Tech Archives - London Drugs Blog

6 Apps and Tips to Virtually Connect with Mom this Mother’s Day

This Mother’s Day may look a little different, but that doesn’t mean you can’t spend quality time with “World’s Best Mom”. With the power of technology, you’ll still be able to your latest life updates with Mom – it will feel as if they are right at the Sunday brunch table with you! We’ve compiled a list of video call apps and equipment to use, as well as some set up tips and tricks to help make this year’s virtual Mother’s Day a memorable one.

Best Apps to use for Video Calling

With all the apps and services out there to choose from, it might be overwhelming to know which one to use. Below, we have broken down some great video calling apps, and what sets them apart to help you choose the right one for you.

Zoom
Zoom is an excellent choice if you have larger families, as you can call with up to 100 people using their free plan, although only for 40 minutes of video calling. It works on Windows and macOS (desktop), and Android and iOS (mobile). Click here for a Zoom how-to set up guide.

Facetime
Facetime is great for those Apple product lovers, as it works on all Apple devices such as iPads, iPhones and Mac computers and laptops. You can host a video call for up to 32 people. Click here for how to set up FaceTime.

WhatsApp
WhatsApp is a great choice for video calls when you have friends and family living across the globe. You can have up to 4 users, and the calls are on the phone’s data plan or via WiFi, so voice calls do not use up any of your phone minutes. It works on Windows and macOS (desktop), and Android and iOS (mobile). Click here on how to set up a WhatsApp group video call.

Skype
Skype is another great app to use, especially if you have family living in other countries. What makes it a little better than Whatsapp is that it lets you make free international calls online for up to 100 people for audio or video conferencing on any device (Hello, big virtual family gathering!) Works on Windows and macOS (desktop), and Android and iOS (mobile). Click here for how to set up a group chat in Skype.

Houseparty
If you love being the life of the party (or your friends and family do), you’ll love Houseparty. It’s a social networking app that allows up to 8 people to video chat at once in a “room,” plus you can also play games on it, such as Heads Up!, Trivia, Quick Draw and more! Works on Windows and macOS (desktop), and Android and iOS (mobile). Click here to learn more about Houseparty and how to set it up.

Facebook Messenger
Facebook Messenger lets you easily chat and video call with your friends and family. It’s great because most of your friends and family will probably already have it if they have a Facebook account, making it an excellent choice for those who aren’t as tech-savvy. Plus, video calls have a limit of 50 users. Works on Windows and macOS (desktop), and Android and iOS (mobile). Click here for how to set up Facebook Messenger group video chat.

Set Up Tips

Lighting
Of course, you’ll want to look your best when video calling with your Mom, since she may request a group screenshot to capture the moment. If you are using a laptop, set up a light source behind and above your screen. This way, your face will be nicely lit up and visible. Also, use lighting from multiple sources and angles, so that it is dispersed nice and evenly. This can help you avoid harsh shadows casting on your face or in the background.

Sound Check
Nothing is worse than not being able to hear your video caller, or them struggling to hear you. If you have a microphone plugged in, make sure your computer isn’t sticking to its default audio input device. Check by making sure your microphone settings on your computer are correct. You can check on a Mac computer by clicking the volume control in the menu bar and selecting “sound options.” In the “Input” tab, make sure that your external microphone is selected from the list. Once it is selected, ensure that the “Input level” bar is moving to show that the computer is picking up any sound. Lastly, check that the volume slider isn’t all the way down.

If you’re using a PC, right click the volume icon in the taskbar and select sounds. Choose the “Recording” tab and choose your external microphone from the list. If you are using you computer for the first time or it is fairly new, you can select “Set up microphone” to go through the Microphone Setup Wizard.

Go Hands-Free
If you don’t have a laptop and will be using your phone, instead of awkwardly propping it up on your table, use a mini or table top tripod. This way, you can eat or do other things while you chat with friends and family. As well, many tripods have convenient, bendable legs that you can securely place on any type of surface or wrap around anything, like a floor lamp post.

Tidy Up!
Lastly, if you’re planning a video call with Mom, make sure the space in the background is somewhat tidy. The last thing you want is a big pile of dirty laundry sitting in plain sight, or the dishes you forgot to put in the dishwasher the night before on the counter behind you. It’s not the end of the world, but it might save you some embarrassment (and nagging)!

Take it to the Big Screen

If you have your set up ready to go, take it one step further and run your video calls through your TV screen! It is a lot better than hunching over a laptop or trying to see everyone on a tiny mobile screen. If you have any Apple or iOS devices, use a Lightning-to-HDMI adapter. Just plug the adapter into an HDMI cable, hook the cable up to the TV, and switch to the appropriate input.

If your laptop has an HDMI port, you can also simply plug an HDMI cable from the laptop straight into your TV. For newer Macs and Windows PCs with USB-C ports, you can use a USB-C to HDMI cable. Once you have plugged it in, press Windows-P on a Windows laptop to switch between display modes. Choosing “Second-screen only” will disable your laptop’s screen while it’s connected to the TV.

BONUS TIP: If you own a camera, you can also check out our blog on Using Your Camera as a Webcam | How-To Guide for Better Video Calling at Home.

We hope you found this blog helpful on how to virtually connect with your Mom this Mother’s Day. From choosing the right video call app or service, to setting up, and even using your TV for enhanced visual and sound, it will feel like your Mom is right there with you!

For some last-minute Mother’s Day gift inspiration, be sure to read our blog on Last-Minute Mother’s Day Gift Ideas That Will Warm Her Heart.

Tech to Keep Your Fitness Goals on Track

Keep your New Year’s resolutions on track with these helpful tech products. With a wide variety of activities, these handy gadgets can help make sure you are on pace for the best year yet!

Watches

No matter the activity you choose, keeping track of time is usually a key factor in achieving your goal. Whether doing intervals on the track, or going for a 30 minute cruise on your bike, a watch is a great accessory to help. The Timex Ironman is the true classic, introduced in 1986, the original sport watch is still as practical today as it was then. With a timer, stopwatch, and alarm, it performs all the tasks you need to track your workout times.

Timex Ironman Watch

Timex Ironman Transit – Blue

Timex Ironman Transit – Pink

Smart Watch

If you want a watch that can go the extra mile, a smart watch is what you need. With a variety of options on the market with various features, make sure to compare options to find the one best suited for your needs. Smart watches have added abilities like tracking your route using GPS, a heart rate monitor, or a step counter. Some can also sync with your phone allowing you to receive text messages or calls on the go.

Garmin Fenix 6X Pro Multisport GPS Watch

Timex Ironman R300 GPS Smartwatch

Fitbit Charge 4SE – Granite

Fitbit Charge 4 – Black

Satellite Messenger

For those who like to venture into the backcountry to exercise, a satellite messenger is a handy tool to ensure you keep safe. With the ability to connect with love ones beyond the reach of cell service, these are great for back country runs, bike rides or adventures.

Spot Gen4 Satellite GPS Messenger

Sports Headphones

Getting inspired during your fitness routine is another important element to remain focused. Whether listening to music or podcasts, a pair of dedicated sport headphones is a must have. Specially designed to stay on while you move, you’ll never have to worry about them falling out. Being waterproof is a big plus too, ensuring you can get sweaty or wet during your workout. These options will ensure your music mix keeps you going, or your favourite podcast keeps your mind off the pain.

JBL Under Armour Flash Sport True Wireless In-Ear Headphones

JBL Reflect Flow True Wireless Sport

Smart Speaker

If you’re looking to get active at home, then consider a smart speaker. Changing songs, or podcasts while in the middle of your workout routine has never been easier with their voice activated commands.
Pro tip: You can also set yourself reminders via voice, for that to-do list item you only remember while struggling through those last few reps.

Google Nest Mini Voice Assistant Speaker

Amazon Echo Show 8 Voice Assistant Display

Apple HomePod mini

Games

Getting active doesn’t always require endless exercise. There are many games available to get you moving. If you’ve ever played Just Dance, you know that it can be a workout in its own right. There is also the Nintendo Switch Ring fit, which gets you moving while on a mystical adventure. You can even track your pulse estimate with its built-in IR motion sensor.

Just Dance 2021

Nintendo Switch Ring Fit Adventure

We hope this gave some ideas for great products to help you achieve your fitness goals for 2021.

Gift Ideas for Tech and Home Entertainment

Someone on your list loves tech, and you need to find them the perfect gift? Fret not, we are here to help. With all your tech in one spot, we make finding that perfect gift, easy. With options like block rocking home surround sounds, the hottest tablets & computers, head thumping earphones, and everything in between, we are sure to help you find that special something. If you are looking for gifts for the photo lover, check out our photographer gift ideas blog here.

Tablets

A tablet has become an extension of many peoples’ lives. Great for streaming, reading, connecting, and just about everything really. If you have one, you know they are the perfect gift for those who don’t.

Huawei MediaPad

Settle in with your favourite apps and streaming content with a Huawei MediaPad. available with 9.6 and 10.1 screens, and various configurations, you are sure to find the perfect match for your needs and budget.

Samsung Galaxy Tablets

With a large selection of options on the market, the Samsung Galaxy line up has a tablet for everyone. From the ultra portable 8 inch Tab A, to the 12.4 inch S7+ powerhouse, stream, scroll and create with ease. Storage options from 32gb all the way to 128gb will ensure you have enough space for all your content while on the move.

Computers

Asus Vivobook

If shopping for a student or young professional, this ASUS VivoBook laptop has the upper hand when it comes to work or study. The AMD Quad Core R5 processor and 8GB of system memory ensure seamless multitasking and dependable operation, while the AMD Radeon Vega 8 graphics bring out the best in videos and games. This lightweight laptop comes equipped with a 256GB solid-state drive for convenient file storage. Boasting a 15.6-inch Full HD frameless NanoEdge display, this ASUS VivoBook laptop delivers exceptional picture quality.

Acer Chromebook

For those who want the traditional key board, but with streamlined functionality to tackle assignments at school or home, this Acer Chromebook 514 laptop is the answer. The quad-core Intel Celeron processor delivers dependable power for everyday use, while the 4GB of standard memory provides convenient storage for spreadsheets, photos and documents. This laptop boasts a 14-inch Full HD ComfyView display for an immersive viewing experience. With four USB ports, this Acer Chromebook 514 laptop makes it easy to customize your setup with external drives, wireless accessories and other peripherals. .

LG 22 inch LED Gaming Monitor

Complete your gaming computer setup with this LG 21.5-inch gaming monitor. Full HD resolution delivers clear, detailed images, while the AMD Radeon FreeSync technology and 1ms response time help prevent tearing and ghosting for seamless playback. Flicker-free technology works to reduce eyestrain to keep you in the game longer. VESA mount compatibility allows for versatile placement options. This LG 21.5-inch gaming monitor comes equipped with VGA and HDMI video inputs for effortless integration with your current computer configuration.

Google Nest Hub

Give the gift of connectivity. Control all your smart devices with this Google Nest hub. Built-in Wi-Fi lets you connect to your home automation system, while the Bluetooth technology pairs with your smartphone or tablet for access to streaming content. A touchscreen display makes it easy to navigate through alerts, upcoming activities and menu options. Compatibility with Google Assistant offers advice, answers and other helpful information. This Google Nest hub boasts a mute button, so you can enjoy added privacy when not using the voice command features.

Thinkware F70 Dash Cam

Give the avid driver peace of mind with the successor to the best-selling Thinkware F50 Dash Cam. The F70 builds on top of a winning recipe to offer the same discreet and compact design, coupled with an all-new image sensor for improved recordings in low light conditions, and the latest Energy Saving Mode for increased Parking Surveillance duration.

Sony 75-Inch 4k HDR Ultra HD Android TV

For the streaming lover, consider bringing vibrant colour and stunning clarity to movies and shows with this 75-inch Sony 4K Ultra HD LED smart TV. X-Motion Clarity technology enhances action films and sporting events, while the Ambient Optimization technology automatically adjusts the picture and sound for a more immersive home theatre experience. Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa compatibility makes it easy to find content on your favourite streaming media sites using this 75-inch Sony 4K Ultra HD LED smart TV.

JBL Bar 5.1 Surround Soundbar

Enjoy the quality of the cinema in the comfort of your own home with this JBL Bar 5.1 soundbar. Bluetooth connectivity supports online and music streaming, while JBL MultiBeam technology powers high-quality audio around your family room. The wireless subwoofer boosts the bass and optimizes your audio, delivering incredible surround sound. Including a wall-mount bracket kit and hardware, this JBL Bar 5.1 soundbar lets easily you set up your own home theatre in almost any room.

Skullcandy Mood Boost Headphones

If you’re looking for something bright and unique, in a black and white world of earbuds, these Skullcandy Sesh Mood Boost true wireless earbuds are the answer. Integrated controls let you adjust the volume and answer incoming calls hands-free, while a long-lasting battery and included charging case deliver up to 10 hours of use. Noise-isolating technology keeps ambient sounds to a minimum. An IP55 rating offers sweat, water and dust resistance, so you can use these Skullcandy Sesh Mood Boost true wireless earbuds during morning runs or outdoor training sessions.

Panasonic Earbuds

Panasonic true wireless Bluetooth earphones are sleek and great as a stocking stuffer. The long-lasting battery design delivers up to 20 hours of uninterrupted playback, and the convenient storage case doubles as a charger for a portable power source. A high-performance MEMS microphone makes these earphones ideal for answering incoming voice calls hands-free. Equipped with premium 6mm drivers, these Panasonic true wireless Bluetooth earphones bring sharp, detailed sound to music, podcasts and voice calls.

Vinyl Records

If you want to get something extra special, why not their favourite album on vinyl? With a wide selection of new titles and classics, we have vinyl records for all musical taste. Nothing better than listening to an album on vinyl on a cozy winter eve.

We hope you have found something for everyone on your list. Be sure to check out our other gift guides for more great ideas this holiday season.

Elevate Your Photography – Food Photos at Home

While spending more time at home, have you found yourself enjoying the art of cooking or baking more? If so, you are not alone. A quick scroll through any social media feed and you’ll see everyone is cooking up a storm. If you want to capture your home creations in photos, we are here to help. We’re sharing 3 concepts to improve your food photography using your phone, a piece of paper and natural light, and it won’t interfere with enjoying dinner!

Follow along to learn how to elevate your food photography beyond the snapshot by considering content and framing, staging, and lighting. The examples below were all shot with an iPhone 11 and available light.

1. Content & Framing

What makes the images above different? The image on the left looks busy with all the counter items distracting focus from the food. To make your food photos shine, consider everything that is present in the frame. Ask yourself if something is required to tell the story, and if so, how does it interact with the rest of the items. A clean background will allow the food to stand out.

In the above right, you see the image is taken at a ¾ height with the salad as the prominent item, and the sandwich slightly out of focus in the background. You can also take an overhead shot looking straight down depending on how you feel the plate will come to life best. For an overhead shot, you will want to consider the surface it will be on, and any items that are visible. There are many other angles you can do, and if using an interchangeable lens system, a macro lens will allow you to get in to capture up-close details. For this blog, we will keep it to phone photography.

2. Staging

When plating your dish, carefully craft your plate. Examine the above two images. Notice the sandwich is cut differently, and in the left it is stacked and has some unnecessary items in the frame, whereas the right is side by side.

Consider how the elements of the dish appear together. On fancy cooking shows, or at high-end restaurants they always take great care in the presentation, and at home should be no different. A simple bowl of spaghetti can be twisted in a circular motion vs dumped on a plate. These small details will go a long way to help the visual presentation. Once you have your plate ready, make sure there are no unintended fingerprints, or drips on the rim of the plate, and then it’s time to set up your shot.

3. Lighting

Lighting is what will make or break the image. In all photography, the easiest way to improve is to learn how light behaves, how to manipulate it and control it. We will be using only available light for this tutorial.

Your camera has a built-in white balance. Mixing natural and artificial light will create colour casts of warm (yellow cast) and cool (blue/cyan cast). This is due to the different light temperatures of the light sources. It is better to use one or the other to avoid various colour casts in your final image.

In the two images above, the available light sources are from a window on the left side and an overhead light. In the left image, the overhead light is on and in the right image, it is lit only with the window. Notice how the colour is more balanced using a single light source? In the left, there is a yellow glow in the plate and a harsh shadow from the mug. The lighting in the left image is more balanced, but the shadows are still too dark.

To fill our shadows and help balance the light in the right image above, we will use a white piece of presentation board. Any white surface can work with varied results, from a sheet of printer paper to a white paper box. Get creative with what you have around the house. Place the white paper beside the object, on the opposite side from the window. This allows the light to reflect back on the subject, and fill in that shadow. Move the card around at different angles, and watch how the light changes on the plate.

Putting it all together

Next time you make something tasty in the kitchen, consider these 3 points and watch your food photography come to life! By taking a minute to consider your image content and framing, staging, and lighting, you can craft photos as beautiful as your kitchen delights are tasty. Below is a comparison of different outcomes with the lighting conditions described above.

1 – Background untidy, 2 – Naturally lit with overhead artificial light, 3 – Naturally lit, 4 – Add white card, 5 – Result with white card

Be sure to consider bringing your new home chef images to life. A homemade cookbook is great for future generations to preserve your unique and tasty recipes. Our Photolab makes book-making easy, and with your new food photography skills, your cookbook will be loved by all.

London Drugs Whistler Tech Conference Recap – Exciting New Products

Every fall, the top London Drugs Experts come together for an event where our vendors show off all the new exciting tech releases hitting store shelfs before the new year. This year’s event was held in the picturesque mountain village of Whistler BC. With over 60 vendors showcasing their goods, the show floor was packed with exciting and innovative products! From new cameras, TV’s, phones and audio equipment to gaming, and an abundant assortment of accessories too, there was something for everyone. We’ve highlighted some of the tech items that we found especially exciting and hope you will too!

Kodak Smartphone camera accessories – Estimated arrival early November

Kodak was the name in photography once upon a time. So much so that in Quebec the term “Kodak” means camera. This was the company that invented the digital camera after all. They have drifted off since the transition to digital, but the good news is they are slowly making a comeback. Their new smartphone camera accessories help you get the most out of the camera in your cell phone. With a portrait light that connects directly to your phone, a mini tripod and multiple lens adapters, the possibilities to elevate your phone photography are endless. With a macro lens adapter allowing you to focus extremely close up, a fisheye adapter to provide a 170-degree field of view (including black corner vignette) and an ultra-wide lens adapter to add that little extra expanse to your image. Look for these to hit shelves at London Drugs sometime in November.

Logixx Wireless QI Canvas Duo – Estimated arrival mid November

Logixx are quickly proving themselves as a smartphone accessory powerhouse. Their Peels Air Pods Case allows for infinite personalization, and have become very popular, as have their wireless charging accessories. New out on the market is their Wireless QI Canvas Duo. No longer will you be faced with the decision to take turns charging devices or buy multiple charging mats. The new Dual Charge Mat is sleek, modern and features two sides, allowing you to charge multiple devices at the same time. Now your watch and phone can charge in harmony. A great bedside accessory that will look sleek in any space.

Logiix Wireless Suction Battery Pack – Available now

Logixx’s battery packs are practical solutions for those extended periods when charging isn’t an option. The suction battery pack sticks to the back of your phone and will charge it wirelessly. Building off feedback from their previous model, they have made the new version a little shorter, while still carrying the same power. This was done to allow camera usage while the phone is charging. A great way to make sure you can continue snapping and charging without worry, when previously your battery would be ready to give out.

Nikon Golf Rangefinder – Available online / via special order in-store

Nikon have a long-storied history in optics. You might know Nikon primarily for their cameras and binoculars, but did you know they also make time-lapse, long term live cell imagery systems for medical research in addition to personal glasses? Nikon does many things and does them incredibly well, and this golf rangefinder is no exception. With 2 models available, you can be sure that avid golfer in your life can determine the distance to the pin accurately every time. Bonus: they are weatherproof, so those rainy days on the course are no problem.

Polaroid Originals Lab Printer – Estimated arrival mid-November

Polaroid: the name speaks for itself. Instant colour positive images from a time when images lived in film canisters for days. Now imagine taking that selfie from your Instagram and printing it as a Polaroid. Imagine no more, as the new Polaroid Originals Lab Printer does exactly that. Just lay your phone on top with the image displayed on your screen, press the button, and instantly you have a Polaroid of the same image. Using the Polaroid Originals app on your phone, you can even add your own custom edits prior to printing. The design screams Polaroid, as it is styled in that classic blocky polaroid fashion. This printer is a must-have for anyone who truly loves the nostalgic and tangible experience of a Polaroid but doesn’t want to sacrifice the ease of smartphone photography.

Arcade 1up Games – Golden Tee available now, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles available for pre-order

Arcade 1Up is bringing the essence of the arcade back and into your home. Their freestanding and countertop models are reviving the arcade experience for a new generation. Back in the day, the original arcade games were a social experience where you engaged with friends. In a world where online gaming has become the norm, the rebirth of these classic arcades is being well received. This fall London Drugs will be adding to our Arcade 1Up offerings with two new classic titles: Golden Tee golf and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Keep an eye out for these on display in your local store between now and the end of November.

Marshall Headphones – Available now

Marshall guitar amps are synonymous with rock and roll. The iconic nameplate plastered in the center of a large amp stack is legendary. With all the headphones on the market, something that stands out as unique is the Marshall headphone line. Offering excellent noise cancelling properties combined with exceptional audio quality, they are an option not to overlook. Add in the vintage styling with modern touches in all the right places, and you have an awesome pair of headphones that really stand out from the crowd.

Sony PlayStation VR – Available now

VR isn’t anything new, but if you have been on the fence about getting on board, consider the Sony Playstation VR system. It comes in as a more affordable option when compared to many PC options on the market and is equipped with a decent library of games to enjoy. The headset fits comfortably, is easily adjustable and when combined with headphones, becomes a completely immersive playing experience. Following along on screen while others play is just as entertaining too. With titles such as Everybody’s Golf VR, Firewall Zero Hour, Tetris Effect, Gran Turismo Sport, and Astro Bot to name a few, the library of games available is continually growing, and includes something for everyone to enjoy.

Wandrd Prvke Photography Backpack – Available online

Have you searched aimlessly for a camera bag that is both functional and looks good? That is the guiding principle behind everything Wandrd makes. Their bags are a great option for the traveller looking to have a fluid combination of fashion and function for their camera gear and personal items. The integrated camera cube makes removing all your camera equipment quick and simple, and transferring it from one bag to another a breeze. Take a look at the many options here.

This is just a small sampling of what was on display at our tech conference in Whistler. There is a lot more in-store that our LDExperts will be thrilled to tell you all about. Hopefully, this list made you as excited as we are about all the new products coming to store soon! Drop by any London Drugs location and speak to an LDExpert today, or visit our website to find the latest and greatest tech. What new tech products have you most excited this fall? Let us know in the comments below.

Ania B’s Road to the Junos with London Drugs

Last weekend we were invited to join a group of bloggers to attend the Canadian music awards. We got our first taste for the Junos when they were held in Calgary back in 2016. It was a really great year for Canadian music with performances from the Weekend and Dear Rouge to name a few highlights and it made us hungry for more. To top it off, when the invite comes from one of the event sponsors who also happens to be one of your favourite Canadian brands, you don’t think twice about accepting!

Starting the JUNOs Journey with London Drugs

London Drugs has been part of our journey for many many years now, before the blog even existed, as a destination for all our photo and tech needs. Fun fact: they are one of the few places in all of Canada that still develop film. As a big supporter of Canadian artists, London Drugs has always been one of our top destinations—together and individually for cameras, electronics, and music. I thought it only fitting that the gear we brought with us to the Junos weekend were some of our top essentials we can’t live without while travelling and for experiencing music.

“As a big supporter of Canadian artists, London Drugs has always been one of our top destinations, together, and individually, for cameras, electronics and music.”

In-Flight Tech Essentials

The weekend begun with a flight over to Vancouver and since we were already out west it was a quick one hour trip. Of course, no amount of travel is ever complete without a set of headphones—since we’re both on the latest iPhone X, those are always wireless. Over-ear wireless headphones are probably my favourite thing EVER right now. It’s like everything you love about that look without everything you used to dislike about it, i.e. the long cord that always got in your way.

Day One in Vancouver

From the airport we were whisked away to the brand new J.W. Marriott Parq Hotel, conveniently located next door to the arena where the Junos broadcast was going to happen just two days later. Until then we took in local restaurants (hotels own Honey Salt and La Pentola), a standup comedy night at Juno Fest, the Ready Player One activation downtown Vancouver (who went to see it this weekend?!) and even had some time to locate the Tacofino truck parked nearby!

A Platform for Canadian Artists

The Canadian arts are unfortunately cursed by being in such close proximity to the United States and often artists don’t get the credit they deserve because all our attention gets easily redirected to the south of the border. The Junos provide a platform for all Canadian music to find it’s voice and it was a great opportunity to learn more about it, discover the newest and most exciting talent, and reconnect with the ones that we’ve always loved.

“The Junos provide a platform for all Canadian music to find it’s voice and it was a great opportunity to learn more about it, discover the newest and most exciting talent, and reconnect with the ones that we’ve always loved.”

Michael Buble was the host of the evening and the Barenaked Ladies celebrated their induction to the Canadian Hall of Fame by performing their most loved ‘If I had a $1,000,000’ and ‘One Week‘ taking us all the way back to the best of the 90s! We had a chance to walk two red carpets over the course of our visit and experience the live broadcast of the awards themselves, along with being treated like total VIPs with dinners, parties and even a morning yoga session with Lululemon & DJ Felix Cartal (when in Rome)!

Appreciating Canadian Talent

As consumers of popular culture, it should be our responsibility to support local artists. Before he was a mega superstar Justin Bieber was also just a kid whose parents recorded YouTube videos in his home in Ontario. Without the support of their communities, artists are just people with creative hobbies. There is an unfortunate catch-22 associated with having to prove yourself outside of your home before getting the recognition you need to make a name for yourself.

As digital creators, we face this all the time—the understanding of how much work, sweat, and tears goes into making your dreams into reality puts things into perspective. We must appreciate the talents we have right here at home and nurture them so they continue providing us with inspiration and bring pride to the country as a whole, and it totally gives us bragging rights when talking about Canada on a global scale!

Lights! Camera! Junos!

Lights! Camera! Access! That was all I could think of when walking down the red carpet at this year’s Junos. Entertainment and news shows lined the walls of the tent as performers and producers answered questions and flaunted their designer looks. It’s always the biggest treat when you get to get an inside look at how our favourite shows are made.

TV is such a fascinating medium and the more I uncover it the more tangible it becomes. Who knows, maybe one day we’ll find ourselves on an all different side of the camera. Tyler was, of course, on camera duty for the whole thing, snapping photos as we made our way through the crowd, even spotting our fave ladies from the London Drugs team reporting live on all the action (you can see the full report on the London Drugs Twitter & Instagram pages).

Thank you to the Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS) for hosting such an unforgettable weekend and London Drugs for always being our go-to for all things tech and music! xoxo

Our Junos gear: Defunc over ear bluetooth headphones, Marshall bluetooth portable speaker, Logiix battery pack + cable, Canon DSL 5D mark iv camera, iphone X, Sony a7rii camera, all available at LONDON DRUGS

For more of Ania B’s favourite Vancouver hotspots, visit her Vanouver City Guide and the travel category in the main menu.

Blog courtesy of Ania B

7 Tech Gadgets to Reduce Holiday Stress

With Christmas right around the corner… there’s no time to stress! The holiday season inspires joy, excitement, and family comfort. What’s not to love about spending quality time with the most important people in your life, sipping warm drinks by the fireplace and decorating your home?

Unfortunately, we can easily find ourselves feeling a little overwhelmed with office parties, gift exchanges, family reunions and our kids’ school events. No matter how many commitments are booked into your calendar, there never seems to be quite enough time to get anything done – let alone finish Christmas shopping!

Thankfully, we have the tech to help make everyone’s life just a little easier – including your own!

Get into the festive spirit this winter and check out the following 7 tech gadgets that are bound to eliminate some of your holiday stress, while also making great gifts for friends, coworkers and family!

Nest Learning Thermostat

A thermostat may seem like a strange gift to pick up for the holidays, but trust us, the Nest Learning Thermostat is well worth it. Particularly useful during the chilly Canadian winters, this remote-controlled tech gadget can be used right from your smartphone, tablet or laptop through WiFi connectivity. With energy-saving options, safety alerts, and automatic adjustments from your personal energy history, just think – no more coming home to a frigid home, and no more waking up in the middle of the night to adjust the heat!

iQ Keychain Power Bank

A fantastic option for stocking stuffers, the IQ Keychain Power Bank is a necessity for busy, on-the-go people who use their portable technology on a day-to-day basis. The keychain feature makes this power bank easily accessible and always within reach when in need. For those days where you forget to charge your phone, or your laptop runs out of battery, simply plug into the IQ Keychain without the stress of finding an available power outlet in public.

TouCan Hands Free Can Opener

Opening cans with faulty (and often painful!) can openers can be the bane of your existence, especially when in a hurry and with a hungry family to feed. Another great stocking stuffer option (perhaps for the cook in your life, or for anyone with joint pain) the TouCan Hands Free Can Opener makes opening cans of all shapes and sizes completely effortless. With just a push of the button, anyone can seamlessly prepare their meals, without the mess and frustration.

Belkin Wireless Charging Pad

If you’ve been thinking about picking up a charging pad, now is the time! More than ever, we’re glued to our phones and tablets for personal as well as work use throughout the day, making it easy to run out of battery life. The hassle of finding (let alone de-tangling!) the large amount of mismatched chargers you need could give anyone a headache. Thankfully, the Belkin Wireless Charging Pad provides a quick solution to this everyday stress. After a long day at work, place your smartphone, tablet or powerbank (no need to remove any cases!) within the charging ring, and enjoy the luxury of cordless freedom.

Global Data SIM Card

Visiting family or friends over the holidays, and travelling outside of your designated carrier zone? Know anyone who travels frequently overseas, and could benefit from some extra coverage? Look no further! Pick up the AOW Global Data SIM Card for yourself or as a gift and enjoy 4G LTE access to over 90 countries across the globe. Choose from hourly plans, by day, or by storage, and pre-schedule before you leave. The Global Data SIM Card is compatible with any unlocked smartphone, and will not only save you the effort of finding secure WiFi, but allows you to stay connected with loved ones via apps without daunting roaming fees.

London Drugs Rechargeable Wine Opener

If you don’t need one of these in your kitchen cupboard, guaranteed you know someone who does! Just like opening a can, grappling with a tricky cork can result in nicked fingers, compromised wine and most likely a bad mood. Avoid the fuss and save your energy with the London Drugs Rechargeable Wine Opener. This sleek electric opener can be easily recharged when needed, and makes a great gift for any wine connoisseur.

Ring Wi-Fi Video Doorbell

Ordered your Christmas gifts online and anxious for them to be delivered to your door? More often than not, you won’t be home mid-day to receive your parcels. With the Ring Wi-Fi Video Doorbell, there’s no need to rush home to see if your packages have arrived! With wide angled HD video and instant alerts straight to your phone, this futuristic doorbell can also act as a security monitor, alerting you of what’s going on outside without having to be at home! Great for families with children, the doorbell also offers a safe way for kids to see who’s at the door without having to answer it.

Best Apps to use for Video Calling

Set Up Tips

Games

Tablets

Computers

1. Content & Framing

2. Staging

3. Lighting

Putting it all together

1 – Background untidy, 2 – Naturally lit with overhead artificial light, 3 – Naturally lit, 4 – Add white card, 5 – Result with white card

Kodak Smartphone camera accessories – Estimated arrival early November

Logixx Wireless QI Canvas Duo – Estimated arrival mid November

Logiix Wireless Suction Battery Pack – Available now

Nikon Golf Rangefinder – Available online / via special order in-store

Polaroid Originals Lab Printer – Estimated arrival mid-November

Arcade 1up Games – Golden Tee available now, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles available for pre-order

Marshall Headphones – Available now

Sony PlayStation VR – Available now

Wandrd Prvke Photography Backpack – Available online

Starting the JUNOs Journey with London Drugs

“As a big supporter of Canadian artists, London Drugs has always been one of our top destinations, together, and individually, for cameras, electronics and music.”

In-Flight Tech Essentials

Day One in Vancouver

A Platform for Canadian Artists

“The Junos provide a platform for all Canadian music to find it’s voice and it was a great opportunity to learn more about it, discover the newest and most exciting talent, and reconnect with the ones that we’ve always loved.”

Appreciating Canadian Talent

Lights! Camera! Junos!

For more of Ania B’s favourite Vancouver hotspots, visit her Vanouver City Guide and the travel category in the main menu.

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