"After 40 years of ingesting every aspect of photographic science and composition, I still find the camera to be an endlessly intriguing partner that challenges my imagination and knowledge. All that with only 3 variables of shutter speed, aperture and focal length." - 365 Project, Day 320

There's a photographer who has a site (gasp), who also has a podcast with a spotty release schedule.  In any case, Mr. Gavin Seim released an episode of his podcast about a year ago that happens to be one of my favorite podcasts I've heard.  It's about getting crazy awesome picture quality.  He says there are six keys to great picture quality.

In no real particular order, the first key is optics.  His basic point is a crappy lens will give you crappy quality.  For photography, if you want the clearest, cleanest shot possible, then you definitely need the best lenses.  There are lenses that aren't too expensive that give you great quality, but generally the best lenses are pro lenses, which tend to cost a bit more than others.  For video, however, you can get away with something a bit less perfect, given any small imperfections will be weeded out.  Lens Baby lenses will also not give you the greatest quality, but they have a certain look, and if that's what you want, then there's no reason to spend four times as much on the best glass possible.  However, overall, for landscapes and portraits, the best lenses are recommended.

Here's what we too, pro lens-less.

Frank

His note: Jack Frost outside my window makes wonderful patterns.

My shot

My brother unwrapped his various presents and the paper ended up on the table like so.  It's an interesting pattern and can easily recall some nostalgic feelings within oneself.  So go ahead and thing of the last birthday present you had where you giddily unwrapped your present with intense anticipation.  It's a good feeling isn't it?

Tomorrow should be busy.