I’m not one to make New Year’s resolutions, but I’m not above setting a few goals, otherwise known as to-do lists. (Remember, where other people enjoy mundane things like world travel, front row concert seats to see Adam Levine and a house on the beach, I get all giddy when I gleefully cross off an item on my list.)
One such item was renting/buying a new lense or two. I’ve been working exclusively with two lenses since getting my Rebel two years ago. At the time that I purchased my camera, I belonged to a camera club and on the advice of the President, I opted not to get the kit lens and went straight for a 18-135mm. It served me well for several months, but I drooled over the beautiful bokeh effects we all covet so I purchased a prime 85mm 1.8 and slowly but surely that became my favorite of the two.
For a while now I’ve been thinking about either buying or renting a macro lens and maybe a lens that could zoom a bit more than my 135. Rather than go to Amazon or another on line source, I went to a local camera shop. I knew I might pay a bit more, but I like the idea of supporting local small business and having more of a personal relationship, as well as the ability to ask for help or advice when (not if) the need arises.
So let me cut to the chase and the main reason for this post. I walked into the shop fully expecting to purchase a macro lens, perhaps spending $300 or more.
Instead, I walked out with this:
I have known about these filters for a while, but never had the opportunity to try them, so Tony, the shop owner and my new bff, let me play around with them. Notice the detail on the penny? The lens was maybe less than two inches away, and normally I would need to be about three feet away or more from whatever I was shooting for the camera to take the shot.
I will admit it took some getting used to and I still don’t have the process down pat (focusing is a bit inconsistent), but for $58 it’s a great way to get up close and personal with your subject and not invest heavily in a dedicated macro lens.
Tony also demonstrated extenders in lieu of the filters, but they weren’t my cup of tea. As it happened he inadvertently left the extender on my camera and when I returned the following week to return it, I ended up purchasing a 70-300mm lens. (While in Florida, I had wished I had a lens that could zoom a bit more than the 135, especially when we were in the Everglades.)
Both of these shots were taken at the camera shop while standing in the same spot. The first one was taken with my 135mm camera fully extended, and the second with the new lens fully extended.
Much better.
This next picture, taken with my 18-135mm, demonstrates the closest I could get to my subject with that lens with no macro filters.
And this picture was taken using my 85mm, again, no macro filters.
Heres a picture using my 135mm with one 10x filter.
You can use as many or as few filters as you want. This next one I was using a 10x and a 4x. Notice it’s a bit larger than the last one.
Here I used the 10x, 4x and 2x. Pretty cool for $58 bucks, right?
If you’re just an amateur photographer like me and don’t have the need for a dedicated macro lens, you might want to consider macro filters, but if possible I recommend you try before you buy.
Now about those drapes. Notice in the picture below one drape is lower than the other. That’s because I forgot to take a ‘before’ pic and shot this one while we were in the middle of working on them!
Something that’s bothered me for a while is I always felt the drapes were a bit short for this space. The ceiling is high and it just looked out of whack to me. I dug up some drapes that we had in our former house and extended them about 12″ above the window frame.
Aside from the fact the light is much better in this next picture, I think it looks better this way, and I also like that the drapes are sheer and airy, perfect for the warmer weather…if it ever gets here!
I’ve got a few other tweaks I want to do to this room…change the rug, get rid of my ‘Frazier’ chair, maybe slipcover the leather sofa/chair and add some pattern to the space…I’m not really sure yet, but for sure I’ll be asking for opinions/advice. Oh, and remember that centerpiece on my Spring table? It’s now on the cocktail table in this room.
For now.
In other news…
Since I’ve been boring entertaining you for weeks with my tales and woes about the fridge, I can’t pass up the opportunity to show you the new one.
TA DA!!!
I would have loved a cabinet depth, but this was the only fridge that would fit the space and I’m fine with it. Heck, I’m just happy it works!!
We’ve got the Grands this weekend. We haven’t seen them since before we left for Florida three months ago so we’re looking forward to it. Till next time my lovelies…
Sharing At
Metamorphosis Monday
Tweak It Tuesday
tammy j says
i think you photographers are wonderful. amateur or no. you add to all of our lives immeasurably.
and…
i would never paint you know what WHITE!!!!! my solution. NOT yours!!! LOL. holy moly. that’s a beautiful room.
and yes. the draperies needed to be higher … a perfect balance now. makes the room look rich and gorgeous!
and kudos on your new fridge! well worth the wait i’d say.
happy weekend doreen!
carrie@northwoods scrapbook says
I need to work on my camera skills as well. I still use auto mode in more areas than I should and I actually have some different attachments and filters I haven’t studied well enough yet. All in good time I guess. I truly love photography (goes quite hand in hand with scrapbooking), but that is one area where I don’t dedicate my free time. I use any free time scrapbooking (to get kids albums done for them) or workout to try to be healthier. Just pure “ME” time I feel too guilty – must be a Catholic thing. Lol Or a Mom thing. 😉
I love that living room! Those beautiful high ceilings and log cabin look – just LOVE it!! My hubby and I really talked about building a log cabin style home, until we saw the home we’re living in on it’s wonderful spot and we were sold. I love the curtain improvement. Helps with the height of the room.
Fridge looks great! Finally get to check that baby off your list! Lol
Happy weekend! xoxo
Doreen says
It’s all about location, location, location Carrie! I will tell you this…log cabins are nice, but they represent a bit of a challenge when decorating. Not only is it difficult to put things on the walls, but since there’s so much inherent texture in the wood fabric choices can be tricky. soft colors get lost also. So…if you like log cabins, rent one on vacation instead. Or come for a visit ;).
Donna says
Loving your drapes longer. great idea amazing how it transformed with such a minor touch….:-)
Cindy says
I think you’re doing great with lens. I can really notice the difference. Have a great time with the kids
Cindy
Julie says
So glad you are having fun with the camera lens. The drapes look great and have fun with the grandkids! Have a nice weekend.
Julie xo
Magali@TheLittleWhiteHouse says
The pictures with the new lens are gorgeous and so close!
I really like the new higher hung curtains, it gives a sense of openness that wasn’t there before and your room looks cosy and welcoming.
Doreen says
I think you hit the nail on the head Magali. A sense of openness is exactly the best way to describe it, but I couldn’t quite out my finger on it. Thank you!
Poppy says
Dear HH Techie,
Yes, techie – I had to really concentrate on and scan over all those numbers and Xs and macros and filters in order to finally get a clear picture on the effects of your new lenses. When the pics comparing the results showed up, it was as clear as day! Congrats on your new purchase; you definitely scored re: price, and you got your bokeh, (I’m still drooling), too!
When we were drilling holes in our solid cement walls to put up wall art and curtain rods, I needed to know what I was doing, since my husband was not going to tolerate mistakes that needed more than a bit of stucco to fix. That’s when I read this rule: the higher the ceiling, the higher the rod. Your drapes look great, as does the entire room, very cozy and welcoming.
Finally, the fridge has found its new home, yay! Looks great, Doreen! They say that little hits of black ground a room, and I believe it. My stove top is black, the wrought iron clock jutting out of the column in my kitchen is black, the fireplace’s metallic, mesh protector is black, and various other accessories, as well, otherwise, this whole house would be floating in mid air!
Happy weekend, my friend!
xoxo
Poppy
Judy Clark says
Love the info on the lens – I’m definitely going to check in on those at the local ohoto shop.
Your curtains look great and love your new fridge!
Judy
Jane says
I would love to add on to my camera…I’m slow and I really think this is something I should go with first. Thanks for the push.
Love the curtains…they add a lot of femininity and contrast to the room. I never saw this view and it’s so pretty.
Lost…you have a newly married daughter. Where did the grandchildren sprout from? lol!
Jane xxx
Doreen says
Oh my gosh Jane! I can’t believe you didn’t know I have two step grands. Fisherman is recycled 🙂 check out my post ‘cutest little boy ever’ to see the youngest of the two.
Dewena says
Doreen, we have a macro lens for our Canon and have rarely used it. The few times R.H. has bothered with putting it on and using the tripod he gets great pictures but he hates using a tripod. I keep begging him to try again, maybe even study the manual, imagine that.
When I take the pictures I have to use automatic setting and then he fusses because he sets it on manual. But I have trouble focusing and holding the camera steady. I have been taking the photographs more lately simply for one reason–I know what I want in the shot. I can frame the shot so much better but hit a wall when it comes to trying to learn the technicalities.
I’ve always loved for curtains to hang higher than the tops of the windows and easily see the improvement in yours! What a great room!
Congrats on the fridge in, hooked up, and running!
Doreen says
Dewena, I think we must have been commenting on each other’s blogs at the same time. lol There’s a few things you mentioned that have me wondering…why does R.H. need to use a tripod all the time to get good pics? Is he using a slow shutter speed, if so, why? I have the same question for you as well. Why are you having trouble focusing? Are you on manual focus or auto? What kind of canon do you have and what kind of macro lens? Just wondering in case I want to step up and get one maybe you might be interested in selling it? You need to get out of auto mode! Manual is truly super easy. If I can do it, almost anyone can.
xxx
Brenda Kula says
Your fridge is pretty. So glad not to see another stainless steel one. Every time I see one I think of the morgue I was in as a journalist. I’m going to have to check into these lens. I don’t know much about them.
Brenda
susan says
Love the look of your log home – so warm and cozy.
I have a stainless steel fridge and would never do that again. Stainless is a pain in the neck to keep clean.
Next time around, it’s all white appliances for me!
cathy@my1929 Charmer says
I like hanging the curtains higher does provide more openness and softness to the room. I have a very old NIkon D40, and got a macro lens and love it…Now for this small home I need a “wide angle lens” because I have to be in the yard to take a picture of the living space. The filters I have not clue on…I’m really anal retentive about things like this?
Jemma says
Doreen,
I have so much to say and so little space-lol! I love your outlook and enthusiasm, no matter what your topic is you make me smile, even your comments! I was reading your post over the weekend and just waiting for the time to comment. First off your lens is amazing-I am ashamed, pure ashamed to tell you what I am using as a camera-and then my friend gave me her Nikon D40 and I haven’t even tried it out-please advise when you can.
Your drapes look amazing hung higher-perfection my dear, totally enhances your spectacular cabin (actually a log cabin was our dream home) so you are living my dream-how dare you! LOL!
I was reading that you have a recycled husband as well-very clever…
Happy Monday, Cutie Girl
xoxox
Jemma
Shirley@Housepitality Designs says
Loved your pics!….I have a Nikon Macro lens and hardly use it…I need to use it more, especially knowing what the hubs paid for it!…I must say that I so love seeing pics of your gorgeous log home!….you must feel like you are on vacation every day!…congrats on the new fridge!….
kelly says
The pics you shared with your new lens look awesome! I’m on the market for a nicer camera so I’m looking forward to being able to have good pictures like that (hopefully). Your family room is so pretty! I love the rustic charm of it. You cracked me up using the term “Frazier chair”.
Southern DayDreams says
Hi Doreen, Your new lens is wonderful and your photos look amazing. Love your log home. So inviting and cozy. Love the higher set curtains. I did this in my dining room and what a difference it made.
Wishing you a wonderful Easter week.
Hugs, CM
Feral Turtle says
I really need to research all of this. How wonderful you have a good camera shop and such a helpful salesman! I might have to play with my filters as I didn’t realize what they could do!
andi says
I would love to take some photography classes someday…and I’d need to buy a new camera. Phil bought me a really nice Nikon point-and-shoot, but that’s what it is…a really nice point-and-shoot
You know how hard it is to keep typing those stupid dashes?
I wouldn’t know where to begin with a “real” camera…
-andi
Sue says
Big Yay you have the refrig in and since it’s deeper you can have more food stored in it. The higher drapes do look so charming as well- love the color too. I don’t have a camera other than my phone and actually very much appreciate the tips about the different lenses and the kit. Have a Happy Easter
Vickie says
I love the way your windows look with your new curtains! You’re going to have so much fun with your new lens. I have the one that came with my Rebel and another close-up lens. The rooms in our house are so small that I can’t use the close-up because I can’t get far enough away from what I’m trying to photograph! Have fun with your grands this weekend!
Deb @ Frugal Little Bungalow says
I like the longer drapes and am happy that your finally got your fridge!
As to the photography, this was very interesting and fun to see the comparisons 🙂
Olympia says
Good luck with your new lens, it’s really exciting to make good photos. Love your new fridge, so cool indeed!
Happy Easter and all the best Doreen!
Olympia
rue says
The new lens looks great! I suck at taking pictures so it wouldn’t matter what I bought LOL I’m still using my Canon G10 which was a big deal about 7 (?) years ago.
The drapes looks great! and I’m so happy for you that you finally have a fridge in place!
I was thrilled to see you posted again 🙂
xo,
rue
Amy @ Ms. Toody Goo Shoes says
I think the changes you made to the drapes definitely look better! And I’m drooling over your log cabin living room! Glad you got the new fridge in, too. That’s good info about the lens filters. I’d heard about them but didn’t know how they worked. Hoped you enjoyed your visit with the grands!
Vashti Quiroz-Vega says
Hi Doreen! Those macro filters are amazing! I didn’t even know those existed. Thanks for the info.. I’m going to look for those right away.
I love the new curtains. You’re right––much better for summer and they balance the room.
Your new refrigerator is great. So what it isn’t counter depth. You know counter depth means less space in the fridge. 😉