First Official Post

Hello everyone. I decided to create this blog to share photography knowledge, kick start your (and my) creative juices, pose questions, and hopefully cultivate new ideas that can be applied to your photography. When I bought my first DSLR, I thought photography was about having the best camera, lens, filter, etc. As I have learned more about the vast subject of photography, I have realized that good photography is more about the photographer's vision and technique than his or her equipment. I have seen awe inspiring photos taken with a $20 Holga, and I have seen poorly composed, overexposed photos taken with a $2000 DSLR.

I think the best investment any budding photographer can make is in learning. Several sources have influenced my photographic vision and technique. They are listed below. If you are just starting out with photography, I encourage you to check out each of these sources. Even if you are a seasoned veteran, I encourage you to check out the books I mention. I think they provide valuable insights beyond basic aperture and shutter speed.

Websites
Ken Rockwell - Mainly equipment reviews, with some technique. This guy puts equipment in perspective. If he thinks a $100 plastic lens is as good as a $1500 pro lens, he will tell you.
Earthbound Light - The Photo Tips section is great.
The Strobist - Although this blog deals primarily with off camera lighting, many of the techniques can be applied to any light source, including the sun, a lamp, or an open window. This is the site that inspired me to create a blog.

Books
Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson - This is the first book I would recommend to any photographer. Great coverage of the basics as well as more creative techniques.
Learning to See Creatively by Bryan Peterson - Read this after Understanding Exposure. This book is pure vision and creativity.
The Digital Photography Book by Scott Kelby - This book may be repetitive to some, but it is loaded with short, one page tips that will enable anyone to take better photos.

I will add to this list as I discover new books that inspire creativity and new techniques.

Test post 6/13/07