I Take Pictures

Last year we did a few quick video's of ourselves playing in various places and I found I really enjoyed making them and more importantly editing them. They were rough and the equipment we used was not the greatest, but it got me thinking I would like to do a bit more of it. The next logical step was to look at getting a camera for myself. After discussing things with various people, I decided I would go for a DSLR camera that could produce HD video and allow me to plug in an external mic for the sound recording. I needed a decent camera also, but primarily I was getting it for the video functionality. I did a little research, costed up my budget, spent hours looking at reviews, even more hours watching videos that had been produced on various DSLR's on Youtube and spoke to some 'techy' people and decided on the Canon 600D.

After getting the camera and a few accessories, I set about doing some test video's and playing around with Sony Vegas editing software. I loved it, the problem was, I wasn't sure what video's to make. Barricades Rise were on a break (Said Ross to Rachel) so recording us playing was out the question, I didn't feel comfortable recording other bands at this point due to my lack of skill level and randomly recording things as I walked around just didn't appeal. I did do a little live Ukulele session when we some snow but ultimately, I was stuck for ideas. So remembering that the camera was actually also a camera ( ie still image taker thingy) I started snapping away. Something just felt right and I guess you could say I caught the photography bug. I got hold of a copy of Photoshop, even paid for some extra plug-ins and have not looked back since.

Now don't get me wrong, I didn't go from having no particular interest in photography to a super wicked professional photo man (an official term used in the industry). I am under no illusion that I am still a beginner, but I do think I am starting to take a few good looking images. For those that are interested, I have posted some of my favourites so far over at my Flickr page. This page will be continually updated with any shots I feel worthy of sharing.

So what am I going to do with my new found love of snapping away? Well, I don't know really, I just like taking pictures. I have enrolled on a collage course that focuses on the basics of photography and getting to know your camera. This is fun and already got me thinking about what I'm shooting, where I'm shooting, what's going on in the frame etc . . . It's also got me looking at other photographers works and different genres of photography.

So why am I telling your this? Two reasons really.
1) As a creative type, I have an urge to show people what I've been creating. I like peoples feedback and I think that making your work public makes you try just that little bit harder with it.
2) Michael hasn't blogged today and he promised you he would everyday from now on. The boy is slack. I think i may now go on record and say we wont be updating the blog daily. We do however want it to be a place you an come to and is updated very regularly with all different types of content.

Anyway, you can view my pics on my Flickr. Remember, Tweet Me, Facebook me, Email me, two cans on piece of string me any feedback or criticisms. Remember, I am a beginner and want to improve :)

Jonathan