first shot from new camera

[flyinion]

Getting back into photography and picked up a Canon XSi with the kit lens and an EF 75-300mm f4/5.6 III lens. This was sort of a test of the 75-300 due to some of the reviews I've read. No tripod, about 200mm zoom, elbows on furniture to help stabilize. Did my best on the white balance in DPP then moved to PS CS3 for resize. Was going to sharpen in PS and this one didn't need any. I think this photo captures her in her "let me out or else" mood. (she actually loves the camera)

settings:
file mode - RAW
F/5
1/15s
ISO 400 + flash
205mm zoom

[GB1]

flyinion - I think you have a very worthy subject here I like the way she's crouching down to say 'hello' to you. Nice color too.

What I think you could do to make it better is some how eliminate the front columns, maybe shooting from more of a straight on angle. Also zoom in more, eliminating the distractions (like the bell, stick, etc).

I think lenses like a 75-300mm are nice for many applications, but are generally too long and slow for indoor use. You may be able to get away with it with a fast SS and/or flash, but it's generally not the best way to go. Like you said though, a tripod make help.

-G

[flyinion]

Thanks, I don't normally plan on using it indoors but the sun was gone by the time I got around to playing with that lens last night. I see what you mean about the bell and stick, I could probably have cropped that off. Nothing I could really do about the bars on the cage unfortunately (other than let her out). I know depth of field can blur them but she was too close to them for that.

[chosek]

Hi Flyinion
Here are two shot of our parrots, they love to interact with us and regularly go outdoors with us, See how naughty they can be, he is trying to untie my wifes shoelaces, if anybody is interested I have a video that I can post, however it has choice language in it.
(Bird Swearing).