5 Tips to Master Pro-level Portrait Photography with vivo V40

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Looking to take your portrait photography skills to the next level? With the vivo V40 and its powerful 50MP triple camera system co-engineered with ZEISS, you can capture professional-level portraits with ease.

Combining cutting-edge smartphone tech with world-renowned optics, the vivo V40 brings pro-quality photos into the hands of content creators.

Fun fact: vivo and ZEISS share the same lens structure used in high-end cine cameras!

Ready to master your craft? Here are five tips to help you make the most of the vivo V40's Portrait Mode:

1. Select the best focal length for stunning portraits

The ZEISS Multifocal Portrait feature offers three versatile focal lengths - 24mm, 35mm, and 50mm - making it easier than ever to get the perfect shot.

● 24mm - Great for capturing both your subject and the surrounding scenery. Use this for travel portraits where you want the background to complement the subject.

● 35mm - Ideal for street portraits or environmental photography, offering natural bokeh that subtly blurs the background.

● 50mm - Best for dramatic, half-body shots where your subject really stands out.

Taken using vivo V40's 24mm Portrait mode

To make it even easier, the Portrait Lens Kit gives you four preset modes: 24mm Landscape Portrait, 35mm Street Portrait, 50mm Natural Portrait, and 50mm Classic Portrait.

Pro tip: For added depth, incorporate foreground elements like trees or buildings. Play with light and shadows to enhance the mood and emotion of your portrait. Plus, if you find your image is slightly out of focus, you can refocus it in the gallery afterward.

2. Be more creative with iconic ZEISS bokeh flares

Experience the signature ZEISS bokeh flares without the need for expensive equipment. ZEISS lenses, typically costing around $10,000, have been recreated in the vivo V40 with incredible attention to detail, ensuring accurate colors, sharpness, and that coveted 3D pop.

The vivo V40 offers seven bokeh styles, including Biotar for swirling bokeh, B-Speed for rounded triangular bokeh, Planar for distinct, oval bokeh effects, etc.

ZEISS Biotar Style Bokeh

ZEISS Sonnar Style Bokeh

ZEISS Cine-flare Portrait

Pro tip: To amplify the bokeh effect, choose scenes with strong light sources, like street lamps at night or sunbeams filtering through trees. If you want to adjust the blur’s intensity, use the bokeh adjustment tool in the gallery and set the aperture up to F0.95.

3. Capture festive vibes with Festival Portrait mode

Celebrate in style with the Festival Portrait mode, featuring two distinct lookup tables (LUT): Day and Night. These modes are designed to enhance festive colors and background elements for lively, joyful portraits.

You can also experiment with nine other styles, including Beach Portrait, Lowlight Portrait (with six different LUTs), and Vintage to capture different moods and atmospheres.

Pro tip: Use Festival Portrait to emphasize vibrant, celebratory scenes, especially during events like holidays or parties, where color and energy are central to the image.

4. Perfect your lighting with AI Aura Light

Lighting can make or break a portrait, and the AI Aura Light feature on the vivo V40 brings studio-quality illumination to your photos. This physical fill light increases brightness but remains soft and natural, unlike traditional flashes that can be harsh on your subject.

The AI Aura Light also includes advanced AI algorithms that analyze facial features and apply a 3D virtual fill light to ensure perfect lighting from every angle.

Without AI Aura Light

With AI Aura Light

Pro tip: Activate this feature by tapping the flash icon at the top of the screen and selecting Aura Light always on. You can manually adjust the light for warmer or cooler tones, giving you full creative control over your lighting setup.

5. Take advantage of AI Erase and AI Photo Enhance

Ever take a great shot, only to have it ruined by an unexpected photobomber? The vivo V40's AI Erase tool can help you remove unwanted elements from your photos in seconds. Just select the photo, tap Edit, choose AI Erase, and let the Smart Circle tool work its magic.

Without AI Erase

With AI Erase

Do you have old photos that need a refresh? The AI Photo Enhance tool improves image clarity, optimizes colors, and reduces noise in your older shots - all with a simple tap.

Without AI Photo Enhance

With AI Photo Enhance

These tools are perfect for enhancing your portraits, allowing you to remove distractions and make your memories look even better.

These are just a few ways you can harness the power of the vivo V40, co-engineered with ZEISS, to achieve professional-quality portrait photography.

The vivo V40’s starting price is just Php 26,999, and it's available at vivo concept stores, kiosks, and dealer stores nationwide. Prefer shopping online? You can also purchase it via the vivo website, Shopee, and Lazada.

Take your photography to the next level. Grab the vivo V40 today and start shooting like a pro!

Century Tuna’s “Saving Our Seas” continues to champion Plastic Circular Economy and strengthens efforts in Reef and Coastal Clean-up

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After its successful run in 2023, Century Tuna, the country’s no.1 tuna brand, continues to lead the charge in marine conservation in the Philippines, further solidifying its commitment to fighting plastic pollution with the 2nd year of its “Saving Our Seas” campaign.

Representatives and volunteers from Century Pacific Food Inc. (CPFI), Century Tuna Superbods 2024 finalists, HOPE, and the Local Government of Mabini, Batangas, gathered for the “Saving Our Seas” International Coastal Cleanup Day activity on the coast of Anilao in Batangas.

This 2024, Century Tuna expanded its efforts by leading education drives on the Plastic Circular Economy and responsible plastic waste management, spearheaded initiatives to restore and protect vital coastal areas, and actively engaging with local communities across the country.

Mr. Carlo Endaya, Vice President and General Manager of the Branded Tuna Division, Century Pacific Food Inc., talked about the second year of the “Saving Our Seas” Initiative

“With the second year of the ‘Saving Our Seas’ campaign, Century Tuna is reiterating its commitment to taking proactive steps in protecting our marine environments,” said Mr. Carlo Endaya, Vice President and General Manager of Branded Tuna Division, Century Pacific Food Inc. (CPFI). “That’s why we’re doing this—aside from cleaning the ocean, we want to continue spreading the word and fostering the mindset that we must always work to prevent plastic pollution.”

Ms. Bea Ballesca-Martinez, Century Tuna Marketing Manager, helmed the Coastal Clean-up leg of Century Tuna “Saving Our Seas” in Mabini, Batangas.

In celebration of International Coastal Cleanup Day, Century Tuna initiated a school-based plastic recycling drive in several elementary schools in Mabini, Batangas. In partnership with HOPE’s Aling Tindera Waste-to-Cash program, elementary students were encouraged to collect plastic waste, exchange it for cash, and learn more about the Plastic Circular Economy - where all plastics collected and recycled are diverted away from nature to ensure that it won’t leak back into the open environment.

Ms. Ilusion Farias, HOPE Managing Director shared the importance of teaching students about the Plastic Circular Economy at the Century Tuna “Saving Our Seas” School Plastic Drive

“The idea is to help everyone realize that by picking up that piece of plastic, you can not only earn a little extra money for your family but also contribute to solving this global problem and help clean up the Philippines and the world,” said Ms. Ilusion Farias, HOPE Managing Director.

Century Tuna Superbods 2024 finalists led by Century Tuna Superbods 2024 Runner-up Patrick Patawaran, participated in the Century Tuna 'Saving Our Seas' International Coastal Cleanup Day in Mabini, Batangas.

Following the initiative and coinciding with the International Coastal Cleanup Day, representatives from Century Tuna, together with finalists from Century Tuna Superbods 2024 led by Runner-up Patrick Patawaran, CPFI employees, and volunteer divers participated in a coastal and reef cleanup activity in Mabini, Batangas. They were able to collect a total of 357 kilograms of plastic waste from both the shoreline and underwater.

Volunteer divers participated in the Century Tuna ‘Saving Our Seas’ reef cleanup activity 

in Mabini, Batangas.

The award-winning Century Tuna’s “Saving Our Seas” campaign is a continuation of its bigger mission to aid in marine conservation. Last year, the campaign was able to surpass its initial target of collecting 10 metric tons of plastic waste and avoiding it getting leaked into our seas.

CPFI employees and the Local Government of San Juan, La Union collaborated for the Century Tuna “Saving Our Seas” Earth Day Palit-Plastic Project in San Juan, La Union.

Early this year, “Saving Our Seas” made notable progress with key events such as the Earth Day Palit Plastic Project in La Union and the Superbods Cleanup Drive in Subic Bay, Zambales. These efforts highlight Century Tuna’s dedication to the bigger cause of fighting plastic pollution and educate people on the idea of a Plastic Circular Economy.

Century Tuna Superbods finalists and CPFI executives spearheaded the Century Tuna 'Saving Our Seas' coastal cleanup in Subic Bay, Zambales.

For more information, please visit https://centurytuna.ph/ or visit Century Tuna on Facebook

 at https://www.facebook.com/centurytuna or @centurytunasuperbods on Instagram for more updates.

6 Tips for staying consistent with your fitness routine even on red day

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Currently on Your Period? You Don’t Have to Give Up Exercising

When it’s that time of the month, it can be tempting to skip workouts and lounge on the couch. However, staying active during your period can alleviate symptoms, improve your mood, and boost your overall well-being. To help you stay at your best and support your active lifestyle even during your red days, Santé Moments Anion Sanitary Napkins are here as your reliable partner, allowing you to maintain your fitness routine and love every moment of your day, anytime, period.

Here are six tips for maintaining your exercise routine:

Listen to Your Body.

Listen to your body and adjust your workouts accordingly. Whether you're energized or feeling fatigued during your period, choose workouts that match your comfort level—opt for yoga or a brisk walk if needed. Santé Moments Anion Sanitary Napkins provides a range of products for every cycle phase, from day pads to night pads, ensuring you stay comfortable no matter how you move.

Stay Hydrated. 

Hydration is crucial during your period. Dehydration can lead to increased cramping and fatigue. Make it a habit to drink plenty of water before, during, and after workouts to keep energy levels high and your body feeling good.

Embrace Light Cardio.

Embrace light cardio like walking or swimming to boost circulation and mood while easing menstrual pain. Santé Moments Anion Sanitary Napkins’ ultra-thin pads with strong absorption ensure you stay comfortable and leak-free during your workouts.

Focus on Core Strength.

Core exercises like planks, bridges, or Pilates are great for stability and balance. Strengthening your core muscles not only supports overall fitness goals but also helps alleviate lower back pain during menstruation. With the added benefit of Santé Moments Anion Sanitary Napkins’ anion fiber core, which helps balance pH and hormone levels, you can focus on your workout knowing that irritation and discomfort are kept at bay.

Plan Your Workouts. 

Your energy levels fluctuate throughout your menstrual cycle. Planning your workouts accordingly can help you maximize performance and avoid overexertion. Santé Moments offers products like pantyliners for lighter days and night pads for heavier flow, ensuring you have the right protection at every stage of your cycle.

Practice Self-Compassion.

It’s essential to be kind to yourself during your period. Remember, self-compassion is key to a healthy lifestyle, and with Santé Moments Anion Sanitary Napkins, you can take comfort in knowing that your needs are always supported while on your period. It has far IR technology and an advanced anion fiber core, offer improved circulation, pH balance, and odor control that helps to embrace every moment with confidence.

Whether you need day pads for daytime activities, night pads for overnight protection, or panty liners for lighter days, Santé Moments has you covered. Embrace every moment with confidence, knowing that your period won’t hold you back from living with your active lifestyle.

Santé Moments Anion Sanitary Napkins and Pantyliners are now available online at Santé’s official Shopify store or you may also contact a Santé business owner. You can also check their Facebook page to know more about the product.

To learn more about Santé and its health and wellness products and services, visit mySanté.com.

Half Court Group and Uratex Dream All Set to Represent the Philippines at the Red Bull Half Court World Final in New York

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The Philippines is gearing up for game day as the winning Red Bull Half Court teams, Half Court Group and Uratex Dream, head to New York representing the country at the Red Bull Half Court World Final. Months after they earned their wings and secured their respective spots in the competition, both teams are ready to put on a show for the global stage.

Ezra Acayan / Red Bull Content Pool

Sam Harada, Kaye Pingol, Eunique Chan, and Afril Bernardino of Uratex Dream are challenging for the title as Red Bull 2024 Half Court World Champion for the women’s division. Meanwhile Chester Saldua, Matt Salem, Jordan Bartlett, and Gryann Mendoza of Half Court Group, who are playing for the men’s division, have been laser-focused on getting back into the swing of the 3-on-3 streetball tournament. The team has emphasized the importance of staying to shape, anticipating a fast-paced game full of pressure.

“Our outside shooting and speed will always be our main weapons,” said Half Court Group’s Coach Mau Belen. “In practice, we make sure to improve these two skill sets and use (them) efficiently in order to help us win games.”

Coach Belen added, “We are trying to focus on positioning better inside the court, so we’ll give ourselves a chance to keep the ball alive and maintain an even count on possession against the other teams.”

Ezra Acayan / Red Bull Content Pool

Asked about what they expect to be their biggest challenge during the competition, the coach shared, “We have addressed every physical and mental challenge we are about to experience during the tournament, but one thing we can’t really prepare for is the jetlag (that) the players will have (from) traveling to the other side of the world. This is something we hope wouldn’t put us in a big disadvantage.”

On the team’s chemistry, Coach Belen claimed, “The team has been together for (about) over a year now, so familiarity and chemistry are not really something we’ve had to cover. But, I’ve seen a lot of maturity in their game, and it’s something I’m excited to see in New York.”

Ezra Acayan / Red Bull Content Pool

The team’s coach also said that she constantly reminds the players the value of simply enjoying the game. “I constantly emphasize (to them to) enjoy each game and the whole experience because we will never know when we’ll have this kind of chance again.”

Coach Belen shared that the loss from last year’s World Final in Serbia shaped her mindset and coaching heading to this year’s World Final. The coach said, “As a leader I (made) sure that I improve my coaching ability in order to match the high-level competition in the World Final. Learning the game intentionally and intensively has been my promise to myself since the loss against Dominican Republic last year.”

Looking ahead to the competition, both Philippine representative teams share the enthusiasm for the challenge and the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of representing the Philippines in a global street basketball. Coach Mau also expressed her aspirations for Half Court Group at the World Final this year. “I hope we as a team have had that chance to evolve and mature on and off the court.”

National Pride on the Court

Red Bull Half Court is all about scoring buckets and playing tight offense. As the World Final approaches, the Philippine representatives assured supporters that they are more than ready to showcase their skill for streetball. The competition will be fierce as the teams go up against the top streetball teams from 25 countries across the world, but both teams are up for the challenge.

Support Half Court Group and Uratex Dream as the athletes take on the best street basketball players from all over the world. Don’t miss the Red Bull Half Court World Final happening on October 19 to 20 at New York City, USA.

Follow their journey at the Red Bull Half Court World Final and stay tuned for the latest updates. To find out more, visit the official Red Bull website and the following social media pages (Facebook | Instagram | Tiktok )

BPSF gives a meaningful support for local cinema workers. Ang Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair: A beacon of support during the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival

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Marking a significant and enjoyful event for cinema workers availing of free services from various government agencies, receive financial assistance and sacks of rice at the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair with a theme "Paglinang sa Industriya ng Paglikha (AKAPin ang Manggagawa ng Pelikulang Pilipino)" at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City, Oct. 13 Sunday and also on Monday (Oct 14.)

In conjunction with the grand celebration of the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), a landmark event known as the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair was held for cinema workers at the Philippine Sports Arena on October 13-14. This initiative, spearheaded by the leadership of the MMFF and its principal stakeholders—the Movie Workers Welfare Foundation (MOWELFUND), the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), the Film Academy of the Philippines (FAP), and AKTOR—aligned with the festival's commitment to bolster the flourishing Philippine cinema industry by directly supporting its backbone: the cinema workers.

The fair is established on the foundation of delivering Mabilis, Maayos, Maginhawa, at Masayang serbisyo publiko, featuring 23 participating agencies that will provide over 100 programs aimed at enhancing the welfare and growth of industry members.

This pioneering initiative is anchored in the Bagong Pilipinas vision promoted by President Marcos, marking a significant step towards recognizing and advocating for the cultural and economic contributions of the creative arts industry to the nation.

Organized under the visionary leadership of House Speaker Atty. Martin G. Romualdez and in strategic partnership with the MMFF leadership , and stakeholders. The Serbisyo Fair was crafted to bridge government services and benefits more closely to those who contribute tirelessly behind the scenes of the film industry. Spearheading this momentous event were MMFF's Chairman, Atty. Romando Artes; MOWELFUND Chairman, Boots Anson Roa, alongside President and CEO, Rez Cortez; and from the FDCP, Chairman Joey Reyes with Executive Director III, Daniel David Morales, guiding the charge.

"The Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair is a pivotal step in ensuring that our cinema workers are recognized, celebrated, and above all, supported," stated Atty. Romando Artes during the event's opening ceremony. "Through the collective efforts of the MMFF, MOWELFUND, FDCP, FAP, and AKTOR, we bring forth an era where the government's helping hand is more accessible to the people who form the backbone of our country's cinematic ventures."

Over two days, thousands of cinema workers availed themselves of various government services and benefits, which were specifically tailored to address their unique needs and concerns. The fair not only served as a platform for assistance but also strengthened the sense of community within the industry by providing novelties such as workshops, health consultations, and entertainment segments.

Boots Anson Roa, Chairman of MOWELFUND, emphasized the fair's role in uplifting the lives of cinema workers. "This is more than just an event; it's a testament to our continuous commitment to enhancing the welfare of every individual who contributes to the magic of Philippine cinema," she remarked.

The Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair sets a benchmark for future initiatives aiming to support local cinema workers. Through collaboration and unified support, the MMFF and its stakeholders demonstrate an unwavering dedication to the prosperity and well-being of the film industry's unsung heroes, laying down a solid foundation for their recognition and security.