Tag: digital photo frame

Teachers using tech to build a digital classroom

How Teachers Can Use Tech In The Classroom

On September 2, 2019

In an ever-changing digital world, it’s tricky to keep students switched on and engaged without distractions creeping in.

One of the main challenges for teachers is making every day in the classroom different. They need to keep schoolwork interesting for students, who can often be found yawning their way through a lecture or staring out of the window daydreaming.

We know it’s impossible to stay interested and focused for eight hours a day. So how can teachers make a difference in their classrooms and mix up their teaching styles while still making school fun?

When thinking about what excites students in their spare time, everything tends to circle back to technology.

But this goes far beyond the student universe. The average person now spends over 4 hours a day glued to their smartphone: Gaming, scrolling through social media, watching TV shows on the go, or shopping for the latest gadgets and fashion.

The question is, how can teachers use this to their advantage and introduce tech at school in a productive, appropriate way?

How To Teach With Tech

Introducing tech in the classroom depends on your teaching budget, your syllabus and of course, your own knowledge of digital teaching materials.

The best way to start is to invest some time into your own tech knowledge and get familiar with the tools you want to use in your lessons. Having a solid understanding of how everything works will not only impress your students and encourage them to participate more, but it also gives you a first-hand education in something new, which in turn will enhance your teaching skills.

If your school is passionate about teachers using tech in the classroom, it’s never too late to give your classroom an upgrade.

Introducing A Digital Classroom

Here are a few useful ways to create a digital classroom:

Present live videos from across the world of guest speakers or relevant conferences
Play podcasts that add extra insight into your lessons
Use adaptive learning programs that students can access using their smartphones or tablets
Share a class calendar online to track student’s activities, schedules, progress or homework
Brainstorm ideas together on an online mind map
Use eLearning apps for collaborative projects
Enhance virtual learning using programs like Google Earth or with a virtual reality headset
Introduce social media as a learning platform (for instance, you could allow students to send in questions on a personalized class Twitter hashtag)

Even the smallest changes can make big differences to your students.

The Benefits Of Using Tech With Students

Using tech in the classroom comes with plenty of added benefits for a healthy and collaborative learning environment. Technology suffers from the stigma of distracting students and keeping them from focusing, but if you adapt to your classroom and use tech in the right way, the benefits can be very rewarding. By using tech at school, you can boost the engagement levels of your students, encourage individual learning, and develop your student’s skills for life beyond the classroom. But it’s important to remember that not everyone learns in the same way.

Whether your students learn best by using visual aids, audio tools, and written material, or via hands-on, kinaesthetic techniques, technology can be the catalyst that drives their motivation.

Technology also highlights extra opportunities for everyone with different needs and abilities, so students can learn at their own speed and understand difficult concepts in their own way. It also provides additional support for struggling or disabled students. Even the most basic tech at school gives students access to a broad range of resources, allowing them to conduct research in different ways.

Using Digital Tech At School

One of the most inspiring and valuable ways to develop the idea of tech in the classroom is to introduce a digital photo frame into your teaching.

A digital frame provides fresh insights into lessons and gives your students an opportunity to learn using new techniques. It also adds another element to building a digital classroom, and you could even take it one step further by creating a smart classroom.

A smart classroom is a connected, technologically enhanced hub that enables teaching and learning opportunities like never before. By placing specialised software, voice search devices and audio/visual tools in your classroom, you’re opening up an infinite world of teaching and learning, allowing your class to grow together as a team.

With a smart digital photo frame, you can:

Present multimedia slideshows with images, sound effects, videos and graphs
Use a memory card or USB thumb drive for your frame anywhere in the school
Control 100% of the teaching content and choose how you display it
Syncs files or images from any PC via Wi-Fi, flash drive, or SD card
Make your own tutorial videos and graphs for students to watch during recess or free periods
Create a virtual lab or word station to use during science lessons or creative writing sessions

With technology playing a big part in every aspect of our lives, it’s important that students and teachers need to make the most of it. Teachers using tech can be lifechanging for students, and with a creative mind, the learning possibilities are endless.

Thinking about introducing tech in the classroom and not sure where to start? Check out our collection of smart frames and begin your digital classroom experience today.

The Ultimate Guide To Nature And Outdoor Photography

By Kayleigh Anderson

On December 20, 2018

In Photography

If you love nature and wildlife photography, chances are good you have come across a picture that completely blew your mind at some point in your life. Maybe it was a close-up of an amazing plant you had not laid your eyes on before or an awesome shot of the sunset framed by mountainous terrain. Perhaps it was a stunning ocean view picture that got you wondering, “How the heck did they capture that?”

Well, the truth is, most of these impossible-to-believe shots are not easy to come about. Outdoor photography can be challenging because the subjects can be unpredictable. You’ve got to be prepared, practice a good deal of patience, and have some self-made luck. Nevertheless, we have prepared a quick guide for you to get a headstart. Ready?

1. Know Where You’re Headed

Is photography allowed in the area? Do you have to pay a certain fee to take photos? Are there dangerous animals that are likely to interfere with the process?

Even before heading out, do your homework. Get as much information as possible about the area you intend to get on film. Private lands may restrict photography or require you to pay a fee to shoot, so you may want to avoid these. Similarly, if you will be visiting an area with lots of wild animals, you need to bring your best zoom lens and be properly armed just in case.

Never head out clueless. You can never be completely prepared for all the challenges you might face outdoors, but knowing what to expect will help you stay safe and enjoy your expedition to the max.

2. Gear Up

…and do it right!

You don’t need the most expensive camera for hiking and backpacking, nor do you need the greatest telephoto lens to have breathtaking wildlife and landscape photography. Sure, these can be nice to own. But since you will be surrounded by charming and beautiful views, all that’s required are perseverance, patience, and image-capturing skills.

However, you still need to know what your kit can and cannot do to avoid disappointment. And aside from knowing where you are going, you’ll also need to know what you’ll be shooting. While there is no all-purpose lens that can cover every situation or secret formula to take the best shots, being well-informed will help you create stunning images.

If you think your day will end with a dive into the nearby lake, pack a waterproof camera so you can capture all the awesomeness of the underwater world. It’s also a great investment if you love fishing and would like to get some of those bass and catfish moments on film. That way, even if something goes wrong and the camera slips overboard, it won’t get damaged by water. You can also buy camera housing to better shield your expensive gadget from water damage.

As for what you should pack, extra lenses, memory cards, batteries, and a tripod are a no-brainer. For wild animal and bird photography, bring your best zoom lens. This will help you maintain a safe distance between you and the subject, especially if it gets scared easily. A macro lens, meanwhile, is perfect for capturing small creatures (like insects) and details. and make sure you have learned how each item works before heading out.

How about navigation? Here’s our tip: Don’t just rely on your GPS. Have a map and compass handy. You may also want to bring a flashlight just in case the night catches up with you in the woods.

Finally, don’t forget your selfie stick so you can take a picture of yourself hanging off a cliff or kissing a cuddly animal!

3. Pack Your Kit Properly

You may own the most high-end tools available for outdoor photography, but if you don’t know how to pack them properly, then your investment might just go to waste. If you are serious about taking your photo shoot to the wilderness, then you must invest in a bag that can carry your essential tools securely.

Look for a camera bag that straps snugly on your body. There are plenty of these in the market, with options available for every budget. Of course, the deeper your pockets are, the higher the quality of the camera bag that you can buy.

It would be wise to consider a bag that’s waterproof. The weather can be quite unpredictable out in the woods, and having a bag that doesn’t let water in will keep your photography gear dry and safe from the harsh atmospheric conditions.

Unfortunately, most of the water-resistant camera bags available today come with a high price tag. However, this should not discourage you from heading out when it rains. Any kind of weather can yield unique and fantastic photos. You can just grab a rain cover and wrap it around your kit carrier. And if you can’t get a hold of this either, even a trash bag can do the trick!

4. Dress For The Occasion

For your outdoor photography shoot to be successful, you must be comfortable in what you are wearing. And to dress right, you need to listen to what the weatherman says.

If you are hiking in cold weather, for instance, put on something warm. Good layering, topped with a fleece jacket, would be a great place to get started. Don’t forget a pair of gloves too! The last thing you want is your fingers being completely frozen that you can’t even press the shutter button.

Mind your feet as well. A sturdy pair of hiking boots will keep them warm, comfy, and protected from snow, water, rocks, mud, and creepy crawlies. If your feet get cold or uncomfortable, you will start thinking about aborting your expedition—exactly what you do not want.

Finally, it’s always a good idea to have a raincoat or a waterproof poncho in your bag. You never know when it’s going to rain!

5. Shoot Raw

Once you are on site, shoot in “raw” format so you can obtain the best quality and more powerful images. You can set your camera to this format to capture unprocessed photos straight from the image sensor.

While raw images usually take up more space on the memory card than JPEG files, they do contain a larger amount of pixels that allow for more room for adjustments during image processing.

6. Take Advantage Of Natural Light

Natural light is outdoor photography’s best friend. Your photos will look amazing in the morning when the sun rises, as well as in the late afternoon when the sun starts to set. the light during these “golden hours” has a mellow, foggy quality that illuminates your subjects beautifully and removes the harsh midday shadows. The golden hues from the rising or setting sun provide an emotional overlay to the images, giving them a spectacular look.

Don’t believe us? See for yourself and try shooting during sunrise or sunset, and at noon. You will clearly notice the difference in color temperatures and tones in photos taken during these times. Mornings are more preferred to evenings as photography areas are less crowded, and you won’t worry about running out of light. If you are shooting wild animals, this is also the time when most species are more active.

7. Show ‘Em Off!

You shouldn’t keep all those precious memories with Mother Nature to yourself! Share your pictures with your friends and relatives, post a few shots on social media, and get a frame to display your favorites.

Speaking of frames, a digital one will be perfect. A NIX frame will do things that traditional frames can’t, like displaying photos in a slideshow, shuffling, and playing HD videos. If you are looking for a way to smartly display and organize your photos, this is it. Just plug your camera’s SD card, sit back, and enjoy the show.

Sure, a digital frame could be a little pricey, but it is the most high-tech way to showcase your prowess in nature photography. Grandma will also thank you because she won’t have to keep going back and forth to your web page for photos!

Summing It Up

Outdoor photography can be challenging, but if done right, you can reap huge artistic benefits as well as spiritual and personal rewards.

Nature never gets old. There are endless opportunities to capture fantastic photos of the wilderness. Just make sure to do your research before you go, prepare the gear your need for the day, and know the perfect time to shoot.

Finally, don’t cancel your trip just because you think the weather would not be good. Good atmospheric conditions don’t always guarantee good shots, and you can get splendid images even in harsh weather. Just dress appropriately, protect your gear, and get going!

Photographing the Chinese New Year: Top 10

By Beatrice Bisais

On February 14, 2018

In Holidays, Photography

With a tourist agenda in place for Chinese New Year, your’s sincerely isn’t going to write about Chinese New Year and tell you to leave your camera at home. In fact, you can bet I’ll never do it because there’s no better way in capturing an extravaganza of light and color than with your camera. Besides, it not only makes lasting memories, but a good visual for the mantelpiece to show off. Here are some of the best things to capture during this flashy (no pun intended) occasion.

1. Dragon Dance:

One of the ultimate things to capture is a dragon dance, which are said to bring luck. They are colorful displays with lots of interesting shots of both the dragon dancers and the adorning crowds. They say, the longer the dragon, the more luck it is meant to bring. Nearly every Chinatown will have one during Chinese New Year Day on 16 February.

2. Lanterns:

This has got to be another classic, traditionally in red, a symbol of a prosperous life and booming business the radiating beauty and the fact that they’re not moving makes them a photographers dream.

3. Feasts fit for a God:

For those that celebrate, welcoming the year of the dog would be food, food and more food, often and I’m not exaggerating of epic proportions. While you’d need to be tactile and not implement your camera in the middle of a family feast without asking, those that get the access are often left with a stunning array of unique food snaps that will wow anyone.

4. Streetscapes:

It’s magical, romantic and a whole plethora of other words that won’t do the Lunar New Year and what it means. If you’re in the US, Europe, Australia or elsewhere outside of China, Chinese communities make it a bustling time full of activity as people prepare, shop and enjoy the occasion – creating streets-scenes like the Paris of the orient.

5. The People:

Those that observe this special holiday are often dressed for the occasion. Bright colors, new suave trims and jovial appearances are often the way to go. For 2018, expect to also see folks in green, blue and black to symbolize the elements of wood and water – considered lucky in the year of the Earth Dog.

6. Customs:

Chinese New Year is often a time for customs that includes things such as giving lucky red packets that usually contain money, people praying at temples to bring luck or a jovial game of mahjong, a festive favorite – just mind the noise.

7. Smiles and Laughter:

One thing that makes Chinese New Year so special for those that celebrate it is that it is an occasion to meet friends and family that many haven’t seen in a year or more. The aura can be captured by the smiles and laughter of those catching up with those that matter.

8. Fireworks:

Depending on where you are, the Lunar New Year is marked by a dazzling fireworks display that are bound to make sparks fly on any photograph.

9. Dogs:

No, this is not the name of my new hit single. As it’s the year of the Earth Dog, there is no better way than to capture man’s best friend. Maybe, a four-legged bundle of joy that’s dressed up for the occasion.

10. You:

Whilst the title to this entry sounds like an incomplete sentence, it’s not. It would be a real shame to capture all these dazzling displays and not get a cheeky selfie or an token image of you in a parade.

Make all those festive photos count by purchasing a NIX/Nixplay digital photo frame. The new NIX Lux collection features dazzling designs and finishes that will complement any majestic capture of the festivities. It is designed in a way that draws the eye of any visitor. Want to share them instantly with friends and family, the Nixplay Iris is a great way to instantly share them with anyone in the world by either adding them as friends or linking multiple frames with its unique WiFi Cloud infrastructure.

Beatrice Bisais

Bea is Nixplay’s Social Media Manager. She enjoys drinking coffee, reading about wars, and writing stories. Send her a message at beatrice.bisais@nixplay.com.

Sometimes Happiness can be Found when Looking at Old Photos

By Beatrice Bisais

On October 6, 2017

In Customer Testimonials

Below is a review from Heather, who looks after her lovely mother using Art Therapy, Music Therapy and Animal Therapy in a daily care routine. She is the founder of “Creative Carer” page, her mission is to inspire and give ideas to those caring for loved ones with neurological disorders.

Heather, we salute you; a hero and inspiration into us all.

https://www.facebook.com/CreativeCarer/videos/1868436290061978/

Full testimonial on Creative Carer page

“My mum and I came back to look at old photos … it makes mum so happy to see photos of the past that she remembers so clearly … I gave her a Nixplay frame for Easter … its a wonderful device! You can send photos to the frame from where ever you are in the world!! They upload within seconds! I have created several play lists for her and the frame can be set to come on and go off whenever you wish and also has a motion sensor so it shuts off if no one is in the room … its wonderful!! I bought it from Amazon but here is the Nixplay website www.nixplay.com I got the Nixplay Original 12 inch one as it can play videos.”

https://www.facebook.com/CreativeCarer/videos/1880081958897411/

Creative Carer Website

Creative Carer Facebook Page

Beatrice Bisais

Bea is Nixplay’s Social Media Manager. She enjoys drinking coffee, reading about wars, and writing stories. Send her a message at beatrice.bisais@nixplay.com.

5 Fun Ways to Use Your Digital Frame

By Beatrice Bisais

On November 15, 2016

In Home & Interiors

Digital frames are perfect for displaying your digital photos, but there’s a lot more you can do with them besides run through your photo playlists. We wrote about some of these in our post 6 Creative Uses for Nixplay Frames. From using it as a monster-scaring nightlight for kids to a graphic novel display, our customers gave us some amazing ideas for how to incorporate a Nixplay frame into family life.

But there’s even more you can do! Here’s a list of a five more creative ways you can use your digital frame.

1. Use it to set the mood for a party.

If you’ve got an event or gathering coming up, you can use your Nixplay frame as part of the decor or to set the mood. Having friends over for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres? Load some images of views from the best lounge or restaurant you visited on your recent business trip, or pictures of nighttime skylines from cities around the world.

If you’re hosting a celebration, like a graduation party or going-away party, you can create a special playlist just for the event. Compile images of your graduate through the years, starting with baby pictures and going through today, or special pictures of the family who’s moving. Create a matching music playlist on your iPod, and you’ve got a perfect party starter.

2. Use your frame to help you de-stress.

Everyone can use a little help de-stressing now and then, and a digital frame can be a perfect visual aid. Upload soothing, calming photos of nature and place it on your desk at work or in a room where you spend a lot of time at home.

The best part of this is that you can change out the entire playlist whenever you like, adding or deleting new beautiful photos as you find them.

3. Use the frame to help welcome guests at your place of business.

Digital frames can also be a wonderful way to make guests feel more welcome when they come to your office or store. A digital frame with a smooth, modern design, like the Nixplay Iris, will fit perfectly in a reception area or doctor’s waiting room.

Retail businesses can use digital frames in a variety of ways to showcase their products. Clothing stores might mount digital frames in dressing rooms, to display style ideas or “how to wear” images. Interior designers and other home design businesses could use a digital frame in their showrooms, loading the frame with photos of their best work.

4. Turn it into an educational tool.

Digital frames can make great educational tools, as teachers know quite well. But whether you’re a teacher or not, you can still get some great use out of your frame by using it as a way to display trivia, historical facts, or vocabulary words.

This can be a fun addition to an office as well as the home.

5. Use it as a motivational tool.

Do you have a trip you’re saving up for, a career change you’re working toward, or another major life goal? Your digital frame can become a way to visualize that goal, helping you work harder toward meeting it.

If it’s a vacation you’re saving for, try loading the frame with images of the place you want to go. For career changers or people seeking promotion, create playlists of inspirational pictures – you could even include some motivational quotes. This will work just as well for other goals, too, from weight loss, to fitness, to education.

Digital frames have a number of uses beyond displaying the latest photos taken with your smartphone. With some creativity and effort, you can use your digital frame to bring a little extra joy into your home, your office, and your life. To find out which frame is best suited for your purposes, check out our post on finding the perfect frame for your family.

Beatrice Bisais

Bea is Nixplay’s Social Media Manager. She enjoys drinking coffee, reading about wars, and writing stories. Send her a message at beatrice.bisais@nixplay.com.