How do you step up to the next level

[batch]

Originally Posted by oldwolf

find out what it is about the other pictures you like and then figure out why you aren't getting that in your photo.

it comes down to analyzing your photos critically and breaking it down to the basic components. it might come down to time of day or post processing.

Thanks for the not so useless information oldwolf, part of my frustration is that of post processing, so i'm trying to take shots that require only basic processing. As a result i have a high delete rate on my photos

[batch]

Originally Posted by waffles

I used to run cross country. (Yes, this is connected, just keep reading and you'll get there) Onf of the first things my coach would tell people at the start of the season was that there would be times where we were working just as hard as ever, but our times wouldn't reflect that. If we kept working hard, we would see our times drop after a while. Also, better runners would hit one of those walls more frequently.

I see photography the same way. When you're starting out there's a lot to learn and improve on. But as you get better, you have less of an area where you can improve. So keep working at it, and you'll get around that wall you're hitting right now.

Thanks for the reply waffles
I can relate to what you have said, "thanks"

[batch]

Dakwegmo and maxbelloni
Thanks for your ideas. I looked at both blogs and they are great, it gives you your own space to say and display what and how you want. I'm going to look into that idea a bit more.

[JerBear]

Try to recreate shots you see that you like. In the process, you will learn new viewpoints, skills and maybe stumble on to something even better.

Good shooting

JM

[JoesPhotos]

Originally Posted by JerBear

Try to recreate shots you see that you like. In the process, you will learn new viewpoints, skills and maybe stumble on to something even better.

Good shooting

JM

Likewise I forgot, the "so so" shots you take, revisit that place and perfect them so they become your new favorites.

[RexK_Cozumel]

Lighting, Lighting, Lighting. Learn it, Live it, Love it. If you really want to take your images to the next level learn how to use and shape light properly. It will make a HUGE difference in the quality of your shots. Check out strobist.com for tips/tricks/ideas on using lighting. That and as already mentioned learn how to process your images.

[Tibian]

I read in an article about close-up photography of flowers, etc. to "visualize the result before you set up your camera, tripod, etc. That advice has resulted in I'm being more thoughtful before I press the shutter. I used to point my camera at "everything"! I loved it! Now, I'm more "choosy"! saves me a fair amount of time not having to wait for downloading a lot of files from my camera and then deleting lots of them before processing in PS CS3.
Equipment: Nikon D80, Sigma 2.8-4.55mm, Nikkor 70-300mm, Velbon Sherpa ballhead tripod.

"Land May Yer Lum reek!"

[SurfinSandy]

looks like you've gotten lots of wonderful advise. I could repeat just about everything, everyone said. I have those times, and I often feel like what I really need is inspiration. Whether that comes from looking at other people's photos, taking another look at your own, or visiting new places, or old places in new seasons, is completely up to you. Photography is a form of self expression, and it's great you are looking into doing a blog. I started one about a year ago, and gave up, mostly because I didn't feel like it was really getting viewed. I should have continued working on it from a journal point of view, but that's part of that slump, I suppose.
I joined a couple groups in flickr that have weekly and monthly assignments, and now this site too. Just getting off my fanny and clicking and learning keeps my mind limber, and inspiration one more click away. You never know when you'll be inspired, or by what person or what object or scene. Keep your eyes and your mind open, and remember to take photos to please your own soul before someone elses'. Check out photography books from the library, and not just the how-to kind either, or even books on art in general. The arts span the mediums and one can imitate another.
Don't push yourself, but be there with a camera ready for when the light bulbs start lighting up!
It may help to know what kind of conditions you are most creative in, and try to be in that place more often. I'm a night owl, and it's not uncommon for me to think of something late at night, after sipping bourbon and wind up on the floor, in my p.j's, shooting at something to get a different angle or try a new technique. I call it experimenting, you might call it drunk or crazy. But I've wound up with some photos that pleased me. If I don't get joy from it, then it's useless!
I also like to wonder around when no other tasks are pressing. Looking for something, anything. The worst photos I have gotten probably come when I'm with other people who have agendas and schedules to keep and I feel like I'm being rushed to take my shots and get moving. Especially because I'm still learning many technical things with the camera, so I want to try the same shot in different settings, in hopes one of them will be right. I, too, hope to be able to get to the place soon, where I don't have to rely so much on post processing for great photos, and not have to take a card full of images, and only keep a few.

[batch]

Hi Surfinsandy
Does your name mean you enjoy surfing the wave or the net? Thanks very much for your reply, you put a lot of effort into it. It has helped me a lot by asking this question. By reading everyone's replies, yours included, has helped me to take my first step up to the next level.

[kburkman]

Originally Posted by batch

I'm at a stage with my photos especially landscapes that i feel i'm not progressing any more. When i compare where i'm at and what others do on this site and flickr , i feel like i've hit a wall. I guess what i'm asking , has anyone else felt like this and how did you get over it.

I have been taking classses at the local community college, for the last 2 years. I have learned new techniques at each level. For the last 6 months, at Level 4, I have been perfecting my landscapes. Every one in the class has an opportunity to critique the work done each week, and we learn how to edit and sequence the work. Having other photographers and the instructor look and comment is so beneficial. I come away every week inspired and excited. Maybe finding a class or even a mentor would help?

kburkman

I use a Pentax K100D with the kit lens for landscape work, using the Hyper Focal Focus technique