Talhah's Blog

I've only just started doing photography as a hobby v ery recently and I have to say, I am really enjoying it. Yes, you do need to spend money. The money you can spend, the better equipment you can get.

I haven't really found a niche or genre or type of photography that I'm inclined towards. However I find that I enjoy taking photos of people a lot. Most of my shots have people in them, people I know. Strangers? Street photography? I tried it before, I'm still pretty hesitant snapping pictures of people I see or meet on the streets. Landscape? Well, I have tried it a few times, but I'm unlikely to spend an entire day just taking landscape photos. Well, maybe not yet.

I'm still learning. My photos aren't that great (yet). Yes, I guess I have gotten lucky a few times and got some nice shots but a goor photographer gets it frequently.

Anyways, I've got a photography assignment coming up! Wooooot! First! Ezza's engagement!

Mind you, I'm doing this as a favour, for free, 'cos for me, it's more an opportunity to try out such an event more than an opportunity to make money. I'm not there yet. One thing I'm sure though - I'm excited!

Recently I stumbled upon this website for renting camera gear - The Camera Library. I know there are lots of other rental sites out there but I like the simple yet informative layout. Very easy and straightforward. Plus they do deliveries albeit to an MRT station of your preference. It's my first time renting glasses so I can't wait to use them!

With the consideration that most Malay engagements (including Ezza's) are held at the bride's home, low-light and space are my key considerations when choosing the lenses to rent. Using a 70-200mm in a HDB apartment is not impossible, but I don't think it's appropriate for this situation, especially when I expect there will be a crowd.

So what did I choose? First up is the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM. Based on several reviews, this Sigma is better than Canon's 50mms. In any case, it's the only 50mm Camera Library has. The f/1.4 aperture will be very useful in the low-lit apartment. Yes, it'll be in the day but the natural won't be illuminating the whole house evenly. Ezza doesn't have a glass ceiling. Plus, I'll like to try out the bokeh at apertures wider than f/3.5 of my basic lens.

The second lens is the Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM. Wider aperture again. Image stabilization. Ultrasonic motor. This isn't really necessary but I thought, hey, since I'm renting, why not just try it out? Apparently this glass is pretty good.

I know photography is more than just lenses and equipment, but it won't hurt to use good tools to help you get good results. After all, it's a friend's engagement. I want to be able to give her some quality work.

That's why I've been reading up and watching videos on Youtube about wedding photography. Ya, it's engagement, but isn't the concept similar?

I'm glad I've got this as a hobby. An outlet for my creativity. Yay!