This Week in the Digital Photography School Forums (13-19 Dec ‘09)

Weekly Assignment

Our most recently finished challenge was Technology. What we really enjoyed about this assignment was the human element that was added to so many of the technology shots. Our choices this week were all very similar, but our clear winner was Boscopix’s Keeping in Touch. As the holidays come around, we know it’s even more important to keep in touch with the ones that we love. And with technologies like laptops, webcams, Skype, the internet, cell phones, and cameras we’re able to keep in touch with the people who are closest to us, even when they’re far away. Our first runner up was a similar shot by duna, who used her computer to take the picture that she set as the wallpaper for the shot. This one was really well executed and looks deceptively simple. But the way that it lined up and the overall look of it made it stand out. And last, but not least was rick020200’s entry which we couldn’t help but laugh about. Size matters not, but who are we to overlook an entry which not only uses technology, but also Star Wars characters. Well done everyone!

With the holiday season in full swing, this week we started the Holiday Memories assignment. Regardless of which holiday you’re celebrating, we want you to use your photographic skills to show us what the holiday season means to you. Maybe it’s memories of decorating the tree or making cookies, or opening presents, but whatever it is, we want you to use what you’ve learned in the last year to show us your holiday memories. A quick reminder of the rules, your photo must be taken between 9-23 December 2009. And in your post, you need to include the words “Assignment: Holiday Memories” and the date the photo was taken. Your EXIF should be intact, and it’s helpful if you can include some of the main points (such as camera, lens, shutter speed, ISO, and aperture). Next week’s assignment will be My Best Shot of 2009. Starting from January 1st, 2009 through December 31st 2009, we want you to show us the one shot that you think is your best shot of the year. And as part of the assignment next week, the winner (as chosen by our judges) will receive a Lowepro Toploader Pro 70 AW.

Hot Threads

• The Future of DX and EF-S Lenses: One of the things you may have considered when buying lenses for your DSLR is whether the DX or EF-S lenses will be able to grow with you in the future should you decide to upgrade your camera body. But will these lenses become obsolete in a few years? Or will full frame cameras continue to have high prices compared to crop bodies. Let us know your thoughts over in the forum.
• Twas the Night Before Christmas… DPS Style: They call it the silly season for a reason, but I doubt this is it. One of our forum members has re-written The Night Before Christmas, DPS style. It’s a must read!
• Exposing Properly for Snow: If you’re in the Northern Hemisphere, it’s probably gotten a lot colder and you may even be seeing snow. And if you have kids who are about to be on Christmas break, you may be even more interested in how to get great winter pictures. Come check out this thread to learn about how to expose properly for snow.
• Do you NEED a second body?: sk66 said: “If you are pro making a living at it, then the answer is probably “yes”. But for the rest of you, do you have/ feel you need a second body? Why?” Come share your opinions over in the forum.
• What Would You Do: Our weekly post-processing thread is continuing, but it’s in need of photos. So if you enjoy learning how to post-process photos and want a challenge, stop on by the What Would You Do thread in the forums and see how you can help out.