Bob Crum

I'm behind answering many of the questions I get weekly so time to get with it!

Jason A. asked: I love the osprey photo but I don't have a 300mm lens so how can I get shots like that? Jason, because you're still shooting with a Kodax Brownie, get 30 feet leg extensions (stilts) to get you up close to the bird. Or call 1/884/397-Helicopter. Seriously, you really need to upgrade your gear and buy a telephoto lens. Don't forget the 'Honey' app for a $10.00 discount coupon.

Sam R. asked: I got a new point-and-shoot camera, but I can't figure out why it won't turn on. Sam, for Pete's sake, put the battery in the camera!

Malinda R. asked: You always list photo data for every photo of the week but what setting is the most important. Interesting question. Malinda, the aperture is not more important than shutter speed, and neither is more important than ISO. Rather than ask about what's more important, think of each setting relative to creativity. What kind of photo do you want to produce? If depicting motion is more important, then adjust shutter speed accordingly. If depth of field is paramount, then aperture is your best friend. If you're attempting to capture an action shot and the light varies significantly as you track the subject, auto ISO is the best setting. Happy photoing!

On the subject, Andy M. asked: Instead of camera settings, what's wrong with shooting in auto mode? Andy, nothing! Hey, I sometimes shoot in auto mode. Oh wait, that's when I use my cell phone. Seriously, it's more important to get the photo than how you get it.

Steve D. asked: My photos suck. Would buying a better camera produce better photos? Absolutely! But don't do it. I like this gig so don't want any competition. Truth be told, a $35,000 Hasselblad H6D-100 won't help you if you haven't learned what makes a compelling image. Photo composition is paramount. Forget the Hasselblad, send me a check for $3,500, and I'll email you some composition tips.

Sandie L asked: Reading your columns motivated me to buy my first dSLR. Now I'm wondering what lenses I should consider buying. Sandie, let's meet next Monday at noon and we'll go lens shopping. You do have about $27,000 to spend, right? My photography friends have camera bags full of lenses, primes and telephotos. I'd rather collect Lamborghinis. Have you seen what lens I used for the Photo of the Week the past year? Ever since I bought the Tamron 16-300mm lens, I parked my other lenses in the closet. On occasion, I need my Tokina 11-16m ultra-wide angle lens. That's it! I'm considering buying the Tamron 18-400mm lens for its extra reach for air shows etc. I rented that lens for the last two air shows and liked it. Sandie, consider the Tamron 16-300mm lens... one lens and done! Just a thought!

The photo of the week is a couple observing the Ventura sunset. This is another example of visualizing a potential photo ahead of time. As I was leaving the beach, a couple passed me walking up the sand dune to check out the sunset. I immediately visualized a potential silhouette. I programmed the camera and quickly made a test photo then waited. Finally, and better than I hoped for, not only were they side-by-side, they're holding hands! Photojournalism blessed with serendipity are awesome experiences!

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