I have both and find that the major advantage of the 40 is the ability to get closer macro shots. There also supposedly is a system for shooting raw on the 40, based on modifying the card, but I haven't tried it yet.

The extra length of the 50's zoom is quite a plus.

Interesting shot, although I'm bothered by the missing reflection below and the brightness of the smaller image. How about a vertical with the tonal range more restricted.

Intriguing subject -- what is it exactly?

Superb shot! Like it much more than the previous version, since there is a clear focus and no distraction.

I'm an edges freak, so I might "step back a few feet" (if you can stay dry) to capture the top of the burnt orange tree. And maybe move a bit to the right to take out the foreground grass.

Pretty image!

Can the Topaz plug-ins be used on both Mac and PC, or would I need to buy one for each system?

If you can go to Borders, please tell me where!

I've been in Ann Arbor for decades, and watched Borders go from a used book store on State Street to a monolith to bankruptcy. Sad indeed!

I'm also new to PS & LR, and have found the Scott Kelby books to be helpful. That and a local community college course.

It's important to use something (like a filter wrench) that grips at more than two points. Otherwise, by applying pressure at only two points means that you are turning the filter from a circle into a slight oval, making it even harder to get off.