Day 51: Cute nails!

J has been begging: "PuhLEASE mummy--paint my nails!" 
So we did.

I was asked to post the instructions for how I did the water droplet last summer.  First, I read the camera's manual, and learned that to freeze action, you have to increase the shutter speed.  If you have a camera that has a shutter priority mode, set the speed and the camera will do the rest.  If not, just go manual, set for a fast shutter speed, make sure everything else is in line for proper exposure, and go for it.  When I first tried to catch the drop, I kept missing it.  Then I remembered reading something in the manual about being able to set the camera for 10 frames a second. That enabled me to get a couple good pictures out of...um...I won't tell you how many! 

I've been taking a few photography classes lately, which have helped a lot.  If you're interested in becoming a better photographer, take a class or two.  It'll help get you on your way and give you a good solid base from which to jump off and experiment on your own.  Also--read your camera's manual. Then reread it with your camera in your hand! That's all I had when I learned how to freeze water.  A paragraph in the manual and the decision to kick fear out on its ear.

Really guys, when I see the amazing amateur photography posted on blogs that I visit, I'm blown away.  I have so much more to learn--I'm still a photography baby--so I really appreciate everyone's kind and supportive words.   :o)

For some neat photos using the technique mentioned above, check out some of the shots at this post.  Great photos of boys in the mud!