http://search.deviantart.com/?q=by:Lightfoot11&section=today deviantART RSS for by:Lightfoot11 en-us Copyright 2009, deviantART.com Mon, 30 Nov 2009 11:22:17 PST deviantART.com http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss http://s.deviantart.com/minish/widgets/apple-touch-icon-precomposed.png http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/23332437/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/23332437/ Sat, 21 Feb 2009 21:12:52 PST
Norman is fine, Lightfoot11 DA site is no more.

]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/19084811/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/19084811/ Fri, 27 Jun 2008 23:07:00 PDT
Hi Y’ll

First thing, sorry for the Fav and Run this week as I am inundated with Deviants and it would have taken another week to get them down to a manageable level. Now I am happy that I can evaluate and comment as before.

This got me thinking. I want time to go out and take photographs, appreciate the images and if good enough share on dA. That is the objective of dA, I think but I seem to spend more time on dA with the protocol and nicety and not really admiring and appreciating others works. Am I doing something wrong?

The other evening I spent time meandering though the Landscape deviants, leaving the odd comment and faving, if it stood out, from the selection. It was a very satisfying experience and I felt good doing it. The following evening I attempted to catch up on my own site and I was thoroughly exhausted at the end, why?

Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy dA and being a member of the community. I have made friends with many members and honoured that others have befriended me and would not want it any other way. So what is the balancing act of time spent on dA answering all comments that appear on your page or do you be selective to allow more time outside of dA.

Your thoughts on the subject would be much appreciative.

More images to admire:

Henry----------------- Jim


Juan--------------------- Jonathan


Zozef---------------------- Kenneth


Adriana-------------------- Mark
http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/18959132/ Fri, 20 Jun 2008 23:25:33 PDT
Hi y‘ll,

Well I am back, batteries recharged and raring to go. Had a great vacation in the Lake District, Cumbria. Weather was OK, warm in the morning, raining in the afternoon and evening, as expected for this location. We managed to walk 67 miles (110K) during the week and visited some amazing places. I will submit a number of images shortly.

Time to review and comment, so thanks to all.

Norman

(Davide)------------- (Dave)


(Dale)---------------- (Gordon)


(David)------------- (Alan)


(Tremayne)--- (Alice)


(Erin)----------------(Sandra)
~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/18781161/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/18781161/ Wed, 11 Jun 2008 09:34:54 PDT
Hi y’ll,

Just to let you know I will be away from the PC for a week, therefore, there will be no input or output from me during this time.

I would like thank you all for your continuous support over the past few weeks while recuperating after a bad bout of blurred vision. This has restricted me to short bursts on dA, resulting in short comments and ‘run and fav’s’.

So over the next weeks I will be showing my appreciation to those I watch and those who watch me.

Norman

(Tom)---------------- (Marie)


(Alice)--------------- (Diana)


(Andy)--------------- (Alanna)


(Gil)------------------- (Matt)


(Katya)-------------
~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/18374942/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/18374942/ Sat, 17 May 2008 23:26:56 PDT
Member of the following Clubs:


I give *Everything-Nikon, Nikonist, Photographic-Club and Sunsets permission to submit my work in their gallery. ]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/18046979/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/18046979/ Sun, 27 Apr 2008 00:05:40 PDT
Vision now back and can spent a bit more time on the computer. So thank you all for you concern and support. Much appreciated.

I am looking at purchasing a 22" TFT monitor to replace my existing 17" CRT. See if that helps the eyes.

Anyway, things have been going on and recently I entered a competition at my local Camera Club. The subject was a panel of 8 related images of your choice.

I entered mine and called it 'Flower Reflections'. There was 25 entries and on the evening they were viewed by the members and after the voting I was declared the winner. I was quite pleased with myself as I thought they were good enough to be placed in the top five but to come first was a bonus. I have submitted the panel for you to see and any comments are welcome.
[link]

My Six of the best for this week are:




Thanks for reading and keep the peace.
Norman

Member of the following Clubs:


I give *Everything-Nikon, Nikonist, Photographic-Club and Sunsets permission to submit my work in their gallery. ]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/17907272/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/17907272/ Fri, 18 Apr 2008 06:18:25 PDT
I’m back on line after a couple of weeks of double vision and a recommendation not to view any television or PC monitors. To day, I have been cleared for limited use of the monitor at 600 by 800, so I will keep it brief and catch up if there are any comments of deviants to view.

I have noticed that I have broke the 10K barrier since last on and would like to say a BIG THANK YOU to you all in helping me to achieve this goal.

Norman

Member of the following Clubs:


I give *Everything-Nikon, Nikonist, Photographic-Club and Sunsets permission to submit my work in their gallery. ]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/17582235/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/17582235/ Sun, 30 Mar 2008 00:11:07 PDT
For the past month my work as not allowed me time to the pursue my love of photography and I am missing it. It’s times like this I realise just how much of an enjoyment it is to go out and take photographs. I do take a camera with me at all times, even at work but the nature of the work and the opportunities are few so I return home with an empty memory card. I have planned time to go out at the weekends but the weather recently as been, lets face it, awful and does not encourage me to brave the elements.

I have been fortunately enough to purchase a new lens to compliment my existing ones but still not had the chance to try it out in anger. So hoping the weather will improve and allow me to confirm that it as good as the reviews states.

Incidentally, it is a Tokina AT-X840 AF D 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6.

Now I have a range from 10mm to 400mm, so looking forward to getting out and about and taking photographs.

Oh yes, I have been asked recently have I ever tried to create a HDR image and the answer is yes, just one. This is the first HDR image I have submitted that I am not to sure about but would like some feedback.


My six of the Best for this week are:






Have Fun
Norman

Member of the following Clubs:


I give *Everything-Nikon, Nikonist, Photographic-Club and Sunsets permission to submit my work in their gallery. ]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/17451736/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/17451736/ Sat, 22 Mar 2008 00:52:43 PDT
Hi all,

Recently I have not had a great deal of time to relax and chill while browsing dA. Only managing quick snippets and answering comments, therefore, the deviants have built up to a crazy number of over 700. If I do what I normally do and open up each image and assess a comment I will never catch up.

So I am going to break my own rule and keep it short and simple on the comments, till I reduce the deviants to the state I am commenting on recent submission and not on ones long forgotten.

The weather here in Norfolk is very wintery and hopefully it gives me the excuse to spend a prolong period on dA to catch up.

So wishing you all a very Happy Easter and enjoy whatever you have planned.

Still have time to fave, though, so here are this weeks Six of the best:






Have Fun
Norman

Member of the following Clubs:


I give *Everything-Nikon, Nikonist, Photographic-Club and Sunsets permission to submit my work in their gallery. ]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/17340467/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/17340467/ Sat, 15 Mar 2008 00:49:09 PDT
Organised Photo Shoot.

While on my travels recently I spoke to many people and got on the subject of Photography and when and where to take pics. What's the best time of date, season and camera kit to take. Well it got quite deep and the odd voice was raised for and against. It amazed me how many would be interested in an organised photo shoot as long as they did not have to organise it.

The general call was for the following and I find this very interesting:

Camera or two
Lenses. Whatever you have or willing to take.
Filters. Whatever you want.
Flashgun
Tripod
Reflector. 12" and 20" Silver/White
Spare film or memory cards
Spare batteries
Camera Bag
Bin bags. To sit, lie or kneel on
Wellies. Always
Spare clothing. Mainly socks, hat and scarf
Torch. Handheld or/and LED headband
Food and Vacuum Flask (if no pub near by)
Map

So there you have it. Reading the list again, I think it is logical to have all the necessary items available but do you want to carry that lot around with you during the whole shoot. I think back to last month and realised that apart from the reflectors and torches I DO take all this kit. The spare clothes, wellies and food will stay in the car and will go back and charge it required.

Is this something that you do or do you pick up your camera and just go and take pictures without any planning or thought of what you are going to photograph.
I would be interested in your thoughts on this subject.

This weeks six of the best are:





Also here are three extra images from three very talented photographers.



Member of the following Clubs:


I give *Everything-Nikon, Nikonist, Photographic-Club and Sunsets permission to submit my work in their gall... ]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/17280745/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/17280745/ Tue, 11 Mar 2008 01:59:24 PDT
I normally do not do midweek journal but need to share some information.

After last weekend journal about lens filters a number you stated that you do any filter changes using software. This got me thinking and I came across a Photoshop add-on filter called Flood. I downloaded and done some experiments and created three images that I will submit, when I get the chance.

This is the link to the site for the add-on
[link]

Let me know what you think of the images.

Have Fun
Norman

Member of the following Clubs:


I give *Everything-Nikon, Nikonist, Photographic-Club and Sunsets permission to submit my work in their gallery. ]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/17232989/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/17232989/ Fri, 07 Mar 2008 23:55:55 PST
At present I am going through a phase of using filters to see what effects I can get and if they do enhance a scene or subject. So the next few weeks I will be submitting shots that I like and pleasing to the eye.

This weeks six of the best are:






Have fun
Norman

Member of the following Clubs:


I give *Everything-Nikon, Nikonist, Photographic-Club and Sunsets permission to submit my work in their gallery. ]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/17127014/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/17127014/ Sat, 01 Mar 2008 02:04:41 PST
Recently I am having problems with accessing pages and images in dA and wandering if it is my PC or the web site. It is very frustrating when you snatch a moment to access dA to keep up todate and you have to continual refresh the screen to look at images or comments.

I am now at the stage of closing dA, visit another web site and then back to dA. This appears to work for about 10 minutes before it slows down and I am back to refreshing. Are any of you experiencing the same problems or is it just me.
Rant over.

Apart from that, I have seen and faved a number of superb images this week and found it very difficult to select six, so doing a double six:











Thanks for reading and keep the peace.
Norman

Member of the following Clubs:


I give *Everything-Nikon, Nikonist, Photographic-Club and Sunsets permission... ]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/17021740/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/17021740/ Sat, 23 Feb 2008 08:15:53 PST
I was asked the other day, “Do you think your photographs are better since joining dA“. I thought about it for a while before answering and I believe they have. So I looked back at my first submissions and confirmed that my current batch of images are superior. Therefore, have I got better because I want to submit good interesting images or seeing what other’s produce gives inspiration to be more creative.

So here are my very first submissions to dA:



So what do you think: Better, No difference or Boring?


Anyway back to the present, I have only had fleeting moments on dA this week and have a lot to catch up but still managed to find some gems to fav.

Six of the best for this week:





Thanks for reading and keep the peace.
Norman

Member of the following Clubs:


I give *Everything-Nikon, Nikonist, Photographic-Club and Sunsets permission to submit my work in their gallery. ]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/16913651/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/16913651/ Sat, 16 Feb 2008 12:07:05 PST
As much as I enjoy sunsets, sunrises and landscapes in general, I thought I would try something different. Here in Norfolk we have a wealth of old churches, so I thought will visit some and take photgraphs for submission in dA and today I submitted the first 3 images.

At the beginning of the week I presented 2 images and asked for feedback if anyone can spot the diference. I got a great response and stated I would feature the first six correct answers. So here they are:














http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/16859741/ Wed, 13 Feb 2008 07:01:14 PST
I have been introduced to a very interesting software tool that allows integration with Deviantart and other Photo Sites.

It is well worth looking at and it will enhance the view in your gallery and others.

The site is *piclens.com* [link]

This will instantly transforms your browser into a full-screen, 3D experience for viewing images on the web. Photos will come to life via a cinematic presentation that goes well beyond the confines of the traditional browser window.

I have installed it and been evaluating it for the pass 3 days and found it safe and easy to operate. Let me know it you find it of interest.


How things can change in three weeks.

As you all know I have a favourite place near Norwich that I like to visit to take pictures. Take a look at the two pictures and see if you can see the difference.

**********

First six correct answers will be featured on this weekends Journal.



My six of the best for this week are:






Thanks for reading and keep the peace.
Norman

Member of the following Clubs:


I give *Everything-Nikon, Nikonist and Sunsets permission to submit my work in their gallery. ]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/16699054/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/16699054/ Sat, 02 Feb 2008 23:46:41 PST
As you all know I was not in good health last week and feeling quite sorry for myself. Hey, I’m male so entitled to feel like that.

Anyway almost back to normal and fighting fit. So thank you for your concerns and messages of support. Very much appreciated. That’s it for this week.

My six of the best for this week are:





Thanks for reading and keep the peace.
Norman

Member of the following Clubs:


I give *Everything-Nikon, Nikonist and Sunsets permission to submit my work in their gallery. ]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/16575990/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/16575990/ Wed, 30 Jan 2008 01:49:07 PST
Hi Y’ll,

Just to let you all know I have caught the dreaded lurgie and confined to bed. Been here since Sunday. I have the use of the laptop for one hour per day so I will be very brief with returning comments. Deviations I will look and fave, as at present, there are over 700 to look at. Not my normal routine but once better, will be another week, I will comment and fave as usual.

Thank you all and never again will I call anyone a whimp if they catch it.

************************************************************************

Not a lot to say this week, hooray, I hear you say. Feeling the wind of change, so thought I will display some favourite animals and birds images from my Favourites Gallery. So, a change from 6 of the best to double 6 of the best.

Thank for reading.


Farmyard Visitor

The Prince II

Dog in Field

Silvestro

At horse

Support Group

and


On Golden Swan

Majestic Landing

Duck http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/16470762/ Sat, 19 Jan 2008 07:21:23 PST
Do you make the rain an excuse not to take photographs, I do.

So if you are taking pictures in the rain this should be quit clear in the image without having to explain it away.

Wet, empty streets in towns are a good indication of the prevailing weather, usually by the reflection in the standing puddles and seeing lights on clearly. A sea of umbrellas and feet splashing thought the puddles is a good sign it is raining.. If you shot against a dark background the falling rain will stand out as lines, especially if lit by the sun breaking through the clouds.

You should always keep the camera dry and lens clear of rain droplets, doorways and umbrellas are good but not standing under trees. Pick a subject that looks right in rain, old ruins, rubbish dumps, dead trees and everything that in normal conditions would be unphotogenic. Only rainy weather can express the seeming hopelessness of such a scene. Rainy weather makes colours paler, so it is advisable to use a skylight filter or one that will enhance the blues and greens.

Why am I telling you all how to suck eggs, because I have not been able to take any photos for TWO weeks and I am motivating myself to go out tomorrow morning come what may. Now I have told the world, I will have to prove that I do take photos in the rain.

Thanks for reading.

My six of the best for this week are:

******* ********


*****************************


Keep the peace.
Norman

Member of the following Clubs:
http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/16380882/ Sun, 13 Jan 2008 00:40:48 PST
Been a bit busy this week and not able to put together an article of great interest, so short and sweet.

My six of the best for this week are:





Thanks for reading and keep the peace.
Norman

Member of the following Clubs:


I give *Everything-Nikon, Nikonist, Cloud Club, Sunsets and 80ers permission to submit my work in their gallery. ]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/16264359/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/16264359/ Sat, 05 Jan 2008 01:48:51 PST
I have always been fascinated by Sunrise and Sunset photography, taking pictures at times when many other would have packed up and gone home. If that is you then you are missing out on some of the most exciting and rewarding photography. The mundane scenery that you pass each day can be transformed when the light goes, into a rare beauty and an eye-catching wow shot.

This is a demanding form of photography and requires timing, patience and local knowledge. The latest digital camera allows you to get more accurate results, as you can check the shot and adjust the camera accordingly. To get best results a camera with full manual control and adjustable ISO settings is preferred. A tripod and remote control/cable release is essential for those long exposure shots. So, are you willing to get up that the crack of dawn or go out just as tea is being served, if so then you will be greatly rewarded for your efforts?

Dawn is a beautiful and quiet time to take pictures. The world is still waking up and the weather is often clear and still. Depending on the time of the year, you will be greeted by a cloudless sky, clouds on the horizon, sharp frost, mist rising or threatening skies pending rain. Now timing comes into play and you have to anticipate the shot and ready the camera. What aperture, shutter speed and ISO should you be using? This will determine the effects and colours you will capture. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the setting, as many a good shot is capture by the wrong setting according to the good book.

Sunset with broken clouds is like a firework display as the sun like to bow out. The quality of light is again similar to sunrise, creating long shadows and textures. The mist usually seen in the morning has been replaced by a haziness caused by atmospheric pollution. The colour temperature is often warmer at sunset, so you don’t get the crystal clear clarity found with sunrises. This means you get the classic fiery reds and oranges that we all like to see.

Remember, UV and Circular Polariser filters will enhance any Sunset or Sunrise shot. Again, experiment with any filters that take your fancy, save having to use PS to get the desired effects.

So, if this not your thing and you prefer the warmth of the bed or a good hearty tea then you are missing out on natures free display of amazing colours and textures. Next time you see, yet, another Sunrise or Sunset picture, think of the effort the photographer as put into the shot to create the image.


My six of the best for this week are:






Thanks for reading and keep the peace.
Norman

Member of the following Clubs:
~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/16176408/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/16176408/ Mon, 31 Dec 2007 02:34:28 PST
Wishing you all a Happy and Prosperous New Year.

I would like to thank everyone for their friendship, support, humour, comments and the many , ’s , ’s, and

These three images gained the most accolades for 2007, thanks to you.




To end the Year, a selection of your images.









~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/16037364/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/16037364/ Fri, 21 Dec 2007 23:56:32 PST
Well it’s arrived and a bit different than last year. Still got hope, dreams and aspirations for the New Year. I tend to think this a time for giving and being thankful for what we have. There are a lot of people out there who will be spending the next couple of weeks in less surrounding than myself and I feel for them.

This year I have not sent any Cards to anyone but immediate family and donated to my favourite charities, instead.

So if you get a moment to spare a thought for those less fortunate than yourselves, that will make me happy.


These are the lyrics to a song by Lindesfarne call ‘Winter Song’. I think it sums up all that I have said.

When Winter's shadowy fingers first pursue you down the street.
And your boots no longer lie about the cold around your feet.
Do you spare a thought for summer whose passage is complete.
Whose memories lie in ruins and whose ruins lie in heat.
When winter comes howling in.

When the wind is singing strangely, blowing music thru your head.
And your rain splattered windows make you decide to stay in bed.
Do you spare a thought for the homeless tramp who wishes he was dead.
Or do you pull the bedclothes higher, dream of summertime instead?
When winter comes howling in.

The creeping cold has fingers, that access with permission.
And mystic crystal snowdrops only aggravate the condition.
Do you spare a thought for the gypsy with no secure position.
Who's turned and spurned by village and town, at the magistrate's decision ?
When winter comes howling in.

When the turkey's in the oven, and the Christmas presents are bought.
And Santa's in his module, he's an American astronaut.
Do you spare a thought for Jesus, who had nothing but his thoughts.
Who got busted just for talking, and befriending the wrong sorts?
When winter comes howling in.


Keep the peace everyone and I wish you all a very Happy Christmas and a wonderful New Year.

Norman

My six of the best for this week are:







Footnote:

22nd December 2007 at 19:05 UK winter time I got my 5000th pageview.
Thanks to each and everyone of you. and and

Member of the following Clubs:
~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/15969037/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/15969037/ Mon, 17 Dec 2007 06:02:51 PST
Hi Y’ll,

Been a busy week and with one thing and another. Not had a great deal of spare time to keep dA updated. So I have no topic for this weeks’ journal, so keeping it simple.

I would like to thank you all that have , supported, commented and ’d my site since I joined dA and to wish a Merry Christmas and a fabulous New Year.

Remember to and not to there is always next year.
So , , and don’t forget your

Keep the peace.
Norman

This weeks’ six of the best are:





Member of the following Clubs:


I give *Everything-Nikon, Nikonist, Cloud Club, Sunsets and 80ers permission to submit my work in their gallery. ]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/15841629/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/15841629/ Fri, 07 Dec 2007 22:51:17 PST
As you all know I work in the area of Landscapes, Wildlife and the odd exterior of buildings, well this week I was introduced to an Art that I have avoided for a long time.

1. I don’t think I will be any good at it
2. I don’t feel comfortable doing it
3. I don't feel confident enough to do it.

What am I talking about: Portrait Photography.

A good friend and fellow dA Twistedwinter gave up an evening to, supposedly, teach me the art of taking portraits. He provided all the flashlight equipment necessary and we gently persuaded my daughter to sit as the model. I thought he was going to take the pics while I pick up some pointers, no way, soon as the flashlights were in place he sat down and said ‘carry on’

Don’t know who was the more nervous me or my daughter. Anyway, with John’s encouragement and advice we both relaxed and spent the next hour and half taking pics. I really did enjoy the evening and I took 100+ pics that I am very pleased with.

I began way out of my comfort zone but now I feel that the, not any good, not comfortable and not confidence is now behind me and I would like to do some more portraits.

I have submitted three portraits and would like you to comments, good or bad, it will help me either improve or give up and go back to landscapes.


This weeks six of the best are:






Thanks for reading
Norman

Member of the following Clubs:


I give *Everything-Nikon, Nikonist, Cloud Club, Sunsets and 80ers permission to submit my work in their gallery. ]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/15746260/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/15746260/ Sat, 01 Dec 2007 08:34:39 PST
One of the few annoying issues I have is information missing from either the comments field or the image technical makeup. For example, a beautiful landscape gets submitted but no information of the location. Also, I like to know the technical info for time and date taken as this builds the picture makeup giving the viewer a better understanding of how and when the image was taken. So why is this information removed or not inserted.

Is it because it is not relevant or you do not want to give away trade secrets? Not that you have to - I'm just curious if there are reasons for not posting this information.


On a more lighter note.

My last submission ‘Last Flicker of Light’ has been requested by to use as a backdrop for a manipulation. I naturally gave the permission requested and this is the result.

This is mine:


This is the Manip:


I think it worked really well.

has a wonderful gallery but don’t take my word go have a look for yourselves.


My six of the best for this week are:






Thanks for reading
Norman

Member of the following Clubs:


I give *Everything-Nikon, Nikonist, Cloud Club, Sunsets and 80ers permission to submit my work in their gallery. ]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/15658507/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/15658507/ Sun, 25 Nov 2007 02:05:44 PST
When you see some good photos with the very interesting or incredible moment, do you always think did ‘Luck’ play an important element for the photographer. We can improve our artistic work but luck is something that you can not reach with practice.

If you've planned everything you still leave yourself open to luck when it comes to unexpected things. If you've go out to, say, photograph wildlife, no amount of planning will guarantee a successful shot. You can spend time walking around the countryside or sat in a hide and nothing special happens but walking back to the car and you shoot the best shot of the day. Was that luck or planned.

Don’t get me wrong. I plan the day, time and location and bag a bunch of great shots but some of my amazing shots happened due to a wrong setting on the camera or forgeting to remove or swap a filter.

So what do you think. Does luck play a part in taking photographs?

Thanks for reading
Norman

My six of the best for this week are:





Member of the following Clubs:


I give *Everything-Nikon, Nikonist, Cloud Club, Sunsets and 80ers permission to submit my work in their gallery. ]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/15541197/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/15541197/ Fri, 16 Nov 2007 23:14:00 PST
What makes a great photography is: vision. Call it vision, imagination, or seeing; it all comes down to the same thing: the ability to envision a final result in your mind's eye, and then to make it so with your tools at hand, not the manufacture’s label on the cameras

It's about seeing something, knowing how you want it to look, and making it so. Observation is everything and seeing the shot in the first place is what makes a photographer.

Are Photography and painting the same? Each use their imagination as a starting point, while the painter starts from a blank canvas, the photographer has the view but need to select the shot. Both can take a long time to master the tools to create the images exactly as they intend.

Some state that photography is much easier to use to create an image that is an interesting, sharp and well-exposed image. Most beginners discover that simply having the best tools and technically sharp images doesn't get the results required. They will usually leave the setting to automatic hoping the camera will do the rest. Until they start to experiment with the settings available on the camera, that's what they are there for, they will get good shots but not the one they envisaged.

Most artists can pick up a camera and make excellent images fast because they know seeing, visualization, composition and lighting, and immediately apply basic adjustments to the shot. While non artists will require longer to understand these basic elements before producing the stunning pictures that we all crave for.

So the message is: practise, think what the final shot should be and never be afraid to ask questions.

Thank you for reading, Norman.

My six of the best for this week are:




Member of the following Clubs:


I give *Everything-Nikon, Nikonist, Cloud Club, Sunsets and 80ers permission to submit my work in their gallery. ]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/15456310/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/15456310/ Sat, 10 Nov 2007 22:55:18 PST
Hi Y’ll,

Been a busy couple of weeks, what with work and domestic chores. Having to snatch time to get to dA and keep things moving. Just successfully bided for a Sigma 10-20 lens on ebay. So will be bringing a new dimension to my pics, hopefully.

One thing that I have noticed and comments to fellow dA’s is the way some folk submit deviations. I find that when I have not been in dA for a while and check the submissions that one person can submit up to 12 pics on the same day even to the hour. Why?

I find this dilutes the content and the good pictures are overshadowed by the very good/excellent. These are the ones that will be faved/commented on and as there are so many to review the good ones are dismissed. This is a shame but is a fact of live. I think a trickle feed into dA would be better and it means you have pictures available in the lean times.

What are your thoughts on this?

My six of the best for this week are:




Thank you for reading
Norman

Member of the following Clubs:


I give *Everything-Nikon, Nikonist, Cloud Club, Sunsets and 80ers permission to submit my work in their gallery. ]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/15228704/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/15228704/ Fri, 26 Oct 2007 12:04:13 PDT

This week I have no subject to write about, hooray I hear you say, but would like to display some deviations that caught my eye this week. Each week the standard get better and makes it more difficult to select six. This week I have chosen seven because the seventh is something special.





This was done by hand using acrylics by Grimleyfiendish and I think it is truly stunning. Full view to really appreciate the art work.
Well done Alan.




Thanks for looking .

Member of the following Clubs:


I give *Everything-Nikon, Nikonist, Cloud Club, Sunsets and 80ers permission to submit my work in their gallery. ]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/15124877/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/15124877/ Fri, 19 Oct 2007 05:50:23 PDT
Your photos need to be different from everyone else if you want them to stand out from the crowd. Standing out is important if you want your photos to get noticed. They can't just be different; they also must be good. They can't merely be good; they need to be both good and be different.

Photos of things like sunsets, flower close-ups, bicycles parked by windows and the kids running around the park. Everyone does them, and for them to stand out they need to be done very cleverly. If you already know how the picture should looks than add something different or special, like a low or high angle or use a filter but put your own spin on it.

You cannot admire other photos and then attempt to copy them. That's the best way to make dull photos. You need to get out and do your own thing and be yourself, don’t emulate others.

Photos show others the insides of your personality. To make outstanding photos you need to think differently. If you want to make images which people immediately recognize as your work, it needs to be uniquely your own.

The people who do this the best tend to be a bit eccentric, or at least people unafraid to do their own thing. They don't follow crowds; they do their own thing and feel free to shoot whatever takes their fancy. Forget shooting what you think others expect you to.

If you make safe photos, no one except your family and close friends will smile and say ‘Oh that is nice’. If you make weird photos everyone may think you're crazy, but at least they'll stand out. If you do them well, they can get you really noticed.

Remember, many famous artists were crazy, lived tortured lives and killed themselves, but at least their work lives on forever.

Thanks for reading

Six Photographs that caught my eye this week.



Member of the following Clubs:


I give *Everything-Nikon, Nikonist, Cloud Club, Sunsets and 80ers permission to submit my work in their gallery. ]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/15123094/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/15123094/ Thu, 18 Oct 2007 23:58:48 PDT
Member of the following Clubs:


I give *Everything-Nikon, Cloud Club and 80ers permission to submit my work in their gallery. ]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/15050513/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/15050513/ Sat, 13 Oct 2007 21:59:13 PDT
Had a very interest day yesterday. I had nothing planned and so decided to go with the flow.

Logged on to the PC first thing in the morning and the broadband connection refused to connect. Eventually got in for 20 minutes and then cut off until this morning. So no dA all day, I think I survived. It’s funny how not being able to use the Internet leaves a big hole in the days events, especially on a Saturday.

It’s been a long time since I sat down and watch sport on the TV. I did feel a bit guilty as the sun shone all day and it was warm, so I should have been in the garden clearing away all the dead leaves.

Anyway, I watched the Football in the afternoon and England won 3-0 against Estonia. In the evening I decided to watch the Rugby, with the foregone conclusion that France will win, just but win. Surprise, surprise England, against all predictions, won and now in the final of the Rugby World Cup.

Well done to both English teams in their respective sports.

Caught up on dA now and deciding what pictures I can submit to astound you all with.

Thanks for reading.
Norman

Member of the following Clubs:


I give *Everything-Nikon, Cloud Club and 80ers permission to submit my work in their gallery. ]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/14942493/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/14942493/ Sat, 06 Oct 2007 14:34:05 PDT
I love taking pictures of any subject except people unless it is unavoidable. I don’t do portraits and close-ups. Never gained the skills or know how to photograph people.

Anyway, there I was in a local park taking snaps of the wildlife and the boats on the lake, when this chap walks over and threatens me with the police if I take any pictures of his children. I was gob smacked and speechless, He was not happy that I was near his family and upsetting them while they were picnicking by the lake. So I moved further away from where they were and felt quite shocked that I was accused of a criminal act.

When I got home I searched the net and found the following:

It is considered bad form to take pictures of people in Swimming Pools, children in school events including plays and must be chaperone, by parents of guardians, when taking portraits of children for the official family album. Basically, don’t take pictures of children, except your own. I find this very sad as when we were kids, anyone with a camera and we all wanted to be in the picture. Must be a sign of the times.

Another interesting thing I found was that if you want to take a photograph of a commercial building you must first get permission from the building owner. Depending on the company it will issue a permit for a set period of time and you could end up paying for the privilege to take the shot. Something to do with you using their identity without their permission for financial gain.

It’s a strange old world we live in. Think I will stick to sunrise/sunsets and wildlife. I think it is a lot safer.

Thanks for reading
Norman.

Member of the following Clubs:


I give *Everything-Nikon, Cloud Club and 80ers permission to submit my work in their gallery. ]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/14868789/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/14868789/ Mon, 01 Oct 2007 10:36:46 PDT
Well, we are back home and we had a brilliant time in the Algarve. Keep away from Albufeira if you want to see the real Portugal. One and only tip.

We hired a villa with private pool that was in the middle of nowhere, 3 k’s from Guia and 17 k’s from Albufeira. Wake up each morning by the cockerels crowing and the dogs barks from the farm 1 k away. Part of the deal was a hired car thrown in with the villa. So we could get about easily.

Away, took lots of photos of sunrises and sunsets, naturally. Mountains, lakes, beaches, coastlines and ships. We visited some very pretty villages and old Moors’ castles dotted around the countryside.

The weather was superb and first 3 days not a cloud in the sky, the rest the clouds slowly make an appearance and on the morning of departure it rain for all of 10 minutes.

Would I recommend the Algarve? Yes I would, now we have been and seen it firsthand without the restriction of a package holiday. We mixed it with the Portuguese and had hardly any contact with any English speaking people, so it felt like we really was away form the maddening crowd.

I will be submitting some pictures up shortly but I need to catch up with dA incoming, first.

Thanks for reading.

Norman

Member of the following Clubs:


I give *Everything-Nikon, Cloud Club and 80ers permission to submit my work in their gallery. ]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/14735817/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/14735817/ Fri, 21 Sep 2007 22:10:14 PDT
This coming week, I will be away from the computer so will respond to any comments and abuse on my return.

Recently, I have been reading journals where deviants are submitted by fellow dA’s. I find is an excellent way to show your appreciation and highlight their pictures to a wider audience.

So, this is my contribution and a way to say thanks for all your support.

This Month's Main Cast, in no particular order:

Andyslade


Silvermixx


Bamako


Belldandy1


Jozefm
http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/14612284/ Thu, 13 Sep 2007 03:32:51 PDT
I don't normally do tags – but has I have been tagged 4 times this week. So I will oblige.

1. Post these rules in your journal so others know how it works.
2. Post 8 random facts about yourself in your dA journal.
3. At the end of your post, tag 8 more people to learn some random things about.
4. Go to their page and leave a comment telling them they're tagged.

Random facts about myself

1. Asked the Duchess of Kent to get out of my car, politely.
2. Chased by a Russian Hind D helicopter down the Helmstedt to Berlin Autobahn.
3. Lost my voice for 9 months after Motorbike accident.
4. Left handed except for using a computer mouse.
5. Drove a Ferrari 308 around Silverstone Race Track.
6. Never seen the film Titanic, any version.
7. Read every Denis Wheatley book, he ever had published.
8. Had a choice in Nigeria, either pay $100 or visit Lagos Police Station.

You are been selected at random, sorry if you have already been tagged.



Member of the following Clubs:


I give *Everything-Nikon permission to submit my work in their gallery.

]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/14497675/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/14497675/ Wed, 05 Sep 2007 05:15:26 PDT
Recently with my renew enthusiasm for photography I decided to join my local Camera club, N.D.P.S (Norwich & District Photographic Society).

I was invited to submit prints for a Photographic Exhibition being held in Norwich this month. As it was the day before my holiday, I prepared three prints that I had available in A3 size. Dropped them off at the Exhibition Manager house and went on holiday.

At last nights meeting I was informed that all three prints will be on display at the Exhibition.

Assembly House, Norwich
17th to 29th September
10:00 to 20:00

The three in question are:

Start of a new Day [link]
Sun going Down II [link]
Sun going down III [link]

I did want to submit ‘Ship passing By’ but could not get it ready in time.

So there you are. I would like to say, thank you all, for the encouragement and support in giving me the confidence to submit the prints.


Norman

]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/14362376/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/14362376/ Mon, 27 Aug 2007 09:39:45 PDT
Hi all,

Just to let you know that I am away from the computer for the rest of the week. So if you send any comments, threats, rants or words of wisdom I will answer once I am back on line.

One good thing, none of my flippant comments for a week. yer.

]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/14256712/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/14256712/ Mon, 20 Aug 2007 13:25:22 PDT
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you.



I just had my 1000 page view and would like to say thanks to you all.

I started dA in May and never expected the response that I got and getting.

Special thanks to all those who added me to their watch and those I added to my watch.


Thank you all, again.


]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/14233311/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/14233311/ Sat, 18 Aug 2007 23:21:59 PDT
I have been asked recently, why did I go for the Nikon over the rest.

This got me thinking, why did I purchase the Nikon over the rest?

I have never owned a Nikon before this one so I have no loyalty to them or having any accessories lying around to cut costs, so why.

I have owned 4 Pentax going back to the K models, through to the M models and finally the Espio range. When digital came out I brought a Fuji MX2700, then a S5000 and finally I now have the Nikon.

The question is, why do we buy a particular make and model and defend the decision no matter what. A friend of mine stated he buys Canon because they are the best. Maybe the best for him but not everybody but he will explain in great detail the merits of the Canon against the rest and end up only convincing himself, it is the best.

On getting a word in edge ways like, ‘Have you ever used another similar camera‘? The answer back is a ‘Don’t need to, the Canon is the best’ So in one sweeping statement he has dismissed any augment or debate that maybe another make could be considered as an alternative.

By the way, I am only using Canon here as an example, honest.

I spent weeks, months even, looking, evaluating and testing the top four before finally deciding on the Nikon. It won the day because secretly I have always wanted to own a Nikon since playing with a F1 back in the early 80’s but never had the finances to buy one.

So there you have it. I brought the Nikon because I had always wanted one and the D80 does all that I require and more.

Why did you buy the camera you have?

Thank you for reading.
Norman

]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/14112317/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/14112317/ Fri, 10 Aug 2007 22:25:01 PDT
Last night I went out to take some evening pictures of the sun setting. I was heading for my favourite place of Whitlingham Park but diverted to Caister St Edmunds. This is the location that Andyslade wrote about recently in his journal and I had a sudden impulse to visit. Why, I don't know but I'm glad I did.

This is a very special place. The overall feel is of calm, peaceful and tranquil atmosphere that just does something to the mind and body. I passed others walking in the area and was greeted with smiles, waves and pleasantries. I don’t normally get this 5 miles from the centre of Norwich, even at Whitlingham I may get the odd nod but nothing more.

So do places really exist that have a different effect of peoples moods and behaviour. I am starting to think that they do.

If you know of places like this, let me know.

Thanks for reading
Norman

]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/14009013/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/14009013/ Fri, 03 Aug 2007 23:40:02 PDT
I have been asked and asking lately about using Frames and Borders on pictures.

This has got me thinking. Why do we use frames and borders on the pictures we display on the web?

Frames were used to allow pictures to be hung up easily and seen to better advantage, also to protect it from dust, damp and finger-marks while it is being displayed. I don’t get any of these problems when I view pictures using a monitor.

This brings us to borders. The border should normally be plain and unobtrusive. Its purpose is to isolate the photograph from its surroundings so that the picture will attract and hold the attention. An ornate or showy frame only draws attention away from the picture or at least clashes with it. Stick to the natural colours of black and white if you believe it will enhance the picture.

I still not got my head around using borders but I have seen it to great effect lately and could even be warming to the idea.

I still think plain and simple is best, so go on, prove me wrong.

Norman

]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/13826841/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/13826841/ Sat, 21 Jul 2007 22:17:16 PDT
Laszlo Moholy-Nagy wrote in 1936 “The illiterate of the future will be the person ignorant of the use of the camera as well as of the pen”

Knowing how to take and appreciate photographs does very much more than make us merely literate, for photography transcends the language barrier, adds immeasurably to our understanding of the world and its people.

Yet extensive literature on the subject has failed to make a significant contribution to our understanding at a practical level. Often, either from ignorance or in self-interest, academics have made the subject pretentious, while professional photographers have clocked it with mystique.

The only really successful way to become a better photographer is by taking pictures and to learn by trial and error. Most people who take photographs take them for two reasons: either they want to record for interest’s sake the ordinary and the extraordinary events in their lives, or their intention are more serious and they want to express something that they cannot put into words.

Most enthusiasts are capable of becoming very good photographers. It is worth pointing out that many of the world’s top photographers received no formal art training. They acquired their artistic and visual senses through cultivating their awareness, observation and perception. By exercising a little visual discipline and attaining a few modest technical skills, any photographer is capable of producing photographs that will rank alongside the best.

So, what am I trying to say. Go out there and take pictures, have fun, don’t take it to serious and the next picture you take, could be the one you are looking for.

Norman

]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/13727120/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/13727120/ Fri, 13 Jul 2007 23:37:34 PDT
This got me thinking. My ideal holiday is somewhere were I can put my camera to good use and prove that the additional cost was worth it. Therefore, I will pack all my camera equipment, lenses; spare everything else, maybe a monopod and tripod. I get to the airport only to find I cannot carry it as hand luggage, because it is to heavy and in a rucksack with the company logo beaming over it. Do I want my precious kit in the hold on the way to Thailand while I am on the way to Iceland? Or will I ever see it again!!

It was fine with our small compact digital camera that we brought to replace our aging SLR’s and also keep the family happy. Due to the fact that they no longer have to disassociate themselves with someone who looked like a member of a wildlife documentary film crew. The thing was, we could take all the kit on board and keep an eye on it for the 8 hour flight. We now are back in the same situation with our digital SLR and add-ons but unable to take anything but the camera on board and spend the rest of the flight worrying what as happen to the rest of the kit.

The moral is, why is something we enjoy doing, photography, becomes a burden for the rest of the family and a very worrying time whenever we travel. All we want to do is see new places and record the experience.

]]> ~Lightfoot11 http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/13633663/ http://Lightfoot11.deviantart.com/journal/13633663/ Fri, 06 Jul 2007 11:47:46 PDT
We are now in our third month of very unpredictable weather and the lack of vitamin D is starting to tell. If anyone as the know-how to direct the clouds down to the Med, now would be a good time to earn smarty points.

]]> ~Lightfoot11