What’s New for 2009?

Having given some serious thought to my article writing lately, I’ve decided to re-commit myself to writing down some of my thoughts.  While I really don’t know how many people actually find these articles useful, I figure it can’t hurt to continue to jot down my thoughts — if only for myself!

2008 was a great year.  Exactly one year ago today this web site and photography business was merely a dream.  While I can’t claim complete success with regards to turning my photography into a full time job, I can say that I’ve had a great time, taken more and better photos than ever before, and actually made a few sales here and there.  I’m overjoyed and continually amazed that my work is considered good enough by some to hang on a wall!  For that support, I say a huge Thank You!!!

In other news, I’ve been slacking in my photography over his holiday season.  The last real opportunity I had to take some photos was when I traveled down to Washington DC to meet up with some family.  We had a great time, and I got some really interesting photos!

Staircase in the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Winding Staircase
NIKON D200 @ 18mm — 1/10 sec , ƒ/ 3.5 , ISO 100

Due to the rather gloomy weather we had all day, we were ducking in and out of restaurants and museums in a somewhat vain effort to stay dry.  While the above shot isn’t perhaps a photographic accomplishment, I really found the winding staircase visually interesting.

The Capital Building at night
Capital Building at Night
NIKON D200 @ 50mm — 4.5 sec , ƒ/ 5.6 , ISO 100

The above shot of the Capital Building is one of my favorites.  It was taken in almost total darkness with the Nikkor 50mm f/1.4D.  I actually dialed in a full +1 2/3 exposure compensation to get the lights to stand out.  Overall, I find it very striking.