Abstract: A photography system includes a lighting system configured to provide a lighting scene that is diffused and is artistically desirable. The system includes an array of light panels configured to simulate a wall of windows that receive natural, diffused, and consistent sunlight, such as a large window facing the north. The light panels can operate in various modes of operation, such as a continuous light mode a strobe light mode.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a coating apparatus for an elongate workpiece and a method of operating the coating apparatus. The coating apparatus generally includes a first tray and a second tray with coating tubes interconnected to the trays. The coating apparatus is operable to automatically adjust the coating tubes to a predetermined volume of fluid. In one embodiment, the coating apparatus can fill a first coating tube interconnected to the first tray with a first fluid while the elongate workpiece is being dipped into a second fluid within a second coating tube interconnected to the second tray. Optionally, the coating apparatus includes a control system operable to activate a pump to fill the coating tubes with the predetermined volume of fluid. The control system can receive data from a sensor operable to determine a position of an upper surface of the fluid in a tray or a coating tube.

Abstract: A photography system includes a lighting system configured to provide a lighting scene that is diffused and is artistically desirable. The system includes an array of light panels configured to simulate a wall of windows that receive natural, diffused, and consistent sunlight, such as a large window facing the north. The light panels can operate in various modes of operation, such as a continuous light mode a strobe light mode.

Abstract: A photography system includes a lighting system configured to provide a lighting scene that is diffused and is artistically desirable. The system includes an array of light panels configured to simulate a wall of windows that receive natural, diffused, and consistent sunlight, such as a large window facing the north. The light panels can operate in various modes of operation, such as a continuous light mode a strobe light mode.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a coating apparatus for an elongate workpiece and a method of operating the coating apparatus. The coating apparatus generally includes a first tray and a second tray with coating tubes interconnected to the trays. The coating apparatus is operable to automatically adjust the coating tubes to a predetermined volume of fluid. In one embodiment, the coating apparatus can fill a first coating tube interconnected to the first tray with a first fluid while the elongate workpiece is being dipped into a second fluid within a second coating tube interconnected to the second tray. Optionally, the coating apparatus includes a control system operable to activate a pump to fill the coating tubes with the predetermined volume of fluid. The control system can receive data from a sensor operable to determine a position of an upper surface of the fluid in a tray or a coating tube.

Abstract: A photography system includes a lighting system configured to provide a lighting scene that is diffused and is artistically desirable. The system includes an array of light panels configured to simulate a wall of windows that receive natural, diffused, and consistent sunlight, such as a large window facing the north. The light panels can operate in various modes of operation, such as a continuous light mode a strobe light mode.

Abstract: Systems and methods for background replacement of images captured using both infrared light and visible light are disclosed. Example methods of imaging a subject include capturing an image while illuminating a subject with a visible light assembly and illuminating a background with an infrared light assembly. Digital cameras capturing subject images during illumination include image sensor arrays having both visible light sensors and infrared light sensors.

Abstract: A special effects carrier for use in a photographic camera for taking portraits of individuals or groups. The wheel-shaped special effects carrier contains masks which produce various special effects. One of the masks included on the carrier produces no special effects so that the carrier can be used whether or not a special effect is desired. The carrier is located a fixed distance behind the objective element of the zoom lens so that the photographer is able to focus the camera without having to compensate for the changing focal length of the zoom lens. The carrier is connected to a CPU which drives a motor to rotate the carrier. An optical sensor reads bar codes on the carrier and relays information to the CPU thereby allowing the CPU to position the masks for use and freeing the photographer of that task.

Abstract: Apparatus for displaying one of several backdrops for use in a photographic studio. The backdrop scenes are attached end to end to form a long web, one end of which is wound upon one shaft and the other end of which is attached to a second shaft. A roller weight is placed on the web between the two shafts. The shafts are motor driven, allowing automated scrolling of the different backdrop scenes and the lowering of the roller weight when the appropriate scene is found. A steering mechanism is attached to the web to ensure it is properly wound up upon the shaft each time. Optical and/or mechanical sensors detect the position of the web and a central processing unit is provided for automated movement of the web from one backdrop to another, as desired.