Syed's Journey into the world of Photography

Well, I bought my first DSLR back in 2003. It was a Canon Rebel with a kit 17-55mm lens. Since I didn't know much about photography, I started using it as a point-and-shoot camera and never explored all its controls and settings. I guess, I have always been overwhelmed and intimidated with all that comes with photography. I remember growing up my dad had a Roliflex camera and later on he bought a Yashica.

Anyway, since last year my nephew who is a professional photographer now and does weddings got me more intrigued about photography and ended up buying a used Nikon D300 after I sold my camera and the lenses which were mostly useless kit lenses on Craig's list. Right before his wedding, we were all at my sister's house and talking shop, when I started asking him questions. His suggestion was to get a D90. As he was telling me about what he was planning on upgrading to from his Canon 40D. It sparked my curiosity about D300.... the best feature I liked was the 51 auto-focus cross hairs... yes, I was still on the point-and-shoot mind set. When he heard that, he told me not to waste my money and get a $150 point-and-shoot camera or learn photography.

Well that made me start learning and ever since I have been exploring more and more. Currently I have a Nikon 50mm f/1.8, Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8, and 85mm f/1.8 lens which were all recommended by him.

I also started reading few books and I would recommend any newbie to read them. First one is Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson and the other one is Light: Science and Magic: An Introduction to Photographic Lighting.

My main goal for this blog is to share my pictures and knowledge with other enthusiasts, and get critiques. Its going to be a long journey but an interesting one.

Sincerely,
Syed