What’s Your Preference?

AnthonyH · #1 (**permalink**) 02-26-2010, 08:20 PM

Howdy!

I recently made the leap to DSLR largely because I want more control over my shots. I'm a dad, so of course there are the usual family photos...but I am also a model railroader and enjoy photography in general.

Several years ago before taking my first trip to Vegas, I purchased a Sony DSC-H1, which to me was a high end camera. I was very impressed with the photos I took, even though a lot of them were on auto settings. Last year I purchased an updated model, the Sony DSC-H10, which is smaller and better overall, but essentially the same camera.

I have become quite skilled at touching up my photos in Photoshop and this year, decided to start taking better pictures instead of always trying to get what I wanted with a computer program. Because I was familiar with the Sony layout, I decided to look into their Alpha line of entry-level DSLR cameras. Here is the gear I have purchased:

Camera: Sony a330 DSLR
Lenses: 18-55mm (F3.5-5.6) and 75-300mm (F4.5-5.6)
Tripod Head: Manfrotto 322RC2 ball head
Tripods: Induro A-114, Joby Gorillapod DSLR
Bag: Adorama Slinger

I hope this is a good start! I'm anxious to learn more about how various settings affect the final shot and try my new gear outside. Unfortunately the weather has been very unforgiving lately, and my poor dog is tired of me interrupting his naps to take his picture!

Murtasma · #2 (**permalink**) 02-26-2010, 08:29 PM

I bet a macro lens would be a good addition for you since your into model railroads. Welcome to the Forum!

AnthonyH · #3 (**permalink**) 02-26-2010, 08:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Murtasma

I bet a macro lens would be a good addition for you since your into model railroads.

Yes, you're absolutely right...especially since I model N scale (1:160), and the trains are rather small. One of the first things I did when I got home with the new camera was to set up and take some pictures of my models. I was pleasantly surprised with how well the photos turned out!

A macro lens is definitely on the shopping list, but because I also take pictures of the real thing (trains) a zoom lens was a higher priority.

Thanks for the welcome!