Samba magic by vikdaddy

Samba magic

A Latin festival is currently running in Nottingham. The Night of Festivals 2010 celebrates the bicentenary of Latin American independence, and its inaugural night began yesterday. I'm not sure why it's being held in Nottingham though because I don't think there's a large Latin contingent in the East Midlands!

Tonight was the main night, and a carnival procession went through the City centre. I really enjoyed it, but what red blooded male wouldn't enjoy watching lots of scantily clad women doing the samba?

I took lots of photos; unfortunately not many of them turned out that well because it was dusk. When I used my 50mm at a wide aperture the shutter speed was adequate, but it was difficult to obtain correct focus because they were moving around so quickly and the depth of field was too narrow. Conversely, if I used my 28-135mm zoom I could focus better but the shutter speed wasn't fast enough. So, many of my photos were blurry either way. My primary goal was getting some good photos, but at least it was good fun just being there.

What it did highlight was my need for an external flash. My next camera purchase will probably be the Canon 430EX II, which seems as if it will be adequate for my lighting needs. I'd like to upgrade my kit lens and body too, but one step at a time hey!

Canon EOS 450D, f/2, 1/50, ISO-400
This is a beautiful shot! You captured the spirit of the occasion. :)

I have the 430EX II. It's fantastic. :)
September 18th, 2010  
Oooh sounds like fun! ;) Love the colours in this shot.
September 18th, 2010  
Wowza!
September 18th, 2010  
Wow!! Gorgeous photo, and gorgeous subject!! Sounds like a lot of fun.

I got my external flash about 6 months ago and I just love it. I do have the Speedlight 430 EX, but not sure if it's the II.
September 18th, 2010  
awesome pic!
September 18th, 2010  
cool shot!
September 18th, 2010  
nice shot!
September 18th, 2010  
so vibrant and gorgeous! what a beautiful costume, turned out great on film!
September 18th, 2010  
oooh-la-la!!! Great Capture.....
September 18th, 2010  
What a cool shot!! I love the bright colors and the carnival mood! ;-)
September 18th, 2010  
Very nice shot!
September 18th, 2010  
awesome pic
September 18th, 2010  
Wow!
September 18th, 2010  
Good pic - I went to a Latin festival in Sth London a couple of years ago.... plenty to snap there too :-)
September 19th, 2010  
Beautiful capture
September 20th, 2010  
Nice shot, and that is a event I wouldn't mind tying to capture at all. ;)
September 20th, 2010  
Beautiful capture!
September 21st, 2010  
great colors! sounds and looks fun!
September 21st, 2010  
great shot!
October 3rd, 2010  
Wow, this photo is brimming with life. I can almost hear the music! You take such great pictures.
October 25th, 2010  
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