We all love to get out and take gorgeous pictures of grand vistas and beautiful wildlife.  So after getting the pictures back from the photo lab they look, well kind of mediocre.  The elk looks more like a black ghost.  The scene of the mountains image is half over exposed or underexposed.  “Why don’t my pictures like what I see!  What am I doing wrong?”

Well how about part II?  Now that film is somewhat in the past let’s talk a bit about digital.  It’s great.  It’s ready to view and you don’t have to wait for processing.  That said I myself am somewhat new to digital.  So for you folks starting out you have two basic choices:A point and shoot

or a digital single lens reflex.  For the point and shoot try to get the model with the biggest zoom range.  Beyond that shop awhile to get an idea of what it is all about.  For the DSLR do research to see what appeals to you.  That said --- 

Welcome to the world of photography. Let’s get organized. 

Decide where you are going and what you would like to photograph;  scenic vistas, wildlife, people, sporting events, or whatever is in your heart.  

Research your areas.  Is it a morning or evening shot setting? 
Ask the locals when looking for wildlife, special places of interest, scenic vistas.

Keep a list of all your equipment.  Keep a copy with you and one at home.  

Carry instruction booklets of your equipment are essential.  Keep an extra bag for nonessential items.

Bring lots of film or memory cards and extra batteries.

Keep all equipment in the same place all the time, also in your car.

Carry a notebook to record camera settings, time of day, weather,  etc. while taking your shots.

Waterproof and dust proof covers and containers for all equipment.

If you are still using film always keep it protected.  Cool in the warm months.  In cold weather put into ziplock bags before bringing it indoors.  Let it warm up to room temperature before removing.  Store film in refrigerator or cooler on the road.  

Keep all zippers closed.  You don’t want equipment falling out of your bag.

Make sure tripod legs are locked.  Loose tripod legs mean trouble. 

Take care when carrying your camera on a tripod.  Make certain that the camera is locked down tight and all safety locks are on.  

Dress appropriately for the weather and prepare for the worst.  Depending on the weather bring:  Cell phone, map, sunscreen, bug repellent, hat, gloves, food, water, first aid kit, cold weather gear, tell a friend your itinerary and expected time back.  

Suggested equipment list
            Carrying bag
            28-70 zoom    
            70-300 zoom
            Circular Polarizer
            Sunset filter, warming filter    Other filters
            Close-up or Macro lens
            Cable release or use the self timer function
            Cleaning cloth and, or air can
            Tripod
            Flash unit  Extension cord for flash
            Small flashlight
            Pen , pencil, notebook, and Sharpie
            For Digital  18-200 lens
            80-400 lens or similar

Now you are ready to begin your adventures in photography res