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Jan, 2015Views
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Behind The Lens
Location
Taken in Malaysia. W were visiting a temple by the lake and these monkeys were wandering through the grounds and trees. This female was sat on a rock by the lake.Time
It was mid-morning, so just starting to warm up. Some of the monkeys were splashing each other with water from the lake, but this mother was protecting her baby from the visitors to the temple.Lighting
It was sunny on and off, so I had my camera set at about 240 ISO. I also used the shade of the overhead branches to get some distinction in the light.Equipment
I still had my 11 year-old trusty Canon 350D/Rebel. A great starter DSLR from which I've learnt so much. The lens was a 70-300mm Sigma I bought in Tenerife in 2007. Again, a great lens for an amateur. I've got some amazing photos with this lens.Inspiration
Just seeing the small baby in her arms I had to get a shot and I was lucky enough to have her look straight at me as I did so.Editing
This shot is straight from the card. I try not to mess with my shots too much, unless I'm having a 'play' day with PS Elements or just trying some different looks. Sometimes leaving 'mistakes' in can make them more interesting.In my camera bag
Nowadays I have a Canon 70D and, because I'm often on my motorbike, I tend to take my 18-135mm for ease, as I might be shooting vistas or close-ups of bikes, flowers, wildlife or people. If I'm going to a specific event then I'll adapt for that. I have two L lenses, which I tend to take for a day out and when I know I won't be moving around too much. I'll often take my 50mm 1.8 prime too.Feedback
I think it's always a good idea to try and move to areas where there aren't loads of people taking photos: you often get more interesting shots from a different angle. If I'd taken this from the opposite side or even just a few metres to the right the background would have deterred from the shot. I was also lucky that she turned and looked straight at me, though I did wait a while to see what she might do. Another day she might have just got up and walked away and I'd've lost the shot completely. I think it's all about patience and thinking about what you want to achieve. If I'm out with other people they'll often be a few hundred yards ahead while I 'fanny' bout with my camera! :@)
