I Love My Lens!

The purchase of new equipment is exciting! And a little bit scary. It is difficult to justify the hundreds, or sometimes thousands of dollars spent on a lens that fits in the palm of your hand. Especially if it is unclear whether or not it will be worth the expense!

Several months ago I purchased a Nikon Nikkor 50mm f1.4 lens. Now this may mean nothing to you. But don't feel bad. Although I knew Nikon was one of - if not the best lens maker in the world, and I understood the significance of the numbers imprinted on the barrel, I was totally in the dark as to the true implications of this purchase.

I teach basic digital photography. And during class time it is stressed that a clean lens is as important as the mega pixels (after all, taking a picture with a higher mega pixel camera and a dirty lens is only a great picture of dirt!). What has become clear to me since my little $200 arrival is that the speed and quality of the glass is equally critical to taking clear, crisp photographs. And again, while you may not understand the terms, you can certainly see the quality this addition to my camera bag brings to a picture.

Here are several photographs from my new Spring Collection:

Flood Waters

Growing up on a channel of water, swiftly carrying salt water from the ocean into the Bras d'Or Lakes has instilled great respect for both the beauty and danger of water. It is truly amazing how powerful this force of nature can be. The flooding of the Saint John River is, or almost is, the worst seen in 35 years. And while great sympathy is given to those who are foolish enough to build their dreams on the flood plains, taking their chances year after year, it is an opportunity for photography that cannot be ignored by those of us who wait for the unique things in life. There is an undescribable thrill at trying to be creative while wading through a sea of both professional and hobby photographers.

My eight year old son and I shared some wonderful moments together (both with cameras in hand) last evening as we walked for hours through downtown Fredericton, New Brunswick. It was past 10:00 on a school night before we tiredly made our way back home. Along with the opportunity to spend "You and me - Me and you" time together, we were able to learn about respecting the water we both enjoy so much. I also learned that my youngest child shares a true passion for my art!