Calling British Red

[teflon]

I'm new here so forgive me for jumping straight in feet first. Just couldn't resist.

I suggest the original poster moves back a tad from his subject, even if it means using a weaker close-up filter. It will give better depth of field. The main problem is light and this is a good way to get round it with what's available. I'd also use manual focusing.

Also, if the camera has a depth of field/stop down button, it should be used to learn what different apertures, at different camera to subject distance, using different lenses and close-up filters actually do - all using the viewfinder. A very bright day is best to do this effectively and in my experience it's one of the fastest ways to learn.

While I'm naturally reluctant to spend money to solve problems (being skint actually helped my technique - along with library books) a tripod would be quite useful here - preferably one that opens out low. Doesn't have to be fancy - a budget one will be perfect. Also, home-made light diffusers/reflectors, etc are invaluable and cost pennies - but one thing at a time I suppose.

Just my thoughts.

 

[spoony]

I'm new here so forgive me for jumping straight in feet first. Just couldn't resist.

I suggest the original poster moves back a tad from his subject, even if it means using a weaker close-up filter. It will give better depth of field. The main problem is light and this is a good way to get round it with what's available. I'd also use manual focusing.

Also, if the camera has a depth of field/stop down button, it should be used to learn what different apertures, at different camera to subject distance, using different lenses and close-up filters actually do - all using the viewfinder. A very bright day is best to do this effectively and in my experience it's one of the fastest ways to learn.

While I'm naturally reluctant to spend money to solve problems (being skint actually helped my technique - along with library books) a tripod would be quite useful here - preferably one that opens out low. Doesn't have to be fancy - a budget one will be perfect. Also, home-made light diffusers/reflectors, etc are invaluable and cost pennies - but one thing at a time I suppose.

Just my thoughts.

thanks for the tips, all the photos were taken on dull overcast days, just waiting to get out on a sunny day now, and have a play about. But your right i need to learn what does what.

 

[kimbo]

I might have a copy of a DVD tutorial for the 450........I'll have a nose around when I get home - if I find it you're welcome to it, it was very good.