With my 30th year about to make an appearance, I have a few big-scale celebrations heading my way. Well, that, and the fact that my husband is about to graduate with his doctorate (cue angelic choirs singing!). I mean, it’s not really all about me, folks. The fancy cruise we’re taking is to celebrate him (mostly) and my 30th birthday (by default due to timing).
Therefore!
I decided it was time to upgrade my camera lens.
I know you’re asking yourself, “What? She hasn’t been using professional-grade photography equipment when capturing the images of her beloved children? I thought the constant blur was an artistic choice!”
Yes, yes, I know it comes as a shock. Actually, I’ve owned a Canon Rebel DSLR camera for quite some time. I used it back in my newspaper reporting days so I wouldn’t have to share with the other reporters. Eh, or so I wouldn’t have to figure out how to borrow and use a different camera from the office. Pure laziness, really. My photography was never very stellar, but it was a small paper with one photographer, so even my Average-Joe snaps made it into print.
A gal I grew up with is a professional photographer and retoucher (she retouched for Victoria Secret, so that’s how talented this lady is. Hi, Mary!). I asked what type of lens I should buy to up my game. I also asked about a zoom lens for distance photography on our fancy cruise. She recommended a 50 mm f/1.8 STM lens (yes, I had to Google to get all that correct) for my everyday shots, as it’d give a soft touch to my photos. She also recommended a 70-300 mm lens for zooming opportunities.
Y’all. I keep my setting on auto, so I know I’m not using up my camera’s potential. This makes me feel guilty, especially when I tuck it away in my closet and pull out my phone instead. Convenience trumps quality.
However, sometimes, I like to feel the “click-click” and take a decent photo of my beautiful children!
I thought I’d share my new find with y’all since it was such an easy upgrade. I paid $125 for the 50 mm f/1.8 lens on Amazon (hi, Amazon Prime—also known as Mama’s best friend!). I know that isn’t pocket change, but my husband pointed out that it’s an investment in our future. It’s not like I’ll ever give it away. AND the lens is actually smaller than the default lens that came with the camera, so that helps with the inconvenience factor.
It came in the mail today, so I thought I’d share a few of my first photos. Yes, like the dreaded slideshow of someone’s vacation. I’m still working on clarity, but I’m sure some practice will help. Enjoy some blue-eyed babies!
you’re babies are beautiful and I admire anyone who uses a real camera anymore. I have one and I’m not even sure where it is lol..