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?!