8 Basic Steps of Image Editing

For those just starting to learn how to edit their digital photos in Photoshop, this tutorial by Matt LeClair, author of Oreilly's Photoshop in a Nutshell is all you need to get started. I use this in my Basic Digital Photography class as an introduction to basic photo editing.

Got Lens!

I am excited because I am waiting for my new glass. For years I've used the Cannon Rebel XT with the standard 18-55mm kit lens. On occasion, I would attach my old FD lens to the camera, but was never satisfied with the quality of the images. With the old 35 mm Cannon lens, even though they are good lens, can only use manual focus and light metering. In the digital world, that leaves me at a disadvantage.

It took four months to decide on some new glass. Options I desired were image-stabilization technology without an outrageous price tag. Right away I started looking at my options, Cannon and after market brands. The Canon L lenses were immediately excluded because I didn’t need high end lens with my entry level camera. I started looking at the Canon EF series. Next, I thought about what type of photos I would use these lenses for? I take a wide variety of photos, from landscapes, outside parties, close ups to wildlife photography. I also do not like carrying around a large selection of lens, I like to travel light! I wanted one lens that would allow me a wide range of shooting opportunities. So the 18 – 200mm lens looked to be a perfect match. After research, the Canon EF series didn’t carry the 18-200mm, although they do have the 28-300mm. On the Internet there are some good reviews of the 28-300mm lens but the price was very hefty, $2000. Taking price into consideration, my search narrowed down to the Sigma 18-200mm lens which are competitive with the Cannon lens but significantly cheaper at $550. Taking this research one step further, I started looking at the Ritz Camera Quantaray brand, which to my understanding is identical to the Sigma brand. The Quantaray brand carries the lens that met all the features I needed; comparative quality, prize, IS and a good focal range 18-200mm - Quantaray 18-200mm OS lenses.

Finally, I had to decide where to purchase the lenses. I looked at my local Ritz Camera store and B&H Photo. I then discovered that Ritz Camera is part of the AAFES Army and Air Force Exchange Service “Exchange Mall.” Being retired Navy; I always find the AAFES online store offers better prices. The lenses at the Exchange Mall were 10% less than the Ritz Camera sale price, plus I didn’t have to pay for shipping. So, in the end I saved $100 – not bad. Now I can’t wait until they arrive.

Discover Digital Photography

I've started a blog to document my journey into my renewed interest in photography. My interest in photography started back in 1982. During that timeframe I processed a lot of B&W photos. I was fortunate enough to be the Command Photographer during my first 2 duty stations in the Navy, so that provided me with access to the command's dark room. My interest in photography floundered after my Cannon AE1 died. I was unable to find the money to replace my camera and as a result for several years I didn't do any photography. Finally, my interest was renewed when I started using Adobe Photoshop 3.0 in 1995. Soon after that came digital cameras and the opportunity to take photos on travels and at family events. Just within the last couple of years have I returned to my interest in digital photography as an art. With the purchase of a Cannon Rebel XT several years ago, I've been taking photos continuously. Now, I teach basic digital photography at the College of Southern Maryland, which pays for buying new equipment.

This blog is a location for me to share and discuss all things related to digital photography. It also serves as a vehicle to motivate me to keep shooting and to track my progress in the discovery of digital photography. It also gives me a chance to build relationships with other photographers and friends. But the bottom line is "I want this to be fun!"