Thinking about a new camera for the new year ? I certainly am considering a new purchase this year. I currently shoot with a Pentax K10d and while it does a fine job it has become quite dated now and I really would like some added features like: 16.3 mp, improved metering,refined LCD screen, live view, faster burst rates and improved ISO performance. Although I certainly cannot afford to get every new model that comes out I think Pentax has finally enticed me with there latest offering the Pentax K-5 16.3 MP Digital SLR with 3-Inch LCD (Black Body Only)
If you consider yourself a proud Pentaxian or maybe just want to step up to an advanced mid-level DSLR then I would urge you to take a look at what the K5 has to offer. Certainly a well built and completely weather sealed chassis, this camera is built to last and take on the elements. For an in depth review I recommend DP Review the go to resource for all things photographic.
For most landscape photographers and nature lovers the the change of fall foliage represents an exciting time. Oregon has far fewer deciduous trees and therefore will not display quit as dramatic change of seasons as lets say New England. Having said that you won't be disappointed if you know where to look. I routinely make trips through the Oregon coast range and find that there is a dramatic change in color this week mid October as opposed to just one week ago.The seasons have definitely changed and been pushed back from years past as summer hangs on much longer now.Our trip to the Japanese Gardens proved to be quite a disappointment as my earlier blog mentions.The Hoyt arboretum at Washington Park continues to be a perennial favorite where you will find some 8000 different planted species. You may also find a great show along the banks of the Columbia river and the eastern part of the Gorge. Catherine Creek Wayside on the Washington side is very popular as well. Although I did not make the trip this year The Indian Heaven Wilderness is one of my favorite places in any season with 20,000 acres of pristine wilderness dotted with small alpine lakes and beautiful meadows. Another option would be the Oregon Garden near Silverton.It is a fantastic place with many varieties and water features. Don't get bogged down always looking for that grand landscape to show off the changing seasons. I'm guilty of this as much as the next photographer. Simply pull out that macro lens from your bag and a whole new world will open up allowing you the photographer many more ways to communicate this colorful time of year. Happy fall, From Shawn at ShalamarImages.com
