May 13, 2010, Foggy Morning

There was some dense fog this morning. I can usually see McGraw Tower at Cornell from the building where I work.  When I looked in that direction, there was no sign of the building.  I had to move a lot closer for this photo.

Lessons Learned:

• Fog is an interesting and fun element in photography.  It can be used as another type of filter.  If I want more of a filter, I move further from the object and it fades.  If I need more clarity I move closer to the object.  It can create all kinds of interesting effects. 

 Photo details: Exposure time 1/50 sec, Aperture f8.0, ISO 100, Focal Length 36 mm, Lens Canon EF 17-40mm, handheld, circular polarizer filter.

Week 46, Day 322, March 16, 2010, McGraw Tower

After my run at lunch time, I was talking to another guy in the locker room.  We were talking about what a great day it was.  I said that because we get so little Sun, we REALLY appreciate it.  He said, YES.  He then went on to explain how he was from India, and he used to curse the Sun, and reminded me to be careful what you wish for.  He also really appreciated today's Sun.

My family came down, and met me and some of the cool local artist at the Chapter House for a beer, or two, after work.  Walking back up the hill there was an incredible sky, and beautiful lighting on McGraw Tower.  I just had to take a photo.

Lessons Learned:

• A big change in the weather can make almost everything beautiful.

Photo details: Exposure time 1/60 sec, Aperture f/7.0, ISO 100, Focal Length 32 mm, Lens Canon EF 17-40mm, handheld. 

Week 1 - Day 5 - May 5, 2009 "McGraw Tower I"

I could not work at Cornell, and not have a photo of McGraw Tower. I had to move a computer from Olin Library back to our building, so I took my camera with me.

I did use Picasa for the blurred effects with the people and the trees.

Lessons:

• I should really carry a tripod with me at all times. I find myself wanting to use it more often to steady the lens, and be able to use a larger aperture.
• Time, Time, Time. I have to spend more time taking the photos, and trying different things. Time is also important as to the time of day, and the lighting of the day. I was thinking if I get here first thing in the morning, I could probably take the photo without any people.
  
• Themes. Lately I've been thinking about themes. I think I can see where some people become experts in taking certain types of photos. Each type contains it's own challenges, and it would be fun to explore all the ways that you could photograph the same subject. Maybe for one of the months I'll focus on a specific theme.