Thanks to Tom at The Media Drop, I was selected to participate in the Nikon D80 Picture This Program recently. I’ve been coveting Kathy’s “Big Girl Camera” (also a Nikon D80) for a while now and couldn’t have been more pleased to be invited. I get to use this gorgeous piece of equipment for 6 months, then I can either return it, buy it or re-enroll for another 6 months. The only requirement is that I take photos, post them and discuss my experiences with the camera. It’s my understanding that if there’s something I don’t like, I am free to say so. So far, it blows my little Sony W50 point n’ shoot out of the water.
Don’t get me wrong — I love my wee pocket camera. I take it everywhere with me and it’s been great thus far, but if I’m going to try my hand at this “photography as a viable hobby” thing, a proper camera like the D80 is really what I need. If I were actually buying one, I might have chosen something less expensive, like a lower model of Nikon or perhaps a Canon Rebel (as my good friend Peter is so fond of his), so I’m glad I’m getting an opportunity to check out this camera I might not otherwise have been able to afford.
For those who have emailed me asking how they can get involved in this program — honestly, I don’t know. Tom emailed me through Flickr asking for my snail mail and then a couple weeks later I had a promotional box from Nikon arrive that I almost threw away. I thought it was just some marketing materials and promotional packaging, which I sometimes get in the mail. Sarah made me open it and inside was a letter inviting me to register online for this program. I wasn’t even sure it was from Tom, so I seriously had no clue about this program or how to get in it or what. In fact, I just read today on ProBlogger that they only chose 50 people. I consider myself quite lucky!
Anyway, I’ve made myself a promise that every weekend, I will take a minimum of 4 hours for myself to visit someplace different in this city for the sole purpose of walking and taking photos. I’ve recently discovered that I’ve fallen in love with this city again and there are a billion places right around my home that would provide incredible photo ops. So I’m looking forward to seeing what this camera can really do. Hm, I guess I’m just as interested in seeing what I can really do.
wow, what a great opportunity. lucky you!
Just promise me you won’t take a photo of your lips dipped in sugar.
Haha what Kathy said! But seriously, I’m looking forward to seeing your photos. Just be careful with that “photography as a viable hobby” thing… it’s an expensive habit! (says the girl who has every free dollar from now until next year earmarked for camera stuff)
It’s great that you’re taking photos, and yes it can be a wonderful hobby. And that’s even a nice picture you got up there. Just one word of advice: be careful what company you’re in when you say things like “hot pink hibiscus”. People might assume a double-entendre.
Ooh, so far I like your first picture. I absolutely adore hibiscus flowers!
WOW, that is awesome! I have had the D70 for about two years now and I still love it!!! I love how quick it takes the photos vs. the other digital cameras – no pause at all!
You should enroll in a photography class. Our local Contemprary Art Center offers adult classes for beginners digital photography – they are like 6 to 8 weeks long and meet one night a week and you are given an assignment each week to complete on your own time. It will teach you more about the camera, cause it can seem a little overwhelmeing. I am sure there is somewhere like that out there!
some suggestions for photo ops – downtown – the architecture is amazing. or coronado – the del is great. or even balboa park. i can’t wait to see what you come up with.
Very cool! I can’t wait to see the photos you take!
nice! and you do truely live in a perfect city for this kind of thing… let me know if you need a walking partner yo!
Good for you!
I have been coveting BAMF Canon for a long time, but as much as I want it, I just can’t bring myself to spend that much on a single purchase. None of the less expensive models appeal.
I look forward to seeing your photos and reading your notes.
Since I raise tropical plants for a hobby, I’m diggin the first photo! I vote for more plants! I have a lot of gardening friends out in CA if you ever want suggestions for botanical gardens etc to shoot.