Camera: Nikon D80

Lenses: Nikon 18 - 200 mm Zoom f3.5 - 5.6 -
               This is the lens I use most.
                Nikon 60 mm Macro f2.8
                Tamron 10 - 24 mm Zoom f3.5 - 4.5

Flash: On camera
            Nikon SB 600 Speedlight

Computer: iMac

Photo software: Adobe Photoshop Elements

How and what I shoot--Brad Stratton

What I shoot - One of the reasons for joining this group was that it allows for experimenting and learning and I do hope that I am getting better. I try not to restrict my photography to any one thing. I do like to photograph outdoors and tend to shoot more "things" than people. I have been having fun doing still life and working with different lighting. I like the 18 - 200 zoom lens as it allows a person to change the composition quickly and easily from one shot to the next. It is great having everything from wide angle to telephoto all in one lens. The 60 mm is a wonderful macro and I love using it to photograph flowers and for other close-up photos.

I like having some control over the camera and do not use "full auto." I most often use the "P" mode on the camera as you can change the exposure by one-third increments and decide for yourself if you need a flash or not. I do sometimes use the shutter priority, aperture priority and even manual modes depending on the situation. I have abandoned the auto ISO so I can decide the speed I wish to use. I have found 200 to work best most of the time.

I am slowly learning some of the things a person can do with Photoshop. I have been able to "save" a few photos that were shot at the incorrect setting or poorly composed. The straightening tool gets used more than any other in Photoshop.  You would think a person could hold the camera straight when taking a photo. I do enjoy using layers and masking to be able to "dodge and burn," lightening some areas and darkening others.

© Jim Bellomo 2013

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