First day of using all manual with a very patient lily and some fairly consistent sunlight. Good thing for digital as there were a lot of 'experimental' versions relative to ones that did what I had hoped. I took this with my 50mm, 85mm, and finally the 105mm macro. The latter provided the more interesting shots. This was one that 'worked' given what I was trying to capture. The other one that is 'opposite' in effect is in my extras album: http://365project.org/taffy/the-also-ran-ph/2013-02-09.
Wonderful shot! I don't think I've taken my camera out Manual mode since I started here...it soon becomes the only way to go! Expect to take lots of shots to begin with but soon enough I found I was better at estimating the settings.
Ok, I think I may have figured out a challenge for you. I have noticed you like to shoot close-up, macro, and patterns in architecture. So, my challenge for you is to move beyond your comfort and move to the streets and shoot some candid street images. They can be in b&w or color, your preference. I look forward to seeing one as Chicago is a place I would like to see and my husband is going there in a couple of months with out me. ;0) Have fun!!
Thanks!