Monthly Archives: July 2010

On Posting Pictures (And A Glimpse of R)

Sharing photographs that I’ve taken on this website is actually harder than I thought it would be. I have three traits that make this particularly challenging:

  1. I’m a perfectionist
  2. I’m a people pleaser/worry about what others think of me (and my work)
  3. I have a strong fear of failure

Each picture I post, I’m always thinking about how it’s not “perfect”, how I should have taken it differently, what people will think, and how I have a ways to go to become someone even resembling a professional. I have a vision of how I want my photographs to look, and I’m not there yet.

But then again, I have to remind myself of why I started this website in the first place. I want to grow. I want to “put it all out there” as they say. I want this dream to become a reality. And I’m the only one that can make it happen in the end. Sharing pictures I take is just one step in the journey.

So, to keep my promise to myself, here’s another one I’d like to share which I took over the weekend of my husband R while he was reading the paper on our patio.

Handsome fella huh? I tend to think so.

So, yes, I get scared sharing photos, but I know it’s for the best. I truly appreciate any and all constructive feedback. I’m always trying to learn more. Just be gentle with my perfectionist/people pleaser/fear of failure heart.

Friday Find: The Photography Parlour

For this week’s “Friday Find” I’d like to introduce you to a great website I added to my Google Reader several months ago. The Photography Parlour boasts itself as “a place for all aspiring pro photographers to come and relax, grab a cup of tea and mingle with likeminded folks.” Sounds like just the place for me!

While the Photography Parlour offers such content as how to’s, reviews, marketing, starting out tips, and much more, what I enjoy most is reading interviews from photographers, both seasoned professionals and those who just shot their first major assignment, to get a glimpse into their experiences.

The Smart Pig That Led to My Next Lens

So, the 50mm f/1.8, while a great inexpensive lens, left a bit to be desired. I wanted something faster and sharper and more reliable. There was only one problem, I’m broke. As a young professional, two years out of grad school, I’m still paying down student loans and silly credit card debt that I racked up when I didn’t understand the implications of such spending. I have to be mindful about what I choose to purchase.

So, back to where I was going. I wanted a new lens, but I didn’t have the money. What’s a girl to do? Well, enter Smarty Pig. This online savings account automatically deducted a small portion out of my checking account every two weeks. Before I knew it, those little amounts added up and I had enough to purchase my next lens, the 50mm f/1.4. My reasons for choosing this lens are a post in itself (which I will write at some point). But what I really wanted to share is that putting a little money away regularly really does add up.

I’m continuing to put away money for my next purchase. What will it be? I have no clue. I have so many wants, but it’s a matter of prioritizing and being sure that my purchases are consistent with what I want to do, how I can get there, and who I want to become as a photographer. I have aptly nicknamed my savings account, “Who Knows What Can Happen?”. Because really, who knows what can happen? I do know one thing though, those pennies saved will surely help me pursue my passion of photography, one piece of equipment at a time.

Photo of the Week (7/28)

Here is a shot I took of our dog Marty this past week. I, of course, had to manually focus due to his USM sensitivity.

I had a good week of picture taking, so I’ll likely share others this week. But this once definitely stood out!

As always, I appreciate any and all constructive feedback.

f/1.8

There I was last fall heading into the winter, new camera in hand and a new knowledge that I had gained through the “Dummies” book for my camera and my 10 weeks online with John Gringo learning the basics of digital photography. That’s when in hit. The bug that bites those that have found a new love for photography and makes you instantly want a better lens than that zoom kit lens that comes with the camera.

I needed something different. After doing a bit of research, I found multiple forums that recommended the 50mm f/1.8 as a great little lens with a cheap pricetag. Perfect! I added it immediately to my Christmas list.

And that’s just what I got. My parents bought me my first prime lens (for those who don’t know what prime means, it means it’s a fixed length–you can’t zoom in and out). And I couldn’t have been happier.

That little lens helped me in my photographic journey for the next several months. Until the bug bit again. And I had a bit of help from a smart pig…

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