Fun Times With Photography

Last Saturday, my daughter, Jay, and I joined the DFW Amateur Photographers' Group in downtown Fort Worth. The goal for the day was "street scenes". I had never shot with a stated purpose before, except to make sure my photos were in focus and getting the settings correct on the camera - a tall order for a beginner. We usually just pick a place and hope for the best - at least that's how I approach it.

To ready myself for the event, I ordered the Sigma 18-200mm lens and had it shipped second day air. It was the first time I had ordered an off-brand lens, and although I was excited about the purchase, I was a little skeptical on how it would perform.

Not knowing what to expect from an organized group situation, and because I'm still learning the ins and outs of my Canon Rebel XTi, I felt a little intimidated going in. Factor in the new lens, driving in unfamiliar territory, and meeting new people - that's a lot of pressure - at least for me and my laundry list of insecurities. Would they take one look at me and say, or imply with a look, "What do you think you're doing here?" Those are the kinds of thoughts I was having.

Somehow I had forgotten the word "amateur" as part of the group name. If I had focused on that, maybe I wouldn't have been so fearful.

The minute we walked up to introduce ourselves to the group, my reservations were almost instantly dispelled. Everyone was so nice and accepting. There must have been 10-15 folks there, most of them Nikon users (yikes), and only 2 other girls! Autumn and I were in the minority all the way around.

We had some laughs and then took off for Bass Performance Hall where we were given a guided tour. After the tour, we walked around downtown until my feet and back ached. The day started at 9 in the morning and didn't end until 4:00 in the afternoon. I was so proud of all the great shots from everyone and especially the feeling of camaraderie. Check out my daughter's photos here and Jay's photos here.

Notable moment: As the group waited on the street corner for the "walk" sign, two attractive ladies walked up and said rather excitedly, "Who are y'all waiting for?" After someone answered that we were just with a group, I realized they must've thought we were paparazzi with all our heavy camera equipment, lol!

My fortune cookie at Pei Wei last night read, "Now is a good time for new friendships." I was all, 'What the....? Okay, this is weird, but good'.

These are some of my favorites from the day: