newbie .. third attempt

[SirGhost]

Hello All !!

I'm looking for some feedback from people out there who have been at this photography longer than I have. I've had the DSLR for close to two-weeks, and I'm working to learn the technicals (lighting, color, etc.) and the artistic (composition). I'm posting a 3rd picture to the forums in the hopes of some feedback on the questions below.



EXIF:
Camera Canon EOS REBEL T2i
Exposure 0.25 sec (1/4)
Aperture f/5.6
Focal Length 135 mm (and 500D close-up lens)
ISO Speed 200
Flash Off, Did not fire


Questions:

1- I think the focus and colors are okay for shot, yes? How is the composition? It seems that color and light are easier to manage (on static, non-moving subjects -- aka not my kids!) than the composition. Any specific suggestions on composition for this shot would be appreciated.

2- It seems that I have so far found myself drawn to taking macro pictures. Does anyone else use a close-up lens (like the 500D) for macro? Are there any specific tips for using a close-up lens -- or is this a short-path, and any real efforts require a dedicated macro lens?

3- While I have learned a lot on the articles, I guess I still have a lot to learn about the forums. My first post had no replies -- not sure why, so I assume it was "boring composition". My second post was deleted -- again not sure why as there was no reason given and I have tried to follow the forum posting rules to the highest degree. If anyone has comments for best approaches to this forum, please also comment.

4- Is it that static macro pictures are "lesser" than the high-speed imaging techniques. It's tempting to pick up some flashes, remote triggers (and new lens?) to try some of the high-speed shots, but I feel I should spend more time learning techniques with the starting equipment (T2i, Canon kit 18-135mm, Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8, 500D) that I already picked up. Suggestions on getting started -- give the above?

Thanks for looking!
TimO

[Jo.T]

hi Tim
You are getting some good shots seeing you have only had your camera for a few weeks. Luv this shot, sharp and DOF is not bad. DOF can be a very personal preference for me a couple of f stops up would of got all the stamen in focus. Macro doesnt have to be shot with small f numbers higher number will give you more DOF and more of your image in focus, lots of fun learning what your lense will let you do and seeing what results you like.Macro is one of my loves as you can always find something no matter what the weather.
Dont be in a hurry to buy lots of lenses, learn with what you have and work out what they wont do and what you need to fill the gaps, there are lots out there and it easy to run and buy something only to find it is not quiet what your after. with macro i started with kit 18 - 55 kit lense with +1,2,3 filters (much like you have) got the bug and worked up to a true macro lense. I have some shots on my flicker page if you would like to have a look.
most of all enjoy

[SirGhost]

Thanks for the comments! It is amazing how very encouraging it can be to hear suggestions and comments.

Regarding the DOF -- I see your point. At this stage I'm still very early in experimenting, I don't have a "feel" for how much the DOF will vary when shooting through the close-up lens. I see f/22's and f/32's in some of your shots, so that's something I'll play with more. Maybe I'll try and do a series where I hold the shot as constant (as possible) and vary the DOF so that I can increase my feel for it.

I'm thrilled to hear you use "sharp" in your comment. Woo hoo! That's supposed to be part of the goal -- usually -- right?

Best-
TimO

[ednorm]

Personally I like the shot, I think its well composed, seems to fit the rule of thirds, there is plenty of sharp points of focus on the frond? I guess thats the word, and the blurred flower image in the background adds depth while not taking away from the subject. Too me this is a winner, good work.

ed

[LoveDSLR]

Just playing with a tighter crop.

[Jo.T]

hi Tim
Yep sharp is the name of the game, but that doesnt mean the whole pic has to be sharp as long as you pick your main focal point to be sharp. i shoot with single point focus for macro and then i can change the point of focus(for insects the eyes must be sharp). Generally you will get 1/3 in front and 2/3 behind your focal point in focus with macro this can be mm with a small f stop. The fun thing about photography is playing dont just take one or two photos and walk away try different angles and camera settings, learn what your camera and lenses will do and what works best for you. There is nothing worse than having the perfect subject and getting home and wishing you had taken it from a different angle or setting. Composition is very important too, learn the rule of thirds and most of all keep it simple. Your leaf and lilly shot to me there are two photos in one.both are nice and sharp but i dont know which one to focus on.
This site is the greatest, anything you want to know you can find on here, I have learnt heaps on here(I only took my camera off auto about 8 months ago)and it continues to inspire me with some amazing images.
Have fun and i look forward to seeing more posts from you