become a better photographer

When my point and shoot broke this summer, I replaced it with another Sony which are absolutely amazing. No complaints here. However, if you do aspire to become a better photographer and would like more control over your photos at some point, and not sure when you want to fully invest in a DSLR or even if you already have a DSLR and would just like a point & shoot that has full control over your settings, take a look at the Nikon CoolPix P6000 – http://nikonusa.com/Find-Your-Nikon/Product/Digital-Camera/26135/COOLPIX-P6000.html. I just started paying attention to some of the photos and camera that a contact on my Flickr was using. Then I decided to look up the specifications for that camera. Yes, it definitely wishes that I chose differently this summer. I have been wanting to get a DSLR – looking at the Nikon D90 – but because I do not want to make that investment until I know I will put the effort into learning how to use it, I’m first trying to learn to take better photographs through composition, lighting, exposure, etc. However, with a price difference not SOOO great from Sony I got, and being in a Photography class now where it would be nicer to have a point & shoot with more control, it would be awesome to have the P6000; then I wouldn’t feel like I want to go out and buy a DSLR anytime soon. Sigh!!!

Here are the results of my first and second assignment from my first Fine Arts Photography class in Boca Raton, FL.

The first assignment was just to photograph a single subject. I went to the Morikami Museum in Boca Raton, FL to try to be inspired for this assignment. http://www.flickr.com/photos/littlemaiba/sets/72157622701951537/

The second assignment was to try to apply the following concepts – leading lines, foreground interest, and rule of thirds. This time I naturally chose to go to the beach and pier for this assignment. http://www.flickr.com/photos/littlemaiba/sets/72157622836716810/

It will probably take me a long time to get to a level in which I am fairly satisfied, but I am taking a step in the right direction by taking a Fine Arts Photography class (6 weeks) at the Boca Museum of Arts Art School in Boca Raton, FL. It is a very informal class that is teaching some of the basic principles and concepts of Photography about composition, but it is a start. It is a very small class, and it seems to be more of a photography social group, but it definitely helps to be surrounded by people with the same interests. Even the learning isn’t quite as structured as I would normally like, it definitely gets me thinking more when I take photographs (or for the assignments at least).

I would consider it a good start, a step in the right direction to gauge my true interest, but I will need many more classes and practice though.

My current camera is a few years old. I use it all the time. I think I’ve worn it out. Now its time to buy a really nice camera! I’m going to the beach for Christmas. I need to get on this right away so I have time to practice with it before I go.

Oh Dear! I can’t find my camera anywhere and it is driving me nuts. Of course, everywhere I look there is a picture just waiting to be captured.

This shot was taken inside a building at the Shelburne Museum, Shelburne, Vermont. The Autumn leaves give a hint of the time of year and the window panes create depth and interest. I think it looks like a painting.. But, it is indeed a photograph of the great outdoors.

I spoke to a friend who is a fantastic photographer. She’s agreed to give me some pointers! Next step….. new camera.

I go to a course where I can practise my skills for the next weeks. In a group we will make some expeditions and will learn how to take better pctures, especially of people. I’m really excited about it!

for the first time and it was amazing =) I really love making pictures with it. this camera has so nice features. I was a little bit afraid that the handling would be to complicated but it wasn’t. And I will learn how to use it by doing it =) Here a picture from the Sandsation exhibition in Berlin.

i have always been into photography but since uni, i dont have as much time, so i will go back to basics and do my favourite type black and white film, with all the loverly darkroom goodness.