I haven’t taken a class — not a real one with homework, at least — in oh, about 30 years. So, you can imagine my state of mind this weekend as I attempted to satisfy the requirements of a non-credit photography class. That’s right — a person who didn’t know an ISO from a White Balance is attempting to improve her picture-taking just a wee bit. In over my head? Possibly. At the least feeling a bit frazzled and frustrated.
So, here’s one assignment I worked on this weekend: Take a variety of pictures to demonstrate line, shape, form, texture, and luminance. Here’s what I’ve gotten so far.
Line

Lines converge in an old rush chair seat.
Shape

The shape of a weathered, old buoy.
Form

Always recognizable — the form of a conch shell
Texture

A weathered birdhouse ready for new residents.
Luminance

Bathroom towels welcoming the sun.
Not bad for a start. But oh, how I wish I knew PhotoShop! Maybe next semester.
For more entries in the Weekly Photo Challenge: State of Mind, click here.
anotherday2paradise
Wonderful shots, Rusha. I just point and shoot, so maybe one day I’ll get around to doing a course too. I’m sure there is so much to learn. 🙂
Oh, the Places We See
There absolutely is a lot to learn. I’ve tried using Manual only, but it’s not easy. I take a picture, look at it, adjust the light, etc. But it takes time. I’m hoping I get better soon, because I just may revert to using Automatic!! Thanks for your comment.
anotherday2paradise
One day when I really have some spare time, I’ll get down to reading the thick manual which came with our camera. At the moment, I haven’t the faintest idea which of the multitude of packing boxes it’s in. 🙂
Regina Martins
These are great photos, I love the converging lines in the first photo.
Oh, the Places We See
Thanks so much, Regina. It was fun having a directive and then finding something to go with the theme. I’m not there yet, but working on this photography thing.
doublewhirler
These are lovely and hit each theme perfectly! Photoshop will never give you a better eye for subject and composition. We think you nailed it!!
Oh, the Places We See
Oh, my. Your remarks have made my day. I’m working at the craft of photography, but I have much to learn. And watching what you produce fascinates me.
Amy
Well done, Rush! Love the last on especially! 🙂
Oh, the Places We See
Thanks so much, Amy. Your comments are always appreciated, especially since I’m one of your biggest fans. Your photography is always sharp and interesting.
Amy
Thank you so much, Rusha! 🙂
Jodi
I hear ya! These are great photos! I want to learn photoshop too!!!
Oh, the Places We See
I’ve thought about taking a follow-up course led by my current instructor on PhotoShop. But sometimes I get so buried in keeping the current photos organized, I’m not sure how I would find time for one more wrinkle in the whole photography thing. I’m pondering what to do next! Thanks for joining the discussion!
Sue
Good for you!
Oh, the Places We See
Thanks, Sue. I hope to take more classes — not just photography — in retirement. You know what they say: Never too old to learn!
Sue
They also say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but I prefer your version!
Judy @ NewEnglandGardenAndThread
Pat yourself on the back, friend. Way to go!
Oh, the Places We See
Thanks, Judy. I live in fear that the instructor will shine my photo on the screen and all will have at ’em. Oh, well. That’s how you learn!
Encore Voyage
Ex teacher says, “You get an A!”
Oh, the Places We See
Thanks so much. I’m an ex-teacher, too. But now I’m finding out how kids feel when their work is critiqued. It’s a bit daunting, I must say. Appreciate your comments.
Linda Arthur Tejera
Rusha gets an A+ in my book! Lovely photos indeed and perfect for the theme! 😀
Oh, the Places We See
Coming from you, Linda, that means a lot. I’m working hard on this but very frustrated. Sometimes I just don’t “get” what I’m supposed to be doing. Oh, well. Read the manual!!!
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leannenz
I love the picture of the shell!
Oh, the Places We See
Thanks for that comment. It’s one I’ve had for a long time, and since my guest bedroom is kinda beachy it’s in there. Was an easy subject to find!
SueBee and Kat
I’m glad not to be the only one frazzled by photography classes after all these years! I think you’re doing very well! Great job!
Oh, the Places We See
Somehow I think I’ll be learning a long, long time. Photography can be fairly complicated, and I’m used to using the Green A button!!! But practice should make — well, a bit better. Probably never perfect.
SueBee and Kat
I’m right there with you!
Dawn
These are good. What would you change if you knew photoshop? Do you have it on your computer? You can play with it without knowing much. I always save the edited photos by labeling them as edited so that I keep the original. But these are good as is. I don’t know how to white balance either, I know what ISO is, but not how to change it on my camera. So I sympathize with you!
Oh, the Places We See
Dawn, I’m not sure what I would change with PhotoShop, because I know so little about it. But my instructor is teaching the course next term. It’s tempting to take it. Of course, I have to shell out for the software. Thinking about it.
Pit
Excellent examples all of the chosen theme!
Oh, the Places We See
Thanks so much. I had to take pics around my home — too cold to roam around much. So I’m glad I keep a lot of stuff here!! Have a good weekend.