From my house...

[schrackman]

on a hill about 3/4 miles away, we can get a nice view of Mt. St. Helens when the sun finally does decide to appear, as it did today.

Unfortunately the light wasn't the greatest when I was finally able to get home and get my camera out to snap a photo. But at least I know I have some future possibilities from this viewpoint. I also realized I really need some better glass when it comes to a telephoto lens.

Canon XTi & Sigma 70-300.

Ray

[jetrim]

Great color, too bad about the haze.

[Frog]

Looks like you have a good spot for video when she blows again.
I like the simple geometry of this shot and actually like the haze and softness it gives the shot.

[opus]

I don't understand. Did you just move there?

[schrackman]

Thanks Jetrim and Frog. Yes, the volcano's only 40 miles away as the crow flies. Don't know if she'll ever blow again but if she does I have the perfect vantage point, provided she doesn't blow our way!

Opus, yes we just moved to Washington a month ago.

By the way, Frog, this was cropped from the original version. The focal length was around 214 mm, and shot at f/5 @ 1/60th, 200 ISO on a tripod.

Ray

[Rivman]

Like it schrack - the sleeping giant, with the haze adding to the shot ! :thumbsup:

[Speed]

That is a great shot Ray! I love it. The possiblities of even better shots must make you drool. Don't you love it when you find a spot like this?

While I must admit, my Nikon 80-200mm f2.8 does indeed outperform my Quantaray (Sigma) 70-300mm, the Sigma is a solid performer for the money. As this shot proves!

I have taken shots with mine that blew me away. My favorite was a grab shot taken with my N80, Sensia 100, and the 70-300mm. It was of my kids sitting on the trampoline in our backyard playing cards. I took it at 70mm and didn't give it a second thought. It was just a snapshot. Later, while looking at the slide on my lightbox, I was stunned to see that I could tell what cards one of my daughters was holding!

The most valuable gear in a photographers arsenal is the gear he has with him. Not what gear he has at home, or wants to get one day. (of course, you already know this - I'm preaching to the choir) When you can upgrade your gear, by all means do so. The faster speed and improved contrast are worth the money. But don't knock what you've got, especially when it produces results like this!

Have a great day buddy, and I'm looking forward to seeing more of these shots from you.

[schrackman]

Thanks for the comments, Rivman and Robert!

And yes, Robert, this lens does take some great pictures but only primarily within the 70-175mm range. Go any higher, especially above 200mm, and it begins to quickly lose sharpness, contrast and color accuracy. I've taken some great shots with this lens as well, but one day if I ever have the money I will definitely upgrade.

Ray

[gracie_r]

Wow! That is a much better view than from my house! I am looking forward to seeing more.