The only people I need to impress are my family and myself. I worked in an area of healthcare for 42 years that is loaded with egos. One coworker used to call himself the best. I would reply, I'm number 2 so I'm working harder to be better at what I do. There's no doubt in my mind having worked with with people that are legends in their own mind that this is no different in photography. There's one big exception. Here, there are a wide variety of shooters from beginners to top notch professionals. Those who truly love photography, will support, teach, and appreciate others for their efforts and love on what we do in creating art and memories.

In the eyes of my wife and children, I excell... Beyond that there's only striving to get better. The Japanese call it Kaizan. Loosely put, it's working everyday to improve each day in some small way (I also taught TQM in the Air Force). Giant egos from small minds are just another form of amusement to me. At 64 and retired, there's nothing left to prove to anyone. I only need to separate the dirt from the manure and use what is useful. For those who are less than kind, I will use what is usable to help me be better and let go of the rest... Since those who are less than kind don't know me, there's no reason to take any of it personal...

We'll cruise in one direction and take our time. We've vacationed away from home for as much as seven weeks. It helps being retired...

WOW!!! Great shots... My wife and I are contemplating a cruise there some day.... I've been to Hawaii, but she hasn't as of yet...

They look totally awesome together... Thanks for sharing...

Really?... It's only one of two B-29s that are currently air worthy... FiFi was produced at the end of WW II and was never used for any combat missions. She was certified airworthy in 2010. The other B-29 (Doc) was a radar trainer during the Korean War and was restored about 2-3 years ago. I'd love a chance to photograph the two of them together.... That would be awesome!!!

Life is a place where you surf... It's a beach.....

So much of it can be summed up in perspective and attitude... How do you see it and how do you choose to react to it. Does it have any information of value to you? If not, ignore and move along. Life is too short to live it as either a soap opera or a dysfunctional reality show. Again, if one likes cameras and shooting photographs, this is a great place to hang out from time to time. Try not to let a few raindrops spoil the beauty of the day.

This serene moment has been brought to you by the makers of Prozac.... Available now in fine pharmacies everywhere...

This is one of about 3000, but I'm particularly fond of the subject matter. It was shot with a D5200 and a Sigma 150-500 lens at the Sacramento Capital Air show in 2016.

(Download)

Thin skin makes for cold shoulders... just saying...

I know that some do lose control over their typing fingers on the forum, but really now. All ya gotta do is chuck the out the manure and move on while ignoring the children at heart and mind.. Way too much good information here to leave over the bad behavior of a few.......

I've been reading through the posts. First thing that comes to mind is that I appreciate the approach that has been taken here. Most of it seems to be rightly directed at the OP's original request.

I'm far from being a pro, but I would suggest you take your time studying the different offerings. Visit many articles on the net and posts on this forum. Most folks would ask about what type of photograph do want to shoot, except that if you're relatively new, that question can't be answered so you might want to consider a good all around performer and leave room for some versatility until you can figure it out. Once you're in it, you'll probably get to a point where you'll want to consider upgrading and should have a better idea of what to get next. If you really get into this, there will definitely be a next purchase, but going more entry level at this point is a sound decision.

One other point is try not to over think it too much. As I said look for a good all around entry level camera. Those who suggest putting a bit more into your lens than your camera body are correct. Kits can be nice, but many usually have entry level glass. Versatility will do you more good right now than refinement. What ever you get for what you'll be spending, chances are you'll be getting a package of reasonable quality. As stated, factory refurbished will probably give you more bang for the buck. They generally come with some level of warranty where as used does not and it's hard to tell when someone else's equipment has been, unless you really know the person you're dealing with.

I hope this helps... Good luck with your quest. You're gonna love photography (especially when you associate the word "creativity" with it)... and also Welcome to the Forum...

I was sent this article from iMore.com on a comparison between an iPhone X camera, a Google Pixel 2 XL, and a Canon 5D Mark III with a 50mm f/1.4 lens. It compares thee potrait shots of the same person and explains how it's done. A bit much with the $3.00 lingo for my understanding, but a clear demonstration comparing diverse platforms. Now, given they're only comparing one subject matter, I'm there's a lot more to this than meets the eye (no pun intended)... That being said it makes for an interesting subject matter...

https://www.imore.com/portrait-mode-iphone-x-vs-pixel-2-xl-vs-dslr?utm_source=im&utm_medium=dailyarticle&utm_content=UUimUsUmU1359&utm_campaign=email

I like shooting aircraft. Don't get too many chances to do it, but it is my preference. Nature would be my second choice....

Well... There's two ways of looking at it since the original pic looks like a young person:

Maybe it is an invitation due to prison experience (past or future)...

He's walking on a beach following a young lady in a bikini... He must be either a Hollywood producer or a politician...

Stand up like a man and do your thing. Cleaning up after yourself is optional (but highly recommended)...



When I was stationed at Vandenberg AFB in the 70's, at my apartment I had an Air Force sticker on the lis that said "This vehicle will not be placed in motion until all seat belts are properly fastened, By order of Chief of Staff, USAF"