Church in RAW

Well had a nice couple of days off with the twins. Decided to get back behind the camera for a change having compiled a short list of places I want to photograph. For the first time ever I set the 40D onto RAW, emptied the memory card and set off. I went to Holy Trinity Church in Short Heath, this place is just aching to be photographed this time of year with all its rich colours. So set about going round the place with what I must say a lens that is becoming a firm favourite of mine the Sigma 10 - 20 f4.5, in fact its not been off a body since I got it.

The weather could have been better, however I ended up with a dull sky, but the purpose of the excercise was twofold, shoot RAW and put into practice what I've learnt from CFF. Well remember all the stuff the memebers had told me about shot at f16, 1/3rd into the frame etc , and this was the result.

Have to say its now convinced me to shoot in RAW apart from say my motorsport and cricket stuff, so there we go another learning curve over the Winter months.

Church
Originally uploaded by jtmwood

mel
Originally uploaded by jtmwood

This is the first initial test shot using the ST-E2 indoors set 4ft away from the subject with the head bounced and diffused, certainly lots to learn.

New Kit

Well my ST-E2 is here and wow. How light is it? About the size of cigarette pack and lighter . Really easy to set up, took a few shots indoors of my racing helmet collection, and a few test shots outdoors. First of all have to play with the settings to turn down the power, secondly its also highlighted that I may need a second flashgun! Ah well the expense never stops I guess............

Well Christmas is looming, heard my first carol today, so the extension tubes can go on the list unless I find some really cheap on Ebay. Alex has had a shake up on CFF and the moderators have been given sections to look after, Ive been given a General role, which is great suits my style. I did an interview on there which seemed to go down quite well and was enjoyable in doing. My favourite question was a night with the woman of your dreams or a lap of the Nurburing.

Sunday I did Hurst Hill on the bike - wow! 42 years old and went up it, thought my heart would jump out of my skull at one point. Mind I did manage 45mph downhill, the ears shut off at 28mph and no sound nor sense - great fun. Fabulous to see peoples faces as you overtake them in their cars!

Camera club was interesting last night I may even get the chance to get out on a weekend and visit some places again to take some pictures.