This is one of those stories where it's not a matter of IF, but rather of WHEN.
For me, it happened yesterday. I work on two computers and have one laptop. One of my computers was hit by malicious software; viruses, malware, and trojans. Mind you, this was with a very good virus protection software from Avast that saved me some pain, but there was still damage. Here's how it went down and I hope this is a lesson for others.
Apparently, someone had taken one of my photos and posted it on another site. In order to protect my work, I have ways of finding out where, if any, on the internet my work is being used without my permission. Well, one particular photo was linked to a random site. I followed the link to a page where I saw not only my photo, but other works as well. It was all a mess really, and the page didn't make sense. Just as I was about to close the window, multiple windows began popping up (a real weakness in IE). My computer froze up and the mouse wouldn't respond. After a few seconds, a giant blue wallpaper had taken over my desktop with the message
'Your PC is infected with Spyware. Download virus softare...'
Of course, the wallpaper was a slap in the face by the malicious person who enjoys wreaking havoc on people's computers. Immediately as the windows began to pop up, my virus software Avast began to go off and warn me. Even then, it was too late. Over 300 files on my computer had been infected by about 7-10 different viruses, trojans, and malware. The nightmare was in full swing.
Rather then going into all the details and how much of a headache this is causing, I'd just like to remind you to make sure you have proper software on your computers to protect you. Make sure you back up all of your important files. Fortunetly for me, I have everything backed up to another computer as well other redundancies in place.
My problem was that I did not have a proper firewall configured on this one particular machine as I normally do. My virus software did its job (and is still doing it as I write this), but the lack of a strong firewall and even a more reliable browser would have helped.
Here are my findings and recommendations:
Virus Software - Avast Download Page - This one of the best ones I've come across, but I'm always on the lookout for new and improved. The great thing about Avast is that it's FREE for all you home users. A nice incentive to help protect your computer. Avast managed to isolate the 300 and some files and properly log and identify everything. I'm not going to knock on other virus programs out there, but some of the retail boxed ones just don't cut it like this does.
Firewall - ZoneAlarm - Hands down one of the most reliable ones...as long as you have it installed. Even though I use it on my other computers, I should have never removed it from the infected one. That's where I went wrong. Zone Alarm Firewall is completely free.
Web Browser - Opera - Many people haven't heard of this browser, but once you start using it, you will fall in love with it. Beautiful layout, much faster then other browser, easy to use, and it's one of the most secure ones you can use. It won't take you too long to get used to it. After the way IE just let that malicious site take over with pop ups, I'm giving Opera a try and I'm liking what I see so far. Try it out for yourself. It's also free.
This is not the first time I've been hit with a virus that I had to deal with, and it probably won't be the last. Trust me though. When you are hit with one, it's not for the faint of heart. You'll be pulling your hair out so protect yourself now. I know it will be at least a week before before my computer is back to normal.
Remember, it's not if it will happen, just a matter of when.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
#1 on Yahoo!
If you have your own business online like I do, your search ranking is extremely important. There are many factors that are considered and now there are even professionals (SEO) that actually charge big money to provide you guidance in making sure your website gets ranked high. Unfortunetly, it's not something that can be easily done just by paying someone. Like I said there are many factors that contribute to how high you rank on any search engine. You can not pay for this as some may believe...Ranking is not the same as advertising. Ranking is all based on an algorithm and relevance.
Well, what got me to write about this is a phone call I just got a little while ago from one of my clients, and friend now, with some awesome news. She was on Yahoo.com and did a random search for "Pakistani Wedding Photography" on Yahoo... low and behold, my site came up #1 on Page 1!
For a site owner, this is the most awesome news you can possibly get! I couldn't believe it myself so I had try it out myself. I've been on page 1 for some time now under different search terms (Pakistani wedding photographer, etc), but this was the first time my site got kicked up all the way to #1 search result. I'm completely psyched about it and just wanted to share my happiness with everyone in hopes it inspires other dreamers.
For all those people that say 'be practical' and so on...Don't be afraid of following your dreams. Success has a funny way of overshadowing what some define as practicality. We all have a choice to set our own standards...low or high. For me, this is just one small milestone in a line of many. It might be a drop in the bucket for some....but hey...it's MY bucket and I'm happy.
If you have your own business and if there's anything you'd like to ask, drop me a line anytime. I'd love to answer any questions you might have.
Now, I've just got to move onto other mini goals. Have to keep on moving!
/asim
Well, what got me to write about this is a phone call I just got a little while ago from one of my clients, and friend now, with some awesome news. She was on Yahoo.com and did a random search for "Pakistani Wedding Photography" on Yahoo... low and behold, my site came up #1 on Page 1!
For a site owner, this is the most awesome news you can possibly get! I couldn't believe it myself so I had try it out myself. I've been on page 1 for some time now under different search terms (Pakistani wedding photographer, etc), but this was the first time my site got kicked up all the way to #1 search result. I'm completely psyched about it and just wanted to share my happiness with everyone in hopes it inspires other dreamers.
For all those people that say 'be practical' and so on...Don't be afraid of following your dreams. Success has a funny way of overshadowing what some define as practicality. We all have a choice to set our own standards...low or high. For me, this is just one small milestone in a line of many. It might be a drop in the bucket for some....but hey...it's MY bucket and I'm happy.
If you have your own business and if there's anything you'd like to ask, drop me a line anytime. I'd love to answer any questions you might have.
Now, I've just got to move onto other mini goals. Have to keep on moving!
/asim
Monday, August 18, 2008
Models Casting Call
Experimental shoot requires a couple of guys and gals who have formal & unique wedding style clothing and like to look fabulous. This is going to be an informal shoot to try out a few new things and I'd like some people that appreciate stylized and kick@$$ photography. If you're already married, then you've already got the dress!
The clothing should be close to wedding style for both guys/gals. If you have something completely unique and different, I'll be happy to consider it. Right now, I'm going for a diverse look, so any ethnic or cultured dress will be considered. American wedding dresses are definetly welcome as well!
Some of the reqt's are that the shoot will be in the MD/DC/NoVa area and you have to bring your own clothing, makeup, etc. A make-up artist may or may not be available.
If you live out of town, like New York or something, you can always take the Megabus (Megabus.com) down to DC for under $20 roundtrip. Any other transportation is model's responsibility.
All participants will receive complimentary final images in digital format. If you are an aspiring model, you already know what this means for your portfolio.
Submit via email to info AT asimsoofi DOT com the following:
-Two recent snapshot pics - 1 Headshot & 1 Bodyshot
-Height
-Weight
-Eye Color
-Hair Color
-Clothing Type Available
-Any Experience, if applicable (not required!)
The shoot day will be planned once I have all models and checked everyone's availablility.
Remember! Experience is NOT required. You just have to be able to take good direction and have fun. Positive attitude and good vibes people!
/asim
The clothing should be close to wedding style for both guys/gals. If you have something completely unique and different, I'll be happy to consider it. Right now, I'm going for a diverse look, so any ethnic or cultured dress will be considered. American wedding dresses are definetly welcome as well!
Some of the reqt's are that the shoot will be in the MD/DC/NoVa area and you have to bring your own clothing, makeup, etc. A make-up artist may or may not be available.
If you live out of town, like New York or something, you can always take the Megabus (Megabus.com) down to DC for under $20 roundtrip. Any other transportation is model's responsibility.
All participants will receive complimentary final images in digital format. If you are an aspiring model, you already know what this means for your portfolio.
Submit via email to info AT asimsoofi DOT com the following:
-Two recent snapshot pics - 1 Headshot & 1 Bodyshot
-Height
-Weight
-Eye Color
-Hair Color
-Clothing Type Available
-Any Experience, if applicable (not required!)
The shoot day will be planned once I have all models and checked everyone's availablility.
Remember! Experience is NOT required. You just have to be able to take good direction and have fun. Positive attitude and good vibes people!
/asim
Friday, August 8, 2008
Following Your Passion
Philippe Petit said in an interview, "I did something magnificent and mysterious, and I got a 'why' -and the beauty of it is that I don’t have a 'why.'"
This weekend, a movie about Mr. Petit called "Man on Wire" is opening in theaters. It's a documentary about a French high-wire artist who followed his own passion and pulled off one of the most amazing stunts across the World Trade Center towers. If you're looking for some inspiration, his daring story may just show you how one person can challenge the norm and do whatever it takes to achieve their dreams. (Reviews)
The satisfaction of doing what you love is the key to your very success. No amount of money will be satisfy you if your efforts are the dreams of others. In my culture, many kids are taught two words very early on: Doctor & Engineer. These are great professions, but unfortunately, not truly the passion of most. Some parents pass on this belief to their children with the notion that these are the only occupations that will give you comfort in life. There is nothing further from the truth.
I love photography with a passion. I love what I do. It's very difficult for someone to say that about their job. When you realize how much you can enjoy doing something day in and day out, you've found your niche.
People have heard me say this many times, but I'll say it again: No matter what you do in life, make sure there's magic in it.
If you haven't found it, keep looking and never give up. Don't follow someone else. Charter your own path. Focus on what you love with a passion, and give it everything you have without any regard to how someone else will judge you or question you. The dreamers are always judged, but the dreamers are also the ones remembered.
When Philippe Petit had finished his stunt, the dreamer was in fact arrested for his daring act. His charge: disturbing the peace. Sometimes you have to shake things up a bit to make your dream a reality.
To change the way the world is by using your own personal expression, is one of the most powerful forces unrealized by many.
This weekend, a movie about Mr. Petit called "Man on Wire" is opening in theaters. It's a documentary about a French high-wire artist who followed his own passion and pulled off one of the most amazing stunts across the World Trade Center towers. If you're looking for some inspiration, his daring story may just show you how one person can challenge the norm and do whatever it takes to achieve their dreams. (Reviews)
The satisfaction of doing what you love is the key to your very success. No amount of money will be satisfy you if your efforts are the dreams of others. In my culture, many kids are taught two words very early on: Doctor & Engineer. These are great professions, but unfortunately, not truly the passion of most. Some parents pass on this belief to their children with the notion that these are the only occupations that will give you comfort in life. There is nothing further from the truth.
I love photography with a passion. I love what I do. It's very difficult for someone to say that about their job. When you realize how much you can enjoy doing something day in and day out, you've found your niche.
People have heard me say this many times, but I'll say it again: No matter what you do in life, make sure there's magic in it.
If you haven't found it, keep looking and never give up. Don't follow someone else. Charter your own path. Focus on what you love with a passion, and give it everything you have without any regard to how someone else will judge you or question you. The dreamers are always judged, but the dreamers are also the ones remembered.
When Philippe Petit had finished his stunt, the dreamer was in fact arrested for his daring act. His charge: disturbing the peace. Sometimes you have to shake things up a bit to make your dream a reality.
To change the way the world is by using your own personal expression, is one of the most powerful forces unrealized by many.
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Eating A Little Healther - Best Cereal & Apples
I walked into the Giant to pick up a prescription for my mother (knee surgery pain meds!) at 11:00 at night a few days ago. It was great, because the pharmacy is open 24 hours! So I'm told it's going to take about 30 minutes to fill so I decided to do some of my healthy eating food shopping I've been putting off.
Here's the background: I've been meaning to pick up some healthier foods and snacks to keep with me during the day. When I'm shooting a wedding, the amount of energy I need is ridiculous. Many don't know that you're on your feet with 20 lbs of equipment in your hands for over 10-12 hours at a time, running around, trying to get every important shot possible. Your body needs energy to keep going or you're just going to crash.
Aside from energy, I want to maintain a healthy diet. The reason to eat more throughout the day is that it keeps your metabolism burning at a higher rate throughout day. So my meals are breakfast, snack, lunch, snack, and then dinner. That's 5 times through out the entire day.
Many people try to lose weight or maintain their weight thinking they have to cut out food, but this is exactly the wrong thing to do. By not eating, or eating less, you starve your body, which tells it to shut down the calorie burning factory. No burning needed, so it sends some of the workers home. However, if you feed your body throughout the day, it is in a constant cycle of burning. Of course, if you feed it fatty & unhealthy foods, we all know what will happen next: bog down, fat storage, cholestral..the list goes on. So this doesn't mean you feed it Twinkies and chips.
I also wanted something higher in fiber to get all those cancer fighting benefits. So first, I wanted to try the healthiest cereal possible because I just don't have time to eat anything else in the mornings. It's the simplest to prepare. You'll even find a bowl sitting in my car because I take it with me! So, I googled and came across a list of high fiber cereals. One of them was for Kashi Go Lean (regular). If you get another version, like Kashi Crunch, you're eating more sugars and more calories. So I went over to the cereal aisle, compared other brands as well, and find out Kashi actually has 10 grams of fiber. That's 40% of your daily fiber requirement and more then many other cereals there. It also is very low in sugar with only 6 grams (I read you should stay under 10g).
I've been eating it every morning for a week, and it's pretty good. I never put sugar in my cereal...that's just gross. Cereals already have enough sugar IMO. I have to warn you, the taste is 'healthy.' If you're not used to eating whole grain cereal and you're coming from Pops or Cap'n Crunch sugary sweetness, this will be a 180 for you. For this type of cereal, I think it tastes pretty good and it's very healthy. I add some fresh strawberries if I have time to cut them, and away I go. Definetly try a box or let me know what others you've tried.
Also, while I was at Giant, I also picked up the healthiest apples you can eat. They are called Red Delicious. They have the highest amount of anti-oxidants of any apple. If you don't know, you need these bad boy antioxidants to fight free radicals, which are linked to heart disease and some cancers. I eat one of these in between meals as a snack. Other apples are health too, but this one tops out.
Just one last thing about all this fiber for the women out there: studies have shown there is a dramatic reduction of breast cancer with women who consume a higher fiber diet from fruit and cereal. (Source)
You can also read some more here: Link
Now I just have to try to actually make time for the gym again. I used to row for the UMBC crew team in college...God, I miss that! Need to start doing that again somehow if I can find the time.
Here's the background: I've been meaning to pick up some healthier foods and snacks to keep with me during the day. When I'm shooting a wedding, the amount of energy I need is ridiculous. Many don't know that you're on your feet with 20 lbs of equipment in your hands for over 10-12 hours at a time, running around, trying to get every important shot possible. Your body needs energy to keep going or you're just going to crash.
Aside from energy, I want to maintain a healthy diet. The reason to eat more throughout the day is that it keeps your metabolism burning at a higher rate throughout day. So my meals are breakfast, snack, lunch, snack, and then dinner. That's 5 times through out the entire day.
Many people try to lose weight or maintain their weight thinking they have to cut out food, but this is exactly the wrong thing to do. By not eating, or eating less, you starve your body, which tells it to shut down the calorie burning factory. No burning needed, so it sends some of the workers home. However, if you feed your body throughout the day, it is in a constant cycle of burning. Of course, if you feed it fatty & unhealthy foods, we all know what will happen next: bog down, fat storage, cholestral..the list goes on. So this doesn't mean you feed it Twinkies and chips.
I also wanted something higher in fiber to get all those cancer fighting benefits. So first, I wanted to try the healthiest cereal possible because I just don't have time to eat anything else in the mornings. It's the simplest to prepare. You'll even find a bowl sitting in my car because I take it with me! So, I googled and came across a list of high fiber cereals. One of them was for Kashi Go Lean (regular). If you get another version, like Kashi Crunch, you're eating more sugars and more calories. So I went over to the cereal aisle, compared other brands as well, and find out Kashi actually has 10 grams of fiber. That's 40% of your daily fiber requirement and more then many other cereals there. It also is very low in sugar with only 6 grams (I read you should stay under 10g).
I've been eating it every morning for a week, and it's pretty good. I never put sugar in my cereal...that's just gross. Cereals already have enough sugar IMO. I have to warn you, the taste is 'healthy.' If you're not used to eating whole grain cereal and you're coming from Pops or Cap'n Crunch sugary sweetness, this will be a 180 for you. For this type of cereal, I think it tastes pretty good and it's very healthy. I add some fresh strawberries if I have time to cut them, and away I go. Definetly try a box or let me know what others you've tried.
Also, while I was at Giant, I also picked up the healthiest apples you can eat. They are called Red Delicious. They have the highest amount of anti-oxidants of any apple. If you don't know, you need these bad boy antioxidants to fight free radicals, which are linked to heart disease and some cancers. I eat one of these in between meals as a snack. Other apples are health too, but this one tops out.
Just one last thing about all this fiber for the women out there: studies have shown there is a dramatic reduction of breast cancer with women who consume a higher fiber diet from fruit and cereal. (Source)
You can also read some more here: Link
Now I just have to try to actually make time for the gym again. I used to row for the UMBC crew team in college...God, I miss that! Need to start doing that again somehow if I can find the time.
Saturday, August 2, 2008
The Good Old Days
As a photographer, you're either following the trends, setting the trends, or just not getting it. Sometimes you look back and see how things were and think,"Boy, have we come a long way." From styles, fashion, and what it meant to be hip, check these album covers out to see a time almost forgotten. You may know someone who may even have these hiding in a dark basement.
Friday, August 1, 2008
Contest ::: Making Things Right For One Deserving Couple Photo Shoot
THE CONTEST:
If you or someone you know deserves to have a kick-butt professional photo session because they couldn't afford a lavish or high end wedding photography at their wedding, didn't love their photos, or they are just someone who deserves something nice, then that couple should be entered. You can help to give back with a fabulous & awesome opportunity!
:: ANY AGE :: ANY MARRIED COUPLE :: PARENTS :: FRIENDS :: NEIGHBORS ::
All Submissions Must Include:
1) A picture of the couple
2) Both names, address, phone, email and age
3) Story of how the couple met and bio.
4) Why you think the couple should be chosen for the giveaway
5) Unique fact about the couple
6) All entries must be sent to info AT asimsoofi DOT com with CONTEST in the subject line.
THE WHY:
I've been very lucky to meet some awesome couples and have the privilege to shoot their wedding. It’s been a real blessing. Sometimes though, I meet someone that’s already married and we get to talking about their wedding, and I hear things like this:
"My wedding photos make me want to cry."
"We just couldn't afford it. My parents felt inviting more guests was more important than the photos."
"Our photographer posed us like we were stuck in a bad 80's movie.
"I wish I had known about you."
I’m humbled by the last one, but most of it just sucks because it’s just plain sad to hear someone have to talk about their memories like that. After hearing thing like this, I've decided I will be giving away one completely FREE lifestyle session for one deserving married couple to help make up for what they missed at the first go. Read on for the crazy details. This is one of my ways of giving back for my blessings and sharing some culture & art at the same time.
THE SHOOT:
The shoot will take place in MD, DC, or N.VA. If the couple is outside of this area, they can fly in or I can fly out. The couple can wear anything they want. Casual with jeans and tops, or even their wedding outfits and have some fun with it and bring back the memories. The session will take place outdoors: a favorite place, city streets, the woods, anywhere outside! DO NOT expect this to be a boring pose session with cheesy smiles. ONLY the couple; No aunts, cousins, or visiting relatives overstaying at your house. This is ALL for them!
THE WINNING COUPLE
The winning couple will be determined by their inspiring essay and votes by all visitors to The Asim Soofi blog. (http://asimsoofi.blogspot.com)
THE SELECTION PROCESS:
1) The deadline for submissions is August 17, 2008.
2) Based on number of entries, every worthy story will be posted for comment feedback. These comments will also help me select the top ten finalists.
3) Maximum of ten (10) finalists, or less, will be selected and their stories posted on the blog by August 18, 2008.
4) Voting will begin as soon posting occurs and will end August 31, 2008.
5) Winning couple will be announced September 1, 2008 on the blog.
THE GRAND PRIZE:
The winning couple will receive a personal photo shoot, all of their final photos in high resolution files on a keepsake disc, print credit, and a secret special surprise.
THE RULES:
1) Love and appreciation for the photography of Asim Soofi.
2) Willing to share submission story and couple's photo on AsimSoofi.com and/or The Asim Soofi Blog.
3) Session date must be a date that Asim is available.
4) Willing to fund travel fees if the session is outside the immediate MD, DC, NOVA area.
5) Accepting of the terms and conditions of Asim Soofi Photography contract.
6) Couple must be willing to have fun, laugh, goof off, and possibly feed me kabobs (just kidding...food not required but highly encouraged).
Remember to submit all entries to info AT asimsoofi DOT com
Leave a comment, questions, or any suggestions if you like.
If you or someone you know deserves to have a kick-butt professional photo session because they couldn't afford a lavish or high end wedding photography at their wedding, didn't love their photos, or they are just someone who deserves something nice, then that couple should be entered. You can help to give back with a fabulous & awesome opportunity!
:: ANY AGE :: ANY MARRIED COUPLE :: PARENTS :: FRIENDS :: NEIGHBORS ::
All Submissions Must Include:
1) A picture of the couple
2) Both names, address, phone, email and age
3) Story of how the couple met and bio.
4) Why you think the couple should be chosen for the giveaway
5) Unique fact about the couple
6) All entries must be sent to info AT asimsoofi DOT com with CONTEST in the subject line.
THE WHY:
I've been very lucky to meet some awesome couples and have the privilege to shoot their wedding. It’s been a real blessing. Sometimes though, I meet someone that’s already married and we get to talking about their wedding, and I hear things like this:
"My wedding photos make me want to cry."
"We just couldn't afford it. My parents felt inviting more guests was more important than the photos."
"Our photographer posed us like we were stuck in a bad 80's movie.
"I wish I had known about you."
I’m humbled by the last one, but most of it just sucks because it’s just plain sad to hear someone have to talk about their memories like that. After hearing thing like this, I've decided I will be giving away one completely FREE lifestyle session for one deserving married couple to help make up for what they missed at the first go. Read on for the crazy details. This is one of my ways of giving back for my blessings and sharing some culture & art at the same time.
THE SHOOT:
The shoot will take place in MD, DC, or N.VA. If the couple is outside of this area, they can fly in or I can fly out. The couple can wear anything they want. Casual with jeans and tops, or even their wedding outfits and have some fun with it and bring back the memories. The session will take place outdoors: a favorite place, city streets, the woods, anywhere outside! DO NOT expect this to be a boring pose session with cheesy smiles. ONLY the couple; No aunts, cousins, or visiting relatives overstaying at your house. This is ALL for them!
THE WINNING COUPLE
The winning couple will be determined by their inspiring essay and votes by all visitors to The Asim Soofi blog. (http://asimsoofi.blogspot.com)
THE SELECTION PROCESS:
1) The deadline for submissions is August 17, 2008.
2) Based on number of entries, every worthy story will be posted for comment feedback. These comments will also help me select the top ten finalists.
3) Maximum of ten (10) finalists, or less, will be selected and their stories posted on the blog by August 18, 2008.
4) Voting will begin as soon posting occurs and will end August 31, 2008.
5) Winning couple will be announced September 1, 2008 on the blog.
THE GRAND PRIZE:
The winning couple will receive a personal photo shoot, all of their final photos in high resolution files on a keepsake disc, print credit, and a secret special surprise.
THE RULES:
1) Love and appreciation for the photography of Asim Soofi.
2) Willing to share submission story and couple's photo on AsimSoofi.com and/or The Asim Soofi Blog.
3) Session date must be a date that Asim is available.
4) Willing to fund travel fees if the session is outside the immediate MD, DC, NOVA area.
5) Accepting of the terms and conditions of Asim Soofi Photography contract.
6) Couple must be willing to have fun, laugh, goof off, and possibly feed me kabobs (just kidding...food not required but highly encouraged).
Remember to submit all entries to info AT asimsoofi DOT com
Leave a comment, questions, or any suggestions if you like.
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