Chapter 1 Assignments
Let’s start the book’s assignments by doing some homework and getting in some practice.
Get the manual out
There are many different Nikon lenses, and all share the same basic functions. However, many have unique differences. Pore over the technical manual, familiarizing yourself with the features of a lens (many of which we cover in this book). At the same time, have the lens near you and handle it as you read about it. Getting accustomed to the size and form of the gear you use is essential to working with it efficiently, effectively, and more important, creatively.
How slow can you go?
Test out the minimum sustaining shutter speed you are capable of shooting with for various focal lengths. Choose any lens to which you have access. Perhaps it’s the kit lens that came with your camera. Shoot at set focal lengths, such as 18mm, 24mm, 35mm, and 50mm (you can use any focal length you want). For each, test how slow you can shoot before the image becomes out of focus due to camera shake. Be sure to turn Vibration Reduction off, and handhold the camera and lens. To be sure of focus, download the images later on the computer, and zoom in to see if and how blur occurs at slow shutter speeds.
- Share your results with the book’s Flickr group!
- Join the group here: www.flickr.com/groups/nikonlenses_fromsnapshotstogreatshots