Doing the things you've always wanted to do

One of the things I've wanted to do for a very long time is to take a photography class.

Donald and I are both avid amateur photographers, and we both seem to have a camera permanently in hand or around our necks, so taking a class was a fun thing for the two of us to do together.

Do I look confused here?

Well, I was for a lot of the class, but I learned a lot.  And I loved every second of it.

We had a terrific instructor - Cheryl Zibisky.  You can see her work here - http://www.cherylzibisky.com/

Our class was one given through the Craft Enrichment Program at Appalachian State, which offers a wealth of different types classes including weaving, pottery, jewelry making, blacksmithing, welding, and more.

If you're interested in photography and able to take a class, I encourage you to do so.  If taking a class isn't feasible, I can offer a few suggestions.

(These are actually suggestions from Cheryl, so consider this a bit of professional advice)

Number One - Read that User Manual!!!  Every page.  It has a wealth of information.  Actually, even if you're going to take a class, I suggest you read it before your first session.

Number Two - Use all the sources you can find, including some pretty interesting and informative videos available on YouTube.

And here's an excellent book - (used copies and earlier editions are available on-line at a number of places)

Number Three - Find a photography program for your computer that you can use to enhance and manipulate your photographs, AND to store and catalog them.  The one I'm now using is Lightroom.  IF you go with Lightroom, I recommend this book - 

Now, go, take pictures!  Lots and lots and lots of pictures!  And have fun doing it.

This course was only the first step on the journey to becoming a better photographer.  But, that's part of the fun - the learning and the journey.  And knowing I've taken steps to do one of the things I've always wanted to do, but managed to find a reason not to.  And that, I think, is a good thing.