Kids and photography.

We've had three of the grandkids visiting from Perth this week. Me being me, I offered each of them the use of a camera. The 13 year old has the D300, the 7 year old the D90 and the 5 year old the Fuji X10.

I have to say that despite the patronising comments coming from more than a few adults, they've produced some very good images.

I love digital for kids - or anyone learning photography. The marginal cost of any image is almost nothing, and they get immediate feedback when they try something new. Perfect!

And, of cause, I can give them a set of images on a USB stick that they can print or show to family and friends.

So the message is: don't underestimate kids. Give them a useable camera and they'll deliver.

A portraiture master class with Greg Weight.

Last Sunday, I did a portraiture master class with Greg Weight.

I enjoyed the session, and especially Greg's practical, unaffected view of photography and portraiture.  (The fact that he is a Nikon shooter didn't hurt either (Joke!!).

When she picked me up, my wife Linda asked me what I'd learned.

Good question.

I'd certainly learned stuff - but more importantly, I'd gained a few things. Firstly, I realised I knew stuff. I recognised the photographers Greg talked about and often, the images to which he referred. I also understood a fair amount of the technical stuff too.

That means thatI gained confidence in my ability.

But I also came to the conclusion that I don't have to be an expert on portraiture to shoot portraits.

What I did learn / decide / conclude is that I've got to get off my arse and join in. To be an effective portrait photographer ... I've got to shoot portraits.

Yep - I'm nothing if not quick! <blush>

I've lined up friends who have agreed to be photographed, I have the photo kit and I've ordered a backdrop - which I'll use some of the time.

Time to stop talking and start doing - or as Frederick Van Johnson says: Time to take off that lens cap and shoot!