Photo Assignment: Weekend 11/10/07

[SNC1923]

You know, these threads just keep going, and going, and going. . . . What fun!

Thanks to everyone who has posted a photo, offered critique, asked questions, given advice or shared techniques. Thanks to everyone who stopped in to have a look.

Having thanked the academy, may we humbly offer these simple rules:


Photos must be shot this weekend: Fri, Sat, or Sun.
You must provide the EXIF information if asked (we'll help you, if you'd like to know how to get it).
No photoshop alteration (we're looking to improve your skills with your camera, not software).
Your photograph must adhere to the theme, which will be described below.
Post only one photo per post, so that commentary can be easily provided for that photo. You may post more than one photo, but try to keep it to a handful.
Please feel free to title your photo so it can be referred to later.
Post your photos in this thread only. Do not start a thread in reply to this assignment. Please post your photos no later than next Wednesday.
And, the most important rule: have fun! We're looking to spread the joy that many of us derive from taking pictures, particularly ones that tell a story of some kind.


This week's theme: "Harmony"


Beyond its obvious association with music, harmony connotes agreement or accord. It can refer to a consistent, orderly, or pleasing arrangement of parts or congruity.

What does harmony mean to you?

It's already Friday in New York so let's quit burning daylight and get busy. :bolt

Anarchists click here (http://www.bmwmoa.org/forum/showthread.php?t=21573).

[rocketman]

It is going to be very difficult trying to get a photograph of the BMW MOA Forum. :whistle

I was gonna say something ......


then decided to just grab the camera....:p

RM

[terham]

I went riding today with the intention of going to Lake Harmony but, against my will, the roads took me to Canadensis instead. Oh well...I never did make it to the lake. Maybe next week the theme will be Wallenpaupak?

[lamble]

I'm so glad you chose Harmony as a topic. Even if I can't find a suitable shot to take, my mind will be distracted from the other forums here as I search for something harmoneous.
Blessed relief.

[BeerTeam]

http://klasjm.smugmug.com/photos/219439441-XL.jpg


"Harmony"
Fond Du Lac, WI


Remember hit F11 for Full Screen

[Rapid_Roy]

*Roy shakes fist*
Curse you for raising the bar Beer Team! :laugh
If that doesn't start a fire under my @ss, nothing will.
Nice.

[rocketman]

I went downtown (Wash. DC) to look for harmony..........


and all I found was Kaos! Turns out they had everything around the mall blocked off due to the Verterans Day holiday. Made a total mess of things. I had planned on taking advantage of the nice gray skys to catch some shots around The Wall and maybe a few folks visiting. Soft gray light adds the mood of the place. But No! it was swamped with folks, should have figured!

So I headed up PA. Ave to shot a shot or two of an interesting intermix of old and new sturctures that I thought might show harmony but couldn't find any parking so had to do a snap and run shot, nice idea, crappy exicution. Gerrrrr..


So then I headed home and then thought I might stop by the Pope-Leihey House (A Usonian house by F. L. Wright). I've always admired his work and many of building certainly encompass harmony with thier enviornment.

So....

Harmony of Sturcture and Nature

http://roadrunes.com/images3/MOA-assignments/Pope-Liehey-house-1.jpg

RM

[rocketman]

A detail of the above...

one of the interesting aspects of the Pope house is Wright's attention to detail, in this house he insisted that all screw heads be alined as we see below

I hope cropping is OK, if not, remove this entry.

harmony of function and design

http://roadrunes.com/images3/MOA-assignments/P-L-Detail-2.jpg

RM

[rocketman]

After visiting the Pope-Liehey house visited my local park thinking surely I can find harmony in Nature.... but nothing really outstanding came of it, although I did take some decent shots nothing jumped out at me *sigh*

So it wasn't until I got home some hours later that this view seemed to pop out at me....

Harmony Through a Garden Window. Rendered in Black and White.


http://roadrunes.com/images3/MOA-assignments/garden-window-bw.jpg

RM

[Rapid_Roy]

...... I might stop by the Pope-Leihey House (A Usonian house by F.W Wright)......
Amazing similarities to houses by F. L. Wright.
Is he any relation? :stick

[rocketman]

Amazing similarities to houses by F. L. Wright.
Is he any relation? :stick
Ha Ha! fixd.

RM

[KBasa]

I'm going to try and re-shoot this one tomorrow using a tripod.

I tried to get a very narrow depth of field and managed to blur them all.

http://kbasa.smugmug.com/photos/219895730-XL.jpg

[KBasa]

I had a hard time figuring out how to frame this one and still am not happy with it.

http://kbasa.smugmug.com/photos/219893040-XL.jpg

[rocketman]

I had a hard time figuring out how to frame this one and still am not happy with it.

http://kbasa.smugmug.com/photos/219893040-XL.jpg

I don't know, I kinda like it the way it is. Having the chain slightly blurred adds an element of softness to that we don't always asscociate with the harshness of metal objects.

The first one on the other hand would probably benifit from a reshoot to bring the flower into crisp focus.

RM

[Mika]

11/03/2007 ( http://www.bmwmoa.org/forum/showthread.php?t=21441): Pure & Simple

10/27/2007 (http://www.bmwmoa.org/forum/showthread.php?t=21286): Open Wide

10/19/2007 (http://www.bmwmoa.org/forum/showthread.php?t=21141): Shadow of a Doubt

10/13/2007 (http://www.bmwmoa.org/forum/showthread.php?t=20999&highlight=Photo+Assignment): Group Dynamic

10/06/2007 (http://www.bmwmoa.org/forum/showthread.php?t=20845&highlight=Photo+Assignment): Blue

09/29/2007 (http://www.bmwmoa.org/forum/showthread.php?t=20687&highlight=Photo+Assignment): Evolution

09/22/2007 (http://www.bmwmoa.org/forum/showthread.php?t=20513&highlight=Photo+Assignment): Balance

09/15/2007 (http://www.bmwmoa.org/forum/showthread.php?t=20361&highlight=Photo+Assignment): Where I Want to Be

09/08/2007 (http://www.bmwmoa.org/forum/showthread.php?t=20239&highlight=Photo+Assignment): A Long Way to Go

[grossjohann]

I think this is a great shot. It's hard to take these without getting the lens wet, and the slow shutter speed (needed for the low light and great for showing water in motion) probably warrants use of a tripod.

If there was no danger of wetting the lens, then I may have tried to aim the camera up at the chain. It may have been interesting to see the water cascading down past the focal point. If you have some others, maybe you could post them on the “anarchy” thread for comparison?

I hope you don't mind. I couldn’t resist some minor photoshop color and contrast adjustment… Threw in some focus adjustment for reference.

Nice post, Dave!

-Alex

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/Alex.Grossjohann/PhotoAssignment111007/photo#5131588451685097538"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/Alex.Grossjohann/RzcQgiwv4EI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/3nHeGPUXI0Y/s800/KBasa-Water-Chain.jpg" /></a>

[bmwdean]

Harmony. Here's Deryle again, only this time with his mouth not quite so wide open!

O.k., so it ain't a great photo, but it does illustrate "harmony" of a sort.

[bricciphoto]

I had a hard time figuring out how to frame this one and still am not happy with it.

http://kbasa.smugmug.com/photos/219893040-XL.jpg

Wow. You're being a little hard on yourself. :) This is a sweet shot and a rather tough one to technically pull off. Nice composition, love the soft focus caused by the longer exposure and the lighting is A+. Stunning in its own way. :wave

[widebmw]

An Airhead, Oilhead and K-Bike in harmony at the Harmony Borax works Death Valley.

[bricciphoto]

My two submissions for the week. Shot these "found compositions" at a Tech Day on Saturday. Like Rocketman, I did crop these (a little) while resizing them for uploading--no other edits, though. I can think of a couple of things I would have done differently had I taken the time to make a more serious effort, but this week I'll wait and see if Tom agrees. :D

http://bricciphoto.smugmug.com/photos/220246564-M.jpg

http://bricciphoto.smugmug.com/photos/220246591-M.jpg

[RandallIsland]

An entire set of digits:
https://vspace.vassar.edu/xythoswfs/webui/_xy-1226310_1

[grossjohann]

An entire set of digits:

Ouch!!!

[grossjohann]

http://lh4.google.com/Alex.Grossjohann/Rze6KSwv4MI/AAAAAAAAAcE/Swpn9CO0PUI/s800/DSC_5368.JPG

[grossjohann]

http://lh5.google.com/Alex.Grossjohann/RzfLviwv4NI/AAAAAAAAAcc/6vVc5NSoE9U/s800/DSC_5392.JPG

[grossjohann]

http://lh3.google.com/Alex.Grossjohann/Rze4sCwv4FI/AAAAAAAAAa0/eoMbaONpsxs/s800/DSC_5416.JPG

[RandallIsland]

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/Alex.Grossjohann/PhotoAssignment111007/photo#5131774986409730242"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/Alex.Grossjohann/Rze6KSwv4MI/AAAAAAAAAcE/Swpn9CO0PUI/s800/DSC_5368.JPG" /></a>

Gorgeous child. Stunner.

[grossjohann]

Thanks! She’s a pip!

[Stuff2C]

I don't know, but there must be something harmonious about this.

[MLS2GO]

Yes the pride of Milwaukee and the Black Forest can live together in harmony. Here they are nuzzled up against one another in my driveway. In the garage they are well behaved and I hardly ever have to seperate them! Although the Ultra is a little jealous of the electric windshield, and the RT of the HD's Chrome. Sibling rivalry, what are you going to do?

http://mls2go.smugmug.com/photos/220384975-L.jpg

[JohnF]

This was the only Harmony that I could find...

Harmony, OH
National Road, E of Springfield, OH

JEF
Cinti, OH

http://i186.photobucket.com/albums/x55/k12rider/photo%20assignments/DSC01159.jpg

[MLS2GO]

Here are two photos taken at a Veteran's Day Ride that a friend of mine organzies every year. It is open to all bikes but it ends up being mostly HD. We visited the Veteran's Home in Cameron MO. Sorry to break the rules but I am posting two here because of the content. In the first we enter and are greeted by many veterans glad to see us. About 150 bikes by the way.

http://mls2go.smugmug.com/photos/220395851-L.jpg

In this I saw this Gentleman sort of wistfully looking at the Flag. He turned to talk to someone off camera as I shot it.

http://mls2go.smugmug.com/photos/220395890-L.jpg

[rocketman]

Yes the pride of Milwaukee and the Black Forest can live together in harmony. Here they are nuzzled up against one another in my driveway. In the garage they are well behaved and I hardly ever have to seperate them! Although the Ultra is a little jealous of the electric windshield, and the RT of the HD's Chrome. Sibling rivalry, what are you going to do?

http://mls2go.smugmug.com/photos/220384975-L.jpg
I had thought of that very theme as there is both a cruiser (Jeanne being the resident "biker babe" :heart ) and 2 BMW's (one co-owned, and one mine, though I pilot both with Jeanne as an occational passenger) living in my garage. they seem to get along very well together and enjoy each others company on the road.:D


Nice shot and very fitting.

RM

[BeerTeam]

http://klasjm.smugmug.com/photos/219776066-XL.jpg

Harmony
Lakeside Park
Fond Du Lac, WI

Hit F11 for Full Screen

[BeerTeam]

http://klasjm.smugmug.com/photos/219772754-XL.jpg



The Bandshell located at Fond Du Lac's Lakeside Park, was featured on the cover of a 1940's Saturday Evening Post

[bricciphoto]

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/Alex.Grossjohann/PhotoAssignment111007/photo#5131774986409730242"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/Alex.Grossjohann/Rze6KSwv4MI/AAAAAAAAAcE/Swpn9CO0PUI/s800/DSC_5368.JPG" /></a>

Awesome shot--can't say much more than that. Very nice work. Another super week (so far).

[grossjohann]

Awesome shot--can't say much more than that. Very nice work. Another super week (so far).

Thanks, Ben!

I liked your BW compositions this week. Did you remove the color at the camera, when you cropped them, or are you shooting with film?

-Alex

[bricciphoto]

Thanks, Ben!

I liked your BW compositions this week. Did you remove the color at the camera, when you cropped them, or are you shooting with film?

-Alex

Alex, thanks. I shot those with a Canon G7 set to BW in the effects menu. I have a G9 and G7, and although it's super easy to make a change in menu setting, I keep the G7 on BW and the G9 color. It's too easy to see the world only in color, when some subjects just beg for a monochromatic treatment. This way I don't forget to shoot B&W as well as color (a complicated solution, I know :D ). :wave

[grossjohann]

Alex, thanks. I shot those with a Canon G7 set to BW in the effects menu. I have a G9 and G7, and although it's super easy to make a change in menu setting, I keep the G7 on BW and the G9 color. It's too easy to see the world only in color, when some subjects just beg for a monochromatic treatment. This way I don't forget to shoot B&W as well as color (a complicated solution, I know :D ). :wave

You’re right. I do think in B&W sometimes, but not as much as I did when I also used my father’s old Exakta. That’s “real” photography; no autofocus, no light meter, and I would borrow time in the darkroom from a good friend of mine at school…

We were actually talking about it at dinner last night. My daughter (10) had no concept of “film photography” – she’s only known digital…

Maybe I’ll clean the old guy up and take him out for a run some weekend. (the camera, not my father) :D

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/Alex.Grossjohann/PhotoAssignment111007/photo#5131956487432691938"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/Alex.Grossjohann/RzhfPCwv4OI/AAAAAAAAAdU/JnalIoX_9Qk/s144/DSC01447.JPG" /></a>

[rocketman]

You’re right. I do think in B&W sometimes, but not as much as I did when I also used my father’s old Exakta. That’s “real” photography; no autofocus, no light meter, and I would borrow time in the darkroom from a good friend of mine at school…

We were actually talking about it at dinner last night. My daughter (10) had no concept of “film photography” – she’s only known digital…

Maybe I’ll clean the old guy up and take him out for a run some weekend. (the camera, not my father) :D

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/Alex.Grossjohann/PhotoAssignment111007/photo#5131956487432691938"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/Alex.Grossjohann/RzhfPCwv4OI/AAAAAAAAAdU/JnalIoX_9Qk/s144/DSC01447.JPG" /></a>

Hey I remember those, my dad had one too, got it waaaaaay back, when we were living in Germany, its that one of (if not the first) SLR's (?) The one I got from my dad no longer works but considering where it has traveled over the years I quess its not too surprising. I remember him taking tons of photos with it, lost of sides, many of which my Sister and I still have. Once I got into photography as a youngster I sort of took it over. :D (I think my Dad was happy to be relieved of the task on having to "Take a picture of that, Oh and that Too, and that over there!" at my Mom's instistance!:D) Lots of good memories surrounding that old camera....

RM

[grossjohann]

Hey I remember those, my dad had one too, got it waaaaaay back, when we were living in Germany, its that one of (if not the first) SLR's (?) The one I got from my dad no longer works but considering where it has traveled over the years I quess its not too surprising. I remember him taking tons of photos with it, lost of sides, many of which my Sister and I still have. Once I got into photography as a youngster I sort of took it over. :D (I think my Dad was happy to be relieved of the task on having to "Take a picture of that, Oh and that Too, and that over there!" at my Mom's instistance!:D) Lots of good memories surrounding that old camera....

RM

That’s funny. My father (who emigrated from Germany to the US in 1968) got the camera 55 years ago as a confirmation gift. I inherited it from him about 15 years ago, and have several pictures of me as a kid which he had taken with this camera. It still works, but needs a good cleaning.

Here's one from just over 30 years ago (not taken with the Exakta - it's in my hands):
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/Alex.Grossjohann/PhotoAssignment111007/photo#5131976501980291314"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/Alex.Grossjohann/RzhxcCwv4PI/AAAAAAAAAd0/Co0j8jkPaBg/s144/DSC01452.JPG" /></a>

[Voni]

Deming, New Mexico
The Veteran's Day Gathering

Harmony is all you see when you consider the big picture.
Harley, Beemer, Beemer, Yamaha, Yamaha disappears . . .

Voni
sMiling

[bricciphoto]

Deming, New Mexico
The Veteran's Day Gathering

Harmony is all you see when you consider the big picture.
Harley, Beemer, Beemer, Yamaha, Yamaha disappears.

Voni
sMiling

Now that looks like a postcard! Great composition. Love the placement of the green and red bikes, not to mention the harmonious blend of brands. Good eye Vonnie: (1) for seeing the photograph, and (2), for capturing it in an interesting and aesthetically pleasing (very symmetric) composition. Good exposure, too. :clap

Each week the submissions are getting better and better--more variety and lots, and lots of interesting interpretations. And because the bar has been raised so high, I think we're collectively (and indirectly) making Tom's critiques (by necessity) less involved? Good job everyone! :clap

[Voni]

Each week the submissions are getting better and better--more variety and lots, and lots of interesting interpretations. And because the bar has been raised so high, I think we're collectively (and indirectly) making Tom's critiques (by necessity) less involved? Good job everyone! :clap

Thank you.

I so appreciate this thread because of the very things you mentioned.

Every week I "see" more clearly what people like Beer Team have perfected.
And the discussions help me to see behind the curtain of mystery.

Sharing like this is great!

Thank you all.

Voni
sMiling

[rocketman]

I gotta enter one more.....from my weekend ride and Unmetered Harmony ride report...
I think it is probably the one that I would enter if I had limit my entries to single shot

I spent about 20 minutes wandering up and down the road from where I shot this looking for just the right spot to get the roof line, road and fence line to all converge on a single point leading into the background AND getting the horse alined with the road and centered. I was hoping the truck would pull away but no such luck...

http://roadrunes.com/images3/winter-ride-1-07/horse-1.jpg

RM

[lamble]

http://lamble.smugmug.com/photos/220582422-M.jpg

Balanced view point

[lamble]

http://lamble.smugmug.com/photos/220582375-M.jpg



Same but different. I prefer this one, although I'm not sure why as I think it's technically inferior both in lighting and composition...so I'm confused why I prefer it.

There are numerous levels to this picture. The balance that's needed to achieve harmony is a comment on the recent forum activities. There's the metaphor of "lead" being used to gain harmony. There's what goes around, comes around.
A whole bunch of "stuff" going on. It's why it took me until this morning to come up with the way I wanted to treat the theme of harmony.

I think it would be even better in black and white...another harmonious element?

So hopefully, while the field of focus is shallow, the messages are far deeper.

Of course, it could just be my front wheel!

[lamble]

I've usually set aside some time on Monday to look at people submissions, and there have been some stunners. But from the numbers this week, at this time, it would appear harmony is far harder to find.

Are there more images just waiting to be posted?

And I noticed that having changed the source image, without copying it first, the posted image is black and white for both...sorry about that.

[bricciphoto]

Same but different. I prefer this one, although I'm not sure why as I think it's technically inferior both in lighting and composition...so I'm confused why I prefer it.

So hopefully, while the field of focus is shallow, the messages are far deeper.

Of course, it could just be my front wheel!

Interesting shot. I prefer it as well. It's a perfect example of why technically correct isn't always a priority. It's a great composition and the focal point is the lead weight and despite how disordered it may seem, it's awfully difficult to look at this image and not have your eyes drawn straight to the weight. It's very abstract, yet technical. The weight is a symbol of balance--an element necessary for harmony. I think you've rather artistically stepped out of the box. :thumb

[lamble]

Interesting shot. I prefer it as well. It's a perfect example of why technically correct isn't always a priority. It's a great composition and the focal point is the lead weight and despite how disordered it may seem, it's awfully difficult to look at this image and not have your eyes drawn straight to the weight. It's very abstract, yet technical. The weight is a symbol of balance--an element necessary for harmony. I think you've rather artistically stepped out of the box. :thumb

How did you know I'm kept in a box all week and only let out at weekends?

You may have hit on why I prefer it too. It's less 'obvious' than the colour image, which 'gives it all away' immediately. Yep that's probably it. Now back in the box.

[thtduck]

If you look carefully they all move together in perfect sync.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2418/1991875098_000b0d3245_b.jpg
10:37am 11/10/2007 Rural upstate SC somewhere between Clinton and Spartanburg SC.

[KBasa]

If you look carefully they all move together in perfect sync.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2418/1991875098_000b0d3245_b.jpg

Wow. That's really, really pretty. Perfect placement of the bike and subject matter makes your eye take a happy little walk around the frame. :thumb

And the lighting is perfect. Did you take this in the early morning or early evening?

For those that are shooting, note that the early or late hours of sunlight produce a warm, golden light. This picture has used that to great advantage to set a mood of calm.

Wonderfully done, sir!

[thtduck]

Wow. That's really, really pretty. Perfect placement of the bike and subject matter makes your eye take a happy little walk around the frame. :thumb

And the lighting is perfect. Did you take this in the early morning or early evening?

For those that are shooting, note that the early or late hours of sunlight produce a warm, golden light. This picture has used that to great advantage to set a mood of calm.

Wonderfully done, sir!

Thanks for that compliment KBasa! It was taken at 10:37am (camera EXIF data shows). Rural upstate SC somewhere between Clinton and Spartanburg SC.

[26667]

Hey, all you photograpers, I've really been enjoying your work. It's fun to see the bikes, of course, but your pix are terriffic no matter what the subject. I hope you'll keep this thread going and that the rounders and riders in more temperate climes will continue to contribute all winter.

So here's my request. Save some of those pix and post them when I'm up to my keister in snowblower. There's only so much you can ask of Wellbutrin. :whistle

[Voni]

It's a deal.

Just for you ; )

Voni
sMiling

[Rapid_Roy]

I have the theme, and the subjects. I just couldn't find a good setup.
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a345/RapidR/PB110005.jpg
The Harmony of a great flight crew, a good conduct ribbon, and the flak that could have ended my fathers life. He is one of the "Boys from Bungay" or the "Bungay Buckaroos" they were often referred to as.

[KBasa]

I have the theme, and the subjects. I just couldn't find a good setup.
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a345/RapidR/PB110005.jpg
The Harmony of a great flight crew, a good conduct ribbon, and the flak that could have ended my fathers life. He is one of the "Boys from Bungay."

Especially appropriate today. :thumb

[SNC1923]

http://SNC1923.smugmug.com/photos/220785760-L.jpg (http://snc1923.smugmug.com/photos/newexif.mg?ImageID=220785760)

Taken outside Katy's Restaurant in Carmel on Sunday. I tried to shoot these leaves from a number of angles but felt uninspired. As I was still waiting for a table, I walked around the tree and was struck by the sunlight shining through the leaves. Their translucence and how they appear to be interlocked really appealed to me. Click on image for EXIF.

The "date modified" reflects when I converted these to JPEGs. I usually don't shoot in RAW, but these images were all shot that way.

[SNC1923]

http://SNC1923.smugmug.com/photos/220786099-L.jpg (http://snc1923.smugmug.com/photos/newexif.mg?ImageID=220786099)

Also shot Sunday outside Katy's. I've always been fascinated by these kinds of flowers (I have no idea what it is). The infinite repition of the leaves is amazing. Click for EXIF.

[SNC1923]

http://SNC1923.smugmug.com/photos/220786651-L.jpg (http://snc1923.smugmug.com/photos/newexif.mg?ImageID=220786651)

This is the burial site of Fray Junipero Serra at the Mission at Carmel. He aspired to die a martyr but was cheated of that fate and died a peaceful, harmonious death. Click for EXIF.

Though not tack-sharp, this photo was taken hand-held at 1/4 sec. (albeit with a image stablized lens) It is one of six shots, as I was having to take these without looking through the viewfinder.

[bricciphoto]

I've always been fascinated by these kinds of flowers (I have no idea what it is). The infinite repition of the leaves is amazing. Click for EXIF.

It's a dahlia (I think), but I have no idea what cultivar. As always, great shots!

How do you embed your EXIF data as a link? I just checked mine on Smugmug and it says I shot my photos on 10/20 :blush , so my camera needs a little calibration. :)

[bricciphoto]

How did you know I'm kept in a box all week and only let out at weekends?

You may have hit on why I prefer it too. It's less 'obvious' than the colour image, which 'gives it all away' immediately. Yep that's probably it. Now back in the box.

I can't tell (no smilies or "frownies"), but I hope my comment didn't offend you. If so, I apologize and ask you to forgive me. For clarification I was speaking about all of the photos posted thus far being in one manner or another "in the box." No one yet, in my humble opinion, has pushed the boundaries technically or aesthetically in a single image and I thought your shot was a highly artistic, yet successful intrepretation.

(For safety and comfort sake, I think from here on I'll keep my thoughts to myself.) :wave

[Voni]

(For safety and comfort sake, I think from here on I'll keep my thoughts to myself.) :wave



No. Please continue to share. We all are richer for it.

Voni
sMiling

[grossjohann]

For safety and comfort sake, I think from here on I'll keep my thoughts to myself. :wave

No. Please continue to share. We all are richer for it.

I'm with Voni, Ben. Part of the fun is in the critique. How are we to see other’s perspectives if we aren’t aware of them? Feedback should be positive when possible, but above-all it should be genuinely intended to improve the photography.

[rocketman]

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/Alex.Grossjohann/PhotoAssignment111007/photo#5131774986409730242"><img src="http://lh4.google.com/Alex.Grossjohann/Rze6KSwv4MI/AAAAAAAAAcE/Swpn9CO0PUI/s800/DSC_5368.JPG" /></a>


Hmmmm, again this week we have some great entries. As someone else stated, I too was thinking that due to the lack of early entries that people were having difficultly finding appropriate subject matter for this assignment, but that now seems not to be the case.

For me the above is my favorite, (with the hand being a close second) the lighting and composition really jumped out at me, I love the way the keyboard draws the viewer into the frame to girl's fingers which almost appear to be buried in the keys as if "melded" to them and the way that takes the viewer up to her face. One really gets a sense of Harmony and Connection, as though the musician and instrument are indeed one. the orange tint to the whole adds softness and mutes the lighting and really helps set the overall mood, one really gets the sense of the concentration of the musician and her involvement with the instrument, I can almost hear the notes being played and reverberating about the space within the shot.

Very Nicely done!

RM

[SNC1923]

How do you embed your EXIF data as a link?

First, you need to paste in your image:

*http://SNC1923.smugmug.com/photos/220787585-L.jpg

You then need to copy the EXIF info. To do that (in SmugMug, press "exif." When the window opens, click on and copy the exif link. Paste that information inside "URL" anchors:

[*URL]http://snc1923.smugmug.com/photos/newexif.mg?ImageID=220787585[*/URL]

You then place image link embedded within:

[*URL=http://snc1923.smugmug.com/photos/newexif.mg?ImageID=220787585*][*IMG]http://SNC1923.smugmug.com/photos/220787585-L.jpg[*/IMG][*/URL]

I've used asterisks to show the code. Remove them and the result, an image linked to your EXIF data, looks like this:

http://SNC1923.smugmug.com/photos/220787585-L.jpg (http://snc1923.smugmug.com/photos/newexif.mg?ImageID=220787585)

I learned this from the Andy, the house pro at SmugMug. To read his more lucid explanation, click here (http://www.dgrin.com/showthread.php?p=54056#post54056).

[Sue]

http://klasjm.smugmug.com/photos/219776066-XL.jpg

Harmony
Lakeside Park
Fond Du Lac, WI

Hit F11 for Full Screen

This has to be my favorite this week. I really like the way the white and blue of the bike are exactly replicated on the Holiday decorations in the background. Perfect harmony with the two main subjects.

Thanks to everyone for their posts this week. This has become my favorite "Go-To" thread.

:clap

[SNC1923]

In addition to thanking everyone for posting their great photos this week, I'd like to also thank the multiple voices offering such insightful commentaries.

:bow

Great stuff.

[rocketman]

In addition to thanking everyone for posting their great photos this week, I'd like to also thank the multiple voices offering such insightful commentaries.

:bow

Great stuff.

While it is generally a real pain, sometimes the results of suffering from dyslexia can be pretty humorous as when I read the above comment, at first glance the word "insightful" came across as "insipid"! :brow I had to do a double take, WHAT?? That certainly doesn't sound like something Tom would say!!??? Then on a second reading I saw it was “insightful” NOT “insipid”! Boy, was THAT a relief! :D

Ha Ha!!!

Too Funny!

RM

[lamble]

I can't tell (no smilies or "frownies"), but I hope my comment didn't offend you. If so, I apologize and ask you to forgive me. For clarification I was speaking about all of the photos posted thus far being in one manner or another "in the box." No one yet, in my humble opinion, has pushed the boundaries technically or aesthetically in a single image and I thought your shot was a highly artistic, yet successful intrepretation.

(For safety and comfort sake, I think from here on I'll keep my thoughts to myself.) :wave


You are apologizing because you actually do believe I live in a box?

Of course it's a joke, I actually live in a cupboard where I have three shelves all to myself and am only let out on alternate weekends!

No offence taken, or even considered.

[lamble]

I have the theme, and the subjects. I just couldn't find a good setup.
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a345/RapidR/PB110005.jpg
The Harmony of a great flight crew, a good conduct ribbon, and the flak that could have ended my fathers life. He is one of the "Boys from Bungay."

RR, Bungay in Essex?

I lived near there. What squadron was he with?

[KBasa]

Jeez, I love these threads.

[Rapid_Roy]

RR, Bungay in Essex?

I lived near there. What squadron was he with?
He flew with the 446th Bombers group (http://www.446bg.com/) and the 389th, as a Left Waist Gunner.

His plane was the Rough Buddy. After he flew 30 missions, he was transferred off that plane. On a mission soon after that, it was shot down with all hands on board.
They flew in the lead on every mission, and he was on the plane that had the radar on it. He has some great stories. Like how they referred to Ladies of ill repute as Picadilly Commandos. At first, Americans were Overpaid, oversexed and over here, but once the Yanks started buying rounds for their English buddies, friendships soon formed. I have heard there is a museum over there for the men of the 446 Bombers group. I would like to see it someday. If you have any relatives that could take pictures even, my dad would probably like to see them.

[lamble]

http://lamble.smugmug.com/photos/221057063-M.jpg

Obviously I was just trying to elevate my status by saying I had a cupboard!

Please note the styrofoam furniture...I call them scatter cushions.
Anyone want to visit?

[lamble]

He flew with the 446th Bombers group (http://www.446bg.com/) and the 389th, as a Left Waist Gunner.

His plane was the Rough Buddy. After he flew 30 missions, he was transferred off that plane. On a mission soon after that, it was shot down with all hands on board.
They flew in the lead on every mission, and he was on the plane that had the radar on it. He has some great stories. Like how they referred to Ladies of ill repute as Picadilly Commandos. At first, Americans were Overpaid, oversexed and over here, but once the Yanks started buying rounds for their English buddies, friendships soon formed. I have heard there is a museum over there for the men of the 446 Bombers group. I would like to see it someday. If you have any relatives that could take pictures even, my dad would probably like to see them.


That was my thinking too. I'll see if I can get someone to pay a visit...no promises tough as I can't commit other folk on their behalf. Let's see what we can do.

[rocketman]

http://lamble.smugmug.com/photos/221057063-M.jpg

Obviously I was just trying to elevate my status by saying I had a cupboard!

Please note the styrofoam furniture...I call them scatter cushions.
Anyone want to visit?


very nice! I see you even have a patio with a view! I'm SO jelious. :D

RM

[lamble]

very nice! I see you even have a patio with a view! I'm SO jelious. :D

RM

In the winter, I'm allowed to bring my box indoors!!

When I say indoors, obviously I mean the garage.

It's a fold down patio...deluxe box model.

[Rapid_Roy]

That was my thinking too. I'll see if I can get someone to pay a visit...no promises tough as I can't commit other folk on their behalf. Let's see what we can do.

That would be really decent of you.
My wife works in a Warehouse. I'd like to see what I can do to help you upgrade your box for a second floor...........but that's another story. *drum riff with cymbal*

[rocketman]

In the winter, I'm allowed to bring my box indoors!!

When I say indoors, obviously I mean the garage.

It's a fold down patio...deluxe box model.


As Mortormore Shizzenhop once quoted as saying
“Never question the veracity of a man who lives in a box, for certainly……















This is Tuesday, isn’t it?”


And now back to your regularly scheduled program...... already in hijack…:D

RM

[lamble]

That would be really decent of you.
My wife works in a Warehouse. I'd like to see what I can do to help you upgrade your box for a second floor...........but that's another story. *drum riff with cymbal*

I count myself lucky to have a box. I upgraded from

http://lamble.smugmug.com/photos/221071291-M.jpg


A paper bag!

This could degenrate into the Yorkshiremen sketch

[franze]

No pix from me this week, I was off an an adventure to be posted at a later date, BUT, I'd like to tip my lens cap to the aviator. A real hero, I salute you. What a great role model for a father, I can tell that by looking at him, gentle hands. Also, REALLY liked the lighting and unposed shot of the girl at the piano. That's a Hallmark card shot. Very mellow, really sets the mood, I think that came from Big John. Keep the pix coming

[Rapid_Roy]

No pix from me this week, I was off an an adventure to be posted at a later date, BUT, I'd like to tip my lens cap to the aviator. A real hero, I salute you. What a great role model for a father, I can tell that by looking at him, gentle hands. Also, REALLY liked the lighting and unposed shot of the girl at the piano. That's a Hallmark card shot. Very mellow, really sets the mood, I think that came from Big John. Keep the pix coming
Thank you. Despite me being me, I turned out pretty good because of him.
As the song says "his hands were gentle, his hands were strong."

[bricciphoto]

This has to be my favorite this week. I really like the way the white and blue of the bike are exactly replicated on the Holiday decorations in the background. Perfect harmony with the two main subjects.

Thanks to everyone for their posts this week. This has become my favorite "Go-To" thread.

:clap

The one thing I really noticed in both of Beerteam's shots this week was they were shot on what many would consider a dreary colorless day, yet the dreariness was minimized and the colorless sky wasn't allowed to dominate the overall composition or mood--and he found color and used it as a form of harmony. Low contrast, white bland skies can be killers in wide perspective shots and Beerteam used it to his advantage. Last week his shots exploited exactly the opposite environmental conditions (high contrast with directional golden light)--pretty slick! :thumb

[rocketman]

moved to the anarchy thread....

RM

[BeerTeam]

The one thing I really noticed in both of Beerteam's shots this week was they were shot on what many would consider a dreary colorless day, yet the dreariness was minimized and the colorless sky wasn't allowed to dominate the overall composition or mood--and he found color and used it as a form of harmony. Low contrast, white bland skies can be killers in wide perspective shots and Beerteam used it to his advantage. Last week his shots exploited exactly the opposite environmental conditions (high contrast with directional golden light)--pretty slick! :thumb


Thanks Ben,

Last weekend, cloudy both days. Saturday was a good photo day. Sunday was heavy clouds on my ride to Horicon National Wildlife Refuse. The clouds were of the dark type and I deleted all photos. With a good telephoto I would of had photos of tundra swans and sandhill cranes. I did find about 10 miles of nice gravel to ride.

I enjoy your photo reviews. Also enjoy Knary, RM, Bluestune, Kbasa and the rest of the folks who feel like stepping up to review. I also enjoy the non tech reviews by Voni, Sue, RV and the many others who just give the shots a thumbs up review.

Very soon, my photo rides will be over for the year, and it will be time to do some ride reports of the photos. I will use my energies to organize my 11,199 photos uploaded to Smugmug. These photos need captions, keywords and organizing.


Santa

[grossjohann]

Hmmmm, again this week we have some great entries. As someone else stated, I too was thinking that due to the lack of early entries that people were having difficultly finding appropriate subject matter for this assignment, but that now seems not to be the case.

For me the above is my favorite, (with the hand being a close second) the lighting and composition really jumped out at me, I love the way the keyboard draws the viewer into the frame to girl's fingers which almost appear to be buried in the keys as if "melded" to them and the way that takes the viewer up to her face. One really gets a sense of Harmony and Connection, as though the musician and instrument are indeed one. the orange tint to the whole adds softness and mutes the lighting and really helps set the overall mood, one really gets the sense of the concentration of the musician and her involvement with the instrument, I can almost hear the notes being played and reverberating about the space within the shot.

Very Nicely done!

RM



Wow! Thanks, RM. She and I have been having a lot of fun with these assignments. We have been also working on piano and other percussion instruments, so this is pretty much the scene after dinner in our house. I wish I could say this shot was 100% spontaneous... Though she was at the piano and I did not pose her, I did ask her to stay perfectly still so that I could take the shot without a flash (1 second exposure at F/6.3).

Here's another version which is a bit more posed since I asked her to move her hair...

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/Alex.Grossjohann/PhotoAssignment111007/photo#5131774939165089970"><img src="http://lh5.google.com/Alex.Grossjohann/Rze6Hiwv4LI/AAAAAAAAAb8/oAcHvTamHEw/s144/DSC_5369.JPG" /></a>


I liked your shots of the Frank Loyd Wright house. He was a remarkable "artist" and this building shows that he was not only interested in his art, but also in practical architectural suggestions which could add aesthetic surroundings to those who otherwise might not think they could afford it. The weathered building sits unobtrusively in its surroundings.

I also like your second shot of some of the detail. Obsession to the last detail! I can relate to this... I renovated my house and every outlet, light switch, and door-jam has its screws aligned.

<img src="http://roadrunes.com/images3/MOA-assignments/Pope-Liehey-house-1.jpg" width=200 height=134> <img src="http://roadrunes.com/images3/MOA-assignments/P-L-Detail-2.jpg" width=150 height=372>

I think your best this week is "Entry Three". I'm a real sucker from B&W, and the angles of the window and stairs contrast nicely with the drapery.

<img src="http://roadrunes.com/images3/MOA-assignments/garden-window-bw.jpg" width=200 htight=299>


Tom's "Nature's Reiteration" is one of my favorites. Firstly, its been a while since I've seen anything bloom, and secondly it reminds me of Georgia O'Keefe (less the metaphorical depiction of female anatomy). Since it was taken in RAW format I suppose it could be enlarged to 30x20 which would look great on display.

<img src="http://snc1923.smugmug.com/photos/220786099-L.jpg" width=200 height=133>

My other favorites are the two from Dave. I really enjoy the movement of the water through the steel and, as many have already commented, the chain is one of the nicest "rainy-day" shots I have ever seen.

<img src="http://kbasa.smugmug.com/photos/219895730-XL.jpg" width=128 height=192> <img src="http://kbasa.smugmug.com/photos/219893040-XL.jpg" width=128 height=192>


-Alex

[rocketman]

Wow! Thanks, RM. She and I have been having a lot of fun with these assignments. We have been also working on piano and other percussion instruments, so this is pretty much the scene after dinner in our house. I wish I could say this shot was 100% spontaneous... Though she was at the piano and I did not pose her, I did ask her to stay perfectly still so that I could take the shot without a flash (1 second exposure at F/6.3).


While spontaneous shots are always fun and have their challenge, "composed" shots have their own challenges, I wish I were better at that kind of shot, it takes not only a great imagination but a lot of unique technical skills. Certainly not something that needs 'qualifying", though its always of value an interest to know something of how the shot came about. Being rather on shy side myself working with people is really difficult for me, guess that’s why my people shots are all candid’s. :D


I liked your shots of the Frank Loyd Wright house. He was a remarkable "artist" and this building shows that he was not only interested in his art, but also in practical architectural suggestions which could add aesthetic surroundings to those who otherwise might not think they could afford it. The weathered building sits unobtrusively in its surroundings.
Alex


F L Wright has always been my favorite architect, an old family friend gave his copy of a series of lectures Mr. Wright gave at Princeton University back in the 30’s (?) There is one passage that exemplifies his approach to architecture and what set him apart from all the others. Basically he believed that “In architecture one does not start out with “Style”, rather “Style” is the result one ends up with”. In his day that was a very radical approach to building design, while everyone else was building “Gothic” or “Roman” or what have you his designs reflected the environment, the owner, and function they were to serve. Thus was “modern” architecture born and for me, this explains the diveristy of his designs, and why he was as much an artist as an archetect.

He also loved cantilevers as can be seen in this building. "Support the center and let the ends hang free". In this house there are only four support points, forming a square in the center, the rest of the structure and walls are all floating and “hang” from the roof beams. Very well suited to "opening" up the sturcture as some of the walls in the corners are doors that can be opened up so that the "corner" disapears. Very Kool idea and makes for a nice airy feeling, the outside and inside become one as it were.
And in earth-quake prone areas, cantilevers are a much better design, not that we have to worry about that here.

OK, I'll shut up now...:D (see what happens when you get me started on one of my favorite topics? I seriously considered going into that field because of him..)

RM

[PGlaves]

I have to ask you folks a question.

How do you get more than one photo attachment inserted in a single post?

I've tried (on a different thread) and it seems to only allow a single attachment.

Thanks.

[Rapid_Roy]

I believe it is because the forum software only allows on attachment per post.
To show multiple pictures, you need a free account from Smugmug, photobucket, or other various online photo sharing sites, or your own web server. Then you can cut and paste the links to the images in the post multiple times.
Try quoting somebody else's post to see what they did.
That sometimes works too.

[SNC1923]

I have to ask you folks a question.

How do you get more than one photo attachment inserted in a single post?

I've tried (on a different thread) and it seems to only allow a single attachment.

Thanks.

Hey Paul,

The key word here is attachment.

If you look closely, some folks are attaching their photo to their post. It is inside a box and it says "attachment" at the top.

Other folks "link" their photos to a website, usually a photo-hosting website like Smugmug (though any website will work).

If you link a photo you can attach several. There is a limit of 20 images (smilies, etc.) in any given post. If you attach, there is a limit of one.

If you notice on my feedback posts, I actually have downloaded the attached images to my own website so that I can link them in a multiple-photo thread.

You guys might look into a smugmug account. It's a great service. There's a bunch of free ones, too.

Hope this clears things up.

[SNC1923]

I believe it is because the forum software only allows on attachment per post.

Roy,

Curse your speedy, succinct, and cogent replies!

: shaking fist

[Rapid_Roy]

Roy,

Curse your speedy, succinct, and cogent replies!

: shaking fist
I am sorry, but nobody has ever accused me of that before. Let me just bask in that for a bit.

[Rapid_Roy]

Actually, I got some software from Josh that alerts me when anybody I set it to posts.
I wonder what he uses that for?:laugh[/complete fabrication]

[lamble]

[SIZE="3"]
Sunday was heavy clouds on my ride to Horicon National Wildlife Refuse.


I know that typos are usually let go, but I love the idea of a special wildlife park where all the animals are rubbish...a rabbit with mange, a squirrel that has vertigo, ducks with inflatable rings on their wings, a lion with false teeth, a giraffe with lots of double chins, or finally a chameleon that was grey...all wildlife refuse. That would have been a brilliant photo opportunity.
Sorry to take the P**s but it gave me a chuckle, so thanks.

[rocketman]

I am sorry, but nobody has ever accused me of that before. Let me just bask in that for a bit.

well, considering you have a gun pointed at our collective heads, what is he gonna say?:bow

:D

RM

[rocketman]

I know that typos are usually let go, but I love the idea of a special wildlife park where all the animals are rubbish...a rabbit with mange, a squirrel that has vertigo, ducks with inflatable rings on their wings, a lion with false teeth, a giraffe with lots of double chins, or finally a chameleon that was grey...all wildlife refuse. That would have been a brilliant photo opportunity.
Sorry to take the P**s but it gave me a chuckle, so thanks.


i just spewd my soup all over my keyboard! Too funny, that's the kind of typo I'd make, spell check says its a word but it won't tell you its the WRONG one! Ha Ha! (your comment is either "insipid" or "inspired" depending on how one reads it. Ha Ha!)

RM

[Rapid_Roy]

well, considering you have a gun pointed at our collective heads, what is he gonna say?:bow

:D

RM
Sure, hold that against me. Point taken.

[Sue]

... Very soon, my photo rides will be over for the year, and it will be time to do some ride reports of the photos. I will use my energies to organize my 11,199 photos uploaded to Smugmug. These photos need captions, keywords and organizing.



If you ever decide to take this to a publisher and make a coffee table book, I want one. Seriously.

[SNC1923]

If you ever decide to take this to a publisher and make a coffee table book, I want one. Seriously.

These are easily accomplished nowadays. iPhoto allows you to produce a book online which they will print and send to you in a few weeks. I know there are a number of other sources as well.

Look at that! We're all publishers.

[SNC1923]

Sure, hold that against me. Point taken.

Bring back Homer. One of my favorite avatars.

[SNC1923]

i just spewd my soup all over my keyboard! Too funny. . . .

+1 :rofl :rofl :rofl

Lamble's a bit of a wag, no?

[rocketman]

Sure, hold that against me. Point taken.


please understand I was joking all in good fun, your avitar in NO WAY offended me, in fact I thought it was kinda fun. (though I did tend to move to one side when reading your posts! Ha Ha!) So no I wasn't making any point at all just joking around!!:D :D :D

RM

[rocketman]

Bring back Homer. One of my favorite avatars.

+1

RM

(I'm a big cartoon fan, just ask my kids, in fact I collect them, esp old ones from the days of Merry Melodies, Harmonizing , Bob Clampet Fleisher Brother’s Popeye, Betty Boop (what a hottie she was!) my daughter when young even used to make me the "vice principal in charge of cartoons” when playing school with her friends! Ha Ha!)

[Rapid_Roy]

please understand I was joking all in good fun, your avitar in NO WAY offended me, in fact I thought it was kinda fun. (though I did tend to move to one side when reading your posts! Ha Ha!) So no I wasn't making any point at all just joking around!!:D :D :D

RM
I know. I t does seem threatening, but I have no guns (except a .44 black powder muzzle loader). I'll bring Homer back. D'oh!
This one is way too insipid (That's insipid, not inspired)

[BeerTeam]

If you ever decide to take this to a publisher and make a coffee table book, I want one. Seriously.

Sue,

If I get around to doing a coffee table book (http://www.smugmug.com/prints/photo-books), I promise I will have Lamble be my proofreader.

[grossjohann]

I know. I t does seem threatening, but I have no guns (except a .44 black powder muzzle loader). I'll bring Homer back. D'oh!
This one is way too insipid (That's insipid, not inspired)

I kind of liked the golfing hamster...

[SNC1923]

Lots of chatter this week, some really enjoyable banter with quite a few laughs thrown in. More folks are stopping in to offer their 0.02--as BeerTeam points out in one of his posts--and I agree. Thanks one and all.

For whatever it's worth, here's my take on this week's efforts.

http://klasjm.smugmug.com/photos/219439441-XL.jpg

BeerTeam starts us off this week with his take on "harmony." Obviously and apt interpretation and a nice record (no pun intended) of a beautiful piece of artwork. I never know what to make of pictures of pictures, or of statues for that matter. It's well-executed and thoughtfully composed. He has focused on the foreground--BB King and Eric Clapton--rather than the center of the picture, so the focus recedes nicely into the image and the depth of field becomes shallow. It's sharp, clear, well-saturated. . . . Lots of decisions go into a shot like this, believe it or not. Like whether to include the bricks in the left frame, to shoot it at an angle or just a portion of the mural straight on. It's a nice interpretation.

http://SNC1923.smugmug.com/photos/221522201-XL.jpg

Statdawg is back with more Friday night lights. This is an inventive interpretation of harmony and one that fits well, I think. It's also an "insider's view" that not all of us have experienced. The crowd of players in the bottom half of the picture emphasizes harmony and a certain sense of immediacy, too. To nitpick, I would have liked that camera to have been lowered slightly, allowing for more a view of the players and less of the ceiling. Here, dead-center composition doesn't work as well as it might elsewhere. I think seeing the names/numbers of the back row of jerseys may have added some visual interest. Still, a really nice shot, and one that tells a story as well.

http://roadrunes.com/images3/MOA-assignments/Pope-Liehey-house-1.jpg

Rocketman is back with several nice entries. This is a thoughtful execution of the theme. Neither inspired nor insipid, this is just a nice architectural shot encompassing the house's natural surroundings, particularly important for this structure. Seeing the opportunity and taking advantage of the ability to shoot from slightly above offers an atypical architectural view that really works for this photo. Rule of thirds, anyone? Rocketman's got it.

http://roadrunes.com/images3/MOA-assignments/garden-window-bw.jpg

I agree with GrossJohann. This is your best of the three. It's the amazing convergence of various lines in a single image, and the B&W makes it so. If there were color here to deal with, the eye would be overwhelmed. There's no doubt that this is a geometric study, but having found so many from which to choose in so ordinary a place. The repeating vertical lines of the window, the fence posts, the stairs, and even the banister rails along with the diagonal of the banister and the curve of the drapery make this a really complex, dynamic, and even exciting image. I'm not certain that I would characterize these lines as harmonious, but they do demand that I study them. This makes me think of the concept of "found art." It's really nice.

http://kbasa.smugmug.com/photos/219895730-XL.jpg

Kbasa treats us with two interesting images this week, both dynamic still-lifes. The movement within these images is what's of interest, at least to me. The image above is less successful for two reasons. One he points out himself and this is a blurring of the subject. The second reason is: What's the subject? Flowers or garden ornament? They are fighting for my attention. I LOVE the water (blurred with a slow shutter speed) running through the spouts. This would be a wonderful image with the yellow flower removed, or blurred into the background, or something. . . .

http://kbasa.smugmug.com/photos/219893040-XL.jpg

Lots of comments on this image, each of which I agree with. This image, of water running down a taught chain, is really interesting and very unusual and is far more successful for the same reasons that the photo above struggles. Flowers, yes, but in the background where they help the image rather than compete for attention. The DoF is just shallow enough to help the subject pop. It's a great still life, but with motion, and a creative interpretation of the theme. The blurred and translucent drops shooting off of the chain add a kind of texture making this feel a bit like a painting. I see where Dave is coming from when he says this was a challenge to compose, but I like the result. You could have gone horizontal or vertical, but that would have been infinitely less effective. This is one of my favorites this week.

http://SNC1923.smugmug.com/photos/221522225-XL.jpg

BMWDean is back this week with harmony. I agree with his assessment: this ain't a great photo, but it does illustrate harmony. It is, however, a great snapshot. It's a photo of buddies grabbed in a hurry. It could be composed differently, etc., but that's not what this photo is about. What does work amazingly well, and we amateurs can take a lesson from the the use of fill-flash. On almost all digital cameras, the built-in flash can be activated or "forced." When used in bright sunlight, this is the result. A bright, vivid image that looks almost surreal. We aren't used to have perfect illumination in both the background and foreground. The shadows on fellow 2's left arm and on fellow 3's face under his hat show how the flash helps to get rid of shadows while maintaining a somewhat naturalistic light. It's a beautiful exposure and a really nice record. 100 bonus points for having Daryle in another shot with his mouth wide open. Let's see if you can do it again next week; you're on a roll!

http://SNC1923.smugmug.com/photos/221522239-XL.jpg

Right off the bat, widebmw gets 50 bonus points for having harmony at Harmony. That's funny. Being a Death Valley rat, I have visited this site many times, but didn't even think of this until he posted this. It's another snapshot of riding buddies having a good time. What's not to like. Might have been composed differently, perhaps the camera a bit closer to emphasize the bikes/riders? If time allowed and if the effort were warranted, I'd have put the LT on it's center stand or the other two bikes on their side stands, maybe arranging them a bit. Kind of picky, I know. . . . I'd love to boost the contrast, too. This can be adjusted in the camera, or after the fact, too. Looks like a good time. Nice to know such disparate motorcycles can coexist.

http://bricciphoto.smugmug.com/photos/220246564-M.jpg

http://bricciphoto.smugmug.com/photos/220246591-M.jpg

Bricciphoto brings us a couple of neat B&W studies this week. Look at the contrast! These are beautiful exposures. Though I don't care a great deal for the white background, I like the second image much better. I suppose it's the simplicity of the components in the image; perhaps it's a more intriguing mix of tools. This looks more like a surgeon's work space to me. I like that these were photographed top-down rather than at some angle. It may seem an obvious choice, but I've seen lots of other efforts.

https://vspace.vassar.edu/xythoswfs/webui/_xy-1226310_1

I really like this photo. It's an absurdly simple shot and concept, but it works really well. It's an unexpected reflection and the hand is a wondrous study. Talk about the ultimate tool; where we would we be without two? I love the range of light across the back of (I assume) his hand. And that the background is obviously a garage, but doesn't overpower the subject, tells a story in itself. I think it's the illumination that is move fascinating about this image. The lighting is good on the back of and on the palm of this one hand. And how often do you see both the back and palm of the same hand in an image? Really neat stuff. . . .

http://SNC1923.smugmug.com/photos/221558831-XL.jpg

GrossJohann's "Metaphors for the Musician" certainly garnered a great deal of comment this week. I'm not struck by this photo in the way that many others are, but clearly, I'm in the minority here. It is a nice photo. That it is staged rather than spontaneous is a testament to photographer and subject. It's a great study of a beautiful girl studying her scales. I do prefer the shot posted later with her hair swept away from her face. Congratulations on a successful and obviously well-liked photo.

http://SNC1923.smugmug.com/photos/221558838-XL.jpg

I much preferred this shot. The lighting here is exquisite. The DoF is manipulated to great effect here with the foreground and background receding beautifully into buttery softness. It's a great still-life of an ordinary subject rendered in a most artistic way. The stark, black background only serves to accentuate the subject. This is a really, really nice shot.

[SNC1923]

http://SNC1923.smugmug.com/photos/221522252-XL.jpg

Stuff2C stops in this week with a humorous image. This little rider, who also appears to be in his avatar, is obviously a person of great interest. This is ultimately a snapshot and might have been composed differently in a thousand different ways. Just the absurdity of the grossly oversized helmet and gloves makes you chuckle. This little one would just about fit in that tankbag. And there's a story here about two riders bonding, vastly different in age but sharing very similar interests. . . . Fun picture and a happy memory I'm sure.

http://mls2go.smugmug.com/photos/220384975-L.jpg

Harmony? In MLS2GO's garage, apparently. This is a fun picture, a driveway snapshot, and one that tells a story we're all interested in. One small thing I would have done would be to take one step back so as not to cut off the RT's windscreen. While I was at it, I may have squatted down to look at it from a different perspective. The RT is a fickle bike and does not photograph well from some angles. This is a flattering view for both bikes, but lacks drama. Great exposure on what appears to be an overcast day.

http://i186.photobucket.com/albums/x55/k12rider/photo%20assignments/DSC01159.jpg

JohnF DID think about this perspective and shot his LT from down low. Better? That's subjective. I think more interesting at least. An interesting, off-kilter composition with a literal interpretation of the theme. Looks like a pleasant ride destination. Not sure what to do with the parking space line jutting into the photo. It's dramatic but perhaps out of place? May not have been avoidable.

http://mls2go.smugmug.com/photos/220395890-L.jpg

MLS2GO has another entry this week that's really interesting. Knowing this is a Veteran's Day gathering is interesting. The contrast of transportation modes: motorcycle, walker, and wheelchair is quite poignant. Maybe I'm reading too much into it, but that's what strikes me. Much may have been done with this if the subjects would have posed, but that's something I rarely myself do. Interesting study.

http://klasjm.smugmug.com/photos/219776066-XL.jpg

This shot bears worth repeating simply because it's so damned technically excellent. Its symmetry, its bold subject placement, its unusual background. . . . It's a compelling image. Sue calls attention to something I completely overlooked, the repetition of colors in the bike and the background. This image also garnered much well-deserved discussion.

http://klasjm.smugmug.com/photos/219772754-XL.jpg

Again, I appear to be in the minority in that I prefer this second image. Much more dramatic and an image that invited interpretation or begs for a story. It's also a highly symmetrical composition, but less rigidly so by virtue of the tree on the left. Still the symmetry is compelling and the lines of the bridge don't lead the eye, they suck it into the picture. Very powerful. The sky is bleak, but that works for this image. No people, a gray day, what is that bike doing in the park? I really like this image.

http://SNC1923.smugmug.com/photos/221522184-XL.jpg

Voni's back this week with a submission I'll call "Guess Which Bike is Voni's." That might be a great regular feature, like "Where's Waldo?" This is a fun image, a good memory, an excellent interpretation of harmony: riders enjoying riding. The HD's unusual green color-scheme adds to this photo somehow. I've commented in the past how Voni might have composed a given image better; however, this image is beautifully composed. It really works well and leads the eye through the shot. Very nicely done, Voni. Good exposure, too, in what appears to be some difficult lighting.

http://roadrunes.com/images3/winter-ride-1-07/horse-1.jpg

Rocketman (who is NOT a post-whore) comes in with one more of pastoral harmony. This is a beautiful shot. I appreciate his explanation of how he set this up and the trouble he went to just to find the right vantage point to show his viewer the subject he saw. It would have been nice if the truck had moved, but how long can you wait? It works just fine. Beautiful saturation and color. Look at that horse! Tiny as he is, he pops out of the photo and is difficult to miss. The dead-center composition of the structure was taking a chance, but here it works. Maybe it's the meandering fence line, I don't know. Perhaps the trees in the background. Really nice work.

http://lamble.smugmug.com/photos/220582375-M.jpg

Lamble's second entry this week is also the one I prefer. I appreciate the depth of his metaphorical interpretations on this photo. I do see why he prefers this one, I think. The color in the first photo distracts from its simplicity (as it would have in Rocketman's garden window). Also, in the color shot (like Kbasa's rainspout/flower study) the brake rotor fights for dominance. Although blurred, it consumes too much of the frame. In the B&W, the wheel weight is partially obscured by the spokes, but they are delicate enough (and out of focus enough) not to interfere to the point of distraction. This is yet another photo of an especially mundane subject that becomes fascinating by virtue of one photographer's willingness to study it. Another point in this image's favor is its horizontal rather than vertical composition. The width of the image helps to accentuate the curve of the wheel, adding an element of visual interest. The lighting, IMHO, is actually superior in the second image. More shadows, more depth, more texture, more character, and yet, notice, one hardly falls on the subject, the weight. How the spokes all converge at one point in another element of visual interest. I could go on. . . . This is such a simple study and yet it invites all manner of interpretation and contains any number of surprises. Very, very cool indeed.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2418/1991875098_000b0d3245_b.jpg

Dogeye joins us this week with "boxer and bails." This is another pasoral wonder. I love the composition and the subject matter. This is one of those shots that looks like a BMW brochure, inviting the viewer to hop on and take the bike for a dash down some country roads. It's a beautiful bike, BTW; love the paint scheme. You'll notice that this is shot almost directly into the sun, immensely difficult lighting. He handles is well. I'm going to go out on a limb here and guess that he used a fill flash. I don't know how else to explain the vivid detail in the tank that should be in shadow. Maybe he'll set me straight if I'm wrong. Neat shot.

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a345/RapidR/PB110005.jpg

I appreciate Roy sharing his dad with us, especially on Veteran's Day. My Dad was a career naval officer of 23 years, but he's been gone now for 14. . . . Shots like this always make me think of him. I can't hardly watch the first ten minutes of Saving Private Ryan as the older actor reminds me so much of him.

But I digress. . . .

This is a staged shot and one that certainly tells a story. What if the photo had been made large in the foreground with your Dad looking on? Maybe the medal in front of the photo? the cows obviously don't work, but sometimes you've got to work with what you've got to work with. I'm not criticizing this effort, just what iffing. Also notice the weird halo behind him. This is apparently a reflection of the table top? You never know where these are going to bounce up.

Years from now you'll appreciate this photo even more than you probably do now. Treasure your father and know how lucky you are to have him.

http://lamble.smugmug.com/photos/221057063-M.jpg

Lamble gets 1,000 bonus points for making me spew coffee. Keep posting, mate. You're a hail fellow well met!

Another nice week! Thanks for everyone's contributions: photos, comments, and criticque. It's all good. :clap

[Rapid_Roy]

I appreciate Roy sharing his dad with us, especially on Veteran's Day. My Dad was a career naval officer of 23 years, but he's been gone now for 14. . . . Shots like this always make me think of him. I can't hardly watch the first ten minutes of Saving Private Ryan as the older actor reminds me so much of him.

But I digress. . . .

This is a staged shot and one that certainly tells a story. What if the photo had been made large in the foreground with your Dad looking on? Maybe the medal in front of the photo? the cows obviously don't work, but sometimes you've got to work with what you've got to work with. I'm not criticizing this effort, just what iffing. Also notice the weird halo behind him. This is apparently a reflection of the table top? You never know where these are going to bounce up.

Years from now you'll appreciate this photo even more than you probably do now. Treasure your father and know how lucky you are to have him.

Thank you Tom. I was looking for some ideas for set-up, almost too much effort. I also didn't want to put my Dad through too many paces. I did have him pose several different ways, I just couldn't find it. The Halo is from the round light over the table, but that is the brightest light we had and that was the best (cleanest?) spot in the house.:laugh

[SNC1923]

. . . but that is the brightest light we had and that was the best (cleanest?) spot in the house.:laugh

Boy, do I know what THAT's about. Thank YOU for such a neat image.

[thtduck]

Loved the critique and commentary here! I've been posting photos on Flickr for years and this is a another dimension here. Great pictures, Thanks.

Just about died when I saw the wheel weights series as that thought ran through my mind as a picture for this assignment (I just mounted an balance a new rear tire). Must admit it was quickly abandoned because I didn't I could pull it off. Nice to see it was done nicely.

Link to my picture (http://www.flickr.com/photos/htimberlake/1991875098/) with EXIF data (http://www.flickr.com/photo_exif.gne?id=1991875098). Flash didn't fire so can't explain the tank detail. Took several shots though letting the camera take light readings from different areas.

[RandallIsland]

Thanks for the feedback Tom!
I wanted to spend more time making that a better shot, but... where is Mr. Metzger these days ... I think I spent way to much time trying to
get the shot I wanted, but with poor lighting. One hour set-up is my killswitch max.
Thanks again!
Best,
R

BTW: that's not a garage proper, it's my living room... :D

[KBasa]

I learn a little something every week, I have to confess.

In my real life, I do training. Last week, I was in PHX teaching people to demonstrate a database and talk about how it works. During the training, I showed them how to perform the demo and then had each of them do it for the entire class.

At the end, they all agreed that while they were somewhat hesitant to talk in front of everyone, they learned the most by watching each other go through it.

I get the same thing from this most excellent weekly thread.

:thumb :thumb

Nicely done, Tom. And everybody that shot something and presented this week taught me something as well. :thumb

[SNC1923]

BTW: that's not a garage proper, it's my living room... :D

:blush

[KBasa]

These are easily accomplished nowadays. iPhoto allows you to produce a book online which they will print and send to you in a few weeks. I know there are a number of other sources as well.

Look at that! We're all publishers.

I took pictures of a friend's wedding and sent them a book afterwards. They were thrilled. I waited long enough that I was able to include a picture of their newborn daughter as the last page. :D

[lamble]

SNC,

Thanks for "getting" it.

[grossjohann]

I much preferred this shot. The lighting here is exquisite. The DoF is manipulated to great effect here with the foreground and background receding beautifully into buttery softness. It's a great still-life of an ordinary subject rendered in a most artistic way. The stark, black background only serves to accentuate the subject. This is a really, really nice shot.


Thanks for the review, Tom.

I'm really glad this one caught your eye. It actually took several attempts to get this shot. The lighting is the sun as it sets over a ridge to the west of our house, so the light is only "just right" for about one minute each day. I started on Saturday evening, and while I thought I had it, some of the woodwork in the piano was cut off.

I made sure to be home on Sunday to try again which paid off. I have some others which show the sun with more intensity. Whils I really like the more orange lighting, the shadow of the window framing was distracting, and it was less soft.

The wall in the background is actually a deep red, but there is a column to the left of the piano which casts a great shadow. Some of the other brighter shots show some color in the background, which is another reason why I waited for this one.

I believe I posted several weeks ago that I rarely revisit an image; i either have it or not. Well I suppose I'm learning.

Thanks, guys.

-Alex

[rocketman]

These get better each week, more participation, the expanding variety of interpretations of the theme, the reviews and commentary with folks becoming more comfortable and willing to add their view of what makes or breaks a particular shot as each becomes more comfortable with the group and willing to “expose” themselves through those comments and photographs. All makes for great fun and a good learning experience. Thanks again to all and esp. Tom for his efforts!:clap :clap

RM

(taken as whole, a better example of Harmony I can't think of!):buds

[rocketman]

Some just pointed me to this site a Nikon D80 or Cannon rebel XTi for only $209!!! (body only) or a D200 for $459!! Yikes! Quick everyone, THE ROCKETMAN NEEDS YOUR HELP! Please provide me with good excuses to by another Nikon body!!!:D that D200 with the magnesium body (instead of the plastic D80), boy would that fit nicely on the bike! It DOES get kinda bumpy on some of those back roads I like!:D )

Seriously though that seems like a pretty good deal on bodys and they seem to have some good prices on packages and on lens (unless the prices overall have dropped recently, heck I paid 800 plus for my D80 with the "kit" lens just shy of a year ago) sooooo.........
anyone thinking going to a DSLR who's been putting off, you got on excuses now :stick

RM

[cjack]

Some just pointed me to this site a Nikon D80 or Cannon rebel XTi for only $209!!! (body only) or a D200 for $459!! Yikes! Quick everyone, THE ROCKETMAN NEEDS YOUR HELP! Please provide me with good excuses to by another Nikon body!!!:D that D200 with the magnesium body (instead of the plastic D80), boy would that fit nicely on the bike! It DOES get kinda bumpy on some of those back roads I like!:D )

Seriously though that seems like a pretty good deal on bodys and they seem to have some good prices on packages and on lens (unless the prices overall have dropped recently, heck I paid 800 plus for my D80 with the "kit" lens just shy of a year ago) sooooo.........
anyone thinking going to a DSLR who's been putting off, you got on excuses now :stick

RM


I saw that site. I guess that it would not have a battery, charger and cord, strap, usb cable, CDs, etc. with it. They say 1 year USA warranty and free MP3 player...heh...sounds sort of ok. Maybe the strip these out of 18-135 kits and have enough of a market for the lens, etc. It says no charge until they ship. Also with checks and MO, 2 to 4 weeks until they ship. One thing I wonder about are the testimonials. Can this be shill testimony?. Another site has the same price at 209 but wants 509 with a 28-80 lens and a digital camera case. Wonder what makes the case digital.
I suppose for 209 you can well take a chance. Even if you lose the 209, it might be worth the risk. And I could be too suspicious. Just seems that it is too far from list to be without a catch.
I like to deal with a store that answers the phone when I call, is on a street with an open door five or six days a week with people who have worked there for decades behind the counter. I ordered a Ham radio in Indy (130 miles east of me) once and had a problem with it (looked new but was used like a demo) and the store wanted to charge me for another until I shipped the first one back. I told them I would be in their store in about 2 hours and get the new one ready for me. Lots of excuses, etc. I still don't know if they were honest about it, but I do like the option of personal contact. I never bought anything else there. I went back to the Milwaukee Ham Radio store (Amateur Electronic Supply) where I never had a problem, although they charged a bit more.

[bricciphoto]

Thanks again for your thoughts and comments Tom. You touched on the one thing I would tweak a bit in my submissions. Although they were shot straight down and mostly parallel to the ground (hand held), I would have liked to put the camera on a tripod, use a polarizer (even though it was an overcast day), then really nail the exposure with maximum DoF just to maximize the details in the tools, etc.

I'd also like to say, I agree with everything you said about RapidRoy's shot of his dad, but somehow (after thinking about all the other ways it could have been composed*), I think the simplicity of the environment makes it work and it really emphasizes the humble disposition his dad is projecting about a very proud accomplishment. And the photo his dad is holding looks like a great photograph in its own right. I'd love to see it up close.

Another good week!

*Roy one thing you could have tried, although I know it will sound counter intuitive is either put you dad in front of a darkened room (minimizing distractions from normal living space stuff) allowing whatever natural light is available to filter in (or as a last resort put him in front of a window at sufficient distance to allow the camera to blur the background), then compose him exactly as you have him in your submission. I know it's almost impossible to find blank/open spaces in a house, but sometimes darkness or light can be a backdrop in a pinch. It's a terrific photo as is, so take my suggestion as one of those things to tuck away for future reference. When I did newspaper work we frequently got sent out on assignments to capture shots of folks like your dad for features and it was ALWAYS a challenge to find a good environment in most homes. Editors HATED real life getting in the shots. :wave

[Rapid_Roy]

Thank you Ben. One thing I have learned from this is I don't have the photographer "eye." It is much harder for me to set up shots, than I thought it would be.

Here is a photo, but not the photo.
http://www.446bg.com/photos/crew/knopf_crew.jpg
My father had 2, 4X3(?) and 8X10.
When I get home, I will post the 8X10 in the anarchy thread.
That is the one he is posing with.
The photo above at the site http://www.446bg.com/
I had sent it because they were asking for photos and bios and stories.
It is pretty interesting.

[SNC1923]

Some just pointed me to this site a Nikon D80 or Cannon rebel XTi for only $209!!! (body only) or a D200 for $459!! Yikes! Quick everyone, THE ROCKETMAN NEEDS YOUR HELP! Please provide me with good excuses to by another Nikon body!!!:D that D200 with the magnesium body (instead of the plastic D80), boy would that fit nicely on the bike! It DOES get kinda bumpy on some of those back roads I like!:D )

Seriously though that seems like a pretty good deal on bodys and they seem to have some good prices on packages and on lens (unless the prices overall have dropped recently, heck I paid 800 plus for my D80 with the "kit" lens just shy of a year ago) sooooo.........
anyone thinking going to a DSLR who's been putting off, you got on excuses now :stick

RM

I don't know what site you're referring to, so I'm shooting in the dark here. . . .


If a price seems to good to be true, it probably is.
Check B&H Photo or Canoga Camera. Their prices are the lowest legitemate prices that I can find. Anything lower, I'd bet something is wrong.
I read from a reputable source that there is a concentration of nefarious storefronts--I believe in Brooklyn--that are known for taking your money and either not delivering the goods or delivering something other than what was promised.


Caveat emptor, my friend. Jack's advice above is solid.

Oh, and for what it's worth, money aside, you definitely should get a new camera. No question about it. Life's too short not to keep your equipment up to date.

[Rapid_Roy]

.....
Seriously though that seems like a pretty good deal on bodys and they seem to have some good prices on packages and on lens (unless the prices overall have dropped recently, heck I paid 800 plus for my D80 with the "kit" lens just shy of a year ago) sooooo.........
anyone thinking going to a DSLR who's been putting off, you got on excuses now :stick

RM
How about: "I don't have 209 or 459 dollars?" That seems like a good excuse to me.
:stick

[rocketman]

I don't know what site you're referring to, so I'm shooting in the dark here. . . .


If a price seems to good to be true, it probably is.
Check B&H Photo or Canoga Camera. Their prices are the lowest legitemate prices that I can find. Anything lower, I'd bet something is wrong.
I read from a reputable source that there is a concentration of nefarious storefronts--I believe in Brooklyn--that are known for taking your money and either not delivering the goods or delivering something other than what was promised.


Caveat emptor, my friend. Jack's advice above is solid.

Oh, and for what it's worth, money aside, you definitely should get a new camera. No question about it. Life's too short not to keep your equipment up to date.


yeah, I hear that! I was really being only half serious (i.e. help me find an excuse to by another Nikon) and would question such myself, but having lens and everything else plus extra batteries blah blah, another body would be nice...

For a first buy, I too would only go where I can get a hands on feel for the item, whatever it was. Guess the tougue-in-cheek didn't come across to well, eh? (note, I didn't post the web site either)

but yeah a D200 hmmmmm.......

Sorry about that folks....:bow :deal

RM

(I also know of a great price for land in the artic :D )

[SNC1923]

Sorry about that folks....:bow :deal

You sound kind of down, RM. You should go buy yourself a new camera.

:brow :whistle :laugh :stick :heh :rofl


:wave

[rocketman]

You sound kind of down, RM. You should go buy yourself a new camera.

:brow :whistle :laugh :stick :heh :rofl


:wave

HA HA!

RM

[cjack]

but having lens and everything else plus extra batteries blah blah, another body would be nice...



I have been there with an extra body. I never used the extra one. I always went for the one I liked the most (best one...however measured). I'm not into photography and haven't done so for many years, but thinking about it again.
I have also tried having two of the exact same things (one for a spare like in bikes), but that doesn't work well for me either. No two of the same are really the same and I have to force myself to use the other for awhile and then I'm ok with it (talking bikes here now). YMMV, but that seems to be the way I am. My wife thinks it is a good thing...heh.
I guess if I were wanting to back up my camera (not being on a moon trip or anything) I would save my money and if the one broke, just order another overnight or something with the money I saved up. Same thinking goes for extended warranties.
Oh and thanks for this post, though. I found it interesting. I had been looking at those sites recently and opted out of the really low ball prices for reasons stated. I went with an established store on a photographer friends recommendation.

[rocketman]

I have been there with an extra body. I never used the extra one. I always went for the one I liked the most (best one...however measured). I'm not into photography and haven't done so for many years, but thinking about it again.
I have also tried having two of the exact same things (one for a spare like in bikes), but that doesn't work well for me either. No two of the same are really the same and I have to force myself to use the other for awhile and then I'm ok with it (talking bikes here now). YMMV, but that seems to be the way I am. My wife thinks it is a good thing...heh.
I guess if I were wanting to back up my camera (not being on a moon trip or anything) I would save my money and if the one broke, just order another overnight or something with the money I saved up. Same thinking goes for extended warranties.
Oh and thanks for this post, though. I found it interesting. I had been looking at those sites recently and opted out of the really low ball prices for reasons stated. I went with an established store on a photographer friends recommendation.

I hear ya and in part I keep having to remind myself its not like back in the day when you had several bodies because you needed different films in each. With digital you can can change to what you need on the fly, i.e. ISO speed, convert to B&W etc and having now sucessfully cleaned the sensor myself (it ain't THAT hard once you study up on it and have the right tools) which was the one big reason folks I've discussed this multiple body issues with say for having more than one body in regards to changing lens and letting in dust, is kinda moot. Still I worry some about hauling my D80 around in the bike, esp my airhead, it has kind of a harsh ride, or shooting at the beach. It would be nice to have one for not so kind enviornments, and for that kind of price almost worth the risk. My co-worker did say he checked them out and you do get everything that would come in the box from anywhere else, still ???? tempting none the less, but I'm really holding out to get a nice 2.8 F lens.
or another bike, or take another trip or or or....:D

I also learned once again just the day about not going the cheap route.. I went to buy a new tripod, got it home and the pan head was a little flakey so I took it back and then said what the hell... spend anther 40 and got something with better pan head and two handles for tilt and pan and all metal, instead of the cheaper one that had thumb screws for side tilt lock and no level for tilt. All in all a much better tripod. As I told the serivce person on returning the first "I don't why I got this in the first place, its not like I can't afford the better unit!" Duh! guess I'm just getting used to finally being in a posision where I really CAN afford the better stuff, I just happened to have taken the long hard way! (i.e. never did the college thing) so its taking a bit of getting used too! Ha Ha!

sometimes I'm my own worst enemy, :D

RM