Background for the Blog

As a guy who has developed a passion for photography and a love of sharing this passion with others I've decided to start a blog to share some of what I've learned so others can learn to use their equipment more effectively.   I plan to discuss equipment, techniques, subjects, and whatever else comes to mind.   Much of what I will use for examples will be subjects in our around my house.   I think much of the subjects will be common for those who are new to photography; pets, kids, sports, still life, etc.

100mm f/2.8 @ ISO 3200 1/30 exposure

I will use various lens and camera bodies and talk about the benefits or limitations of each.   My hope is that this will help guide you in potential future investments in photography gear.   What I have learned, despite the increasing capabilities of new camera equipment, is that great photos aren't great due to the gear you used, but rather what was captured.   The above photo of my cat was taken with an old 10 MP (megapixel) camera.   Compared to cameras produced today (many of which are 16 MP and above) it is a dinosaur.   What you need to keep in mind is that 10 MP cameras were used by professionals and can capture amazing images.   The first lesson here is don't worry too much about the gear you have.  Learn how to use it to its fullest, and more importantly US IT...  take lots of pictures.   The benefit with digital is that you can snap away an not have to worry about buying more film.  

50mm f/1.4 @ ISO 3200 1/500 exposure

That same 10 MP was used to capture this scene where my 8 year old son was reading a book to his mother.  

Note that I will try to post the setting I used for each photo I post.  I will also indicate if I used a flash (which is rare for my style of shooting.)

EDIT:  Despite my reference to DSLRs, this blog would apply to any camera that would allow you to manually adjust Aperture, Shutter Speed, and ISO.   ILCs (interchangeable lens compacts) and Advanced Compacts allow these adjustments so if that's what you have.... read on.