I’m at a cross roads and seem not to be ready to make the next move. I think it’s time to take my photography to the next level. My goals in 2017 are to learn Photoshop and some of the other processing programs I have accumulated, and to enter competitions.
I am learning more about Photoshop. I have an accountability partner, and I’m doing the 52 week challenge. I started it last year, but fumbled after the first couple of months. However, I think I can do it with Karen B. keeping me moving. I will also encourage her to learn. So far, I’ve learned more about the removal tools because Karen and I sat down for a Scott Kelby lesson.
The second goal is where I’m more stymied. Every time I hear about a competition, I read the entrance instructions and decide there will be better photographers entering. I tell myself that I don’t stand a chance. I know I should enter and accept whatever happens. That way I’ll at least find out what the judges look for, etc. But, I’m stuck. I’ve tried self-talk; it didn’t work. I know I’ve got to just take the leap, but I don’t seem to be jumping high or long enough! Confidence–that’s what I need.
Maybe a few blog posts in the future will find me taking the right path at the cross roads.
Aside from this, Richard had never been to the California Automobile Museum in Sacramento, so we decided to go. He loved the cars and I loved trying out my newest acquisition a F/2.8 – 4, 17 – 70 mm Sigma Lens. We both enjoyed our experience. As usual, I found it difficult to shoot there with cars stacked up in rows and ropes keeping us at a distance, so I did close up work again.
If you’ve been following my blog for a long time, you might think the cars are what you’ve seen before. The good news is that they continually change the exhibit cars. So take a look at the fun parts shots!
Slow Shutter Speed 
Is there a reason you feel such a great need to take your photography to the next level? I understand the hesitation to enter contest because the competition is stiff but I’d bet even photographers who we think are better feel the same way. Here’s a suggestion…Shutterbug Magazine has a monthly challenge that does not issue prizes. They simply publish a few of the submissions. The listing each month is listed as “Picture This”. The March 2017 issue has the photo subject as ‘wildlife and nature’. Deadline to submit photo is April 1 for publication in the July 2017 issue. I have all the pertinent info. Go for it Anne.
My challenge is to professionally print a few of my photos!
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p.s. I love your close up car parts. Remember now you can take shots with ropes, etc because you know how to remove them!!
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Yes, I can remove them now, but you really need the car by itself to get the effect. I need to practice layers and masking! How advanced in editing are you?
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Not very sadvanced! Those are on my bucket list of lessons.
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Thanks for the suggestion. I’ve started printing some. I have 6 waiting to be framed and put up. That was one part of acknowledging to myself that I’m a photographer and not a wanna be.
By the way, I visited your blog. Great picture, but why only the one post. I’d like to see more of your pictures.
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So, Anne —- With all of your car photos, you’ve inspired me to invest in a new lens. The lowest aperture I have is f4. I really like the effect you are getting with your f/2.8 – 4. Nice work!
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Thanks Donna. I’m really liking that lens.
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