New member, first post, new camera.

[joconn]

I`ve just purchased a new A720 and slowing wading through the manual. Will be shooting both b&w and colour. Don`t have an editing program yet. Intend to get the add-on flash unit someday. Will I get good quality b&w straight from camera? I`m an old 35MM guy and find the digital learning curve plenty steep. Really hate to give up my Nikon EM but the cost and limited access to good processing dictates the move.:(

Cheers all,
Joe

[Anke]

Welcome to the Forums, Joe! You're in the best place to learn everything and more about your new toy :D

As for the B&W question, its best to shoot colour and then convert to black and white later. Perhaps consider the purchase of Adobe Elements or even the myriad of free programs like the GIMP.

[beezwax]

Welcome Joe.... enjoy your stay

show us some pictures

[abuseddog]

Welcome on board.

I use a basic program for editing....google picasso.

Once you get use to the manual, check out the chdk for the firmware update.

http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK.

It is a verry usefull program for getting a pic in raw, and some other features.

By all means post some pic's.....for your info we are having a potn challenge on "kithcen items", feel free to post up an entry.

[PhotosByCynthia]

Welcome to the boards! I just recently joined myself! If you're looking to do just some basic editing you can find plenty of software out there for well under $100. Corel Paint Shop Pro is a good one. It has basic stuff mixed in with a little more advanced stuff once you get the editing bug like the rest of us. LOL :) Welcome to the world of digital! You're going to love it! Digital photography is only as limited as your imagination! :) Looking forward to seeing some photos from you soon.

[joconn]

Thanks for the warm welcome, folks.:) When I get something worth sharing and figure out how to post it I will do so. As for editing software, I think I will go for Photoshop Elements.

Joe.

[scorpio_e]

Welcome to POTN !!
+1 for Photoshop Elements. If you ever upgrade to PS the transition will be easier:)

[mot]

warm welcome Joe

[BBoi]

http://www.irfanview.com

Always a winner ... small footprint too !

[joconn]

Thanks again for the welcome messages. I downloaded GIMP last night. Now there is another whole new learning curve.:) :confused:
Joe.