More and more the photographs we see have a "generic" look about them ... so many people are using slower zoom lenses, 400 speed film, lab processing, and relying on cameras with meters that do the thinking, that it's becoming rare to find photographs that are made by the photographer rather than technology.
and also
Whoops! Hardly anyone does any of that these days. So much easier with color neg film, a flash, and a quick trip to the one hour lab. No more cool drinks during mid day ... that's the biggest loss <LOL>
Actually, I resemble those remarks. In recent years, I have moved from a P&S to an SLR. Originally, I just kept everything on "auto" mode. Then I started wondering how come my photos documented events, but lacked a certain "something". More likely, my efforts reflected my lack of thought &/or understanding of what I could do w/ the process.
Yes, I'm still using slow(er) zooms (moving from 3rd party to Pentax though), ASA 400 color film, and a one hour lab. But I've learned to have a conversation w/ my photodeveloper and come to an understanding of personal "style" and preferences. If I did a mid-roll rewind and left a blank shot in the midst, that's ok. If I was playing w/ street lights at night that's ok too. If I don't like the results, we figure out why. This is a working relationship w/ someone who understands the process.
But thanks to this list, I've begun exploring and experimenting. Bright sunny day? Try an ASA 100 film; I've found the difference btwn. Reala and others. Try a polarizer. Dark, indoor events? Try an ASA 800 film. May not need to blast the flash. Try one exposure w/ and one w/o to appreciate the differences. Set my own Av or Tv values instead of leaving everything in auto. I think it was most revealing when someone who's a bit of an equipment geek picks up my camera and says, hey it's in Av mode. Then I realized that equipment does not equate skill (a bit of a waste to keep an F100 in auto mode?).
The results since I've joined the list are a little better (I think). What anyone else thinks of a photo? Well, they weren't there when I took the photo and I don't want to have to explain every photo I take. The PDML does a great job fostering beginner/amateur photographers (when it's not masquerading as a comedy/debate club).
Thanks for being here!
Pat in SF
