Well, 12 months ago, 20th December 2011, I joined AP in search of an education and to somehow learn how to take a photograph. What can I say...I think I've learnt something here! ( and still have a membership! )

Thank you to everyone who ever said I could do better, gave their ideas, and bless you those who told me how to do better (or directed me to a good book /site /resource). It has all been of value.

The learning continues 2013 and I look forward to it all.

For reference I have posted the first photo I took with my new camera last year ( pre AP) and offer the following self critique for your enjoyment:

firstphotopentax.jpg

"what the heck?"

composition = half a speaker, a cat with no feet, and a tree with no roots....hhmmm. have now learnt to get all the bits in the shot at least.

background = white blinding window glare to nowhere

subject matter = again, a speaker a cat and a tree? inspiring stuff

DOF = okay, not bad for a beginner I guess. I can see the cat.

Focus = is there slight movement in this shot? I think so. Maybe a faster shutter speed would help there, or just use " moving object" setting

Exposure = yep, shooting into the light - enough said

RAW = nope, jpg

Processing = huh?

ISO = had no idea ( but I still use auto mostly )

what else? I'll leave it to you guys....
happy critiquing everyone & again, my thanks to you Happy Anniversary Me.