Lake Burley Griffin
Canberra – the bush capital of Australia
You can get this great Mexican food in Canberra. Just visit the Gorman House art markets on any Saturday 🙂
Trying to get into Single Lens Reflex (SLR) photography
So, I have an interest in photography. Until now I’ve owned one compact digital camera and my parents own a film SLR.
I’m quite fond of using the film SLR because it gives me a sense of craftsmanship, vintage and expertise. Of course none of this amounts to much because I’m not a trained photographer.
I’d like to learn, I’d like to be able to use the camera to it’s best ability. Unfortunately, as cool as it may be to use film, it’s expensive to use and hard to learn with as there is no immediate feedback.
So my option is to purchase a digital SLR. It seems like the most logical thing to do but it brings about a few worries. Here they are:
- I might not go to the effort to learn despite having the immediate feedback after taking a shot.
- I may lose interest and not go out and take photos.
- I might turn into a person who takes 50 shots of the same object rather than try to get it right the first time.
- I might get over the hobby after a few months when I realise that my camera is now very outdated.
Happy to take any comments or tips.
Photo taken on my parent’s Nikon film SLR camera in 2009.
Old school vs new school
When it comes to new consumer products and technology advancements I am always hesitant to buy in right away.
On a number of things I have noticed that I am behind the times. For instance, my video camcorder still runs mini dv tapes and my Single Lens Reflex camera is a film based Nikon from 2002. I shave my face using the traditional techniques of creating lather from shaving soap and using double edge razor blades to clean off my beard. I listen to cd’s in my bed room and can still record onto cassette if I wish.
The main reason for this is because I feel that the last models of an old or dying technology becomes so much more affordable and its good to have that good quality while newer technologies keep others busy.
Video Cameras
Full High Definition video cameras have come out this year and although they are packed with great features, I am sure that in one year’s time the current models will be irrelevant and the newer items will cost less. I’d rather wait around for the HD quality to improve while I continue to use old and dusty dv tapes.
Photo Cameras
One item that is convenient to have is a digital slr, even if it is a budget or entry level one. If I knew more about photography I would have no problem sticking with my film slr and shooting but to learn the techniques, it is faster and cheaper with a digital.
Shaving
I have tried the latest shaving methods and they don’t impress me. From five blade razor handles to smelly shaving oils. I spend an extra 5 minutes every morning with a traditional shave but I get a closer shave and am much more satisfied, no razor burn either. The soap lasts a lifetime and so too will the brush and handle. There is much more skill involved and it has become a sort of ritual in the mornings.
That’s all I have to say. Stick with the old way until the new way is better developed and cheaper. Not surprisingly, the cost has a lot to do with my decision making on these issues.