For my birthday Sean got me the camera I’ve been coveting for a while. The new Canon EOS Rebel T3i.  I’m so very excited about it because it captures HD video as well and has a flip LCD screen.

I’ve only just begun my journey in figuring out how this thing works. I’ve played around with the video and absolutely LOVE how it allows me to use more creativity when filming. As you all know I love putting together videos and making them fun, so this is going to bring my video making skills to a whole new level.

Are there any photographers or photographer wannabe’s out there? I’d like to put together photography posts once every other week combining tips from all of you along with pictures you’ve taken.

Today’s question is:

What is your favorite lens, and why?
You can answer this question in the comments section of this post or if you’d like to share your tip in a post on my blog (giving you the opportunity to elaborate and share pictures), then email it to me at crystal@escoweb.net.

I recently bought the 35mm f/2 Wide Angle lens on Amazon for $320. I called Pictureline and they were the exact same price there too. So I think I got a pretty good deal.

Here is an example of the kind of difference this lens makes.

This picture was taken with the standard kit lens 18-55mm on auto.

As you can see the 35mm lens makes a huge difference. It brings in more light and even captures a little more of the room. This picture was also taken on auto but I don’t recommend using the automatic mode. You can get much better pictures once you learn how all the settings work. I’m still learning, but feel like I’m definitely making progress.
Here are a few of my recent favorite pics.

 This was taken at the Butterfly Museum in Florida.

This one was actually an accident. Lily moved her hand right when I snapped it. I just thought it looked cool, you know how some people claim they have pictures of ghosts? Well, now I can say I have one too 🙂

Aw, this one just makes me proud. My two little cuties. Oliver with his cousin Ronin.

I do have one tip to leave with you as far as photography goes.

Step#1 READ YOUR MANUAL!

I felt so dumb when I asked one of my photographer friends what I should do first to learn how to better use my camera. She bluntly said, “Read your manual”.

Well needless to say I started reading that dang thing.

I never knew reading the directions could be so helpful.

Oh and last but not least. THANK YOU everyone who have left comments on yesterdays post about sharing your talents. I REALLY enjoyed reading all about your wonderful talents. So much fun!!!!

And the winner of the $96 gift card to Hapari Swimwear is Cambria Parker. Congratulations!!!!