its ongoing transformation.
The 9th Lock: This historic lock, dating back to the late 18th/early 19th century, is a reminder of the canal's important role as a transport route. While waiting to see if any boats passed through, I took a moment to appreciate this piece of industrial heritage.
Royal Canal Avenue/Crescent: This area is a testament to the ongoing regeneration efforts along the canal. Numerous new apartments and townhouses have sprung up, creating a vibrant new community. At the Ashtown end, I found a welcoming selection of cafés, restaurants, and shops.
The Royal Canal Greenway: A Work in Progress
The Royal Canal Greenway is a major project aimed at creating a high-quality off-road route for walking, cycling, and wheeling along the entire length of the canal. The section between Phibsborough and Ashtown (Phase 4) is the final piece of the puzzle within Dublin City Council's boundary.
To manage this complex undertaking, Phase 4 has been divided into four stages:
Phase 4A (Completed): This involved improving safety for pedestrians and cyclists at Broombridge Road by installing a toucan crossing and 'shuttle signals'.
Phase 4B (Delayed): This stage focuses on upgrading the existing greenway between Phibsborough and Ashtown, providing segregated cycling and pedestrian paths. However, the project has encountered delays due to an environmental assessment referral. A Natura Impact Statement (NIS) is now required to assess the potential impact of widening the canal bank on the surrounding ecosystem and Dublin Bay.
Phase 4C (Pending): This stage will upgrade the railway underpass near Liffey Junction and the 7th Lock, and address any remaining pinch points along the route. Further ground investigations are needed before this work can begin.
Phase 4D (Planning Stage): This involves creating an Active Travel link between Tolka Valley Park and Phoenix Park at Ashtown Gate, enhancing connectivity between these green spaces.
Environmental Concerns and Future Plans
The requirement for a Natura Impact Statement highlights the importance of balancing development with environmental protection. The revised plan for Phase 4B, which involves widening the canal bank at certain locations, has raised concerns about its potential impact on the canal's ecosystem and the wider Dublin Bay area.
It's clear that completing the Royal Canal Greenway is a complex process, requiring careful consideration of various factors. However, once finished, it will provide a valuable amenity for Dubliners and visitors alike, offering a safe and enjoyable way to experience the beauty and history of the Royal Canal.
"The viral hit The Spark created by a group of young rappers from Cork and Clare has been longlisted for the 2025 Grammy Awards."
The Spark, a viral rap song created by young rappers from the Kabin Studio in Cork and the Lisdoonvarna Crew in Clare, Ireland. Here's what I was able to gather about this impressive accomplishment:
The Song: "The Spark" was created as part of Rhyme Island, a youth rap initiative leading up to Cruinniú na nÓg, a national day of creativity for young people in Ireland. It's an energetic and inspiring track showcasing the talent of these young artists.
Viral Success: The song gained widespread attention, racking up hundreds of millions of views on social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube. This viral success undoubtedly played a role in its Grammy longlisting.
Kabin Studio: Kabin Studio is a non-profit music and creative hub in Knocknaheeny, Cork, providing a safe and supportive space for young people to express themselves through music and other art forms.
Lisdoonvarna Crew: This group of young rappers hails from Lisdoonvarna in County Clare and collaborated with the Kabin Studio for this project.
Grammy Longlist: Being longlisted for a Grammy Award is a significant achievement, recognising "The Spark" as a contender in its category. It highlights the song's quality and impact, putting these young rappers on
the global music map. While the specific Grammy category hasn't been mentioned in the information available, it's likely to be in a category recognising rap or hip-hop music, potentially within the "Best Children's Music Album" category due to the age of the performers.
To find more information, you could try the following:
Search for "The Spark" on music streaming platforms: This will help you listen to the song and potentially find more details about its creation and the artists involved.
Visit the Kabin Studio website or social media pages: They might have more information about the song and its Grammy nomination.
Look for updates on the official Grammy Awards website: As the awards ceremony gets closer, more details about the nominees and categories will be released.
Follow news sources in Ireland: Irish media outlets are likely to cover the progress of "The Spark" in the Grammy Awards.
This is a fantastic achievement for these young rappers, and it will be interesting to see how they progress in the Grammy Awards process.
AN AI GENERATED IMAGE
This is an AI generated image.
The iconic Volkswagen Type 2, better known as the VW Bus, Microbus, Kombi, or simply, the "VW van." This vehicle has a rich history and a dedicated following around the globe.
Here's a breakdown of its history and different names:
Origins (1940s): Dutch VW importer Ben Pon envisioned a versatile vehicle based on the Beetle, sketching his idea in 1947. This led to the development of the Type 2.
First Generation (T1, 1950-1967): Launched with a split windshield (hence the nickname "Splittie"), it quickly gained popularity for its practicality and charming design. It was offered in various configurations, including the Kombi (passenger and cargo), Microbus (passenger), and panel van.
Second Generation (T2, 1967-1979): The "Bay Window" model featured a larger, single-piece windshield and more interior space. It became a symbol of the counter-culture movement in the 1960s and '70s.
Third Generation (T3, 1979-1992): A more angular design with improved aerodynamics and engines. It was marketed as the Vanagon in North America.
Fourth Generation (T4, 1990-2003): A significant departure with a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout. It was known as the Eurovan in North America.
Fifth Generation (T5, 2003-2015): Evolutionary design with more modern features and engine options.
Sixth Generation (T6, 2015-present): The latest iteration with updated styling, technology, and safety features.
Different Names:
Bulli (Germany): A combination of "Bus" and "Lieferwagen" (delivery van).
Kombi (Brazil, Portugal, and other countries): Short for "Kombinationsfahrzeug" (combination vehicle).
Microbus (Many countries): A common term used globally.
Transporter (Europe): Often used for the commercial van versions.
Samba (Some markets): Refers to the deluxe version with extra windows and a sunroof.
Why was it so popular?
Iconic Design: The VW Bus has a timeless and instantly recognisable design.
Versatility: It can be used for everything from family trips to camping adventures to hauling cargo.
Durability: Known for its robust construction and reliable engines.
Cultural Impact: Its association with the counter-culture movement and surf culture cemented its place in history.
Replacements:
While the VW Bus continues to evolve, there have been attempts at spiritual successors:
VW ID. Buzz (2022-present): An all-electric reimagining of the classic Microbus, capturing the original's spirit with modern technology.
Various Camper Van Conversions: Companies continue to convert VW vans and other vehicles into modern camper vans, carrying on the legacy of the classic VW camper.
The ID. Buzz has generated excitement and strong early sales, suggesting a successful continuation of the VW Bus legacy. However, the original T1 and T2 models remain highly sought-after classics, with a devoted following that keeps their spirit alive.
BUILDINGS OF INTEREST
DESI CREW RESTAURANT
I have not seen the menu so I can only guess as to what you can expect until I actually have a meal there [note I did attend the opening and was impressed by the sample dishes]
"Desi Crew" is aiming to bring the vibrant and diverse flavours of South Indian street food to Dublin! Here's what you might expect if you visit:
Food:
Focus on South Indian cuisine: Expect dishes from the regions of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. Think dosas (thin, crispy crepes made from fermented batter), idlis (steamed rice cakes), vadas (savory lentil doughnuts), and uttapams (thicker pancakes with toppings).
Street food style: This likely means the food will be casual, flavourful, and perhaps served in a way reminiscent of street stalls in India.
Variety of chutneys and sambars: South Indian food is known for its accompanying sauces and dips. You'll probably find coconut chutney, tomato chutney, sambar (a lentil-based vegetable stew), and perhaps even some more unique regional chutneys.
Spice levels: South Indian food can be spicy, but a restaurant catering to a wider audience will likely offer a range of spice levels to suit different palates. Don't hesitate to ask for your preferred level of heat.
Fresh ingredients: Given the emphasis on street food, you can hope for fresh, vibrant ingredients and bold flavours.
Atmosphere:
Casual and lively: Street food is all about a bustling, energetic atmosphere. The restaurant might have bright colors, lively music, and a casual setting.
"Desi Crew" is a promising addition to Dublin's food scene, offering a taste of authentic South Indian street food. If you're looking for a casual, flavourful, and potentially spicy dining experience, it's definitely worth checking out!
FAIRVIEW SECTION
NEW PUBLIC CLOCK
SONY FX30
SONY FX30 [RECENT FIRMWARE UPDATE WAS WITHDRAWN]
What is Shutter Angle?
Shutter angle is a way of controlling the amount of motion blur in your video. It's a concept that originates from film cameras where a rotating shutter with an opening (measured in degrees) controlled the exposure time.
A wider shutter angle (e.g., 360 degrees) results in a longer exposure and more motion blur, creating a smoother, more cinematic look.
A narrower shutter angle (e.g., 90 degrees) results in a shorter exposure and less motion blur, creating a sharper, more staccato look.
The key advantage of using shutter angle instead of shutter speed is that it maintains a consistent look for motion blur regardless of your frame rate. For example, a 180-degree shutter angle will always result in a shutter speed that's half the frame rate (e.g., 1/48 second for 24fps, 1/240 second for 120fps). This ensures consistent motion blur even when you change frame rates.
Here's the rewritten response with the corrected information:
Sony Cinema Line FX30: A Detailed Look
The Sony FX30 is a compact and capable cinema camera designed to be an affordable entry point into Sony's Cinema Line. It offers impressive image quality and professional features in a small and lightweight body, making it ideal for solo filmmakers and content creators.
Key Features and Advantages:
Super 35 Sensor: The FX30 boasts a back-illuminated 26.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor, capable of capturing 4K footage with 6K oversampling. This delivers excellent image quality with rich detail, wide dynamic range, and impressive low-light performance.
S-Cinetone: Inherited from Sony's high-end cinema cameras like the VENICE, S-Cinetone provides a natural and cinematic look with pleasing skin tones and smooth color gradations, minimizing the need for extensive color grading.
S-Log3 and Cine EI: For those who prefer more control over their image, the FX30 offers S-Log3 gamma curve and Cine EI mode, allowing for greater flexibility in post-production and achieving a specific cinematic aesthetic.
Compact and Lightweight: The camera's small size and lightweight design make it highly portable and ideal for handheld shooting, gimbal work, and tight spaces.
Advanced Autofocus: The FX30 features Sony's renowned autofocus system with real-time tracking and eye autofocus for both humans and animals, ensuring sharp focus even with moving subjects.
Extensive Connectivity: The camera offers a variety of input and output options, including microphone and headphone jacks, HDMI output, and USB-C connectivity for live streaming and external recording.
Why Choose the FX30 Over Other Sony Cameras?
The FX30 occupies a unique position in Sony's camera lineup. Here's how it compares to other options:
vs. a7S III: While the a7S III offers exceptional low-light performance and full-frame capabilities, the FX30 focuses on cinematic features and ergonomics. Its dedicated video-centric design, S-Cinetone, and Cine EI modes make it a better choice for filmmakers prioritizing a cinematic look and streamlined workflow.
vs. FX3: The FX3 shares the same body design and many features with the FX30, like S-Cinetone and advanced autofocus. However, the FX3 boasts a full-frame sensor, offering shallower depth of field and potentially better low-light performance. The FX3 typically comes bundled with the XLR handle unit, which is an optional accessory for the FX30. Ultimately, the choice depends on whether you prioritize full-frame capabilities or a more budget-friendly option.
vs. FX6: The FX6 is a higher-end cinema camera with a full-frame sensor and more advanced features like internal ND filters and a modular design. However, the FX30 offers a more compact and affordable option for those who don't require the full-frame capabilities or advanced features of the FX6.
Known Issues and Fan Effectiveness:
The FX30 has generally received positive reviews, but there have been some reports of overheating issues, especially when shooting in high resolutions and frame rates for extended periods. While the built-in fan helps to mitigate this, it might not be sufficient in extremely demanding conditions. Using an external recorder via HDMI can sometimes help reduce internal heat generation.
Firmware Upgrade Withdrawal:
Sony recently withdrew a firmware update (version 2.00) for the FX30 that was intended to add new features like breathing compensation, improved autofocus, shutter angle control, and support for 16-bit RAW output via HDMI. The update was pulled due to unforeseen issues that caused recording errors in certain shooting modes. Sony is expected to release a revised version addressing these problems. The new features were significant as they aimed to enhance image stabilization, autofocus performance, provide more creative control over motion blur, and improve external recording capabilities, which are crucial for professional filmmaking.
Lens Recommendations:
The FX30 is compatible with Sony's extensive range of E-mount lenses, offering a wide variety of options for different shooting styles and budgets. Some recommended lenses include:
Sony 18-105mm f/4 G OSS: A versatile zoom lens suitable for a wide range of shooting scenarios.
Sony 16-55mm f/2.8 G: A fast and sharp zoom lens ideal for low-light conditions and shallow depth of field.
Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art: A popular third-party option offering excellent image quality and a fast aperture.
SONY A7RV CAMERA BODY
The Sony Alpha A7RV (or α7R V) is a high-resolution full-frame mirrorless camera that was introduced in October 2022. It's the successor to the popular A7RIV, and while it shares the same 61.0MP sensor, it boasts significant improvements in autofocus performance, image stabilization, and video capabilities.
Here's a breakdown of the key differences between the A7RV and its predecessor, the A7RIV:
Advanced Autofocus System: The A7RV features a new AI-powered autofocus system that uses deep learning to recognize and track a wider variety of subjects, including humans, animals, birds, insects, cars, trains, and airplanes. This results in significantly improved accuracy and reliability, especially in challenging shooting conditions.
Improved Image Stabilization: The A7RV has an upgraded 8-stop in-body image stabilization system, which is a significant improvement over the 5.5 stops offered by the A7RIV. This allows for sharper handheld shots in low light and when using telephoto lenses.
Enhanced Video Capabilities: The A7RV can record 8K video at 24/25p and 4K video at up to 60p with 10-bit 4:2:2 sampling.
It also offers improved video features like S-Cinetone and S-Log3 picture profiles, as well as breathing compensation when used with compatible Sony lenses.
Upgraded LCD Screen: The A7RV has a new 4-axis multi-angle touchscreen LCD, which offers more flexibility for framing shots from different angles.
Higher Resolution EVF: The electronic viewfinder (EVF) on the A7RV has a resolution of 9.44 million dots, compared to 5.76 million dots on the A7RIV. This provides a more detailed and immersive viewing experience.
Is the A7CR an alternative?
Yes, the Sony A7CR is a viable alternative to the A7RV, especially for photographers who prioritize portability and affordability. Launched in August 2023, the A7CR shares the same 61MP sensor and AI-powered autofocus system as the A7RV, but in a much smaller and lighter body, similar to the A7C series. Here's why someone might prefer the A7CR:
Compact Size and Weight: The A7CR is significantly smaller and lighter than the A7RV, making it more comfortable to carry around and travel with.
Lower Price: The A7CR is priced lower than the A7RV, making it a more accessible option for budget-conscious photographers.
Excellent Image Quality: Despite its smaller size, the A7CR delivers the same impressive image quality as the A7RV, thanks to its shared sensor and processor.
However, it's important to note that the A7CR has some limitations compared to the A7RV:
Reduced Video Features: The A7CR lacks 8K video recording and has some limitations in 4K recording compared to the A7RV.
Less Robust Build: The A7CR has a more compact build, which may not be as durable as the A7RV's magnesium alloy body.
Fewer Physical Controls: The A7CR has a more streamlined design with fewer physical buttons and dials, which may not be ideal for photographers who prefer direct access to settings.
Recommended Lenses for the A7RV and A7CR:
The A7RV and A7CR are compatible with Sony's extensive lineup of E-mount lenses. Here are a few recommendations based on different shooting styles:
Versatile Zoom:
Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II: A professional-grade zoom lens that offers excellent image quality and versatility for everyday shooting.
Sony FE 24-105mm f/4 G OSS: A more affordable option that still delivers great performance and image stabilization.
Wide-angle:
Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM: A high-quality wide-angle zoom lens ideal for landscapes and architecture.
Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G: A compact and lightweight prime lens with a wide field of view.
Telephoto:
Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II: A professional telephoto zoom lens perfect for sports and wildlife photography.
Sony FE 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 GM OSS: A versatile telephoto zoom lens with a long reach.
Prime Lenses:
Sony FE 50mm f/1.2 GM: A fast prime lens that excels in low-light conditions and produces beautiful bokeh.
Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM: A classic portrait lens with exceptional sharpness and rendering.
Sony FE 35mm f/1.4 GM: A versatile prime lens suitable for a variety of subjects.
Ultimately, the best lens for you will depend on your specific needs and shooting style. Consider factors like focal length, aperture, image stabilization, and budget when making your decision.
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