challenge not going so well - DPChallenge Forums

Tamron SP AF 17-35mm f/2.8-4 Di LD Aspherical IF for Nikon

12/22/2004 02:02:46 AM · #1

I can't help but feel like the biggest loser...I know it's still early in the game, but I really don't see my votes improving. Right now it's around a 4, and it will probably stay that way. I was hoping at least to get in the 6 range. I just don't get it- my pictures never end up coming close to the rest of you guys. For whatever reason, I just can't get that crystal clear image quality most of you get, no matter what I try in photoshop. Maybe it's my camera, I don't know, but the image quality is nowhere near comparable. It's just a big bummer, because I was looking forward to my first challenge, and I was hoping not to be seen as below average.

dartompkins

Nikon D70s

12/22/2004 02:05:20 AM · #2

Discover the wonder of Neat Image. It makes a world of difference. Free on the web.

saintnicholas_25

Sony DSC-P73

12/22/2004 02:07:18 AM · #3

Currently my image is
Avg Vote: 4.5862

Im quite happy with that

RayEthier

Canon EOS-5D Mark II

Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 USM

12/22/2004 02:09:31 AM · #4

Not that this would be much of a consolation to you, but I recently entered my very first challenge and scored under 4.0. Do I feel like a loser,,,,,, NO, Not in the least....because I am surrounded by a bevy of knowledgeable and talented people who quite readily proffer advice and guidance whenever I ask for it.

I do hope that you can take the time and understand that the mere fact that you are willing to participate and learn, already puts you into the "winners circle". Losers,,,,,,those are the folks that quit when confronted with any form of adversity, and the mere fact that you are a willing participant in this forum tells me that you are a WINNER.

12/22/2004 02:11:44 AM · #5

Thanks Dartomkins,
I did use Neat Image on the photo, but I don't think it made much of an impact. Perhaps once I get the software mastered, I will be able to do more with it.

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8G ED

12/22/2004 02:15:14 AM · #6

Thanks Ray, I just noticed my vote go up by .2 , I think I'm just feeling a little exposed by putting my photo out there. I just see so much talent here, I hope to one day be on that same level.

Stagolee

Kodak Easyshare C180

Canon EF 50mm f1.2L

12/22/2004 02:22:24 AM · #7

Originally posted by SummerBreeze:

Thanks Ray, I just noticed my vote go up by .2 , I think I'm just feeling a little exposed by putting my photo out there. I just see so much talent here, I hope to one day be on that same level.

Don't expect to get great results straight away you need to be patient and learn and the best way to learn is by entering challenges and learn by your mistakes.
Just do your best and enjoy the site.

Dr.Confuser

Nikon D800

12/22/2004 02:23:01 AM · #8

Sent you a PM. Hang in there!

Bud

Canon EOS-550D Rebel T2i

Sigma 18-250 f/3.5 - 6.3 DC OS HSM

12/22/2004 02:28:38 AM · #9

Anne,

I had the exact same feeling when I entered my first challenge here back in June. I thought about what to enter, how to frame it, etc and then I finished with a 4.44 for my first challenge and 3.91 for my second challenge. I was feeling a bit overwhelmed, trying to figure out how to make a good, creative shot that would stand out from the crowd. I also felt intimidated and exposed. What you are feeling are common emotions and thoughts for the first time attempting something new.

Now, a half a year later, I have learned alot. I still have no ribbon, but I have gotten in the top 20 a few times. In many ways I have improved myself and also enjoyed myself more taking photos. It is all a learning process.

Best of luck.

Sony DT 18-70mm f/3.5-5.6 Aspherical ED Zoom Lens for Sony Alpha

12/22/2004 02:48:46 AM · #10

Thanks to all of you, it sure does lift my spirit to get so much support. I think all of you are right, it must be the first time jitters. Regardless of what my final score will be, I'm still glad I entered the challenge- it will be a good learning tool for me & maybe for others.

:)

BAMartin

Apple iPhone 5

12/22/2004 02:51:19 AM · #11

After the challenge is over, post your concerns again. There are many wonderful photographers that would be happy to give you some insight.

Message edited by author 2004-12-22 02:51:35.

kiwinick

Sony DSLR-A550

12/22/2004 03:46:57 AM · #12

Dont worry I usally hit in the 4 mark, maybe its the shot or the visualization, they can be a weird mob the voters .

Originally posted by SummerBreeze:

saintnicholas_25

Sony DSC-P73

12/22/2004 03:53:18 AM · #13

Originally posted by kiwinick:

Dont worry I usally hit in the 4 mark, maybe its the shot or the visualization, they can be a weird mob the voters

Ive only broken 5 once :p

train

Panasonic DMC-FZ30

12/22/2004 04:06:49 AM · #14

I sent you a pm and hope you feel better about your score soon
Give yourself a chance

Node

Tamron SP AF 17-35mm f/2.8-4 Di LD Aspherical IF for Nikon

12/22/2004 04:42:59 AM · #15

Anne, like all of us here you are here to learn.

It dosen't matter where you start, its where your going that is exciting.

You will see many talented photographers here, some started at dpc with alot of talent and knowledge others with their first camera. The best way to learn is to submit the best photos you can and learn from the comments, read the tutorials and ask questions in the forum.

Mostly enjoy yourself, thats all that matters in the end.

Brookied

Apple iPhone 6

12/22/2004 04:57:18 AM · #16

Hi
My first few entried to a challege were also in the 4.5 or lower, Then i found out how to use NeatImage and what a difference i saw, even the entry i have for Deja Vue was vastly improved. scoring in the 6's with this so fingers crossed for a semi decent place.

PhilipDyer

Canon EOS-5D Mark II

Canon EF 24-105mm f/4.0L IS

12/22/2004 05:03:47 AM · #17

Wouldn't it be much worse if you scored a 7 on your first challenge and then never got that high of a score again? ;-) Seriously, it will be nice to watch how your scores improve over time as you learn from the comments and critiques that people write for you.

If it's crystal clear image quality you want, then your two best friends are a tripod and lots of light. Make sure you have both for your next challenge and I bet you'll be much happier with your entry. Good luck!

Node

Tamron SP AF 17-35mm f/2.8-4 Di LD Aspherical IF for Nikon

12/22/2004 05:11:21 AM · #18

Originally posted by PhilipDyer:

Actually Phil that is a very good point! Another thing and I really can't say I have seen it anywhere else is to learn to "Squeeze" the shutter button (Like pulling the trigger on a gun) and stay in place until after the photo is taken.

I had to learn this myself as I was shooting and moving the camera down at the same time.

megryan

Nikon AF Zoom-Nikkor 80-200mm f/2.8D ED

12/22/2004 05:15:55 AM · #19

Hang in there - my first couple were also in the 4's and now I'm only on my 5th and 6th challenges and have hit 87% and 89% in 2 results !Not far off top 20 ! One thing is certain - you will improve !

saintnicholas_25

Sony DSC-P73

12/22/2004 05:30:19 AM · #20

Originally posted by megryan:

im jealous (hopefully soon I start improving) :p
megryan|Im aiding ya to my favourites - I can see you winning ribbons in the future, do it for the Sydney team :)

Stagolee

Kodak Easyshare C180

Canon EF 50mm f1.2L

12/22/2004 05:56:22 AM · #21

Hi Anne

Have a look at this guy for inspiration he had a 4.7 on his first image now seven months later he has 9 ribbons.
You only have to look for inspiration and knowledge here and you will find it.

Best Wishes

megryan