My first SLR (1983) was an Olympus OM1, fixed 35mm lens. Learning on a fully manual SLR really taught me alot about light and exposure. I later purchased a macro lens whose focal length and aperture escape me.

Somewhere during the dawn of the digital age, I bought my first digital point and shoot, a Nikon Coolpix S5 – ooohhh so fancy. A great overall camera; however, the zoom and megapixel capabilities fell far short of my needs as I moved to shooting higher quality images. Soon thereafter, I purchased my Nikon D80 and Nikon 18-200m VR zoom f3.5-5.6. I have used this setup for the past 3 years.

Last year, my Coolpix took a swim in the Wild and Scenic Rogue River and I just recently replaced it with the Panasonic Lumix ZS3. I was hesitant on purchasing anything but Nikon or Canon, but reviews for this point and shoot was quite impressive. So far, those reviews represent this camera well.

I do own a tripod and monopod, but rarely use them. I guess the bulkiness and absence of a quick hook/release keep them in the trunk of my car. I’ve become quite adept at having a steady hand – and using VR capabilities.

I’m currently considering adding a fixed aperture short-range zoom as I’m finding many of the places I shoot have less light than my zoom lens can accommodate. I’m not a fan of artificial lighting, but am keeping my options open right now. It’s that or a high-speed macro lens. So many choices, so little money.