Photography class

Have I mentioned that I've enrolled in a photography class at the local community college? Although I've sometimes made disparaging remarks about the technical side of photography here, and while I do like to take postcard-style photos of pretty scenery, it is fun to learn new tricks to get more functionality from my camera.

I'm slowly starting to get the hang of concepts such as ISO, aperture, white balance, etc. I even bought a new tripod, remote shutter release, and filters for my lenses. Now I just have to learn to use 'em!

This week we've been experimenting with lighting and motion. And I do mean experimenting!

Today our class went to Portland's Saturday Market for a field trip. Our assignments: try new camera angles

 and more experiments capturing motion.

What fun!

Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden

I go out for a walk just about every day - even in rainy weather. It helps me clear my thoughts, clear my lungs, and justify the calories of my daily glass of wine. Besides, I usually take my camera with me to record the changing seasons.

With this week's exceptionally warm, sunny weather, I decided to dust off my bicycle which has languished in the garage all winter. As much as I love walking in nearby Laurelhurst park, I wanted to broaden my horizons and explore more of the bike trails that Portland is known for.

Yesterday I rode downtown, crossed two different bridges, and explored both the east side and west side riverfront parkways - perfect for a sunny (though windy) Sunday.

It felt great! But I'd forgotten how hilly Portland is. It's downhill from my house to the Willamette river that bisects the city, but that means it's uphill all the way back home! Even taking advantage of all the gears on my bike, my heart rate rose to levels I haven't reached all winter. No wonder I've gained a little weight.

Resolved to get more aerobic exercise, I got back on my bike today and rode to the Crystal Springs rhododendron garden near Reed College. It's still a little early in the season, but it was good for photos, good for my heart rate, and good for my soul.