I often get asked what camera I use to take my photographs. The camera is only one part of the equation. Any good digital SLR can take good photographs whether it is Cannon, Nikon, or what ever. The main parts of the equation are the lenses, knowing your camera, a photographers eye, and failing - sometimes miserably.
When it comes to taking good quality photographs, good quality glass (lenses) is a must. Herein lies the problem with amateur photographers. Good glass is expensive, but there are alternatives. I often go to pawn shops to see what they may have that will work on my Nikon D50. The trick is to go in with cash and a price in mind. I have picked up good lenses for half of the cost by placing cash on the table and telling the pawn broker this is what I am willing to pay. I have yet to be turned down. You know the old adage about cash doing the talking...
Know your camera. Learn to shoot with aperture priority and shutter priority. Yes, there are setting other than program and automatic. They will bring differing results.
There is a correlation between time (shutter) and depth of field (apature). The smaller the apature, the longer the shutter needs to remain open to get the exposure. Flowers need small apature settings and more time in order to get depth of field.
Sometimes 1/30th of a second can make the difference between a great shot, one that is so-so or just junk. Bracket your shots by 1/3 of a stop if you are using manual setting. You will be surprised that what you see is not what the camera sees...
The final part of the equation is the photographers eye. Some folks have it some don't. But don't be discouraged, it can be developed. I took several photography courses at Purdue University. Often, we went on field trips to junk yards to learn to see the beauty in all things. Talking about getting into your right mind in a junk yard! But it can happen! Most importantly, failure is a must! Digital film is cheap! I have learned more from my failures than my successes. I hope this helps.
Y'all have a great weekend... ;-)
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Hi Michael
Excellent post on photography and I totally agree with you about the value of lens.
Success and good luck.
Lou Ludwig