In My Bag
Monday, February 14, 2011 at 10:13AM On Saturday I did a quick post, sharing my most recent camera purchase, the Diana Mini! After writing it, a couple of people commented about the camera and I realized that they were under the impression that I shot film for my DIYs and projects. So today I'm taking the time to clarify what I use on a regular basis to capture all of my shots. So this is what is in my camera bag:
Main Camera: Nikon d40x
Although I would love to say that I shoot all of my work in film, that is definitely not the case. I shoot all of my work in digital with this camera, the Nikon d40x. It is an entry-level dSLR that I got a few years ago as my first SLR (single-lens reflex) camera before studying abroad in Italy. I want to upgrade to a more professional camera (like the Nikon d80 or d90) but financially, that is not in the cards right now. This camera is great because it works for beginners as well as those who are a little more advanced. At first glance, its features are simple but it definitely has options for those who want to adjust settings and not just use automatic mode. When I first got it, I always had it on auto mode (and it still can take amazing pictures...so much better than a point-and-shoot) but now I always shoot in the manual setting. Although I am always wanting something bigger and better, I realize that this little camera takes great pictures and I am always happy with the results. It definitely gets the job done! For someone wanting to upgrade from a point-and-shoot, I highly recommend this camera or a Canon equivalent. Usually it comes in a kit with a lens or two and that is perfect for a beginning photography enthusiast.
Main Lenses: Nikkor 35mm f/1.8G & Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 VR
For all of my DIYs and projects, these are the two main lenses that I have used (I have a zoom lens too but I rarely use it). The lens on the right, the Nikkor 18-55mm, is what came with my Nikon d40x. When I first got it, I was traveling and it was absolutely perfect for that because it offered versatility. You can zoom in and out as needed and you don't need to change out your lens. I got the lens on the left, the Nikkor 35mm, for my birthday a few months ago and I'm absolutely in love with it! Since getting it, this is all that I have used (literally haven't taken it off the camera body once). I had heard so many great things about prime lenses (fixed focal length lenses) and I can now say that all of the hype was true. The images that this lens can produce are just dreamy! It was such a smart purchase and it's actually really inexpensive.
Main Computer Software: Adobe Photoshop CS2
Yep, that's right, CS2! I know Photoshop is on version 52 or something like that now but I am still using CS (version) 2. I got it in school and have been oh, so happy with it. I'm sure there are so many more bells and whistles on the newer versions but mine still does the job. If you are interested in getting some image-editing software and are new to the whole thing, I would recommend an earlier version of Photoshop. It will be a lot cheaper and all of the basic stuff is the same as the newer versions. I've been using the program since high school and simply learned by doing. I know a fair amount but the program is capable of so much, even I'm clueless on a lot still. Whenever I need some assistance, I just Google the question and find all kinds of blogs and forums with advice. So don't be intimidated by the program if you're wanting to buy it because with the internet, a beginner could pick up basic features quickly.
So these are the three main tools I use on a daily basis...the secret is out! The equipment is not all that special really. For me, it's all about practicing and working on composing your shots and styling them appropriately. I do some tweaks to my pictures in Photoshop but no heavy-duty image processing. I like keeping things light and as natural as possible. I always try and use natural light when it is available (flash is the enemy). I am definitely still a student of photography and learn new things all the time. I am constantly pushing myself to improve the quality of my work. So definitely don't take this post as the words of an expert. Far from it! With a few simple tools, it is possible to capture really great images so as a beginner, don't get caught up in buying the most professional camera or the latest version of Photoshop. Just practice with the tools you do have!
So my little Diani Mini film camera will be my newest experiment. I have shot some film in the past but it has been awhile and my knowledge is basically a -2 on a scale from 1-10. Hopefully one day I can be confident enough with film to shoot an entire project with it but that day is far off. As I mentioned on Saturday I will definitely share my film results here on the blog so get ready to see some bad pictures, haha! :)
Sorry about all of the camera-geek speak today. I definitely wanted to clarify what I use and hopefully someone found it helpful.
Happy Monday & Valentine's Day friends!
Reader Comments (2)
Thanks for this post. Seems like everyone is a Canon user nowadays so its good to know there are Nikon users :) I'm interested in the 35mm lens you wrote about. I have a 28-105mm and I like it fine, but I'm unsure what the difference would be between the two and if it would be worth getting. I'm not very keen on the lingo so any advice you can give me helps :)
You were so nice to share your equipment here. Jp, now I see it possible, to do those mega great shots of yours :)).
Have a great week and greetings from Europe.