Robertven Loc: Fort Worth

StanMac Loc: Tennessee

I don’t remember signing up for these . . . . But here goes.

I have learned how to use several of the scores of menu options in my digital cameras this year.
I have learned how to use several new to me image processing features when friends asked me to do something with one of their pictures.
I have not yet tackled using the organizing tools in my photo processing s/w.
I collect used outdated equipment - just added a Super Fujica 6 and a Mamiya 645.
I have asked for help or opinions from a couple of my photo club members.
I don’t recall anyone asking me for help - I’m not one to offer unsolicited help except when replying to a UHH post.
I have used selective focus by holding focus with the shutter button while reframing.
I haven’t tried anything above 800.
I need to work on using flash more.
Tripod use has increased due to my aging stability.
I almost never shoot action so haven’t used BBF. BIF is out of the question due to a lack of patience.
I use both SLR and Mirrorless. I also use two or three compact cameras which don’t have mirrors - do they count?

Photography for me is a hobby, not an obsession, so I get out to make photos as the time allows and mood hits me. I doubt I’ll be taking photos every day of the remainder of the year.

Stan

photoman43

Yes to some of the above: tripod, Back button focusing, using a light cube in addition to flash, scanning old slides worth saving, experimenting with Neutral Density and slow shutter speed photography, Photo processing webinars, etc.

lbrande

I will attempt to create an image to my expectations, but right now I'm no-where I would like to be.

lindmike

Hi Paul,

Good post. Thanks.
Because I don't shoot every day, I've wanted to make a list of several things to practice on a regular basis. Example, change button functions, HDR, flash, etc.
I'm sure the items would be numerous. Maybe too numerous. But a start to get or maintain familiarity with the camera.

Thanks, Paul

Jules Karney Loc: Las Vegas, Nevada

Great post.
Yes on many of the items listed. Though it's summer I continue to practice my craft. I shoot high school sports and the practice is good for all photography. Great subject.

lensmaster Loc: Chicago

what exactly is your point?
1. who are you to ask these questions?
2. what does it even matter?
3. IS there a prize for getting the most right? And, if so- what is it?

kscanman Loc: Wisconsin

I love this post. For people that love photography it keeps them focused. I would be fine when I retire to just have a band, record music and do photography. I am always learning and trying to get better.

Jules Karney Loc: Las Vegas, Nevada

Chg is a good guy and who are you to be so snarky. I believe he is trying to promote some thinking about our craft. The subject may mean something (like for me ) and not much for others. No there is no prize given out, maybe just better photos from all of us.

rmalarz Loc: Tempe, Arizona

Unwarranted snarkiness will get you a lot of friends in this community. Oh, and I noticed you haven't posted any extraordinary photographs.
--Bob

Photocraig

i love your veteran answers. I don't remember any mirrors on a view camera--perhaps the basis of photography is mirrorless after all!

Although the giant Camera Obscura, early vintage equipment near the Cliff House in San Francisco has a pretty big mirror to display images in he room size viewing area.

osoblancophoto Loc: Venice FL

Are you learning to better use your current equipment? Yes
Are you learning your processing software? Yes gaining much finesse with selective controls
Are you organizing your legacy images? Ouch!
Are you organizing your new images? Yes
Did you sell your unused and outdated equipment? Nope
Did you ask for help? Yes
Have you answered a request for help? Yes
Are you using selective focus with an off-center AF point placed specifically on the subject? Yes
Are you investigating higher ISOs? Yes
Are you using your (speedlite) flash? Yes occasionally
Are you using your tripod? Yes
Are you using Back Button Focus? Always
Did you change to mirrorless? Er... playing now with RX100 VII in anticipation of jump to Sony from Nikon

JSimpson

You are correct. Snarkiness - at times salted with the grains of arrogance and meanness - seems to be the rule rather than the exception in this community. And that's a shame.

Jules Karney Loc: Las Vegas, Nevada

It sure is a shame. Life is way to short for that kind of behavior.

RodeoMan Loc: St Joseph, Missouri

Perhaps some of us could add some goals: Have you used your photography to help bring about good in the world, or even your community even if only to help one person feel better about themselves? Have you encouraged or offered to mentor someone new to our hobby or profession? Have you grabbed your camera and headed out the door with no particular subject in mind, just looking for something to capture simply for the joy of doing photography. Have you looked inward to gain deeper insights about yourself and outward toward the horizons to develop better understandings of others making you a better person and (I think) a better photographer. I am sure there are many many more and better suggesions than what I have just offered.