…http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/09/12/TR9A12QRPO.DTL
Doug
Doug,
Neat article. Thanks for posting it. These are pretty much garbage shots but they serve the purpose of illustrating, no pun intended, some of the things pointed out in the article.
This first shot is cropped:
Original:
It is helpful to other photographers to sometimes know the details about the equipment and settings used. This is where modern software and gear really shines through. All of the info here about the above shot was provided by the camera via the software:
Taken With:
PENTAX Corporation PENTAX K110…
File Size: 387 kb - 800x532
Taken On: 2008:08:27 16:41:40
Camera Make: PENTAX Corporation
Camera Model: PENTAX K110D
Date/Time: 2008:08:27 16:41:40
Resolution: 800 x 532
Flash Used: No
Focal Length: 210.0mm (35mm equivalent: 315…
Exposure Time: 0.0020 s (1/500)Aperture: f/8.0
ISO Equiv.: 200
White balance: Auto
Metering Mode: matrix
Exposure: Landscape Mode
I believe that photographers today, myself included, have come to rely too much on modern editing software and the camera to compose or correct the shot for us. I learned photography on the most basic, but high quality 35mm film camera on the market at the time (mid 1980’s) the Pentax K1000. I still have that camera and use it from time to time but it primarily sits upon my desk now in semi-retirement.
Here’s is my point. I believe that to be a good photographer one should be taught on the most basic, most manually operated camera available. That forces the photographer to learn about such things as F stop, ISO, shutter speed, focal length, the effects of flashes, when and how to underexpose or overexpose the shot, depth of field, proper focus, the effects of different lenses and filters, use or tripods, shutter releases, light meters and etc…
Like the article pointed out be your own worst critic too. Be very harsh on what photos you think are great, good or garbage. Also realize that there is a difference between composing a shot for a certain effect and snapshot photography. There is a bit of a stigma attached to that word snapshot that is really unfair. Both snapshot and composition photography have their places. Remember this is a form of art and expression so have fun with it. Experiment with it.
A word of caution about photographing people. Some cultures consider this to be taboo and extremely offensive. Some to the point of doing real physical harm to your person for it. This is no joke. Even if you accidentally get them into the shot or into it without their prior knowledge you could be in real trouble if they find out about it. Also, some folks, like me, just plain forbid being photographed. On the other hand, I have yet to meet any wild flora that objects to being photographed. Wild fauna usually cooperates but sometimes is best left alone.
Using a UV and Circular Polarized filter combo with some manipulation through ACDSee Photo Manager 10:
Those salamanders are in the stream.
Here is a few more:
Normal shutter speed:
Bulb setting for time exposure:
Like I said have some fun and experiment. digital photography really does set us free to do this.
Doug,
Seems I have been the kiss of death for posts recently. I did not intend that to happen to your post.
Eric,
I am happy with your replies! I welcome more info from you!
Doug