Thank you everyone who participated in the #52KardsPhotoContest! In total 824 photos were submitted. The photos had to include a reference to “52Kards” or “52K” to prove that it was taken specifically for this contest. I have featured a number of Honorable Mentions and Finalists in addition to the winners since there were so many great photos submitted!
I always get questions about what equipment and software I use to produce 52Kards. Here are the basics.
I use paper cards that are made by the United States Playing Card Company. They produce high quality cards with all sorts of different deck designs available. Check out the Playing Card Store to see some of my favorites.
I use a Canon T3i Rebel DSLR camera with a default 18-55mm lens.
I love stuff made by the Italian company Manfrotto and I use two different products of theirs. The first is not exactly a tripod but more of an Articulating Arm and it is what I use for all of my tutorials to get the over-the-shoulder angle. The second is a Traditional Tripod that I use when I want to film at any other angle.
I normally just use a large mouse pad. I have tried several of the close up pads that are sold by magic companies, but they always seem to attract too much dust and end up looking dirty after a bit of use. Most mouse pads still have enough cushion and they also have a more slick surface that repels dust. Check out this Super Mouse Pad for a very cheap and good sized option.
I’m in love with my 27″ iMac. I also use a 15″ Macbook Pro when I’m not home. I made the switch to Apple several years ago and have never looked back.
I don’t do any super fancy editing, but I like the simplicity and ease of use of Final Cut Pro X.
I use a Western Digital 3.0 TB My Book for storing all of my video footage. Hasn’t failed me yet.