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DPChallenge Forums >> Tips, Tricks, and Q&A >> Learning material wanted (flash & photos @ ~1.4)
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06/29/2008 11:15:33 AM · #1
Hey all!

I've been looking around on the net and on DPC (without much luck) for basics / tutorials on the following subjects:

1) Using an external flash (when/how to use in daylight, examples of different settings (e.g balanced fill flash), use in macro photography, etc.). I recently bought an SB-600 for use with my Nikon D200 and still feel quite clumsy with it.

2) Shooting at large aperatures: I see all these unreal shots taken at ~f1.4 on this site.. so I bought myself a 50mm 1.4 but now I have really no clue how to use it properly (e.g circumstances where f1.4 works and doesn't, etc.)

3) And... I also bought a sigma 10-20mm not too long ago. Of course I'm a clutz with that thing too.. So how to properly shoot wide is yet another topic I'm unfamiliar with.

Sooo, what I'm looking for is some base material on any of the above topics that I can read and try out some techniques. Of course I know that practice is the key to success here - but of course it always helps to have some background knowlegdge prior to going out and shooting.

Any help on finding some material is greatly appreciated!
06/29/2008 01:25:54 PM · #2
I would say the most important thing to remember when shooting at f1.4-f3.5 is to pay attention to the background... really can't stress that enough... your bokeh is what will compliment your composition and subject and even though it is thrown out of focus, bright spots can ruin a photo. :)

Go out and start by shooting some trees (leaves, branches, etc...) and flowers with that 50mm until you realize what it can do and how you should use it. It won't take you long :)

I got this:



with a 50mm 1.4

So, there is an example. As far as tutorials go, you might want to check out barnes and noble online and browse their photography how-to books. Also look in the instructional book section.

I hope this helps. I know how frustrating it is to have a new toy and not know where to start :)
06/29/2008 02:16:46 PM · #3
Great books I recommend...I have the Nikon Flash GuideHERE

And found a videos HERE HERE

Thx for posting your question I found this website //strobist.blogspot.com/ and found a bunch of good info for myself too. Hope it helps you too.

Message edited by author 2008-06-29 14:32:41.
06/29/2008 03:15:26 PM · #4
thanks for the help guys!
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