The 52 Weeks of Daysleeping Pt 2 - WEEK 52!!! (Texture) [Archive]

Daysleeper40

12-07-2009, 16:53

That is one gorgeous photo, DS :clap::clap::clap:

The night-black background is fantastic, too. :)

I hope life is letting you get back to your photography now - it's great to see you back. :)

btw - The edit button only seems to have gone from the first post (in my thread, anyway) - is this some kind of plot to confuse the unwary (me!) or am I missing something in Forum Rules?????

Jean

Thanks Jean - I'm massivly annoyed at life for getting in the way but I'm determined to get up to date with my 52... I just need an idea for Highlight now! I'm quite pleased with "night" as I actually had an idea and made a special trip to a local wildlife park to get it - more organised than my usual rush jobs!

Marcel says that editing rights on the first post stop after 6 months so we won't be able to update our titles. My tiny mind won't be able to keep track of my own post let alone anyone elses without updated titles so I opted to start "Pt 2" :)

Spartacus

13-07-2009, 13:09

Toothie

13-07-2009, 13:18

fantastic shot :thumbs:

SarahLee

13-07-2009, 18:53

I think that's one of my favourite shots that I've seen on here.
I absolutely love it.

Where did you find him?

Daysleeper40

13-07-2009, 18:59

That's a great shot, I like the focus on the eye...brilliant...:clap:

I'm not sure about the open mouth, would loved to have seen one that was closed to compare, but that's just me...

but all the same a very nice example of a night owl...:thumbs:

Thankyou - I will have a look through to see if I have any profile shots with a closed beak - I don't think I have but if I find one I'll be sure to post it up.

fantastic shot :thumbs:

Thanks Toothie ;)

I think that's one of my favourite shots that I've seen on here.
I absolutely love it.

Where did you find him?

Well thankyou very much! I found him at Beale Park in Berkshire - they have some lovely birds but the backgrounds in the cages are just wooden fencing and the light streams through the foliage in akward places so it's quite tricky to contend with. I was actually in two minds whether to use this one or the first from this post - I'm still not sure which one I prefer: http://www.talkphotography.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=148887

I'm glad you like the one I chose though :)

SarahLee

13-07-2009, 19:12

Well thankyou very much! I found him at Beale Park in Berkshire - they have some lovely birds but the backgrounds in the cages are just wooden fencing and the light streams through the foliage in akward places so it's quite tricky to contend with. I was actually in two minds whether to use this one or the first from this post - I'm still not sure which one I prefer: http://www.talkphotography.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=148887

I'm glad you like the one I chose though :)

I like the one on your other thread too, but I still prefer the one that you posted here.

I'm trying to find the words to explain why I like it so much, but I think that it's more of an emotional response than anything tangible.
The black background, texture of the feathers and spark in his eye are all part of it - but the overall image is somehow more than all those things put together.

The fact that you had such difficult lighting conditions makes it all the more impressive :notworthy:

Daysleeper40

13-07-2009, 20:54

Well I am finally up to date... phew!!

I really had no inspiration for Highlight then I spotted this candle holder malarky on a top shelf - not my best idea but I'm just glad to be only one day late :)

Week 27 - Highlight

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg129/Daysleeper40/The%2052%20Weeks%20of%202009/Week27-Highlight.jpg

I'm sorry if I have not commented on your thread yet - I am trying to work my way through and get up to date with the feedback too.

kennysarmy

14-07-2009, 10:29

Toothie

14-07-2009, 10:41

That is well lit but as said it would be nice to see the whole thing.

Daysleeper40

14-07-2009, 17:33

Night.

Great owl portrait...nice balance to the composition.

Highlight.

Shame we can't see the base of the holder....good use of lighting though I think the auto-white balance has struggled a bit

It's hard when you the "WORD" gives you no inspiration....been there many times myself lol....what it does do though is make you keep your "eyes open" to photographic possibilities...which is great...and can only be helping us all....

That is well lit but as said it would be nice to see the whole thing.

Thanks for the feedback - duly noted. I did take a shot of the whole thing - what do you reckon, better / worse / indiffernt? :shrug:

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg129/Daysleeper40/52%20-%20Possibles/P1090017.jpg

SarahLee

14-07-2009, 19:41

jgs001

15-07-2009, 09:49

Love the Owl, what a wonderful shot. Detailed, colours in all the right places :D... and it's got it's eye firmly fixed on something with that intentness that only predators seem able to achieve. Pity the little mouse ... (ok it's looking up not down but...)

I prefer the second shot of highlight with all the holder in. It's well lit, and is a very interesting shape shown well. :thumbs:

Bruja

15-07-2009, 15:55

Love the owl. The catchlight in the eye draws you in and the black background shows it off to perfection :clap::clap::clap:

I prefer the second highlight shot, just a shame about the lack of definition on the rhs of the holder. Nevertheless, spot on theme :thumbs:

Dark Star

15-07-2009, 19:32

Your night shot is stunning DS - clarity and composition and sharpness of the eye all work wonderfully - superb :clap:

I too prefer the 2nd highlight and is is highlight or high light :) both apply equally well :)

Well done on getting back to speed too :thumbs:

Daysleeper40

15-07-2009, 19:44

I definitely prefer the second shot with the base included in it.
Considering your lack of inspiration, you really managed to come up with a good one in the end.

I love the way that the single flame reflects in the glasses on the other holders, it really captures the highlight theme.
The only thing that would slightly niggle me is the patch on the right, where part of the holder disappears into the background.

Thanks Sarah - this is one of my personal least favourites so I'm glad that you have found anything positive to say about it to be honest!

Love the Owl, what a wonderful shot. Detailed, colours in all the right places... and it's got it's eye firmly fixed on something with that intentness that only predators seem able to achieve. Pity the little mouse ... (ok it's looking up not down but...)

I prefer the second shot of highlight with all the holder in. It's well lit, and is a very interesting shape shown well.

Thankyou - I know what you mean about the intentness, that's why I like shooting birds of prey.

Love the owl. The catchlight in the eye draws you in and the black background shows it off to perfection :clap::clap::clap:

I prefer the second highlight shot, just a shame about the lack of definition on the rhs of the holder. Nevertheless, spot on theme

Thankyou - I'm really glad you guys like the owl as I was secretly quite pleased with my efforts for once :D

Highlight - I should have thought about the lighting more - at the point I took this I just wanted to get something which is obviously not the ideal attitude! I really didn't like this theme - maybe I'll revisit if we get a re-shoot.

Your night shot is stunning DS - clarity and composition and sharpness of the eye all work wonderfully - superb :clap:

I too prefer the 2nd highlight and is is highlight or high light :) both apply equally well :)

Well done on getting back to speed too :thumbs:

Thanks Dark Star - I'm glad to be back up to speed too, it was all getting on top of me for a while and I nearly waved the white flag. Then I gave myself a stern talking to and told the rest of life to sod off for a while and let me get on with my photos :bat: :D

Bruja

15-07-2009, 21:07

Then I gave myself a stern talking to and told the rest of life to sod off for a while and let me get on with my photos :bat: :D

Good for you :clap::clap::clap:

Hyster

15-07-2009, 21:42

The candle holder shots are fine but the Owl shot is a stunner, Its sharp, has negative space and I love the glassy look of the eye, I would loose the hot spots above the head but a cracking shot.

jeangenie

16-07-2009, 07:29

Sorry - I've been so mesmerised by your Night shot and forgot to comment on your Highlight.

At the risk of being boring - your owl shots are really something else. :):):) I also love the ones on the other thread and think the second one deserves a caption! The one you posed on this thread just wins by a short beak, but it's a tight-run thing. I'm glad you're proud of these. :thumbs::thumbs:

Highlight: Good take on the theme - fits the bill perfectly, and I prefer the second one for its base. As you'd expect, (and I think you feel the same) it doesn't make me jump up and down with excitement like the owl did - it lacks a bit of sparkle. But I've had plenty (most) like that, so I'm not in a position to criticise :schtum: I'm just really glad you gave your life a good talking to and got back to your photography - we'd miss you on the 52. :)

Jean

adrury

20-07-2009, 11:48

Hi DS, I love your use of black backgrounds for both night and highlight shots, they add a real sense of atmosphere.

Night is my favourite shot, is an absolute stunner!! :clap::clap::clap:

Spartacus

20-07-2009, 14:00

I prefer the second shot of Highlight it really did need the base to be in the shot...:clap::clap::clap:

Daysleeper40

20-07-2009, 19:55

Thankyou all for your comments - much appreciated. Must apologise again for being late and for STILL not being up to date with everyone elses threads. I'm sorry.

Week 28 - Fun

Now taking a picture of your fridge may not sound like much fun but our fridge is covered with magnets from all the fun places we have been to and things we have done. Three of my all time favourite places feature in this particular shot... and everytime I open our fridge I get a little reminder of all the great times OH and I have had together :)

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg129/Daysleeper40/The%2052%20Weeks%20of%202009/Week28-Fun.jpg

Things I've learned:

1. I may like the idea but some things just won't turn out how you imagined or hoped they would.
2. We need to go back to Florida soon to re-experience some of the most fun times of our lives! :D

maddog.mark

20-07-2009, 20:58

Quick catch up.

Your night shot is superb, I love it. :love:
Highlights is a technically good shot but lacks a little interest (your night shot spoilt me)
Fun, a great way to remember the fun times in your life, I think I'd have preferred a smidgen more dof.....not much mind. :naughty:

Mark:thumbs:

corky

20-07-2009, 21:35

I'm catching up too, love your night shot, excellent. highlight is on theme, but not inspiring (sorry) and i think you've nailed it again with your fun theme :clap:

jeangenie

20-07-2009, 22:13

What a good idea, DS. :thumbs: Like Mark, I'd prefer a bit more dof - mainly because I'm nosey and can't work out where some of your holiday destinations are. :D

It seems we were on a similar track - holidays as fun. I need more of them! :lol:

Jean

jgs001

20-07-2009, 23:40

Toothie

21-07-2009, 00:19

love the idea of your fridge, i get bookmarks when i go to fun places :D

Would have liked to have seen the bottom edge of the in focus badge though

Bruja

21-07-2009, 12:44

I like it, it certainly looks like you've had lots of fun. Despite being someone very into shallow DOF... I think I have to agree and a little more DOF would be good here, I think having all of the Universal Studios within would give just enough to enable the rest to be viewed more easily.

Noy been lazy (honest ;)) but I have to agree and I love the idea of having all those memories to remind you everytime you go to the fridge. Cracking idea and certainly fits the bill :thumbs:

SarahLee

21-07-2009, 19:42

Spot on for me.
You say in your lessons learnt that it's not how you originally planned for it to turn out, but I'm struggling to see how it could be much better. The angle of the shot is really inventive - I would never have thought of that.

I'd quite like to see a bit more detail on the other magnets as has already been said . . . but on the other hand the fact that they are out of focus kind of makes the image more compelling. I keep staring at it and trying to make out what's on the other ones (yes I'm nosey too!)

Hyster

22-07-2009, 23:33

Universal studios, now you are talking, now that is a really fun place.

I was there as best man at my mates wedding last year and it was just superb. I loved it and will definitely go back, hits the spot for me D.S.

adrury

25-07-2009, 18:22

Hello DS, liking the composition of this one as well as the colouring. Like other self confessed nosies have said I too would liked a little more DoF however, it is a good shot! :clap: :clap:

Daysleeper40

26-07-2009, 12:06

Thanks for the comments everyone - I agree about the DOF, kind of forgot that it's not obvious to everyone else what the other magnets are as you don't see them everyday like I do!!

Week 29 - Easy

I tried to go for a different interpretation of the theme... I don't know if the fact that this sprung to mind first say's a bit too much about my own miss-spent youth though!! :p

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg129/Daysleeper40/The%2052%20Weeks%20of%202009/Week29-Easy.jpg

Edit... could have used this one for fun as well couldn't I!!

Dark Star

26-07-2009, 13:35

Fun - great idea and a great viewpoint! If I had to change anything it would be to include the bottom of the Universal logo fully :) Thats one busy fridge though :)

Easy - that was an interpretation that crossed my mind :)

You've done it well and the colours are great...I just wonder what it'd look like with the bottle upright, lid off and the bra slung over it...? :thinking:

Although its easy for me to come up with these ideas after you've done the hard work and come up with the original shot though :)

Now that looks like a fun shoot :D!!!

Daysleeper40

26-07-2009, 14:56

Fun - great idea and a great viewpoint! If I had to change anything it would be to include the bottom of the Universal logo fully. Thats one busy fridge though.

Easy - that was an interpretation that crossed my mind :)

You've done it well and the colours are great...I just wonder what it'd look like with the bottle upright, lid off and the bra slung over it...? :thinking:

Although its easy for me to come up with these ideas after you've done the hard work and come up with the original shot though :)

Now that looks like a fun shoot!!!

Good to know I'm not the only one with a dirty mind! :p

Do you mean a bit like this:

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg129/Daysleeper40/52%20-%20Possibles/P1090572.jpg

or this,

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg129/Daysleeper40/52%20-%20Possibles/P1090567.jpg

or maybe this...

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg129/Daysleeper40/52%20-%20Possibles/P1090570.jpg

I'm finding there are only so many ways of draping a bra over a bottle of jack!! :D

Dark Star

26-07-2009, 14:58

Now thats the bizness DS :)

#2 by virtue of the fact that the bottle is totally straight - slight lean on the other two! What better way to spend a Sunday eh :)!!!

SarahLee

26-07-2009, 18:51

:lol: :D I obviously either don't have a dirty mind or I didn't mis-spend enough of my youth because that interpretation didn't occur to me at all!

Well done on those photos, they're fab - crisp, clear and the colour is just about perfect. You obviously had great fun with them too.

The first one out of the second set works best I think.

Daysleeper40

26-07-2009, 19:35

Now thats the bizness DS :)

#2 by virtue of the fact that the bottle is totally straight - slight lean on the other two! What better way to spend a Sunday eh :)!!!

...and that's what I get for drinking in the middle of the day! :D

You're the one who told me to take the top of the bottle... if I did have a sneaky swig you know who I'm blaming :p

:lol: :D I obviously either don't have a dirty mind or I didn't mis-spend enough of my youth because that interpretation didn't occur to me at all!

Well done on those photos, they're fab - crisp, clear and the colour is just about perfect. You obviously had great fun with them too.

The first one out of the second set works best I think.

There's still time!!

Thanks for the feedback - I quite liked the first one out of the second set too but John is right, there is a bit of a dodgy lean on the bottle. I don't know why I can't see these mistakes before I post the dame photo's :bonk:

jeangenie

26-07-2009, 23:17

before[/B] I post the dame photo's :bonk:

:whistling::whistling::whistling:

Well - what can I say? I thought of that interpretation for the theme, but would never in a million years have come up with such a brilliant illustration of it. I must have a dirty mind, too - but no style! It strikes exactly the right note, and I prefer the first one - lying down. :thumbs::thumbs::thumbs:

Note to self: buy red bra and throw out boring white/beige ones. :D

Jean

Hyster

27-07-2009, 06:29

I like both your original and the first of the second set, very good idea and the red really works well against the background black.

Excellent take on the theme.

jgs001

27-07-2009, 10:23

Excellent take on the theme. The first one is very good, I prefer the third one in the second set. I don't think the lean detracts... it sort of implies more about what "has" gone on... I also think the strap around the bottle works better than draped over it.

Daysleeper40

27-07-2009, 17:57

:whistling::whistling::whistling:

Well - what can I say? I thought of that interpretation for the theme, but would never in a million years have come up with such a brilliant illustration of it. I must have a dirty mind, too - but no style! It strikes exactly the right note, and I prefer the first one - lying down. :thumbs::thumbs::thumbs:

Note to self: buy red bra and throw out boring white/beige ones. :D

Jean

I'm sensing some subtext here Jean.. what ya trying to say hmmm? I havn't forgotton about all those (empty) wine bottles sat on your wall :D

I'm glad someone likes my first effort - thankyou :)

I like both your original and the first of the second set, very good idea and the red really works well against the background black.

Excellent take on the theme.

Thankyou - I had lots of fun with this theme, it's so much easier when you actually have an idea and the props to set it up!

Excellent take on the theme. The first one is very good, I prefer the third one in the second set. I don't think the lean detracts... it sort of implies more about what "has" gone on... I also think the strap around the bottle works better than draped over it.

Thankyou - actually I think I agree about the strap, still not convinced re the lean though.

jeangenie

27-07-2009, 21:19

I'm sensing some subtext here Jean.. what ya trying to say hmmm? I havn't forgotton about all those (empty) wine bottles sat on your wall :D

I'm glad someone likes my first effort - thankyou :)

Hehehe

:$ hic! hic! But that was just wine - JD's hard core. :coat::exit:

Jean

Spartacus

29-07-2009, 11:36

Excellent fun shot and I like the DOF...:clap:

It work very well for the theme and makes for a great fun shot...:thumbs:

Easy...blimely is it me or is it getting hot in here...:lol::lol::lol:

Only a women could pull off a shot like that...my under pant just wouldn't have the same appeal...:lol:

The Red & Black really do bring this shot alive and is brilliant...and without being pervy...your best so far...:love:

Toothie

29-07-2009, 11:53

I love this idea :D (so i guess im in the dirty mind group)

Personally i would have put some used shot glasses in there and shot the whole hting on a table top to give more of an impression of a hasety removal of clothes. nothing wrong with what you have done but i think the above could give it a more natural feel.

Bruja

30-07-2009, 13:15

I to am a member of the dirty mind club :lol:

I did think of an interpretation but it was no way as good as yours :clap::clap::clap:

I prefer the first one of the second lot but only because the red is a bit more vibrant. They are a great set, and no, Marcus your underpants wouldn´t have had the same effect :lol::lol:

adrury

30-07-2009, 19:33

Ooo er missus!!!

Excellent shots, great background, stunning colours, and fits the theme beautifully!! :clap::clap:

Daysleeper40

09-08-2009, 17:30

So sorry for being behind on all of this - all comments greatly appreciated... and I'm glad I'm not the only one with a dirty mind!!

Week 30 - Colour

It's fair to say that I get a bit frantic when I'm behind with my photo's. I'm not sure this really fits the theme but I must catch up so here it is...

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg129/Daysleeper40/The%2052%20Weeks%20of%202009/P1090731-1.jpg

Week 31 will follow shortly and I'll be posting feedback for everyone else asap ;)

maddog.mark

09-08-2009, 18:46

SarahLee

09-08-2009, 19:49

Well for a "frantic" shot I'd say that's pretty damn good :thumbs:

I love Ladybirds - unfortunately we haven't had many of them around here this year. Sounds like Mark received our share of them :)
"Bishybarnybees" :lol: I really like that!

That's a lovely clear shot - great detail on the ladybird and the leaf. For me it fits the theme well too.

jeangenie

09-08-2009, 22:53

If a ladybird doesn't suggest 'colour', I don't know what does. :) That's a lovely shot and bang on theme. :thumbs:

I hope life is a bit less hectic now - it's a horrible feeling when you have more tasks on hand than hours in the day. What happened to that JD - it sounds as though a quick nip or two is called for. :naughty:

Jean

Toothie

09-08-2009, 23:46

Stunning colour and great composition :thumbs:

Bruja

11-08-2009, 14:16

Love the colours in this so it certainly meets the theme :thumbs: It's a shot you should be proud of Fi :clap::clap::clap:

karmagarda

12-08-2009, 07:49

I think it's a great shot! Colours are really nice in it, and the photo itself is fantastic.

Dark Star

12-08-2009, 19:02

Ooh I'm so late :(

DS that ladybird is phenomenal - a fantastic macro - great detail and, of course, great colour

Terrific!

Daysleeper40

12-08-2009, 20:39

Easy..... I don't understand.... please explain.:naughty:

Colour, well ladybirds are certainly colourful and the shot is pretty good too.:thumbs:

We've had an invasion of ladybirds (or Bishybarnybees as proper Norfolk folk call them). The coast was covered, thousands and thousands of them. Pavements covered, people covered, an amazing sight, and I took no pictures.

:D

Love the name Bishybarnybees and will be using it with immediate effect!

Can't believe you didn't take a shot of your invasion - sounds like it would have made for an interesting subject.

Well for a "frantic" shot I'd say that's pretty damn good

I love Ladybirds - unfortunately we haven't had many of them around here this year. Sounds like Mark received our share of them
"Bishybarnybees" :lol: I really like that!

That's a lovely clear shot - great detail on the ladybird and the leaf. For me it fits the theme well too.

Thanks Sarah - I get a bit desperate for ideas and then feel like I'm crow-barring an image to fit the theme... I'm glad that you think it fits though.

If a ladybird doesn't suggest 'colour', I don't know what does. That's a lovely shot and bang on theme.

I hope life is a bit less hectic now - it's a horrible feeling when you have more tasks on hand than hours in the day. What happened to that JD - it sounds as though a quick nip or two is called for.

Jean

Thanks Jean - sadly life (well work really) is still very hectic and although I know I should be trying to catch up and post for last weeks theme I just havn't had the energy or inspiration yet. Plan is to get some shots on friday night and then reward myself with a nice BIG glass of wine as someone appears to have finished the JD... I can't think who it can have been :suspect:

Daysleeper40

12-08-2009, 20:44

Stunning colour and great composition QUOTE]

Thankyou ;)

[QUOTE=Bruja;1789133]Love the colours in this so it certainly meets the theme :thumbs: It's a shot you should be proud of Fi

Thankyou - I have a few things that I'm not happy with on this one but overall I was quite pleased with the end result.

I think it's a great shot! Colours are really nice in it, and the photo itself is fantastic.

Thankyou ;)

Ooh I'm so late :(

DS that ladybird is phenomenal - a fantastic macro - great detail and, of course, great colour

Terrific!

My ego might get out of hand if you start using words like phenomenal! :D

Thankyou - I really like macro and I can see it turning into a bit of an obsession. I'm already thinking of the kit I will need to take it a bit further - although I am dead impressed by the Raynox lenses as a cheap and cheerful set up with my FZ8.

(oh and if anyones late it's me - I've been two weeks behind on my shots and commenting on everyone elses too often now :bang:)

Daysleeper40

15-08-2009, 15:46

I know, I know, I'm still horribly behind but I am determined to keep going with this... so in the spirit of perseverence here is week 31 - Food:

A fly enjoying his lunch...

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg129/Daysleeper40/The%2052%20Weeks%20of%202009/Week31-Food.jpg

Today was not a good day for macro - the wind made it all a bit tricky but I did my best and was quite pleased with this one :)

karmagarda

15-08-2009, 16:31

Wow... that's just crazily good! DOF is absolutely amazing. Wow :clap:

Hyster

16-08-2009, 09:34

SarahLee

17-08-2009, 21:05

:clap::clap::clap: Very Very impressive!

I can't believe the level of detail that you've got in there - you'd never know that it was taken in tricky conditions.

maddog.mark

17-08-2009, 21:30

Wow, the detail in that shot is stunning!:notworthy:

Spartacus

19-08-2009, 10:32

The Colour shot is really very good but this Food shot is a belter, if you are using your FZ8 to get all these shots then Panasonic should be paying you :D

Seriously, very impressive and proof that its not the camera that takes great pics, its the photographer.

Well said Hyster...I agree that fly shot is stunning, I'd be soooo happy to be able to get shots like that...:clap::clap::clap:

Brilliant...Brilliant...Brilliant...:thumbs:

Bruja

19-08-2009, 13:56

:clap::clap::clap:

What a fantastic shot, great detail and DoF. I'm so jealous :thumbs:

Daysleeper40

24-08-2009, 19:27

Wow... that's just crazily good! DOF is absolutely amazing. Wow :clap:

Thankyou :)

The Colour shot is really very good but this Food shot is a belter, if you are using your FZ8 to get all these shots then Panasonic should be paying you :D

Seriously, very impressive and proof that its not the camera that takes great pics, its the photographer.

Thanks Hyster - I am yearning for a DSLR (it's my birthday on wed so finger and toes are crossed!) but I love my FZ8 - particularly for macro stuff. It's a great little camera and I'm really glad I got it. It's been a great learning tool.

:clap::clap::clap: Very Very impressive!

I can't believe the level of detail that you've got in there - you'd never know that it was taken in tricky conditions.

Thanks sarah - any kind of breeze does make it tricky and I think I got a bit lucky with this one if I'm being honest!

Daysleeper40

24-08-2009, 19:29

Wow, the detail in that shot is stunning!:notworthy:

Thanks Mark ;)

Well said Hyster...I agree that fly shot is stunning, I'd be soooo happy to be able to get shots like that...:clap::clap::clap:

Brilliant...Brilliant...Brilliant...:thumbs:

I'm sure you can get shots like this - the raynox takes a bit of practice and I'm by no means the expert but once you get going it's pretty addictive!

:clap::clap::clap:

What a fantastic shot, great detail and DoF. I'm so jealous :thumbs:

Thanks Bruja - I'm really pleased you guys like it!

Daysleeper40

24-08-2009, 19:36

Right well it's become pretty obvious that I'm losing my battle to keep up with this. Life is busy and to be honest work is sapping all of my inspiration out of me. I have just spent 2 hours trying to come up with something for "exposed" and have failed miserably. I'm on the verge of having a bit of a paddy so I have put the camera down for tonight. The only thing I can get enthusiastic about is bug shots at the moment which I obviously can't keep crow-barring in to fit the theme.

BUT

I havn't given up. I will get back up to date. Promise.

We are off on holiday on 07.09.09 and I'm hoping that getting away from it all will unleash a new sense of purpose for me. Christ knows I need to snap out of this rut!!

Apologies for not being up to date with all of your threads - it has now become a bit of a mammoth task :(

I know I keep saying it but I WILL get on top of this and cease whinging shortly.

jeangenie

24-08-2009, 21:37

Big :hug: from me DS. It sounds as though work is a bit of a 'mare at the moment - you definitely need that holiday. Are you taking your birthday present with you?

We all seem to have lows on this challenge and we all have 'filler' shots or post late - no shame in either, imo. :)

I always look forward to your posts and looking back over your shots, I see consistently excellent piccies, spot on for the theme, creative, fun and just plain clever. You've been giving thoughtful and honest critique to other 52ers and I for one think this is a good time to say a big 'thank you' to you - enjoy your hols, your new camera and hopefully some duty-free JD. :)

I'm really looking forward to the next instalment of 52 Weeks of Daysleeping.

Jean

PS - I'm sure bugs could fit into most themes - they're so intricate and fascinating. :thumbs:

Spartacus

25-08-2009, 13:39

Sorry to hear that news, but we all go throught it at some point I was sooo close to giving it up. But I'm glad I didn't, guess I would miss everybody on here...:shake:

and I for one think that the bug shots are of such good quality I'm happy to see more anytime, if that's all you get one week sent it in...I for one love them...:love:

SarahLee

25-08-2009, 17:52

Ditto to both of the above and another :hug: from me.

Jean's really summed up what I want to say here :

I always look forward to your posts and looking back over your shots, I see consistently excellent piccies, spot on for the theme, creative, fun and just plain clever. You've been giving thoughtful and honest critique to other 52ers and I for one think this is a good time to say a big 'thank you' to you - enjoy your hols, your new camera and hopefully some duty-free JD. :)

So have a great holiday, have fun and I'll be looking forward to seeing your renewed inspiration once you've recharged your battery.
Some of your shots are absolutely spectacular and I still think that your owl is one of the best images I've seen on here.

Bruja

26-08-2009, 15:16

Big :hug: from me DS. It sounds as though work is a bit of a 'mare at the moment - you definitely need that holiday. Are you taking your birthday present with you?

We all seem to have lows on this challenge and we all have 'filler' shots or post late - no shame in either, imo. :)

I always look forward to your posts and looking back over your shots, I see consistently excellent piccies, spot on for the theme, creative, fun and just plain clever. You've been giving thoughtful and honest critique to other 52ers and I for one think this is a good time to say a big 'thank you' to you - enjoy your hols, your new camera and hopefully some duty-free JD. :)

I'm really looking forward to the next instalment of 52 Weeks of Daysleeping.

I can only agree with Jean. You've been straightforward and honest with me and I appreciate it. Have a great holiday, shoot what themes you can and come back to others later, after all the :rules: don't say you have to shoot them in order. It's your challenge. And why can't a bug fit exposed, after all, they're normally hiding ;)

Dark Star

26-08-2009, 23:44

Well DS I can only agree with everyone else :) No rush, keep em coming in your own time and don't stress about keeping up :) This is supposed to be fun so keep it that way :D

Your food shot is stunning!!! I have recently acquired a Raynox but am a long way from producing anything as good as that shot! Brilliant!

And a belated Happy Birthday for Wednesday :)

corky

27-08-2009, 18:06

My apologies for missing out on commenting your last 3 themes. I have to say that I am in the same boat as you with working to stand still in these nasty times. So what if your late posting, it doesn't matter, just keep plugging away!! The last 3 shots have all been commented on, so I'll just add that they are all terrific and I too, have a dirty mind! :lol: ;)

Daysleeper40

30-08-2009, 20:09

Thankyou all for the kind comments - and for being so patient with me! :thumbs:

Drum role please....

I have finally taken a shot for week 32 - Exposed.

You all know I have a dirty mind so thinking of something "suitable" for this theme was always going to be a struggle :D In a flash of inspiration though I realised that flowers are terrible exhibitionists - waving their rude bits around for anyone to see... fornicating in public no less...

Look away now if you are of a nervous or prudish disposition - this lily is wantonly exposing itself!

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg129/Daysleeper40/The%2052%20Weeks%20of%202009/Week32-Exposed.jpg

Things I learnt:

1. Sometimes you just can't force yourself to have an idea.
2. I still have to work on whites - I always end up with blown out areas.
3. Getting a new toy (yep DS has got a DSLR - Nikon D60) is great fun and frustrating in equal measure. Expect a significant downturn in quality while I get to grips with this.
4. I really do have a dirty mind! :p

SarahLee

30-08-2009, 20:55

:D :lol: :lol: Well if you can manage to make a lily dirty you really must have a filthy mind!

Well done on getting your inspiration for this, it's a lovely shot.
Simple, elegant and just a splash of vibrant colour.
Good focus on the rude bits too!

jeangenie

31-08-2009, 12:14

Great to see you back with a smile on your face, DS. I loved your words on this and I know what you mean about equal measures of pleasure and frustration (err.. you did mean your new camera, didn't you :lol:)

The lily is vibrant, gaudy and well-captured. I hope she attracted a grateful, adorning bee. :naughty::naughty:

Enjoy your D60.

Jean

Daysleeper40

31-08-2009, 12:21

Thankyou Sarah & Jean - it is a massive relief to get going with this again so without further ado...

Week 33 - Mono

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg129/Daysleeper40/The%2052%20Weeks%20of%202009/Week33-Mono.jpg

Things I learnt:

1. I already have a big speck of dust on my sensor and am a bit scared of trying to get rid of it :(
2. There are only so many poses of yourself on a unicycle that are possible :D

EDIT

3. A speck of dust can be easily removed with a rocket blower :)

Daysleeper40

31-08-2009, 17:22

and I think this brings me up to date...

Week 34 - Season

I went for a three hour walk today to practice with the D60 and try to clear my head. The head clearing went quite well - the practicing not so much. I'm struggling with my new toy but I'm sure I'll get the hang of it soon.

Anyway, didn't have much inspiration for this weeks theme but then on my walk I came across some seasonal fruit looking a bit worse for wear and thought - that'll do!

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg129/Daysleeper40/The%2052%20Weeks%20of%202009/Week34-Season.jpg

Sorry it's just a "that'll do shot" but at least I'm only one day late - that's pretty good going by my track record!

I really am going to try to get up to date with commenting on everyone elses shots now - please don't be offended if I miss any of yours out, it won't be intentional!

Hyster

31-08-2009, 18:53

Ohh, some nice shots.

Love the Exposed shot, fab colours an excellent shot.

Mono is an ace idea, Great fun shot, I like to see a little more of the wheel but cant be easy to monocycle and take a shot at the same time. Very good pic.

Not as big fan of the Season shot, it a fine shot, just not the most photogenic of subjects.

Really chuffed for you getting the DSLR by the way. :thumbs:

kennysarmy

31-08-2009, 21:17

Exposed : WOW - would be really proud if that was MY entry :)

Mono : haha - great idea....pure fun...nice one...

Season : have to agree with Hyster on this one....

Spartacus

01-09-2009, 09:49

Well done for catching up...:clap:

Exposed is stunning...:clap::clap::clap:

Mono is very clever and eye catching...:clap:

Season...well is kept you up to date and that's what matters, so...:thumbs:

Toothie

01-09-2009, 20:29

Great way too catch up, and i think you have caught excellent detail on season :D

jgs001

02-09-2009, 07:48

I agree, a great way to catch up. I really like all three. Mono is a great take on the theme.

jeangenie

02-09-2009, 11:43

Week 33 Mono: How on earth did you manage this - you must have fantastic balance. :)

I love the tread pettern in the tyre - but that yellow must be hard to keep clean. :)

Week 34 Season: Ok so these blackberries aren't the most handsome ones I've ever seen but I love :love: your treatment of them. The dof is excellent and so is the bokeh - you are definitely getting to grips with your new toy - no matter what you think. :thumbs:

I agree - getting out and taking photos is brilliant for head-clearing. :)

Jean

Daysleeper40

02-09-2009, 20:51

Thankyou for the comments everyone - I agree about Season but I couldn't agonise over it any longer - I just had to get something!

I know I'm still woefully behind on all your threads - I've only managed to comment on a couple so far. Bear with me - I have been checking in on everyones threads and think you are all doing a great job :clap:

Onto week 35... I'm early!! Believe me I'm more shocked than anyone else :D

Grunge

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg129/Daysleeper40/The%2052%20Weeks%20of%202009/Week35-Grunge.jpg

I'm not going to explain just yet... I'm hoping another music lover will get the connection :p

Kdot

02-09-2009, 21:02

Very nice shot...great lighting. I like it a lot, but part of me wants to see more in focus...:thinking:

I'm not going to explain just yet... I'm hoping another music lover will get the connection :p

Can I say...? I only got it, because I was thinking along the same lines, although my ideas are not as clever as yours. :shrug:

Kiwi Jaz

02-09-2009, 21:09

Great shot and I get the music connection. Can almost smell the wood!
Just seen your other shots and really like your submission for Exposure..top notch.

Daysleeper40

02-09-2009, 21:13

Very nice shot...great lighting. I like it a lot, but part of me wants to see more in focus...:thinking:

Can I say...? I only got it, because I was thinking along the same lines, although my ideas are not as clever as yours. :shrug:

Thanks Kdot - I tried a few different apertures but I thought the more in focus the less interesting it seemed to become. You can of course be the first to call it...

Great shot and I get the music connection. Can almost smell the wood!
Just seen your other shots and really like your submission for Exposure..top notch.

Closely followed by Kiwi Jaz :)

Thanks for the comment re Exposure - it was my first effort using my new D60 (all others are with my bridge camera - Panny FZ8) so I'm pretty pleased with how it turned out.

Kdot

02-09-2009, 21:16

You can of course be the first to call it....

Wouldn't want to spoil the fun just yet...;)

steve.82

04-09-2009, 08:43

I'm hoping another music lover will get the connection :p

Good work sir! What are the chances of having a box that shape eh?!

jgs001

04-09-2009, 09:00

I really like the shot, lovely rich tones in the wood. I like the DOF too. Not sure of the connection, but I can only think of one thing... we shall see if I'm right (which I doubt) when it's revealed...

Daysleeper40

05-09-2009, 14:28

Thanks for the comments everyone - I'm glad a few people seem to have got the connection :)

The 52 weeks of Daysleeping will be on hold for a couple of weeks now as we are off on holiday to sunny Turkey for a couple of weeks on Monday. I'll be catching up when I get back.

Byeee :wave:

SarahLee

05-09-2009, 20:08

Catch up time for me.

Mono : I love this idea :love: (I actually thought about a unicycle when mono was drawn, but I don't know anyone who has one). It must have taken some real skill to be able to balance and take a photo at the same time . . . and you've still managed to get it in focus :clap:

Season : Technically the photo is great. Beautiful focus on the berries and even a few strands of cobweb, great colours and I love the dof. The subject matter doesn't really do it for me though . . . I would have preferred the fruit to be a bit fresher! Maybe it could have doubled up as a second for grunge :thinking:

Grunge : I really like this shot . . . you know me and my black b/gs :lol:
Nice dof and angle for the shot, it works really well for the subject. The detail in the wood is superb too. Lovely colour and grain. Seems like you've really got to grips with your new toy.

I hope you have a great holiday and I look forward to seeing your shots when you're back.

EDIT : I had to resort to Google for the grunge connection, but I get it now . . . clever choice :thumbs:

Toothie

06-09-2009, 18:05

have to say i have no idea on the conection (and now you have buggered off on holiday leaving me in surpence:( )
anyway i do like the picture as the others have said you can almost smell the wood :)

jeangenie

06-09-2009, 20:56

have to say i have no idea on the conection (and now you have buggered off on holiday leaving me in surpence:( )
anyway i do like the picture as the others have said you can almost smell the wood :)

:plusone: - and I bet both Ruth and I will kick ourselves when the secret's finally revealed. :lol:

Have a great holiday. Oh - and I do like the shot. Composition, dof, detail all spot on imo. :clap:

Jean

karmagarda

07-09-2009, 20:06

Wow, catchup time. And I'm very impressed with all shots!

Exposed - This is so good. Love both the interpretation and photo. The detail is superb

Mono - How original! I love this. Well done.

Season - DOF is superb. Love it. Might be a "That'll do shot" but it's bloody great. Jesus, I need to work on my photography :lol:

Grunge - Excellent! Just excellent! Both the interpration and execution are excellent! (what on earth would a "heart shaped box" have to do with grunge... ;) )

Dark Star

10-09-2009, 19:46

I'll start with Grunge and I got it straight away but won't spoil the fun :cool:

Great idea and well executed

Season - mmm tasty - and lovely dof

Mono - ooh that is soo well done almost dizzy making :lol: the viewpoint and the slash of yellow is just great :)

Exposed - you have such a range of shots all well done and this one is no exception - colour and exposure are lovely against that dark bg :)

All very nice and my profound apologies for being late in catching up :)

Still smiling at Grunge :)

kennysarmy

10-09-2009, 21:03

I think I get it :D
I know I like the shot though...

Bruja

12-09-2009, 17:06

Oops, sorry DS, don't know how I got this behind :(

Exposed, what a fantastic shot, and such a different take on the theme.

Mono, again a great shot, you must have a heck of a sense of balance as I couldn't even take a picture standing on one leg.

Season, not quite as good as the previous 2, a bit too OOF for me and maybe would have been better for grunge.

Grunge, I have absolutely no idea what it is, but I love it.

:clap::clap::clap:

Hope you are having a great holiday and thanks for what you added to my mono shot, I'm glad you felt you could.;)

Daysleeper40

22-09-2009, 17:21

I'm ba-ack!!

Had a great holiday and can definately recommend Montana Pine Resort in Turkey (near Olu Deniz) as a first class place for a bit of R&R :cool:

Thanks for all your comments in my absence and I'm sorry I have left some of you in suspense so long - I thought someone else might reveal the link but it looks like the pleasure is still mine...

Hopefully these two links will make it all clear:

Grunge Music (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grunge_music)

Heart-Shaped Box (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SK7Ai9dWrRQ)

I am in catch up mode now and promise that I will bring you Respect & Friendship and get up to date with all your threads just as soon as I've done the mountain of washing that is currently sat on the bedroom floor... but first I'm going to make the most of our last night before work and crack open a lovely cold beer and pretend I'm still on holiday :beer:

Daysleeper40

26-09-2009, 17:16

Right well I've picked my shots for the next two themes - I've got to be honest and say I'm not particularly happy with either but they were taken in the right weeks and at least one of them was shot with the intention of using for my 52.

Week 36 - Respect

Taken in Fethiye, Turkey. Originally called Megri, the name was changed to honour the first Turkish pilot Fethi Bey who died during a task flight. You have to be pretty respected to have a city named after you!

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg129/Daysleeper40/The%2052%20Weeks%20of%202009/Week36-Respect.jpg

Week 37 - Friendship

Whilst in Turkey I decided that as I now have three camera's I would be brave and test my little Olly compacts claim to be waterproof. It went well!!
This is my better half and I - I will be completely honest and say I can't be sure who pressed the shutter - it was a collaberative effort. The point of the shot is that friends have fun together - and that's exactly what we were doing. Although we are a "couple" and have been for seven years, we were friends initially and he is the best friend I have ever, or will ever, have.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg129/Daysleeper40/The%2052%20Weeks%20of%202009/Week37-Friendship.jpg

jonesor

26-09-2009, 17:22

Wow - great photo for "friendship"!
It certainly looks like you're having fun and you've captured it beautifully. :clap::clap:

Dark Star

26-09-2009, 17:29

SarahLee

27-09-2009, 16:03

Welcome back. I hope you enjoyed your holiday - definitely looks like you had a great time.

Respect - Great take on the theme and beautifully composed.
I actually found myself reading the inscription on the left . . . you're right, it's amazing to think somebody actually had a town re-named for them. respect indeed!

Friendship - Brilliant!!!!!!! :clap: :clap: :clap:
Absolutely love it. For a little compact camera used under water that is fantastically sharp.
Similar sentiment to my friendship shot and it comes across so well. You both look like you're having a great time.
The air bubbles and your floaty hair and pendant are great :thumbs:

Daysleeper40

27-09-2009, 18:11

Two good theme shots there Fi, the first is a good well balanced shot - wouldn't look out of place in a tourist brochure and the friendship shot is really really well done :)

Love it! :D Super portrait :D

Thanks John - I know the first isn't very inspiring but I tried to have a bit of a break from photography on our holiday. I don't know if you noticed but I was getting a bit jaded before we went away and I wanted to come back feeling more positive about photography and making some progress with my new camera.

Welcome back. I hope you enjoyed your holiday - definitely looks like you had a great time.

Respect - Great take on the theme and beautifully composed.
I actually found myself reading the inscription on the left . . . you're right, it's amazing to think somebody actually had a town re-named for them. respect indeed!

Friendship - Brilliant!!!!!!! :clap: :clap: :clap:
Absolutely love it. For a little compact camera used under water that is fantastically sharp.
Similar sentiment to my friendship shot and it comes across so well. You both look like you're having a great time.
The air bubbles and your floaty hair and pendant are great :thumbs:

Thanks Sarah - we had great fun with the underwater shots, I will put a few more on my flikr at some point. It's not easy taking a self portrait underwater I can tell you! :D

Daysleeper40

27-09-2009, 18:30

Fresh Start.

A very apt theme for my mood this week. I had been getting a bit down about my lack of inspiration and painfully slow progress with this project - somewhat worsened by the arrival of my new camera and the massive new learning curve I am now on. I wanted to go on holiday, have a break and be able to come back fired up to get some better shots.

Shame I came back to a theme that I struggled to translate into a shot!!

I'm not particularly happy with this shot and the official explanation of why it fits the theme is a bit tenuous. I walked through this little ladies web earlier today and this is her making a fresh start on construction:

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg129/Daysleeper40/The%2052%20Weeks%20of%202009/Week38-FreshStart.jpg

It isn't the big "wow, thats exciting, great idea!" shot that I was hoping for but it does say a couple of other things about fresh start for me:

1. It was taken with the D60, kit lens and Raynox 250 when it was really tempting to get out the FZ8 which I think I could have got a better shot with. I will persevere with my new camera.

2. I had no inspiration so I got off my bum and went somewhere new - because of that this shot presented itself and I have got something in on time even if it's not great. This is a fresh start from moping around at home hoping something will just appear in front of me.

3. I'm not happy with it but I've posted it anyway because I have run out of time and it's the best I've managed. I have to start being honest about my level of ability and while I do expect more of myself, I am also going to try to stop being over-critical and remember that new camera = new leg on the journey to some level of proficiency!

So there we are - I am going to try to make this next week a fresh start on my approach to progressing with my photography... wish me luck :)

SarahLee

27-09-2009, 20:23

I'm not happy with it but I've posted it anyway because I have run out of time and it's the best I've managed. I have to start being honest about my level of ability and while I do expect more of myself, I am also going to try to stop being over-critical and remember that new camera = new leg on the journey to some level of proficiency!

So there we are - I am going to try to make this next week a fresh start on my approach to progressing with my photography... wish me luck :)

I think you're being hyper-critical of yourself this week. Honestly - I take it you haven't seen my last minute, awful attempt at a web shot this week? :p

It's not the best shot that I've seen from you . . . and I only say that because you've got some fantastic shots in your 52. But it is good. There's some very nice close up detail on the spider and you've actually caught her spinning which must have taken some doing. In fact, the more I look at it, the more detail I see and the more impressed I am.

Well done for persevering with the new camera. Looking forward to seeing what you come up with next week.

jeangenie

27-09-2009, 20:55

Catch up time for me. :)

First off - glad to hear you had such a great holiday. I bet it seems ages ago now, though, with just the pile of washing to remind you. Thanks also for putting me out of my misery about the Heart Shaped Box. Nirvana, of course :bonk::bonk::bonk: (There isn't a 'kicking myself icon')

Respect: The story makes this photo. The statue is a magnificent memorial in itself, but to have a city neamed after you is awesome. Well spotted and a great interpretation of the theme. :)

Friends: I totally love this. It's vibrant, relaxed, spontaneous (well it looks it, even if it wasn't!) and shouts 'friends having fun'. Well done, and it doesn't matter who pressed the shutter, your little Olly's done you proud. :clap::clap::clap:

Fresh Start: Holidays are all about chilling out, doing something new, recharging the batteries and perhaps coming back with a different perspective on life. Your frame of mind is so positive, your enthusiasm is back big time and you're determined to make the most of your new camera. You've also given me a huge boost with your comments on my thread (for which I say a big 'thank you'). So that's one amazing Fresh Start DS. :)

I think the photographic interpretation is valid. Spiders never give up on their web projects and as fast as one breaks, they form another one from scratch - so lots of fresh starts for them. It's not an easy photo to get, and I've never used a Raynox, but they sound really difficult. You've caught a good 'action' shot and I love the colours and bokeh. A great Fresh Start for you. :):)

Jean

Daysleeper40

27-09-2009, 21:11

I think you're being hyper-critical of yourself this week. Honestly - I take it you haven't seen my last minute, awful attempt at a web shot this week? :p

It's not the best shot that I've seen from you . . . and I only say that because you've got some fantastic shots in your 52. But it is good. There's some very nice close up detail on the spider and you've actually caught her spinning which must have taken some doing. In fact, the more I look at it, the more detail I see and the more impressed I am.

Well done for persevering with the new camera. Looking forward to seeing what you come up with next week.

Maybe I should veto the phrase "I'm not happy with it but..." next week :D

Thanks for the positive comments - I think we had the same issues tbh, you get the web in focus but everything else is OOF and then the tiniest breeze comes along and the damn web starts flailing around! :bang:

Catch up time for me. :)

First off - glad to hear you had such a great holiday. I bet it seems ages ago now, though, with just the pile of washing to remind you. Thanks also for putting me out of my misery about the Heart Shaped Box. Nirvana, of course :bonk: (There isn't a 'kicking myself icon')

Respect: The story makes this photo. The statue is a magnificent memorial in itself, but to have a city neamed after you is awesome. Well spotted and a great interpretation of the theme. :)

Friends: I totally love this. It's vibrant, relaxed, spontaneous (well it looks it, even if it wasn't!) and shouts 'friends having fun'. Well done, and it doesn't matter who pressed the shutter, your little Olly's done you proud. :clap:

Fresh Start: Holidays are all about chilling out, doing something new, recharging the batteries and perhaps coming back with a different perspective on life. Your frame of mind is so positive, your enthusiasm is back big time and you're determined to make the most of your new camera. You've also given me a huge boost with your comments on my thread (for which I say a big 'thank you'). So that's one amazing Fresh Start DS. :)

I think the photographic interpretation is valid. Spiders never give up on their web projects and as fast as one breaks, they form another one from scratch - so lots of fresh starts for them. It's not an easy photo to get, and I've never used a Raynox, but they sound really difficult. You've caught a good 'action' shot and I love the colours and bokeh. A great Fresh Start for you. :)

Jean

Thanks Jean - I feel all warm and fuzzy now! I was thinking about when we first started this project and how enthusiastic I was to try new things and give enough time to each theme. I've decided it's time to get that feeling back and finish this thing on a high rather than a "thank god it's over" frame of mind!

Fingers crossed that we get a good theme this week and our collective mojo's get well and truly back on track ;)

jeangenie

28-09-2009, 07:10

Thanks Jean - I feel all warm and fuzzy now! I was thinking about when we first started this project and how enthusiastic I was to try new things and give enough time to each theme. I've decided it's time to get that feeling back and finish this thing on a high rather than a "thank god it's over" frame of mind!

Fingers crossed that we get a good theme this week and our collective mojo's get well and truly back on track ;)

Well, DS, given that we've both publicly declared to attack this Challenge with renewed enthusiasm, this week's topic, Passion, should be just what we were looking for. :eek: :( :shake: :shrug:

:help:

:)

Jean

jgs001

28-09-2009, 08:59

kennysarmy

28-09-2009, 14:25

fresh start : fits the theme so well.....I do hope you did nt break the first web on purpose ;)

Daysleeper40

28-09-2009, 17:42

Respect, a good shot, and it fits the bill nicely

Friendship, a corker of a shot, it works brilliantly, and you're clearly enjoying yourselves.. glad your waterproof camera proved up to the job too ;)

Well done on the Fresh Start... even if you did turn into DS The Destroyer to get it :lol:. You've done a great job with difficult kit (The FZ8 would have worked, enabling more DOF far more easily). :clap:

fresh start : fits the theme so well.....I do hope you did nt break the first web on purpose ;)

Thankyou both for your comments - and don't worry, there is nothing that could make me purposely walk into a spiders web :gag:

It was definately an accident... and I felt bad about it :(

Bruja

28-09-2009, 18:01

Hi DS

Major catch up time

Respect - that's commitment, keeping up with the themes on holiday, respect from me for that. Great detail there and a very appropriate shot for the theme.The only niggle I have is the detail of foliage on the trees is drawing my eye past the statue.

Friendship - what a great fun picture and very clear too :clap::clap:

Fresh Start - definitely drop the 'I'm not happy with it but .....' That's a shot I would have been chuffed to bits to have taken. :clap::clap:

Shorty

28-09-2009, 18:31

Sorry can't comment.
Can you maybe put a spider warning on the title?
Won't be able to comment this week - I'm sure it's a fab shot though.

Daysleeper40

28-09-2009, 18:52

Sorry can't comment.
Can you maybe put a spider warning on the title?
Won't be able to comment this week - I'm sure it's a fab shot though.

Sorry Shorty - a belated warning has been added.

maddog.mark

28-09-2009, 19:09

Impressive to catch the spider spinning a new web and it fits the theme perfectly!

Spartacus

29-09-2009, 10:12

Respect works on all levels for me...:clap:

Friendship...is there a bit of blue cast here...:thinking: (he he he) it's a brilliant shot and a works for the theme and if I may say a lovely shot of you...:thumbs:

Fresh start...yes it's a fresh start alright, but you have taken some cracking macro shots and I'm not sure you nailed this one so well, but that's just me...well done on the big catch up...:clap::clap::clap:

corky

30-09-2009, 14:26

Hi DS

Fresh Start - definitely drop the 'I'm not happy with it but .....' That's a shot I would have been chuffed to bits to have taken. :clap::clap:

I have to :agree: with Bruja . :thumbs: from me!

karmagarda

30-09-2009, 15:05

Missed 2 of yours since you uploaded them. Apologies about that! All 3 are cracking photos, especially the underwater one! And never mind about all that "not happy with it" lark re the spider photo. It's another smashing photo. Some of your other macros may overshadow it but it's just because they are so amazing. Always been impressed by them and this is no exception. Tricky circumstances and you still managed to get some amazing detail in that photo. :thumbs:

Toothie

01-10-2009, 18:12

respect - well composed imo but looks a little over exposed in places.
friendship - looks like great fun and its nice to see some thing different.
fresh start is a great take on the theme and an excellent shot :D

Daysleeper40

03-10-2009, 17:48

Thankyou for the comments everyone :)

I have been trying to catch up with everyone elses threads this week but it has turned into a mamouth task - if I havn't got to your thread yet I'm sorry :bonk: - I will get there eventually!

SO... onto Week 39 (can't believe we've got this far!) and Passion.

I bought some passion fruit and spent a good few hours trying to shoot them before admitting it was not working and scrapped that idea :thumbsdown:

There was only one thing for it - it was time to break out the Blue Peter kit :nuts:

For this photo I would need:

1. Silhouette's printed sneakily at work as we don't have a printer.
2. One black baking tray.
3. Scissors.
4. Sellotape.
5. One can of tango drink... minus the drink.
6. Two lamps.
7. Some thin wire.
8. My camera.

put this lot together and you end up with...

The Dance of Passion:

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg129/Daysleeper40/The%2052%20Weeks%20of%202009/Week39-Passion.jpg

:D

Things I learnt:

1. How to have fun with this challange again - not everything has to be deadly serious.
2. It would have been better if the outline of the dancers at the front had been orange - the feet are black and have melted into the background.
3. I'm not very good at cutting out.

karmagarda

04-10-2009, 01:30

HA! I absolutely love this :thumbs:! Now that's inventive. Bloody great stuff mate :clap:

jgs001

04-10-2009, 08:00

Excellent, inventive and clever. Well done indeed :thumbs: It fits the theme nicely, and taking on some danger just to get the shot (cutting a drinks can...)

Shorty

04-10-2009, 09:43

:lol: like the idea, well done! :thumbs:

SarahLee

04-10-2009, 10:52

:thumbs: Glad that you're having fun again.

Tango . . . fab idea and really inventive execution. It looks like you had a great time putting this together.

I saw this last night, but it was one I wanted to come back to before commenting.
Last night I struggled a bit to work out what I was looking at - I couldn't quite make out what the shapes were until I read the words and realised that they were dancers.
I was right to wait and come back to it though, because now I can see the dancers' silhouettes really clearly. I must have been tired last night . . . or those couple of glasses of wine had something to do with it.

Love this shot. My only niggle, and it's the one that you mentioned yourself, is that the black portions are merging into the background. Maybe a fiery, passionate red or something might have worked a bit better as the backdrop.

jeangenie

04-10-2009, 15:53

kennysarmy

04-10-2009, 21:25

SUPERB!

clicktor

04-10-2009, 21:29

WOW nice shots here. I just wanted to say I love the first shot in this thread of the owl. Amazing capture.

Daysleeper40

04-10-2009, 21:59

Excellent, inventive and clever. Well done indeed :thumbs: It fits the theme nicely, and taking on some danger just to get the shot (cutting a drinks can...)

That's me - I laugh in the face of danger :D

:lol: like the idea, well done! :thumbs:

Thankyou

:thumbs: Glad that you're having fun again.

Tango . . . fab idea and really inventive execution. It looks like you had a great time putting this together.

I saw this last night, but it was one I wanted to come back to before commenting.
Last night I struggled a bit to work out what I was looking at - I couldn't quite make out what the shapes were until I read the words and realised that they were dancers.
I was right to wait and come back to it though, because now I can see the dancers' silhouettes really clearly. I must have been tired last night . . . or those couple of glasses of wine had something to do with it.

Love this shot. My only niggle, and it's the one that you mentioned yourself, is that the black portions are merging into the background. Maybe a fiery, passionate red or something might have worked a bit better as the backdrop.

Thanks Sarah - I was a bit worried people would look at it and not have a clue what was going on... I'm glad it made sense once the wine wore off! :p

Daysleeper40

04-10-2009, 22:00

What a fantastic, clever, brilliant idea. Reading the list of items you used gave me no indication of what you were doing. :bonk:

It's a terrific, fun shot, bang on theme - and I don't thing the black feet spoil it at all. :clap::clap::clap:

Jean

You're too kind to me... but I'm not going to argue because this week I'm not allowed to say "I'm not really happ..." ;)

SUPERB!

Why thankyou :thumbs:

WOW nice shots here. I just wanted to say I love the first shot in this thread of the owl. Amazing capture.

Thanks clicktor - glad you like it :)

jeangenie

05-10-2009, 09:42

You're too kind to me... but I'm not going to argue because this week I'm not allowed to say "I'm not really happ..." ;)

That's great DS - we've both made progress this week. :D

Now, repeat after me ..

"I"

"have"

"taken"

"a"

"photo"

"I"

"am"

"happy"

"with"

"YEAH.... :thumbs: "

Well done. :)

Jean

corky

05-10-2009, 15:43

took me a while to figure out (no pun intended ;)) as what was going on in the photo, but I'm finding it growing on me. :thumbs:

Daysleeper40

10-10-2009, 21:12

Week 40 - Water

Well and truly in the box but somebody had to do it... have been meaning to try water drops for ages and this was my first attempt:

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg129/Daysleeper40/The%2052%20Weeks%20of%202009/Week40-Water.jpg

This week I learned two things:

1. I need an off camera flash - this was taken with the pop up flash on my camera.
2. I don't get on with tripods - I ended up taking this hand held, I'm sure it would be sharper if I had managed with the tripod.

Edit: I've posted my other shots from today here...

http://www.talkphotography.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=171338

karmagarda

11-10-2009, 14:14

Wow, for a hand held, no off camera flash, that is pretty amazing! Love the suspended droplets. Wow! :thumbs:

Daysleeper40

11-10-2009, 15:02

Thankyou :D

You'll be sick of seeing these soon - it's very addictive so I can see myself posting a lot more of them!

Shorty

11-10-2009, 15:45

WOW! That is blinking well spot on!! :clap: :clap: :clap, well done you!! Love this, and the blue is striking!

:thumbs:

SarahLee

11-10-2009, 16:49

:clap: :clap: :clap:

Well done!
I can't believe that was hand-held. I've tried these and it's hard enough getting the timing right without worrying about holding the camera steady.

Fab colours and you really couldn't get much closer on theme.

I'm glad that you haven't told us that you're not happy with your shot this week. There's absolutely nothing not to like about it at all . . . in fact there's a lot to like.

I'll pop over and have a look at your others later :thumbs:

Daysleeper40

11-10-2009, 18:10

WOW! That is blinking well spot on!! :clap: :clap: :clap, well done you!! Love this, and the blue is striking!

:thumbs:

:clap: :clap: :clap:

Well done!
I can't believe that was hand-held. I've tried these and it's hard enough getting the timing right without worrying about holding the camera steady.

Fab colours and you really couldn't get much closer on theme.

I'm glad that you haven't told us that you're not happy with your shot this week. There's absolutely nothing not to like about it at all . . . in fact there's a lot to like.

I'll pop over and have a look at your others later :thumbs:

Thankyou both so much - I'm prepared to admit that I actually am quite happy with this one too :thumbs:

But not completely happy... which is why I've had a reshoooooot day today :D

I do like the blue in the first one but I wasn't sure if it would be more interesting with a multicoloured BG. I also thought it could be sharper. So today I have been making use of all the tankini tops that I never wear but can't bring myself to throw away (I knew they'd come in handy one day!) and came up with this:

Water (Reshoot)
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg129/Daysleeper40/The%2052%20Weeks%20of%202009/Week40b-WaterReshoot.jpg

Looking at them again I'd say I'm happier with the sharpness of this one - but I think the blue one fits the theme better.

Dark Star

11-10-2009, 21:11

jeangenie

11-10-2009, 21:39

Excellent start to your new addiction, DS. :thumbs:

I share your dislike of tripods, but not your steady hand - well done. I'd be delighted if my first try came out as well as either of these two. :)

Jean

Violet1991

11-10-2009, 22:05

great water shots, I've just become addicted to these too...you always end up thinking "I'll keep trying might get something better" even if the ones you've already taken have reached the mark, I always seem to want to try again! love the second one.

great 52 so far, keep it up! :D

Vi x

Daysleeper40

11-10-2009, 22:23

ay ay ay - so late! :( Sorry!

Fresh Start; I do like spider macros and this is no exception! Nicely framed and shot - love the dewyness :) :)

Passion: oh clever idea, the black bits do merge with the bg which is a shame but 100% for inventiveness and creativity - :clap:

Water: You've taken shots that have been on my want list for ages! Both excellent but #1 does it for me for the vibrancy of teh colours and sharpness of the droplets! Ace!! :clap::clap:

Thanks John ;)

Excellent start to your new addiction, DS. :thumbs:

I share your dislike of tripods, but not your steady hand - well done. I'd be delighted if my first try came out as well as either of these two. :)

Jean

Maybe if I had a better tripod I'd get on with it a bit better. I know what I'll be asking for from Santa I suppose!

great water shots, I've just become addicted to these too...you always end up thinking "I'll keep trying might get something better" even if the ones you've already taken have reached the mark, I always seem to want to try again! love the second one.

great 52 so far, keep it up! :D

Vi x

Thanks Vi - just been over to have a shufty at your 365 and you've got some great shots. A 365 takes a lot more determination than a 52 - and I have the rest of the 52'ers to keep me going. Kudos to you for starting your project and I'll be following your progress ;)

Shorty

12-10-2009, 06:27

kennysarmy

12-10-2009, 08:17

Water: no.1 for me :)....

It is hard knowing when to stop doing these shots....you think..."just one more"..."just one more"....hehe

Well done....it takes a bit of effort to set the shot up...but worth it....

jgs001

12-10-2009, 11:02

:clap::clap: very well done, both excellent, but I think the first just takes it.

corky

12-10-2009, 19:21

two excellent shots, nothing more to be said! :)

Toothie

13-10-2009, 15:15

Catch up time

Dance of passion is a great shot, lighting, colours, composition all perfect imo :thumbs:

Water - well i'm a big fan of water drops and these 2 are great examples :D

maddog.mark

14-10-2009, 21:11

Catch up

Passion - wow some thought went into that didn't it, very clever and very well executed, love it. :clap:
Water (1) simple, vibrant & sharp all boxes ticked, love it. (Did you really take it a f25? if so why, in my naivety I'd have thought f8 to f10?)
Water (2) love the different colours but it doesn't work quite as well for me.
Mark:thumbs:

Bruja

15-10-2009, 16:02

Passion - well first of all I'm glad you didn't end up in A&E like Dark Star when he played with sharpobjects:(

Such creativity can only be applauded :clap::clap::clap::clap: although a red background may have helped it all stand out. I had the same problem with my teapot in the Mono week.

Water - #1 is fantastic and I love the colours here :clap::clap:

Water - #2 would be fantastic too if it wasn't for #1 :D. You've spoilt us this week

Daysleeper40

17-10-2009, 09:39

Water Reshoot - it's officially blimming possible, you CAN improve on an already brilliant shot, LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the reshoot, such amazing texture to it, and it LOOKS like water[which it obv is!! :lol:]

:clap: :clap: :clap:

:D well you've just made me very happy!

Water: no.1 for me :)....

It is hard knowing when to stop doing these shots....you think..."just one more"..."just one more"....hehe

Well done....it takes a bit of effort to set the shot up...but worth it....

I spent HOURS doing these last weekend... very very addictive.

:clap::clap: very well done, both excellent, but I think the first just takes it.

Thanks - #1 seems to be the most popular so far.

Catch up

Passion - wow some thought went into that didn't it, very clever and very well executed, love it. :clap:
Water (1) simple, vibrant & sharp all boxes ticked, love it. (Did you really take it a f25? if so why, in my naivety I'd have thought f8 to f10?)
Water (2) love the different colours but it doesn't work quite as well for me.
Mark:thumbs:

Thankyou for taking the time to catch up and comment on all of my shots ;)

Interesting point about the water shot - why do you think f8 / f10 would been better? I have no idea tbh - I just messed with the settings until I came up with something I liked. I was using the raynox 150 which makes the DOF very shallow so I thought a high f number would be best :thinking:

Daysleeper40

17-10-2009, 09:42

Catch up time

Dance of passion is a great shot, lighting, colours, composition all perfect imo :thumbs:

Water - well i'm a big fan of water drops and these 2 are great examples :D

Thankyou - I might reshoot passion at some point with a different colour BG but I'm glad you like it.

two excellent shots, nothing more to be said! :)

I'm happy to leave it at that if you are ;):D

Passion - well first of all I'm glad you didn't end up in A&E like Dark Star when he played with sharpobjects:(

Such creativity can only be applauded :clap: although a red background may have helped it all stand out. I had the same problem with my teapot in the Mono week.

Water - #1 is fantastic and I love the colours here :clap::clap:

Water - #2 would be fantastic too if it wasn't for #1 :D. You've spoilt us this week

Thanks Bruja - it was a close call. DS with scissors and other sharp metal objects is a perilous combination!

Daysleeper40

17-10-2009, 16:57

Week 41 - Out of Context

Well I still have a day to go and if I get the chance to improve on this because I'm sure it's not the best I can do. I have only had one do-able idea so far and this is my effort:

1.
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg129/Daysleeper40/The%2052%20Weeks%20of%202009/Week41-OutofContext.jpg

The positive:

This gave me a chance to practise my PP skills (used layers / eraser brush to do this in Paint Shop Pro X2)

The not so positive:

I think I need more practise!! :D

I am struggling to be enthusiastic about this theme but if inspiration hits tomorrow I'll see if I can post something a bit more exciting.

Edit to say I may as well post the rejects because they are all a bit dodgy and I'd love some feedback on how to improve them apart from being less clumsy with the eraser tool!

2.
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg129/Daysleeper40/DSC_0012.jpg

3.
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg129/Daysleeper40/DSC_0004.jpg

Spartacus

18-10-2009, 13:57

karmagarda

18-10-2009, 14:55

Very clever! I never thought of this. Nice PP too :thumbs:

Daysleeper40

18-10-2009, 18:18

Hi catch up time from me...

Passion...that's such a brilliant idea, and it works so well...well worth the time and effort you had to do to make it happen...:clap:

Water...Damn that's so good...I'm wanting to have a go now...:D fantastic colour...

Reshoot...now your just showing off...:p

Another great shot to be proud of...your very good at these sort of shots...:clap:

Out of Context...He He He that another good idea and one I wouldn't have ever thought of...:clap::clap::clap: and you executed it beautifully...:thumbs:

Thankyou - you should definately try the water drop thing... it's fun, if a little frustrating!

Very clever! I never thought of this. Nice PP too :thumbs:

Thankyou - I don't do all that much PP usually and I've realised that I'm only going to get better if I practise. I find it all so fiddly!

SarahLee

18-10-2009, 19:39

:clap: :clap: :clap:

Now these are my type of shots!!!!!

My favourite is actually No.3, even though you rejected it. I just love the angle and composition on that one.
Lovely clean black background and the Lemon is brilliantly lit, sharp, detailed . . . just absolutely spot on.

Well done with the PP. You know that I'm going through the same learning curve myself and I wouldn't have a clue how to do what you've done on this one :thumbs:

jeangenie

18-10-2009, 20:51

Well done, DS. That's a cool idea - quite subtle and I think you've done it well. I like the lighting on#3 the best, but the angle and detail on the skin in #2 is also good - even to a drop of juice on the skin.

I can't offer any pp advice, but I agree it's fiddly. :)

Jean

jgs001

19-10-2009, 08:28

Very well done DS... The PP has worked very nicely, it's a good interpretation of a tough theme.

kennysarmy

19-10-2009, 14:50

very clever!
good PP.
subtle lighting...

maddog.mark

19-10-2009, 18:37

That's a very clever shot expertly done:clap:

re the f8/10 question on your water droplets i just assumed that you wouldn't need such a large dof to get the droplet in focus, but if the Raynox knocks the dof right down then I guess you would need a larger f stop to maintain the sharpness in the right areas. I'm sure Ajophotog could explain.

Bruja

20-10-2009, 17:38

Yet another great idea I would never have thought of, but then I don't do that much PP.

Number 3 is my favourite. Great lighting, very sharp and spot on composition. :thumbs:

corky

20-10-2009, 20:24

bang on theme and a great take:clap:

Daysleeper40

25-10-2009, 14:44

Thanks for all the comments everyone ;)

Week 42 - Bubbles

I bought some bubbles thinking "This'll be no problem" and then realised that I didn't really have an idea of what to do with them. So what I decided to do was build on week 40 and the water theme which I really enjoyed...

I'm not sure this is an improvement but it was definatly more difficult and there are more bubbles involved this time:

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg129/Daysleeper40/The%2052%20Weeks%20of%202009/Week42-Bubbles.jpg

Things I learnt:

1. Used my crappy tripod this time and actually we got on ok.
2. The value of a remote shutter release when doing this kind of stuff - as my "studio" is actually the bedroom floor the remote saved me a lot of back ache and general lying on the floor :D
3. Smaller bubbles are better than bigger bubbles for this kind of thing.
4. It hurts quite a lot when you get bubble mix in your eye.
5. I still need an off camera flash of some kind - must do some research on what.

Thanks for looking ;)

EDIT - I have posted some more here (http://www.talkphotography.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?p=2000679#post2000679) and I'll put all of them on flickr if anyones interested.

Dark Star

25-10-2009, 14:48

Daysleeper40

25-10-2009, 15:28

I love your out of context - very nice lighting in all of them and clever processing :)

I actually like #3 the best :)

Bubbles - good god Fi! Thats amazing :) I can't even imagine how you created that bubble monster :)

Very nice and the colours are great :)

Thanks John - I think it's unanimous that #3 is the better out of context shot so that is now officially my entry for that theme.

The bubble / water drip thing was great fun - you should give it a try. I got (stole!) the idea from Splog who posted a great example a while back.

Shorty

25-10-2009, 15:29

Daysleeper40

25-10-2009, 15:36

I peaked your shots on your flickr, and I LOVE both the out of context[VERY clever work, there!] and the bubble shot - the one you posted is my fave out of all of them, too.

Smashing shots, really impressed :D

Thanks Shorty - they are all up on flickr now. This one actually isn't my favourite - but it had more little bubbles within the big bubble than the others so I thought it suited the theme best.

Spartacus

25-10-2009, 15:37

That's amazing photography...:clap::clap::clap:

I love this so much...:love:

Oh and I think it's brilliant...:thumbs:

Daysleeper40

25-10-2009, 15:40

That's amazing photography...:clap::clap::clap:

I love this so much...:love:

Oh and I think it's brilliant...:thumbs:

Thanks Marcus - you should give it a try too, it's great fun :thumbs:

SarahLee

25-10-2009, 16:24

Kdot

25-10-2009, 16:41

How cool is that!? Love the colouring - the pinky-purple accent colour really sets it off.

karmagarda

25-10-2009, 17:00

Wow, that's fantastic! Excellent photo. :thumbs:

Daysleeper40

25-10-2009, 17:58

I love this :love:
I thought your water droplets were great, but this has taken it to another level. I have absolutely no idea how you did it, but it's worked brilliantly.

I promise to have a look at the rest of your shots. I meant to do it with your water droplets but got distracted.

Thanks Sarah - don't worry, you're not obliged to study my other shots ;)
As to how it's done - just like the water drops with the added level of difficulty in getting the damn bubble in the right place and taking a shot before it bursts! Otherwise you just drop the water through the bubble and try to get the timing right.

How cool is that!? Love the colouring - the pinky-purple accent colour really sets it off.

Thankyou - I really need to get a good glass bowl and some funky coloured backgrounds. I'm a bit stuck with the blue bowl at the moment.

Wow, that's fantastic! Excellent photo. :thumbs:

Thankyou! :)

SarahLee

25-10-2009, 19:19

Thanks Sarah - don't worry, you're not obliged to study my other shots ;)
As to how it's done - just like the water drops with the added level of difficulty in getting the damn bubble in the right place and taking a shot before it bursts! Otherwise you just drop the water through the bubble and try to get the timing right.

I know I'm not obliged to look, but I would like to. I really love these shots.
I might try the bubble thing, but it sounds a bit complicated - I might be better off starting with just the regular water drops I think!

Daysleeper40

25-10-2009, 19:31

I know I'm not obliged to look, but I would like to. I really love these shots.
I might try the bubble thing, but it sounds a bit complicated - I might be better off starting with just the regular water drops I think!

Thankyou :)

I'd definately start with just the drips - that way you can hone your timing.

Tracer

25-10-2009, 21:13

Fabulous shot! :clap: Lovely shapes and colours. I haven't even got as far as trying a regular water drop shot, let alone something like this!

jgs001

26-10-2009, 09:02

Superb work DS... and amazing timing to manage it too.. :thumbs: lovely

corky

26-10-2009, 19:12

Cracking shot and bang on theme :clap::clap::clap:

Bruja

28-10-2009, 14:00

How do you do it?!

No, I don't mean set up the shot, I mean coming up with such great interpretations, and great photos, every week :razz: :notworthy::notworthy:

That is a fantastic shot Fi :clap::clap::clap:

jeangenie

07-11-2009, 22:33

Bubbles: How on earth did you do that, DS. Not just once, either - the ones on the linked thread are great too (although I think you should get both of boobs next time :lol:) For once, I'm glad I wasn't the first to comment on #4. :lol:

Anyway, this is a terrific shot. It would make a great canvas. :clap::clap::clap:

Jean

Daysleeper40

08-11-2009, 11:41

Thankyou all for the lovely comments - much appreciated :thumbs:

Now, I have been having a pretty gloomy week since I put my neck and shoulder out on tuesday. Suffice to say it hurt. A lot. Still can't drive and carrying a camera around is not really working out for me at the moment. I have done my best with "Doom & Gloom" by setting up a simple shot in my bedroom but cannot for the lift of me think of something for "Low Down".

What I think I'm going to have to do is postpone Low Down and come back to it when I can move a bit better. I'm going to come back and put it in this post so watch this space:

Ok, so it took a little while and it is still a filler / crowbar shot but here I finally give you Low Down...

http://photos5.pix.ie/74/70/747089EE32124B96AD9E68DD8359CC1D-800.jpg (http://pix.ie/daysleeper40/1398602)

Thanks for modelling again Spike :)

Sorry for being pathetic :(

Daysleeper40

08-11-2009, 11:56

As per above post I have been feeling pretty gloomy this week - but today I can't help dwelling on something far more doom laden and gloomy:

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg129/Daysleeper40/The%2052%20Weeks%20of%202009/Week44-DoomGloom.jpg

The shot doesn't really do the subject justice so I'll just post the full poem which I think says it far better:

In Memoriam

Private D. Sutherland killed in action in the German trench, May 16th, 1916, and the others who died.

So you were David's father,
And he was your only son,
And the new-cut peats are rotting
And the work is left undone,
Because of an old man weeping,
Just an old man in pain,
For David, his son David,
That will not come again.

Oh, the letters he wrote you
And I can see them still,
Not a word of the fighting
But just the sheep on the hill
And how you should get the crops in
Ere the year got stormier,
And the Bosches have got his body,
And I was his officer.

You were only David's father,
But I had fifty sons
When we went up in the evening
Under the arch of the guns,
And we came back at twilight-
O God! I heard them call
To me for help and pity
That could not help at all.

Oh, never will I forget you,
My men that trusted me,
More my sons than your fathers',
For they could only see
The little helpless babies
And the young men in their pride.
They could not see you dying,
And hold you when you died.

Happy and young and gallant,
They saw their first-born go,
But not the strong limbs broken
And the beautiful men brought low,
The piteous writhing bodies,
They screamed 'Don't leave me, sir"
For they were only your fathers
But I was your officer.

E. A. Mackintosh
Killed in action, 1917

A little bit of background on the poem: http://www.greatwar.co.uk/poems/ewart-alan-mackintosh-in-memoriam-inspiration.htm

Thanks for looking.

Spartacus

08-11-2009, 18:15

This is a truly lovely piece of work...:love:

It fits the theme and the day so very well...:clap::clap::clap:

Absolutely brilliant, and sad at the same time...:thumbs:

Kdot

08-11-2009, 18:31

That is a fabulous shot - and very apt. The poppy sets it off brilliantly...really well done.

karmagarda

08-11-2009, 18:34

Have to agree with the above. Great work :thumbs:

SarahLee

08-11-2009, 18:35

I hope the neck gets better soon and it's probably very wise to postpone low down. The last thing you want to be doing with a bad neck is crawling on the floor.

Doom and Gloom : it doesn't matter that this was just a simple shot taken in your bedroom. Every now and then you come across a shot in these 52s that just hits you over the head and makes you stop and think . . . this is one of those.
That is so very powerful - beautifully and sensitively done too.

The only thing I'd like to see changed would be to bring the Poppy forward a bit, so that it's a little more in focus. Maybe just overlapping the edge of the page???

Daysleeper40

08-11-2009, 18:45

This is a truly lovely piece of work...:love:

It fits the theme and the day so very well...:clap::clap::clap:

Absolutely brilliant, and sad at the same time...:thumbs:

Thankyou - I read this poem every year and it always brings a tear to my eye. E. A. Mackintosh was only 23 and he obviously felt responsible for all his men. I just can't imagine how it must have felt to be him. I find it helps me remember the individuals involved on a more personal level.

That is a fabulous shot - and very apt. The poppy sets it off brilliantly...really well done.

Thankyou - I was a bit worried it would be seen as tacky so I'm glad you like it.

Have to agree with the above. Great work :thumbs:

Thanks Karma :thumbs:

I hope the neck gets better soon and it's probably very wise to postpone low down. The last thing you want to be doing with a bad neck is crawling on the floor.

Doom and Gloom : it doesn't matter that this was just a simple shot taken in your bedroom. Every now and then you come across a shot in these 52s that just hits you over the head and makes you stop and think . . . this is one of those.
That is so very powerful - beautifully and sensitively done too.

The only thing I'd like to see changed would be to bring the Poppy forward a bit, so that it's a little more in focus. Maybe just overlapping the edge of the page???

Thanks Sarah - you're right, low down isn't really a place I can go at the moment!

I did try different set up's with the poppy and in the end decided to completely throw it out of focus. The problem I had is that the paper poppy can look a bit "cheap" and I thought it would be better to have it recognisable but not the main focal point.

SarahLee

08-11-2009, 20:05

I did try different set up's with the poppy and in the end decided to completely throw it out of focus. The problem I had is that the paper poppy can look a bit "cheap" and I thought it would be better to have it recognisable but not the main focal point.

I hadn't thought of that - you're probably right.
It really is a stunning image this week, no matter where the Poppy is.

kennysarmy

08-11-2009, 21:02

classy and artistic.

jeangenie

08-11-2009, 22:03

Doom and Gloom : it doesn't matter that this was just a simple shot taken in your bedroom. Every now and then you come across a shot in these 52s that just hits you over the head and makes you stop and think . . . this is one of those.
That is so very powerful - beautifully and sensitively done too.

I couldn't have put it any better than Sarah has. The poem's new to me, so thank you for sharing it.

I'm sorry to hear about your neck and shoulder - it sounds really painful. I hope it gets better soon - take care. :hug: from me.

Jean

jgs001

09-11-2009, 10:12

:clap: very well done. Simple, yet powerful at the same time. I think the poppy works perfectly as is.

As for the neck and shoulder... that's not being pathetic. As someone who also suffers from time to time with the same thing I know exactly how much this can hurt, to the point where sitting, standing, walking, lying down or any other position or posture hurts... just take it easy and let it recover. I hope you're back to normal soon.

Toothie

09-11-2009, 12:31

Wow thats a great shot :clap:

corky

09-11-2009, 20:59

Lovely shot - nuff said :clap:

Tracer

09-11-2009, 22:01

Beautifully done, and very moving.

Daysleeper40

14-11-2009, 22:27

classy and artistic.

Two things I never thought I'd hear about something I've done - thankyou very much :)

I couldn't have put it any better than Sarah has. The poem's new to me, so thank you for sharing it.

I'm sorry to hear about your neck and shoulder - it sounds really painful. I hope it gets better soon - take care. :hug: from me.

Jean

Thanks Jean - The poem belts me over the head everytime I read it. I have a book of war poetry called "Up the Line to Death" - not particularly cheerful but there are some wonderful poems in it. Thankyou for the sympathy - the neck is vastly improved so I'm hoping to get up to date this weekend.

:clap: very well done. Simple, yet powerful at the same time. I think the poppy works perfectly as is.

As for the neck and shoulder... that's not being pathetic. As someone who also suffers from time to time with the same thing I know exactly how much this can hurt, to the point where sitting, standing, walking, lying down or any other position or posture hurts... just take it easy and let it recover. I hope you're back to normal soon.

Thankyou - I wear my poppy with pride but it doesn't lend itself to photography particularly well. Like I said - you're in danger of having a "cheap" look and that's obviously not what I was aiming for. I'm glad you like it ;)

... and thankyou again for the understanding - I have every sympathy with you suffering in the same way. It's like you say - NOTHING is comfortable and I have just felt like I can't cope with doing much more than sitting still these past couple of weeks. I'm on the mend now though and it's such a relief :)

Daysleeper40

14-11-2009, 22:29

Wow thats a great shot :clap:

Lovely shot - nuff said :clap:

Beautifully done, and very moving.

Thankyou all - I think I have to thank the poem for any kind of emotional impact but I'm glad you like the shot ;)

maddog.mark

15-11-2009, 08:04

There is nothing more to say about this shot. An incredibly powerful poem, complimented by a beautifully composed image...

Hope you're feeling better soon.

Mark

Dark Star

15-11-2009, 08:13

Fi - sorry to hear about your neck and shoulder - hope recovery is swift :)

And Doom and Gloom - 100% superb!!!

As you may know I'm a poetry fan (see the poems and pictures threads) and this would be welcome in there.

The image, with the oof poppy plus the words is such a powerful combination and stops you in your tracks - wonderful, moving, well thought out and taken!

Top marks :clap:

Kiwi Jaz

15-11-2009, 09:37

Very moody shot and nice composition.

Daysleeper40

15-11-2009, 18:40

Daysleeper40

15-11-2009, 18:45

Week 45 - Communication

Well, still being stuck with a slightly dodgy neck (waaaay better than it was though - thankfully) and the weather whipping up a storm outside we have another shot from my studio (AKA bedroom floor) this week.

My OH doesn't get the link to the theme at all but I'm hoping you guys will - or maybe my brain is way off the mark on this one!

Anyway... if you want to communicate your hatred towards someone there is really only one way that is going to get the message across:

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg129/Daysleeper40/The%2052%20Weeks%20of%202009/Week45-Communication.jpg

I know selective colouring isn't everyones cup of tea and is seen as a bit tacky but I'm trying new PP methods and felt this one needed something to add a bit of interest. You tell me if it works - honesty appreciated :thumbs:

I am horribly behind on commenting on everyone elses threads AGAIN - I will catch up with them all and I really appreciate the fact you take the time to comment on mine.

Oh, and Low Down will be coming soon :bonk:

Tracer

15-11-2009, 19:10

karmagarda

15-11-2009, 19:15

Excellent interpretation! I got it straight away! Nicely done :thumbs:

SarahLee

15-11-2009, 19:28

:eek: Scary interpretation! not one that I would have thought of, but I got it straight away . . . I'm just slightly worried about you sitting there making that doll and then sticking the pins in it. Is it anyone we know? ;)

Absolutely love this shot. :clap: :clap: :clap:

Selective colouring?
Unless you'd mentioned it I wouldn't have known that you'd done it.
It's very subtle, I suppose because apart from the pin heads everything else would be very subdued anyway.
And on that basis I'd say that it's definitely worked - adding impact without being really in your face! :thumbs:

Glad to hear that the neck's getting better.

Daysleeper40

15-11-2009, 20:42

Aaaargh -- that really gives me the shivers! A really original interpretation of the theme and cracking execution (!). The selective colour treatment suits it really well. :clap: :clap:

While I am really sorry about you injury problems they have obviously stimulated your creativity. Just don't tell us who your voodoo is aimed at....:eek:

Thankyou - I suppose there is a bright side to having a knackered neck!

Excellent interpretation! I got it straight away! Nicely done :thumbs:

Phew... I can now go and tell my OH that he has an appalling lack of imagination!

:eek: Scary interpretation! not one that I would have thought of, but I got it straight away . . . I'm just slightly worried about you sitting there making that doll and then sticking the pins in it. Is it anyone we know? ;)

Absolutely love this shot. :clap: :clap: :clap:

Selective colouring?
Unless you'd mentioned it I wouldn't have known that you'd done it.
It's very subtle, I suppose because apart from the pin heads everything else would be very subdued anyway.
And on that basis I'd say that it's definitely worked - adding impact without being really in your face! :thumbs:

Glad to hear that the neck's getting better.

and Phew again! I was aiming for subtle with the selective colouring so I'm glad thats working for you. I'm not admiting to anything as far as the doll is concerned... I don't want you all thinking I'm a maniac!

Thankyou for the comments everyone :thumbs:

maddog.mark

15-11-2009, 21:21

Nothing wrong with that shot as interpretation of communication. I think you've handled the selective colouring well.

corky

15-11-2009, 22:01

hmmm...interesting ;) ;) ;)

jeangenie

15-11-2009, 22:30

I'm glad your neck's on the mend, DS. It certainly hasn't affected your creativity. :)

Yes, I got it straight away. I'm just sitting here shaking in case it's me, after what I said in my thread today (lessons learned - huh!) Sarah's already pinned the blame for next week on me. :lol:

The selective colouring works for me on this one. The b&w conversion is very subtle and the pin heads are - well - small. The colour emphasises the composition and helps to lead the eye through the picture, rather than drawing the eye to the coloured bits, which is what usually happens with selective colouring. So, yes, a very big :thumbs: from me. :)

Jean

jgs001

16-11-2009, 09:19

Another one who got the idea straight away. Very nicely done. The selective colouring works very well for me :thumbs:

Spartacus

16-11-2009, 14:13

Another one who got the idea straight away. Very nicely done. The selective colouring works very well for me :thumbs:

:agree: yes that's a great piece of thinking outside the box...:clap::clap::clap:

Very clever, and guess it was a women you were thinking of...:thinking: or else the pins would have been in another place...:lol:

kennysarmy

16-11-2009, 17:57

looks good....
loving how everyones minds work....

(note to self...don't upset daysleeping!)

Toothie

20-11-2009, 16:13

Love the original idea behind your pic :thumbs:

Dark Star

22-11-2009, 14:16

A genius spin on the theme Fi! Well thought out and well shot and the selective colouring works a treat!

And have you a spare 'cos I have a few people that I'd like to communicate with like that :)

Daysleeper40

24-11-2009, 21:50

What week are we on now?
46?? Holy cow, we've nearly got this thing wraped up!! :cool:

No clever ideas for this theme - straight up self portrait. I don't really do pictures of people - and pictures of me are even fewer and far between. The one thing I did want to do was have a honest representation so this is me - no make up and no blemish removal after the fact. I did do a teensy bit of processing and went for the "light on one side of the face" so you only have to suffer seeing half of me :p

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg129/Daysleeper40/The%2052%20Weeks%20of%202009/Week46-Self.jpg

and link to it on flickr as I'm starting to hate photobucket and have a feeling it might make this look worse than it is:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/daysleeper40/4131460277/

As pictures of me go I'm actually ok with this one - so that is the biggest thing I've learnt this week, not to be afraid to take self portraits.

Thanks for looking :)

karmagarda

24-11-2009, 21:54

That's wicked :clap: love it! the light you've captured that's divided your face is excellent.

:thumbs::thumbs::thumbs:

Dark Star

24-11-2009, 21:55

Original and stylish! Another great self portrait - that is really well done Fi!

Toothie

24-11-2009, 21:55

stunning stuff imo :thumbs:

Daysleeper40

24-11-2009, 21:56

That's wicked :clap: love it! the light you've captured that's divided your face is excellent.

:thumbs::thumbs::thumbs:

Thankyou!

I used just a torch for the lighting - mainly because I don't have any fancy equipment!

Daysleeper40

24-11-2009, 21:59

Original and stylish! Another great self portrait - that is really well done Fi!

stunning stuff imo :thumbs:

Thankyou both so much - I was a bit nervous of posting this one up as I really don't do this sort of thing normally. Really appreciate the feedback - would love to hear any comments on improvements though? :thumbs:

jeangenie

25-11-2009, 07:20

Thankyou both so much - I was a bit nervous of posting this one up as I really don't do this sort of thing normally. Really appreciate the feedback - would love to hear any comments on improvements though? :thumbs:

Wow - if this is what you produce when you're nervous .....

It's really excellent - different, stylish and cleverly lit, and proving once again that you don't always need loads of expensive kit to get a fantastic result. :love: I'm really struggling to make any suggestions for improvement and the only thing I can suggest would be a slightly stronger catchlight in your eye - but not too much.

A huge 'well done' DS :clap::clap::clap:

Jean

karmagarda

25-11-2009, 07:58

Actually, because you mentioned it, I will add that photobucket isn't the best site. I've had pin sharp photos, put them up there, and it's made them look soft. Not sure what it does when resizing, but it's not good! You don't notice it in your photo so much, it's an excellent photo anyway, but I compared both versions and I advise everyone to check out the flickr version instead!

Also, and I must start a post about this, I've started to use a site called pix.ie (http://pix.ie) because it gives an option to show photos of 800 on the longest edge, and gives you a box with the IMG tags and link ready to copy straight into these forums. It provides most of the features that flickr does too.

Spartacus

25-11-2009, 08:42

Well done, brilliant portrait...:clap::clap::clap:

Love what you have done with a simple piece of lighting...:love:

Works so well...:thumbs:

SarahLee

25-11-2009, 17:04

Absolutely love the lighting on this one :love:
Very cleverly done.

It's a beautiful portrait too. Very elegant!

Daysleeper40

26-11-2009, 19:33

Wow - if this is what you produce when you're nervous .....

It's really excellent - different, stylish and cleverly lit, and proving once again that you don't always need loads of expensive kit to get a fantastic result. :love: I'm really struggling to make any suggestions for improvement and the only thing I can suggest would be a slightly stronger catchlight in your eye - but not too much.

A huge 'well done' DS :clap::clap::clap:

Jean

Thanks Jean - one thing about not having much kit is that you have to be a bit creative to get what you're looking for. Doesn't always work and I'll admit to having gear envy. The catchlight is actually the one thing apart from the mono conversion that I did do some work on. I made it a little bit bigger but obviously didn't take it far enough - thanks for the feedback :thumbs:

Actually, because you mentioned it, I will add that photobucket isn't the best site. I've had pin sharp photos, put them up there, and it's made them look soft. Not sure what it does when resizing, but it's not good! You don't notice it in your photo so much, it's an excellent photo anyway, but I compared both versions and I advise everyone to check out the flickr version instead!

Also, and I must start a post about this, I've started to use a site called pix.ie (http://pix.ie) because it gives an option to show photos of 800 on the longest edge, and gives you a box with the IMG tags and link ready to copy straight into these forums. It provides most of the features that flickr does too.

Thanks very much for the link - I will definately look into that as photobucket really does seem to maim a lot of shots. I've noticed it more and more since using flickr but can't be bothered sorting out the sizing to upload from flickr :bonk:

Daysleeper40

26-11-2009, 19:35

Well done, brilliant portrait...:clap::clap::clap:

Love what you have done with a simple piece of lighting...:love:

Works so well...:thumbs:

Absolutely love the lighting on this one :love:
Very cleverly done.

It's a beautiful portrait too. Very elegant!

Thankyou both very much - I'm actually starting to think I could do more of this self portrait malarky! I like your new avatar as well Sarah :thumbs:

Tracer

26-11-2009, 19:54

That's really good - I love it! It has bags of atmosphere and originality. Well done! :clap::clap:

maddog.mark

26-11-2009, 21:06

Another great sp... not much I can say that hasn't already been said. It's a very intense portrait.
Top marks from me!

Daysleeper40

28-11-2009, 15:36

That's really good - I love it! It has bags of atmosphere and originality. Well done! :clap::clap:

Another great sp... not much I can say that hasn't already been said. It's a very intense portrait.
Top marks from me!

Thanks both :thumbs:

Right - I've uploaded some shots to pix.ie so lets see how it compares:

http://photos5.pix.ie/1B/E8/1BE8AA3E43024BD287C4A14D8E14B9B0-800.jpg (http://pix.ie/daysleeper40/1368505)

Daysleeper40

29-11-2009, 13:22

Week 47 - Organised

I did want to get out and about for this weeks theme but again I have been relegated to the studio / bedroom floor by the DAMN RAIN!!!

I really didn't have a lot of inpiration for this theme and ended up with the thing I couldn't live without when organising my day:

http://photos5.pix.ie/D0/2E/D02EF0FE68EA421A845C341D7ABDB526-800.jpg (http://pix.ie/daysleeper40/1369800)

I know it's a bit boring - and I did try a re-shoot to try to add a bit of interest...

http://photos2.pix.ie/52/DC/52DC879C56614AA195097A36F636129E-800.jpg (http://pix.ie/daysleeper40/1369801)

But that is about as exciting as my watch gets I'm afraid! :D

Thanks for looking.

Dark Star

29-11-2009, 13:39

Love the way you've handled these two

For me #1 is the shot that wins, great detail and light - classy image!

maddog.mark

29-11-2009, 14:10

I'm with John, 1 is the better shot, they are both good though, you've presented an image worthy of a place in some Rotary advertising!
I'm with you on the theme, really hard to get excited about!

Kiwi Jaz

29-11-2009, 15:38

Stunning shots..nice work. Prefer the first one for it's DoF but the second one is great too.

SarahLee

29-11-2009, 16:23

Thanks both :thumbs:

Right - I've uploaded some shots to pix.ie so lets see how it compares:

To my eye it does look a touch sharper from pix.ie, but I'm not sure . . . it would maybe help to see the two side by side :shrug:
If I'm right about the sharpness I might try that, I've noticed that I tend to lose a bit of sharpness through Photobucket.

Both of your organised shots are beautiful - and nothing wrong with more studio type shots. I've done the same again this week too :bang:

No.1 has it for me with that lovely dof. Great lighting, lovely focus on the face. A really classic, elegant shot.

jeangenie

29-11-2009, 16:31

Self: I think the second one looks slightly more detailed/sharper, but it's difficult when you can't see them side by side.

Organised: #1's a winner - lovely. Were the hands at 10 to 2 on purpose? But I also like #2 because it made me smile. The bracelet looks like legs, and time is marching on! :thumbs::thumbs::thumbs:

Jean

karmagarda

29-11-2009, 18:09

Thanks both :thumbs:

Right - I've uploaded some shots to pix.ie so lets see how it compares...

I've heard people say that photobucket renders images soft and oh my, they're right! If you look at your eye lashes in each image you'll see that pix.ie renders it way sharper.

In respect to organised, your shots look so professional. I could easily see these as the photo in an advert. Excellent from you again :clap:

Daysleeper40

29-11-2009, 20:13

Love the way you've handled these two

For me #1 is the shot that wins, great detail and light - classy image!

I'm with John, 1 is the better shot, they are both good though, you've presented an image worthy of a place in some Rotary advertising!
I'm with you on the theme, really hard to get excited about!

Stunning shots..nice work. Prefer the first one for it's DoF but the second one is great too.

Thankyou all - looking at them again I also prefer #1 now.

Daysleeper40

29-11-2009, 20:17

To my eye it does look a touch sharper from pix.ie, but I'm not sure . . . it would maybe help to see the two side by side :shrug:
If I'm right about the sharpness I might try that, I've noticed that I tend to lose a bit of sharpness through Photobucket.

Both of your organised shots are beautiful - and nothing wrong with more studio type shots. I've done the same again this week too :bang:

No.1 has it for me with that lovely dof. Great lighting, lovely focus on the face. A really classic, elegant shot.

Self: I think the second one looks slightly more detailed/sharper, but it's difficult when you can't see them side by side.

Organised: #1's a winner - lovely. Were the hands at 10 to 2 on purpose? But I also like #2 because it made me smile. The bracelet looks like legs, and time is marching on! :thumbs::thumbs::thumbs:

Jean

I've heard people say that photobucket renders images soft and oh my, they're right! If you look at your eye lashes in each image you'll see that pix.ie renders it way sharper.

In respect to organised, your shots look so professional. I could easily see these as the photo in an advert. Excellent from you again :clap:

Thanks all - I can definately see the difference between the two Self shots so I am definately a signed up member of Pix.ie now... link in the sig ;)

As for Organised - I'm a bit meh about both of them tbh but agree that the first is probably better. I didn't have to reset my watch either... that actually was the time I shot them. You'll notice the "reshoot" was shot first - what I meant is I picked the first shot as the best of a dodgy bunch and did the PP... and then decided I didn't like it much and tried to PP to some life into another one. I'm just glad I got anything for this theme though :shrug:

jgs001

30-11-2009, 06:58

Fi, Self, Excellent SP, and the pix.ie shot is indeed better. I hit that issue with photobucket resize in the past... now I resize prior to upload and I don't think I have an issue with PB. Anyway, it's on theme and I like the way you've lit it.

Organised, I agree with Mark, excellent shot for the submission, It wouldn't look out of place in a mag. I actually rather like the second one... a bit more fun with the 'legs' effect.

kennysarmy

30-11-2009, 10:53

#1 for me - very classy, well lit and composed.....

Spartacus

30-11-2009, 13:14

Number 1 all the way...I love your dark moody shoots...:love:

Again another stunning photo from you...:clap::clap::clap:

Brilliant...:thumbs:

Tracer

30-11-2009, 16:42

#1 for me - very classy, well lit and composed.....

:agree: well done! :thumbs:

corky

03-12-2009, 20:45

Very well done on self. a great take :clap:

Organised, bang on theme :clap:

Toothie

08-12-2009, 15:53

nice lighting on the watch and personally i prefer the first one :D

Bruja

09-12-2009, 11:36

Fi, what a fantastic SP. Very sophisticated, well lit and well processed.:clap::clap::clap:

Organised - #1 for me, although I love the legs of #2. Another classy, well processed shot :thumbs:

Daysleeper40

13-12-2009, 15:51

Thankyou so much for all your comments - much appreciated :)

I know I am horribly behind again and all I can say is I'm sorry and I will really try to get myself sorted out next week. I have had a horrible last week and am suffering a bit of a crisis of confidence generally. I won't bore you with the details but it's fair to say I am feeling a bit down and need to pick myself up again. I will be back on a more positive note soon and will be playing catch up with all your threads AGAIN. I'm sorry.

jgs001

14-12-2009, 08:45

No need to apologise Fi, it's silly busy at the moment, and knocks at busy times can be extra tough. I hope you're feeling back on form again soon

Bruja

14-12-2009, 11:09

Fi, life does that to us sometimes but never doubt your photography. From what I've seen on here you have no reason to. It's frustrating when the work/social balance gets screwed up and easy to think it's your fault of your problem or you're not capable enough.

Don't add to it by worrying about us - by the sounds of it most of us will still be here next year :eek:

And I know people understand, I've apologised a couple of times myself when life has got in the way of this. Just remember, you're the most important person in your life at the moment and take care of yourself :hug: and don't worry about us.