In reply to Post #1292
Stacking is a very useful application to have on board. I use Photoshop CS4 extended and although I haven't had occasion to use it in relation to the above I seem to remember playing around with the application. Think there is also some other software available which does this as well. Most of the work I do a layer system works ok. Am I right in thinking that with stacking you have more control over the final tonal quality of the shot?

In reply to Post #1294
Thanks Mick for clearing that up for me. It is always a pleasure to read something by somebody who knows what they are talking about, even if I got lost halfway through, although enough stuck for me to see the difference.

So I got my new lens today, and have been playing in the garden with it between the rain. Here are a few shots i've managed













Any pointers judging from those would be great. I've found it pretty tough going getting the focus point right. It's been really windy here today so nothing has stayed still which made it even harder!

Cheers

In reply to Post #1296
It's all a learning curve and the more you do the better you get. Focus points are more critical with this type of lens due to a restricted depth of field. Hand held shots with the subject moving about also has its own problems.
Try viewing the image from the screen rather than through the eye piece. This only works well when you use a tripod but it is easier to focus when you are looking at a larger image.
If you have the software with the camera, mine is a Canon and came with a remote shooting programme which transfers the image and camera functions with full control onto my lap top.
When possible move the subject in doors and shoot in an environment you control. You can build a set basically a few bits of greenery and leaves as basic or as complicated as you like.

In reply to Post #1296
lovely photos

In reply to Post #1298
Some Of My Discus

In reply to Post #1273
The welsh valley

In reply to Post #1300
Looking back towards snowdon

Just a few more photo's i've taken in the last couple of weeks..

I think this shot has been on the forum before. It is worth mentioning that on occasions an impromptu shot can surprise you. The lighting is natural the shading comes from natural sunlight filtering through a venetian blind and striking the flower. Would have been difficult to achieve this effect artificially.
The shot was grabbed using a hand held camera before the light went. In post production the background was blacked out to enhance the colour and a poster edge filter applied to bring out the texture of the flower.
Does go to show that having a camera to hand can pay dividends.

Having a quick brew in the garden this morning and this little blighter turned up around the pond. Took a few shots as he won't be around much longer as he and his mates have decided to move into the house. Edit Just noticed the basic Photoshop mistake with the bamboo. ho hum

Some shots taken using artificial lighting with the std lens.