(My second image would not load to here so here's the URL for it http://www.flickr.com/photos/53289155@N02/5144099111/in/set-72157625307993506/)

I really do like my first image; however, you can see that over the course of this class, I’ve learned many new techniques. As you can see, in the second photo from project three, layering has become one of my favorite things to do with my work. I love how I can make changes to each layer to make the perfect final image. I also really have had a lot of fun with filters. I like how I can make my photo appear, for example, as an oil painting or blurred or outlined in neon colors. There are so many to choose from to acquire that perfect compliment to a photo. I look forward to using every single one of them over the coming months. Another useful tool has been making selections. I am far from perfecting the use of this tool but do look forward to getting better at it and using it to making many enhancements to my work.

The artist that I identify most with is Terry Bebertz. As I looked through his gallery of photos, I noticed that my subjects are much like his subjects but his work is superb in comparison to mine. In his Beaver Pond and Paint, he captures a still pond which aids in acquiring the perfect reflections of the fall color. Then, in his Cone and Water, he captures a natural border of branches and cones on the top portion of the photo and rocks in the foreground with the main subject being the softest water flowing downstream. So often I attempt to acquire that perfect border too. I strive for photos like many of his but often do not get it perfect mostly due to lack of spare time but I also have a lot to learn yet too. If only I had all the time in the world, I too could begin to capture some great photography closer to Terry’s caliber.

I have always been one to have my camera in hand most places I go. I do not foresee that changing at all after this course ends. Actually, I expect to have my camera with me even more so than ever before. My family will go even more crazy! They already tease me a lot about having my camera whenever they see me; however, they do reap the benefit of receiving some pretty good pictures every now and then and I know they appreciate that. I always look forward to entering my work into the local county fairs and maybe will receive more ribbons or maybe even a trip to the State Fair. My new knowledge of editing photography will definitely come in handy. I have really enjoyed enhancing my work and sharing it with others. I look forward to learning more about PhotoShop and continuing to enhance my photos!