A Picture a day (My 365) . . . Made it to the End!

[ShrubMonkey]

I was only directed to TP the other week, from another forum. I must say it's like another world in here. I've spent the week discovering all sorts of incredible images that have inspired me to continue with my 365.

Anyway I want to improve and this has rekindled my basic passion that this photography malarkey is something I enjoy, so I welcome any comments and advice you may have. My 365 is in my sig.

Thanks

Oh and my kit is a bit basic (350D and some cheap lenses), The first 5 shots were even taken with my compact too.

[ShrubMonkey]

Wow, not a single comment :shake:

Sorry was just looking forward to some helpful advice, comments, tips.

[clawz]

Looks good Shrub, LOVE the light trail shot!
Try posting them on here too, so peeps can see them. Keep up the good work dude!

[theMusicMan]

I'll watch, looks like you have some super images in there already. Glad you're here.

John

[purpleclouds]

You might get more comments posting some of them in here :)

There are some really nice shots though...I like the abstracts! :)

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks folks, sorry yes I guess it would be easier to post the shots directly on here :thumbs:

[ShrubMonkey]

I'll make a start with todays:
22nd Jan: Time Ring Mosaic and my favorite section 'Viking Olaf Tryggvason' (more info: http://tinyurl.com/bftyo8). Never really looked at this before, must have walked over it 100 times or more. Shame I've not got a wide lens. Image looked a little flat, so RAW saved as high, low, mid exposures and processed as HDR in Photomatix.

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/459678137_wzAuE-L.jpg

[ShrubMonkey]

Deleted Jan 23rd, did nothing for me, changed to the one below...

[Chillimonster]

Nice start to your 365 SM :)

Somedays you'll get images you are not really happy with and others you'll get more than you know what to do with - its just the way it goes with 365's.

Chris

[ShrubMonkey]

23rd Jan: Making the tea, a local landmark. It was so windy, at times I thought it would blow my camera and tripod off the foot bridge I was standing on. Hope tomorrow will throw up a better opportunity. Also managed to clean the crud from my sensor (thanks to Lenspen Sensor Clean)
http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/460257104_gEzWR-L.jpg

Used my old Canon 75-300 to zoom right in and get a different angle. Probably breaks all the composition rules, but my best pic of the day.

[kitten]

some nice images there SM - love the colours in the mosaic.

[ShrubMonkey]

24th Jan: Rotisserie Chicken, noticed this whilst out for a pub lunch, it was tucked away in a dark alcove, there was a tiny shelve behind bars that I placed the camera on. took a lot of shots, very dark and very hard to get anything with any detail (edited in Photomatix). I'm sure if anybody saw me they would have thought I was mad.

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/460801438_VejbC-L.jpg

[kitten]

I really like that. I like the movement and the way the heat is captured.

[davekiddle]

Interesting shot Julian. I like it :thumbs:

[Chillimonster]

I'm sure if anybody saw me they would have thought I was mad.



Yeah, it happens a lot with me - some of the looks i get are priceless :D

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks for the comments, not quite the shot I wanted, but very confined space and terrible light. Also it's put me right off chicken for some reason :)

[ShrubMonkey]

25th Jan: Hampshire 1930s, looks like a miniature model, but it's full scale street from Basingstoke's Milestones Museum. Lighting was really tricky as it was in a kind of purpose built hall (like an aircraft hanger), with little natural light. For this 4 second exposure I had to use my lightest lens (Canon 50mm 1.8) on a mini Hema tripod that I got free on a magazine, placed it on the floor (very happy with the composition seeing as it was just guess work) and used remote switch, also hard timing it just right to avoid getting any other visitors in the shot too. Edited in Photomatix to bring out the detail in the darkness of the motorcycle and tyres. Some parts are blown, but I found it just too difficult to get right.

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/461521231_Kc77E-L.jpg

[kitten]

Nice atmospheric shot. Looks like a film set!

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks, Have a few more here from today link (http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/gallery/7188005_ZP4RP#461546109_e3riv)

[clawz]

1930's one looks good... You did a good job out of the situation presented!

[ShrubMonkey]

26th Jan: Was in Bracknell today and have been wanting to capture the old derelict 3M office tower block that dominates the town's skyline (notice broken windows and fire damage). Took lots of pictures straight on, to fill the frame with row's of windows, or shots of the building from a distance, but this is the last shot I took, accentuated the saturation in Photomatix as I think there is a certain beauty of the building set against the white clouds and blue sky

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/462294642_NTLAw-L.jpg

[78seconds]

Good perspective and excellent colors. Very bright, I like it.

[ShrubMonkey]

Yeah thanks, works for me, few other shots here (http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/gallery/7198561_YwWbG#462328051_QeNsw)

[kitten]

nice bright colours, nice perspective too.

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks Kitten, not sure why, but something about it just works

[ShrubMonkey]

27th Jan: Not the right composition, but was standing on a bend of narrow road. I Liked the trees following the stream and the cute miniature pony taking it easy (shame he is behind the tree) as the sun tries to break through the mist. This is my first shot using AEB set at 0, -1, +1 with the 3 RAW files merged and processed in Photomatix.

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/462906070_GNcfr-L.jpg

[ShrubMonkey]

28th Jan: Not much use for these anymore...

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/463458862_aS2ai-L.jpg

[ShrubMonkey]

29th Jan: Difficult today, overcast sky put paid to number of other ideas, saw a group interesting worn benches by a moss covered wall, needed a close up to avoid getting any horrible concrete in the shot (edited in Photomatix to bring out the detail in the moss)

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/464044250_hVPTW-L.jpg

[clawz]

28th Jan: Not much use for these anymore...

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/463458862_aS2ai-L.jpg

What on earth is this... looks like a sim card type affair...:thinking: is it??
Love the Bracknell Building too. Very bright and colourfull and good perspective! :clap:

[ShrubMonkey]

Hehe, it's a SmartMedia card, well macro shot of the contacts (max 128mb), was in my first digital compact camera.

[ShrubMonkey]

30th Jan: Didn't go to plan today, went to the roof of the only multi-storey car park in town to get some shots of various buildings, after about 5 minutes a police car roars up and 2 officers (well pretend officers as they were community support) confront me saying it's private property (fair enough, I'll move along) one officer goes on to mention the terrorism risk thing, why oh why does using a camera in a public place draw that kind of response, what kind of world do we live in. Anyway headed home and took this emergency in the kitchen with mega HDR editing (to reflect my mood).

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/464594385_5HqR9-L.jpg

[Chillimonster]

PCSO's - pain in the rear at times.

you should have taken a picture of them for todays shot :lol:

[ShrubMonkey]

PCSO's - pain in the rear at times.

you should have taken a picture of them for todays shot :lol:

They did not seem in a good mood, plus they followed me right out the carpark and across town. about 20 minutes later I was in Asda getting some bits and there they were again :suspect:

[ShrubMonkey]

31st Jan: Thought-Provoking, Kings Royal Rifle Corps Memorial outside Winchester Cathedral. Forced to take this shot (with small aperture) with 50mm lens and my rubbish little desk tripod (resting on a tomb), but a different angle than any other shots I can find on Google. Single RAW edited in Photomatix and some lens distortion adjustments in Photoshop. Only 11 more months to go :-s

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/465103011_fYGZH-L.jpg

[davekiddle]

26th Jan: Was in Bracknell today and have been wanting to capture the old derelict 3M office tower block that dominates the town's skyline (notice broken windows and fire damage). Took lots of pictures straight on, to fill the frame with row's of windows, or shots of the building from a distance, but this is the last shot I took, accentuated the saturation in Photomatix as I think there is a certain beauty of the building set against the white clouds and blue sky

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/462294642_NTLAw-L.jpg

Love this - well spotted :thumbs:

[ShrubMonkey]

1st Feb: Door 2 Door (Romsey Abbey). 3 RAW AEB exposures merged and edited in Photomatix, Finishing touches in Photoshop to adjust lens distortion and layer blend mode to convert to grayscale.

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/465787248_hYkj3-L.jpg

[kitten]

really like the last shot and the Cathedral. Nice angle.

[davekiddle]

Nice door shot. Right on my door step too :)

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks folks, Taken shots of these 2 doors a few years ago, don't know why, but I'm drawn to them every time we have visit the Abbey.

[ShrubMonkey]

2nd Feb: Forecasters said it was the most severe snow in the UK for six years. Had trouble finding a decent snowy composition that worked today, so settled for the under saturated snow laden skies over field and maize game cover. 3 RAW AEB exposures merged in Photomatix then Photoshop for dodging, gradient and levels adjustments

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/466517461_S6rVe-L.jpg

[ShrubMonkey]

3rd Feb: The big thaw, revealing objects that hadn't been seen for over a day.

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/467151595_WYaYt-L.jpg

[davekiddle]

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/466517461_S6rVe-L.jpg

Nice composition - Have you tried it in B&W?

Like the thaw one too! :)

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks, Did try it in B&W (inc Ansel Adams type effect), just settled on the under saturation, with a hint of colour in the maize crop.

[ShrubMonkey]

4th Feb: Our youngest eating machine (Must stress it's not maggots, but mince!!)

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/467658859_mZ6vw-L.jpg

[Chillimonster]

Does look a bit like maggots :gag: :puke:

:)

[ShrubMonkey]

Tesco's Finest no less :D

[davekiddle]

Good shot - love the selective colouring.

I thought it was earth worms when I first looked at it (they're a lot cheaper than mince you know ;))

[ShrubMonkey]

5th Feb: 'Snow' Drops. Inspiration thanks to Ian D J's 365 image yesterday.

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/468156075_4SPeq-L.jpg

[kitten]

some fab shots here :thumbs: Especially loving the thaw and the snowdrops.

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks Kitten, the snow has been handy for inspiration this week :)

[ShrubMonkey]

6th Feb: Bad day at work today, no break at all and gotta work through the night too. Determined to take a non snow/weather image, but all I got time for was a trip to Tesco, and they had no milk due to the weather. Taken on Canon Ixus, Converted to B&W and chalk & charcoal filter applied.

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/468685599_zA9yv-L.jpg

[davekiddle]

Lovely snowdrop pic:)

Well I've never seen empty shelves like that before.

[Chillimonster]

Yesterdays shot looks like it could have been taken in a war-zone with the empty shelves :thumbs:

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks guys, yes many shelves were empty, I wonder if we would cope in a real conflict :shrug:

[ShrubMonkey]

7th Feb: Fridge magnets say it all. Started work on Friday 8am worked until midnight had 3 hours break, then worked from Saturday 3am until 6pm (and will need to work on Sunday), so my inspiration for today was out of pure exhaustion and desperation. I like the crazy colours and Photoshop plastic filter.

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/469227735_G8Xai-L.jpg

8th Feb: Managed to snatch the morning with my family, great fun watching Isla learning to ride her bike. Sadly having worked most of the weekend I'm back to work at 12:30 am tonight (Global application releases, not great).

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/469862062_RnYd6-L.jpg

Be glad to see the back of this weekend, struggling to even take a few photos :'(

[JDholic]

7th Feb shot looks like little tiny pots of paint...I like it.:clap:

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks, the 7th was my worst day yet for taking a photo, this was a late night last gasp attempt.

[davekiddle]

Self portraits or pets are a safe bet when you don't have much time. :)

[ShrubMonkey]

Yeah will need to get my mug in a shot soon :)

[ShrubMonkey]

9th Feb: Futuristic Machines....?

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/470707277_KgSoc-L.jpg

[kitten]

that last shot is brilliant! Love the colours, took me a minute to work out what the heck it was!

Like the fridge magnets too, they have just the right 'consistency', if that makes sense. And Isla riding her bike is sweet :D

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks Kitten, for the last shot by inverting the colours (and other tweaks) I wanted it to make you look twice ;)

[ShrubMonkey]

10th Feb: Unlucky for some?

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/471358813_yrFKZ-L.jpg

[cyclone]

I like the 7th a lot.
Also I keep looking at the rows of trolleys at Waitrose thinking I can get a photo out of them somehow :)

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks Cyclone, when you said the 7th and trolleys I realised I put the wrong date :bonk:

I went to Tesco's too, didn't like the trolleys there, had a nasty advert thing in the middle of the handle, would spoil the picture :geek:

[cyclone]

Did you? I didn't notice.
I was talking about the fridge magnets and trolleys separately lol.

[ShrubMonkey]

11th Feb: BSoD (simulated)

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/471942548_HADNr-L.jpg

[Justin]

Already commented on your blog, but I love this shot. Works for me on both a computing and photographic level. You've used the light from the monitor to perfectly illuminate the frustration in the body language. Brilliant, keep it up! :D

[kitten]

Excellent again, I'm really loving your work SM.

[ShrubMonkey]

Already commented on your blog, but I love this shot. Works for me on both a computing and photographic level. You've used the light from the monitor to perfectly illuminate the frustration in the body language. Brilliant, keep it up!

Hey Justin, nice to see you in here, thanks for you continued comments, need all the motivation I can get :)

Excellent again, I'm really loving your work SM

Thanks again Kitten, great to have your feedback

[davekiddle]

9th Feb: Futuristic Machines....?

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/470707277_KgSoc-L.jpg

11th Feb: BSoD (simulated)

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/471942548_HADNr-L.jpg

These are great Julian - I feel inspired! :thumbs:

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks Dave, the trolleys was just a grab shot (whilst nobody was looking). Looked good on the little Ixus screen, but once in Photoshop looked naf, so played around with all sorts of processing (after inversion) and it just looked really striking.

Sitting in a dark room taking shot after shot with that bright BSoD made my eyes hurt.

[ShrubMonkey]

12th Feb: Duckpedo

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/472479720_2TuLR-L.jpg

Not happy with today's but I guess that's the thing with 365's. Used my Canon 75-300mm, image quality is just not there for me.

This (http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/gallery/7008587_Pf87B#472479720_2TuLR-A-LB) looks better like this, but still a shocker.

[Justin]

Agree, it does look better bigger. The symmetry of the wake really draws the eye in on the subject. Reminds me a little of 20,000 leagues under the sea! :lol:

P.S. You may need to resize this for the forum (800px on longest side) or link elsewhere to avoid the pixel police.

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks mate, edited the larger version (was not aware of max res restrictions, maybe I should read the T&C's)

[davekiddle]

That's a great composition Julian, I really like it!

[zarozinia]

Interesting 365, I shall be watching. I like the duck, the futuristic trolleys and the abstract smart media card.

[ShrubMonkey]

That's a great composition Julian, I really like it!
Thanks Dave, not what I wanted but it had to do.

Interesting 365, I shall be watching. I like the duck, the futuristic trolleys and the abstract smart media card.
Thanks Zarozinia :)

[kitten]

I think you have a fabulous eye for what looks good. I love the symmetry of the water in that last shot.

[ShrubMonkey]

Wow, thanks for the compliment :) Actually I've improved my composition skills from my wife, she's not into photography, but in the past whenever she has picked up a camera her shots have been composed far better than mine.

[ShrubMonkey]

13th Feb: Chameleon skin shedding. Had a great day with the family at Marwell today, sun was shining and it wasn't busy. Bit depressed my zoom lens is so lame, so had to settle for using my Tamron 90mm Macro lens. I was really happy with the results, considering this critter was in the gloom of the Encounter Village behind dirty glass.

Some other shots from the day are here (http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/gallery/7349114_mLQtx#473030361_bGiQc)

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/473046367_6XDke-L.jpg

Think I was really lucky with the lighting, zero background clutter and no reflection in the glass, phew.

[FeTT]

Just looked through your full thread so far mate, some great shots too many to comment on individually but love the bsod one and todays is a great. Well done and keep up the good work mate. :thumbs:

Sean

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks Sean, today was one of those good days, had more than one shot I wanted to use.

[JDholic]

Today's shot is fabulous Monkeyman, the detail is incredible!!

I'm about ti subscribe to your thread so I don't miss it..

[zarozinia]

Great capture.

[davekiddle]

Hey Julian, great shot......of me! :lol: (Check left <<<<<<)

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks all!!!

Yes thought of you Dave whilst taking that shot :lol:

[ShrubMonkey]

14th Feb: Rural Dereliction. Had to shoot today's photo early as have a busy weekend. My wife mentioned seeing this barn on her travels the other week, think it looks great. HDR Photomatix processing on 3 shot AEB RAW.

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/473343224_Mo2Kt-XL.jpg

[Chillimonster]

Really like the futuristic trolley shot. Its amazing what turning an image into a negative can do to an image - really helps to give this one the 'punch' it needs :thumbs:a

[ShrubMonkey]

Too much HDR on the earlier one,

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/473622636_qjPFT-XL.jpg

[ShrubMonkey]

Really like the futuristic trolley shot. Its amazing what turning an image into a negative can do to an image - really helps to give this one the 'punch' it needs :thumbs:a

Thanks Chilimonster, that was a desperate shot day, the photoshop processing transformed an otherwise bland picture.

[ShrubMonkey]

15th Feb: Click Clack Dino

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/474165560_6q5de-L.jpg

[Chillimonster]

That would make a nice 'Stock' type shot :thumbs:

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks Chilimonster, taking this shot reminds me I need to build a light box too.

[ShrubMonkey]

16th Feb: Circuit Board

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/475008256_QsUYP-L.jpg

[JDholic]

That's class!!! Really like that one.:clap:

[ShrubMonkey]

That's class!!! Really like that one.:clap:

Thanks, found today to be a tough one for inspiration

[purpleclouds]

I like today's shot a lot :) Interesting effect!

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks purpleclouds, not what I planned, but that seems to happen frequently with photography

[ShrubMonkey]

17th Feb: First face drawings

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/475671823_oon3M-L.jpg

[JDholic]

Your getting better!!! :D

[ShrubMonkey]

Hehe, my eldests daughters first proper face picture, that's not a scribble

[purpleclouds]

Glad you're keeping up with this! There should be some fantastic 365s by 2010 :D

[Chillimonster]

17/02 looks like material for the 'memory box' to be brought out in years to come, just to reminisce over :thumbs:

[ShrubMonkey]

Glad you're keeping up with this! There should be some fantastic 365s by 2010
Yeah so far, starting to find it tough going now.

17/02 looks like material for the 'memory box' to be brought out in years to come, just to reminisce over
Thanks Chili, yes felt very proud when it was shoved under my nose :)

[ShrubMonkey]

18th Feb: Underpass, it's shots like these that make me question what I'm doing, lurking around in an underpass on a cold wet night, god knows what the lady walking her dog thought I was up to. Realised I had my camera on ISO400 when I got back (Doh!), so applied poster edge filter in photoshop.

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/476275919_Yvh23-L.jpg

[Chillimonster]

Effective use of PP on an otherwise ordinary image :thumbs:

[JDholic]

I constantly worry about what other people are thinking I'm up to taking some of my shots, the HDR one of the chapel is a prime example. People there praying and I'm lugging about a tripod and camera like someone with a bit of a want...

[ShrubMonkey]

Yep tough going this week, been a struggle. For some reason I've developed a weird guilty complex about photographing out in public :help:

[ShrubMonkey]

19th Feb: The Old Griffin. This week is really tough going for inspiration (can you tell?). This 3 shot AEB RAW HDR processed, looked much better converted in extreme B&W

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/476828822_8ddJB-L.jpg

[JDholic]

I like that as well, your uninspired days beat mine hands down.

[ShrubMonkey]

That's very kind JDholic

[ShrubMonkey]

20th Feb: Street Man, my first candid shot.

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/477323025_QAEE5-L.jpg

ok a bit lame, but it's a start :)

[ShrubMonkey]

21st Feb: Manor Farm Barn. Weekends work completed on time for once, so went to the farm park with the family. Liked this particular barn corner, as it was off limits and full of junk. 3 shot AEB, HDR and photoshop to finish.

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/477857589_iaRft-L.jpg

[JDholic]

Love the HDR!! But one question, do all street men around your way have 3 dogs and a mobile phone???

[ShrubMonkey]

Didn't notice he had a phone, I had the camera at waste height and was walking double quick (such is my aversion to candid photo taking) :)

[Chillimonster]

Like the content of todays shot, but can't help wondering if it would be better as a high contrast B&W :shrug:

[ShrubMonkey]

Yeah, B&W looked good, but for me I loved the colour more, the warm glow and wood detail etc

[Chillimonster]

Yeah, B&W looked good, but for me I loved the colour more, the warm glow and wood detail etc

Any chance of posting up the B&W version so i can have a nosey ;)

[ShrubMonkey]

Any chance of posting up the B&W version so i can have a nosey ;)

Sure be glad too, just need to finish processing my new gallery from today...

[ShrubMonkey]

22nd Feb: Beaulieu Motor Museum. More shots from the day here http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/gallery/7425415_wTyKU#478615298_jyQB2. HDR & Photoshop processing.

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/478645664_CAGbs-L.jpg

Couldn't decide what shot to use from today, but went for this in the end, just due to the unusual angle.

[ShrubMonkey]

23rd Feb: 12th Century Church, 12th Century Sign?!?!

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/479442601_FrkN5-L.jpg

[Chillimonster]

Like the way the moss is growing from the church roof :)

[JDholic]

Ah, a church photo..........mmmm....

[ShrubMonkey]

Yeah, the moss on the roof looks good.

JD, you seem to like churches :)

[ShrubMonkey]

24th Feb: Arghhh!!! I'm in front of the camera, in a homage to the iPod advert kind of way.

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/480011585_nsr24-L.jpg

[ShrubMonkey]

Any chance of posting up the B&W version so i can have a nosey ;)

Here you go Chili, Feb 21st image in B&W using Channels:

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/480018049_VBTVD-L.jpg

[JDholic]

Your 24th photo is mental!! I like it, really good idea. I take it you took 3 photos, and used a different colour channel for each one?? Then merged them??

It's better in colour by the way!! :thumbs:

[Chillimonster]

Yup, you're right - the colour one is better :thumbs:

And as for today, its like i've taken my migraine medication then had a couple of pints - Trippy :D

[JDholic]

*runs to find a pair of 3d specs*

[ShrubMonkey]

Yep today's is 3 different shots, each split into RGB channels, a different channel is kept from each original image, then they are merged back together.

It is a bit mental, hadn't thought of the 3D thing, JD you always seem to see different things in photos :)

[ShrubMonkey]

25th Feb: Arachnid Catcher (It's plastic, as I'm arachnophobic)

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/480670758_gRMrP-XL.jpg

[JDholic]

The focus is spot on, black and white works well!! It's a shame you cut the top of your hands off, but I like it anyway.

Scared of Spiders?? You Big Girl!!! :p

[ShrubMonkey]

yeah I messed up on the framing, hence chopping off the top :shake:

[ShrubMonkey]

26th Feb: This builder was standing outside an old New Look shop, so I decided to give him a 'new look'. Not worked out as I wanted, but will have to do

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/481263650_iottp-L.jpg

[liss]

i hate spiders aswell that picture nearly made me freak out , but then i read it was plastic, still scared me though :(

[ShrubMonkey]

i hate spiders aswell that picture nearly made me freak out , but then i read it was plastic, still scared me though :(

When I saw the spider in with my daughters toy's (and I knew it was plastic) I still had to nudge it first before picking it up, just to be sure :nuts:

[ShrubMonkey]

27th Feb: Navion Fennia, Southampton Docks. Must admit I do like big ships, prior going to Southampton I like to visit http://www.ais-live.co.uk/AIS%20Live/vtsradar.html that provides live radar positioning of Shipping movements and details of the actual ships (type, weight, length, arrival). I missed the Maersk Semarang (big container ship), just saw it above the shops leaving the docks. Damn, maybe I'm becoming a Ship spotter :geek:

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/481799562_fTGCa-L.jpg

[JDholic]

She's a big one!!

Nice, the colour works well against the sky and the slight hint of blue down to the left makes it for me.

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks, she was docked right in front of Mayflower Park, one of the closest points you can get to the big ships. She is 242 meters long, see I'm sad :)

[ShrubMonkey]

Also uploaded a few more pics of ships from today, large and small http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/gallery/7467819_5z8tC#481811073_YWsuy

[davekiddle]

Just catching up Julian. You have some fantastic shots here. I really like the iPod shot :D

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks Dave :)

[dellipher]

I've finally read it all :p and I have to say some fab an inspired shots there! :)

[Chillimonster]

The picture really portrays the size of the ship well :thumbs:

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks all, really appreciate the comments, keeps me going :)

[ShrubMonkey]

28th Feb: Had a day in Guildford, meeting up with friends, great place lots going on so thought I would find something interesting to photograph. Not what I was expecting, walked past Robin Mullen contemporary art gallery and saw this guy painting a nice city scape. Asked if he would mind my taking a few pics of him in action and he was chuffed, so was I. Tried B&W, but love the colours of the different paintings. Single shot saved with 3 different exposures and HDR processed.

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/482299935_drvCv-XL.jpg

[JDholic]

I love his shoes!! He's really very talented, lovely inaction shot..

[ShrubMonkey]

it could be he is a bit careless, with so much paint on his shoes :)

[liss]

love the colours in the last picture
I agree with you, it would have been a shame to convert it to B&W.

Hes shoes are funky aswell.

[Chillimonster]

Nice colours, and a very talented artist :)

[dellipher]

Good Shot :)

[Austringer]

Hello Shrub Monkey :)

I'm a newbie to this forum and just wandering around at the moment - came across your thread, visited your SmugMug gallery to view your shots so far... extremely inspirational and I'm commenting so that I too will be updated as you continue with your 365 challenge :)

My lad has also joined here so I'll point him in this direction... great shots - thanks :thumbs:

Frank

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks liss, we went back today and he was still painting the picture, looked really good.

[ShrubMonkey]

1st Mar: Went back to Guildford after meeting friends there yesterday, to do some shopping. Took lots of nice architecture shots, but grey cloudy sky did them no justice, so settled for this shot of Angel Gate.

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/482966458_7CM3b-XL.jpg

[ShrubMonkey]

Oooops didn't notice we were on page 6 . . .

Thanks Chilli, dell, as I mentioned before, went back today and he was still going, really nice painting.

Thanks Frank for your comments, really nice to have new folks views on here, especially ones as nice as yours ;)

[ShrubMonkey]

2nd Mar: Toy Garden. First time playing with tilt lens effect.

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/483838974_vM85W-L.jpg

[Chillimonster]

Love the TS effect in todays - keep promising myself i'll have a play, but never seem to get the time so :thumbs: to you :)

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks Chilli, like the article in recent AP, when talking about tilt lens effect, it was titled 'The Last Resort', very true, when used on a very average (at best) image.

[JDholic]

What's Tilt Lens effect??? I'm too lazy to google it.

The Toy garden is really cool, my dad used to be massively into train sets when I was young so this brought back a few memories! :thumbs:

[FeTT]

Just catching up some nice shots mate like the idea of the spider one, tbh I'm not to keen on insects myself but if I'll spend ages out in the garden in summer with the camera and macro lens getting up close and personal with them :lol:. Love the colours in the artist shot nice paintings too would like that cityscape on my wall. Nice Tilt shift effect too works well tried this myself a while back didn't work aswell as yours.

JD Tilt shift effect is what has made the garden look like a toy, more info here (http://www.tiltshiftphotography.net/photoshop-tutorial.php) mate.

Sean

[dellipher]

Love your toy garden! :D :lol:

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks JD, Sean (great link too), dell :)

[JDholic]

I tried the Tilt Shift last night and it really does work!! :clap:

Expect one from me tonight!! :lol:

Sean that link was excellent, it is nice and clear.

[davekiddle]

That tilt shift effect is fantastic Julian. Well done mate!

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks Dave :)

[ShrubMonkey]

3rd Mar: Done! Shockingly bad day at work, means this macro shot is a desperate effort :(

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/484652210_ngfE4-L.jpg

[JDholic]

I hear Ya!!!

That's why I'm lying on the sofa still....

The word Done is quite poignant I think. Glad the day's done?? So am I.

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks JD :)

tomorrow's another day and all that....

[ShrubMonkey]

4th Mar: Going to visit this same spot throughout the year, to catch the changing seasons. Not the most stunning vista, but just outside my village, so handy (3 shot AEB, HDR).

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/485150176_usitT-L.jpg

[FeTT]

Catching up again I quite like the Macro shot very different. Todays is very nice good use of HDR not over done at all I don't think I would have realised it was hDR if you hadn't have mentioned it.

Sean

[cyclone]

Like the toy effect.
I've wanted to know how to do it since seeing it in a mag about a year ago!

[ShrubMonkey]

Catching up again I quite like the Macro shot very different. Todays is very nice good use of HDR not over done at all I don't think I would have realised it was hDR if you hadn't have mentioned it.

Thanks Sean. I use HDR subtle processing for most of my landscape shots now. Really useful for bringing out details in the shadows etc. I'm not a big fan of over the top HDR processing myself.

Like the toy effect.
I've wanted to know how to do it since seeing it in a mag about a year ago!

Thanks Cyclone, yeah really good technique for turning average shots (taken from higher angle) into something a little more interesting.

[zarozinia]

Wow that artist is good, I could stand and watch someone painting like that for hours. Lovely colourful photograph.
I'm impressed with the tilt shift image too, very effective.

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks zarozinia, went back to Guildford the day after and he was still painting. Adding all sorts of details to the buildings. Nice friendly guy, was really happy that I was showing an interest in his work.

[ShrubMonkey]

5th Mar: eyePod

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/485675820_zWEe9-L.jpg

[nicnok]

eye like :) - the very bright B&W is interesting too

[ShrubMonkey]

thanks, looked better in B&w plus applied film grain filter.

[JDholic]

Good idea, I wish I had two ipods.

[zarozinia]

thats a rather strange one, what prompted that idea?

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks JD

zarozinia, just an idea I had and a play on the word 'iPod' :)

[ShrubMonkey]

6th Mar: Not in the mood for photo's today, so pizza will have to do.

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/486210877_P7HjE-L.jpg

Rumours of huge job cuts at work will be in the 1000's coming on wednesday. Has been hanging over our heads for over a year, just wish they would get on with it.

[JDholic]

You and me both. Out of 18 engineers in our Fire And Security section, 6 have to go. I sympathise completely.

[Austringer]

Thanks for the recent updates to your 365 ShrubMonkey... liked the "eye" - sorry - idea of the "eye-pod" :)

Sorry to hear about the job losses and that it's been hanging for a year :shake: I can and do sympathise and give you my best wishes that things are OK for you and yours. Understand why you're not in the mood.

I've had the same happening at my place of work but it's been hanging over us for nearly two years now, Although [!] only 45 went this time and 13 a month ago there was about 213 employed on the site at the beginning of the year. They've also made changes to shifts and arranged it so that we get less money... not sure who are the "winners" from my place - those that have gone or those that have stayed and now have to wait to see how things may change :thumbsdown: :shrug:

Best wishes for the future :thumbs:

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks all for your support and comments. I'm actually the last person in my dept. left in the UK, as everybody else was given the elbow last year (and jobs moved to India). Like you mentioned Austringer, being the only one left is not much fun. So I've had enough really, just a shame the economic climate is not great.

[FeTT]

eye pod :lol: great idea well executed well done mate :thumbs: Oh no not more pizza just had one for my tea feeling a bit full up now ;)

Sean

[ShrubMonkey]

I feel ill looking at that pizza pic now :gag:

[ShrubMonkey]

7th Mar: The sleeping Ariadne, from inside the Grotto at Stourhead NT. Had a really nice day with the family, Stourhead offers up all sorts of photo opportunities, will be going back a few times I'm sure. 3 shot AEB, HDR, was really tricky processing this in Photomatix due to the darkness of the Grotto. Also difficult to take lots of 5-15 second exposures with other people around, in a small dark space.

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/486798096_HCtbc-X2.jpg

[FeTT]

Very nice shot there looks like a nice place to visit :)

Sean

[Austringer]

Good take in a difficult situation ShrubMonkey :)

Very nice shot there looks like a nice place to visit :)

Sean

:wave: It is :) I'm fortunate to be about 20 minutes away from it - only "problem" is the number of visitors that get in the way :'( :gag: ... as ShrubMonkey mentions ;)

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks for the comments.

At least the folks around me waited while I finished taking my shots today, so that was nice.

[ShrubMonkey]

Changed my Mar 8th image from this one, see post below

8th Mar: Thought to be the only surviving WWII garrison theatre at Hurst Castle. Today was a day of two seasons, struggled the 1.5 miles up the shingle spit with 2 children and pushchair, in glorious sunshine (but extremely windy). Noticed the dark clouds on the horizon, so decided best bet was to get the little ferry boat back to Lymington and did it rain or what, we were lucky. 3 shot AEB and HDR processing.

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/487403724_pAY4y-L.jpg

[JDholic]

Just having a wee catch up, the grotto one is Fantastic!! :clap:

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks JD :)

[davekiddle]

Great photos as always Julian.

Do you know what, I've been to Hurst Castle loads of times but have never seen the theatre. I will have to pay a return visit soon I think.

[ShrubMonkey]

Great photos as always Julian.

Do you know what, I've been to Hurst Castle loads of times but have never seen the theatre. I will have to pay a return visit soon I think.

Thanks Dave, got a few more shots from the day here:
http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/gallery/7545024_uthxA#487422290_Kx7gp

In fact I just found my last grab shot before it rained and prefer it as a standalone image for my 365, so going to change todays picture to this:

8th Mar: Grab shot right before jumping on the little ferry boat to Lymington from Hurst Castle, the heavens opened about 4 minutes later, phew!
Single RAW, saved as 5 different exposures, then HDR processed, saved as TIFF for some final desaturation and dodging & burning in PS.

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/487463499_ZEzEm-XL.jpg

[JDholic]

You really have the HDR nailed mate. Impressive. I wouldn't have been able to tell had you not said. And I do a fair bit of HDR as well. :clap:

[ShrubMonkey]

You really have the HDR nailed mate. Impressive. I wouldn't have been able to tell had you not said. And I do a fair bit of HDR as well. :clap:

Thanks again JD, I've found subtle HDR processing to really transform a lot of my images, I think it's totally amazing technique (although means the photo editing stage takes so much longer).

[JDholic]

My last two landscape one's were HDR. I always go for the understated approach.

[SpidersEye]

I've just looked through your thread. There's a really interesting range of images here and some great ideas!

I'll be keeping up with this, it might give me some ideas for when I need inspiration for mine :)

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks Kay.

I'm sure I'll need inspiration from others too ;)

[Chillimonster]

I'll echo the use of HDR - you use it very subtlely (sp) to enhance the pictures rather than going OTT :thumbs:

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks Chilli

One thing that would make the whole HDR thing even better would be a camera that can take more than 3 shot auto exposure bracketing. I expect most mid range cameras can do more than 3?

[Chillimonster]

yeah, most camera's these day give you a few more options on the AEB front.

Still its a good reason to upgrade :D

[ShrubMonkey]

Yeah, another reason to upgrade. I'll be sure to tell my wife about this reason too :)

[JDholic]

*runs off to try it with the d90, will report back....*

[JDholic]

Just for your information, The D90 allows you to take either 3 bracketed shots at a spacing you choose between 0.3 and 2. It also gives you the option to take 2 overexposed and 2 underexposed at a spacing you choose as well. You can't do 5 at once, but it will be well tested....

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks for the info JD

[ShrubMonkey]

9th Mar: Grab Shot.

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/488261373_NT2KS-L.jpg

[zarozinia]

Oh that pizza pic made me hungry!
Interesting image of the grotto, I like it a lot.
The 8th is a winner for me, great composition.

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks for your comments zarozinia

[ShrubMonkey]

10th Mar: My first computer

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/488879230_5m2Fs-L.jpg

[Chillimonster]

Excellent eyes on that one :thumbs:

[ShrubMonkey]

Yeah thanks Chilli, that was the only keeper, as the rest of the shots were blurred.

[purpleclouds]

Wow! I love yesterdays! It works really well in B&W :) I really like the angle on today's shot too, the youth of today eh! :lol: Some other crackers too, keep up the good work!

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks, spent ages on processing yesterdays image, still not sure it's what I was after. Todays was easy in comparison.

[JDholic]

Your last couple have been excellent mate, today's is definitely one to bring out in about 10 years time!!

[nicnok]

Excellent photos - I must try and get some more B&W ones of my boys! Thanks for the idea.

[ShrubMonkey]

Your last couple have been excellent mate, today's is definitely one to bring out in about 10 years time!!

Thanks JD, yes one to show her later. I have hundreds of family shots to sort out :|

Excellent photos - I must try and get some more B&W ones of my boys! Thanks for the idea.

Thanks nicnok, I really like B&W for portrait shots. My wife is not keen on pictures of the children on the web, so I'm going to get in trouble for this one :bonk:

[Justin]

Just caught up on your 365 mate, really good work so far and I'm finding your commitment as impressive as your content. Wish I had such dedication!

[ShrubMonkey]

Just caught up on your 365 mate, really good work so far and I'm finding your commitment as impressive as your content. Wish I had such dedication!

Hey thanks Woody mate, not seen you around here for a while. Hope the love is still there with the D90 (wanna see some of your shots) :geek:

[nicnok]

My wife is not keen on pictures of the children on the web, so I'm going to get in trouble for this one :bonk:

Yeah, I can understand that - in Switzerland things are a bit less stressed, our boys are OK outside playing on their own, aged 2 and 4! I do wonder about putting photos of them up for anyone to see sometimes.

[nicnok]

I have only just realised that on the last photo the DOF is not what is making the keys on the keyboard "blend out" towards the camera but that the colour changes too! Funny tricks the eye plays sometimes.

[ShrubMonkey]

11th Mar: What lurks behind.....

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/489512202_9fRze-XL.jpg

Added duotone and sprayed strokes filter in PS.

[Justin]

Hey thanks Woody mate, not seen you around here for a while. Hope the love is still there with the D90 (wanna see some of your shots) :geek:

Yep still loving the D90 and it still has pride of place on my pillow :lol: Almost there with all my duties etc, so some more pics should hopefully follow soon.

This latest pic is absolutely brilliant, it actually made the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end. The sprayed strokes give an abstract quality to the door and frame but an almost hairy texture on the hands matching the title perfectly. Inspired. :clap:

[JDholic]

Is that from Monsters Inc??

Nice idea!! :clap:

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks matey, you would laugh if you saw me taking the picture, camera on a tripod with the legs splayed out so the camera is close to the floor. I had to lie down and look through the view finder to focus, then run behind the door after I pressed the shutter with the timer on. I did this a few times and felt ill :geek:

[SpidersEye]

That's great; I like that effect you've used and the lighting / angle makes it really dramatic! :thumbs:

[dellipher]

:lol: Very imaginitive last shot! :D

[Chillimonster]

Just enough lighting so as not to lose the detail on the door completely :thumbs:

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks folks, not sure it turned out exactly as I wanted.

[ShrubMonkey]

12th Mar: Time to start my next project...

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/490105457_88Cyn-L.jpg

[JDholic]

Can't see anything!!

[ShrubMonkey]

Can't see anything!!

Doh! I had the image hidden :bonk:
Thanks

[ShrubMonkey]

13th Mar: Hey, Down here!

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/490664944_Fx2cz-L.jpg

[JDholic]

The 12th is a great idea mate!! I really like it!! :clap:

[ShrubMonkey]

thanks JD, had the idea for a few days, just had to wait for the book to arrive from Amazon :)

[ShrubMonkey]

14th Mar: Stopped off at Donnington Castle near Newbury today at the same time a wedding couple arrived, so grabbed a cheeky shot. Single shot saved as 5 different exposures and HDR processed.

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/491247351_hybDj-XL.jpg

Don't want go into details, but ended up with a substantial monetary gift from a family member today, so much so that I will be upgrading to a new camera. So I was considering 50D or D300 (leaning towards D300 or waiting for D400), but now I can easily get a 5D mkII, don't want to waste my money (so many important things I should use it for), but this is a once in a lifetimes chance, what should I do?!?!?!?!?!?

[FeTT]

Just catching up again some more cracking shots mate really liking Grab Shot, and What Lurks behind, like toe low agle on Hey Down here too good work mate keep it up.

Would love to be in your situation I upgraded from a 350D to a 40D last May massive difference in usability for me the 40D is a joy, the controls are so much better laid out but I find myself wanting a 5D markII now but I would still keep the 40D for the burst speed. Good luck whatever you decide Im sure you will enjoy it.

Sean

[Chillimonster]

Hey, Down here! is a great shot :) :thumbs:

[ShrubMonkey]

Just catching up again some more cracking shots mate really liking Grab Shot, and What Lurks behind, like toe low agle on Hey Down here too good work mate keep it up.

Thanks Sean :)

Would love to be in your situation I upgraded from a 350D to a 40D last May massive difference in usability for me the 40D is a joy, the controls are so much better laid out but I find myself wanting a 5D markII now but I would still keep the 40D for the burst speed. Good luck whatever you decide Im sure you will enjoy it.

Yeah I know, feel like a kid with the keys to the sweet shop, although I obviously have to give it some serious thought. I'm, currently swaying towards D300 and 3 lenses (16-85 VR, zoom and a macro).

Hey, Down here! is a great shot

Thanks Chilli, just mucking around at playtime, but in the end I really liked this shot too.

[ShrubMonkey]

15th Mar: The car carrier Grande Ellade arriving at Southampton Western Docks. Both my girls were sound asleep in the car until she sounded her horn :)

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/491964096_RzFuL-L.jpg

Seriously considering upgrading to D300 (over a FF 5D mkII/D700), with 16-85 VR lens and a macro (105mm f/2.8G ED-IF VR) and a zoom or tele (300mm f/4 ED-IF looks very nice), so any advice would be well appreciated :)

[kitten]

just catching up -- some of these shots are sensational!

I love the HDR one with the lifering, my first computer is just brilliant, I love the look on her face, reminds me of me when I was little and intent on playing my spectrum!! The one with the hand coming around the door gave me goosebumps and Hey Down Here is fab. I love this 365, keep 'em coming!

Will be very exciting to see what you can come up with when you have your new toy!

[ShrubMonkey]

just catching up -- some of these shots are sensational!

I love the HDR one with the lifering, my first computer is just brilliant, I love the look on her face, reminds me of me when I was little and intent on playing my spectrum!! The one with the hand coming around the door gave me goosebumps and Hey Down Here is fab. I love this 365, keep 'em coming!

Will be very exciting to see what you can come up with when you have your new toy!

Thanks Kitten, felt I had a good week last week, so it's really great to have your feedback :)

With regards to new gear, I know it's going to be hard to know what to get, even if I settle on a D300 I have to decide on lenses.

[ShrubMonkey]

16th Mar: Sea of Daffodils. Drove past these yesteraday in town, looked fantastic, so went and took this shot today, does not really do them justice (plus I felt a bit silly standing in all these dafs with my tripod, next to 2 lanes of fast moving traffic).

http://shrubmonkey.smugmug.com/photos/492767993_fjupF-XL.jpg

Still think I'm set on going Nikon, but keep reading rumours about the D400, seeing as I've had the 350D since was first released, I may wait a little longer, at least with a view to some some proper details on the D400 so I can compare with the D300.

[Chillimonster]

Like the picture of the car carrier - that thing must be huge in the flesh :eek:

Was it delivery or collecting (considering the amount of new cars we have satnding around unsold at the moment!)

[ShrubMonkey]

Like the picture of the car carrier - that thing must be huge in the flesh :eek:

Was it delivery or collecting (considering the amount of new cars we have satnding around unsold at the moment!)

She was a decent size (over 180m long), had to take the girls to the swings, so didn't get a good look at what was inside. There were loads of Honda CRV's all parked at the dock just behind her.

[zarozinia]

Ha ha, I love the training day image, great idea.
THe HDR is good, it doesnt really look like an HDR.
But my favourite from the last week has to be the Grimaldi shot, the reflections in the water really bring it to life, lovely.

[ShrubMonkey]

Thanks Zarozinia, yes didn't realise at the time, but the reflection in the water does look good :)

[JDholic]

Just having a catchup, I've been really busy this weekend, I love the Ship Shot. (poet and don't know it?) Everything about it!! :thumbs: The sky, colour, reflection, sharpness, scale....