Port Elizabeth, South Africa

[FrancoB]

Hi all

I am very new to photography and must admit the bug has bitten me :clap

Was a bit bored today and took a few photos at the beach.
Using a very basic Canon EOS camera and EFS 18-55mm lens.

Let me know what you think and any hints.
The photos have not been worked on, only re-sized. I like the idea of working with natural light.

Regs

Franco

[FrancoB]

Part 2

[FrancoB]

Part 3

[FrancoB]

Part 4 (Final)

[sixdaemonbag]

I like the third and 4th ones, the drainage pipe gives you some interesting textures. They seem a little flat to me overall though, I know you mentioned you like the natural light, but you can still preserve that natural feel with a little post processing to bring the color level and detail up a bit. (completely random side note, why is it that "color" shows as being misspelled but "colour" doesn't when I'm typing? :rofl)

The really nice thing about digital cameras is that you can "waste" shots to learn and not have to worry about running out of film. Don't be afraid to take 100 shots and only keep the best ones. The more you shoot, the more developed your skills and eye will become. Don't be afraid to experiment with lighting, exposures, flashes and gels, basically anything at all. The key is to enjoy yourself and have fun. The rest is all icing on the cake.

[FrancoB]

Many thanks for that sixdaemonbag. Just one thing... what is gels?

[sixdaemonbag]

Many thanks for that sixdaemonbag. Just one thing... what is gels?

Lighting gels. They're colored and/or tinted celophane inserts you can put in front of lights and flashes to change the lighting in a scene. For instance, a blue gel would give you a blue tinted flash effect, or a red gel on a light could be used for an overall red glow on a scene.

[thapamd]

A nice series. I hope to see more from you! :D

[IanB]

Part 2

I know the PE beaches well, and I like your study no 2, the sort of beach shot I like, down to essentials. You have a good eye for a scene. It was obviously an overcast day, not the best light conditions, but work on your technique, listen to people who've done it before. Invest some time in learning.