Say "Hello" to my Little Friend

A shot of my oldest SS and our precious Orion. As crazy as this shot is, I absolutely love it!

More Randoms

You know...I came to the realization weeks ago that my photos just won't improve until I purchase another lens and a flash. Currently, I am only using my built-in flash (it's good sometimes, but I need a flash that will bounce) and the Quantaray 18-200mm OS.

I purchased it b/c of some reviews and recommendations I've read...that the 18-200mm Nikkor lens was "THE" must have all-around lens. When I compared the Quantaray version to the Nikkor, there wasn't a difference in the photos. So, I saved myself some bucks and purchased the Q version. Yeah...it'll get the job done, but IMO, not well enough. The images aren't particurly sharp, and it's not a fast lens. Even if the shutter speed is increased, this may risk the exposure, resulting in not-so-sharp and underexposed pics. There are a couple of fixes for this, but it's rather bothersome. For instance, if I increase the shutter speed, I could just increase the aperture (which I wouldn't want to do, especially if I'm shooting from a distance). I could also increase the ISO, but that means adjusting the ISO frequently, depending on the shots, and noisier shots. AHHH!!! Why even bother?! I just need a new lens.

While I am drawn to the 17-55mm Nikkor Zoom Lens (it produces sharp images and performs great in low light), that $1300 price tag kills my buzz every time. After doing some research, it seems like the best alternative is the Tamron 17-50mm.

It's merely a third of the cost of the 17-55mm. W/in the next month, I'm going to purchase it along w/ a flash (preferably the SB-800 IF I can find it; it's been hard to find since Nikon discountinued it) so that I can practice on the kids this summer. By this time next year, I would like to transition into people and landscape photography. Eventually, I'll move into wedding photography (my ultimate goal), but I am certain that I need more experience and additional equipment b4 making that leap.

Here is a pic of our Orion over the weekend. He never sits still long enough for me to get any decent shots of him.

Here's a shot of my dad that I took several months ago. He's such a natural thinker; can't you tell?!

Random Shots of My Stepson

These were taken right before we sold our other home.

My First "Wedding"

My coworker/friend recently got married to the love of her life on April 9 at the Durham County Courthouse. I wasn't hired to take the pics, but I figured I would take the opportunity to practice...and of course, capture some special moments for the couple to forever cherish. Here are a few shots from that day.

Trying to Improve

I finally sat myself down recently to focus on my photography and to learn ways to improve my skills. I haven't really taken any pics w/in the past couple of months due to the wedding and my work. As soon as I meet these upcoming deadlines, I will focus more on photographing. By this time next year, I hope to extend to the professional realm of photography.

Currently, I'm focusing on lighting and saturation.

These are a few shots I took in Durham, where I work.

It's All About Me

I practically spend most of my time capturing moments in the lives of others until I don't take the time to freeze moments of my own.  I finally took that time today...

I'm making a vow to take more time for myself in the future...and share those moments.

Did you "ring"?

I had been without my e-ring for a few weeks as it was being repaired.  So, once I got it back from the jeweler, I took a few pics of it w/ my wedding band (that should've been in the box...shhhh).

Just a random shot of a gin bottle that was sitting on our kitchen counter.

Snow White

On Inauguration Day, instead of enjoying the sunny yet breezy weather while sipping on some champagne, we were busy shoveling 4+ inches of snow.  This is the first time in several years since we've received snow of this amount.  It's pretty to look at but a beast to drive in.

A New Man

So, after 3 years and 3 months of growing and maintaining locs, my fiance decided to "start fresh". When I say that he's a new man, I mean just that. It's to the point where it feels like I'm having an affair.lol What a drastic change, I must say. It has been a pleasure getting to know...the locs.

BEFORE

AFTER

So Random...

Here are a few random shots I have taken over the past couple of weeks.

Mmm...mmm...good!!

Two of my gorgeous nephews


Like father, like son

What man doesn't feel powerful while holding a piece of steel?!

Here we are taking a shot of a mistake committed by the builders. Initially, they used a beige outlet cover to camouflage this electrical outlet that was cut INTO the mirror. On this particular day, they switched it to a mirror-style outlet cover. MUCH better!

The youngest of my stepsons

My stepsons

My stepson having a moment w/ himself