Another newbie

[Mike_Jackson]

Thought I'd say hello before I bore you with daft questions.

I've had a 300D for quite a while now but following a backside ground interface problem (Okay I fell flat on my back) a month ago whilst taking a picture the shutter mechanism jammed. Whilst surfing for repairers to get a quote for the insurance I stumbled across several ads for the 50D and decided to take the plunge.

It was definitely a good move as I'm taking a lot more shots. I've also moved up to RAW as i think the better quality I seem to be getting justifies it.

Equipment I've got is 50D, Battery grip, remote shutter release, 28-135 IS USM lens (my favourite), 75 -300 IS USM lens, Sigma 10-20 Ex DC HSM. Speedlite 580EX, Manfrotto T90D tripod with 115 head, various UV and circ polarising filters (mainly Hoya). various memory cards and a Lowepro Mini Trekker AW rucksack.

All I need to do now is get good enough to justify the equipment as I now feel that I can't blame poor pictures on it. Any bad pictures will be my fault.

I'm toying with the idea of getting a decent macro lens next pay day but haven't made up my mind which one yet.

My main areas of photography tend to be landscape, wildlife and pets as I'm out with the dogs a lot but I'll photograph anything and everything given the chance.

Mike

[Picture North Carolina]

Welcome to the family that is POTN, Mike! Lots of knowledgeable and nice folks here. Enjoy your stay.

The Tamron 90 seems to be consistently reviewed as a very good lens at a very good price. Research before you buy and get the one that's best for you.

[scrumpy]

Welcome to POTN Mike. Agree - no excuse now for rubbish pics!! That's why I won't upgrade :lol::lol:

[Mike_Jackson]

Went and had a play with some macro lenses this morning and I'm now the proud owner of a Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM lens. Just need to hide the receipt from SWMBO. Hopefully I'll have some pictures later.

Mike

[Picture North Carolina]

Went and had a play with some macro lenses this morning and I'm now the proud owner of a Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM lens. Just need to hide the receipt from SWMBO. Hopefully I'll have some pictures later.

Mike

As a new member, you now have your first opportunity to tutor the rest of us here on POTN. If you can tell us how you successfully hide those major $$ purchases from the better-half, we'll be all ears! ;)

[Mike_Jackson]

It helps if SWMBO has no idea of the difference between a DSLR and a compact except that it's bigger. She then has to have no idea of what lenses you already have. The lens etc. then needs to be carried into the house in the camera bag as she has no idea what is already in there. Boxes need to be hidden in the detached garage. It's also a good idea if she doesn't read the same forums as you.

Main thing is that she doesn't mind what I spend on camera gear because she then has no guilt in buying horsey things.

Mike