This blog is my attempt to keep track of some of the things I learn along the way, with my Canon 7D, G12 and accessories. All images copyright Brad Calkins, not to be used without permission (or purchase). I do not attempt to monetize my blog, other than to promote my stock photo portfolio on Dreamstime.







Thursday, October 23, 2008

Stock Photography

I've been selling photos on Dreamtime for a while now, and while I'm not in any danger of quitting my day job, it is starting to provide some income for photo gear. Here are a few recent shots that I thought turned out quite well:

Frost
© Photographer: Bradcalkins | Agency: Dreamstime.com

Autumn
© Photographer: Bradcalkins | Agency: Dreamstime.com

Leaf texture
© Photographer: Bradcalkins | Agency: Dreamstime.com

I also picked up a Lumiquest Softbox III recently and here is an image I took with it:

Sunglasses
© Photographer: Bradcalkins | Agency: Dreamstime.com

Sadly, my Canon 20D seems to be packing it in. I have a number of issues these days, none of which impact the photos, thankfully:

1. Image fails to save, get Err 99.
2. Lens stops working aperture goes to 0, needs to be removed and put back (Canon lenses).
3. When reviewing photos, a click of the dial fails to advance the photo. One more click causes it to jump 2.
4. Battery indicator shows no battery, camera shuts off. Removing and replacing same battery shows 100% charge again.
5. Occasionally the camera does not focus when I half press the shutter. Nothing seems to happen - although the meter engages, etc. I thought this due to having the depth of field inadvertantly acitvated, but have proven that to not be the case. Can't quite figure this one out.

I'm building up to a 40D or 50D, I figure. Don't really want the 15MP, but will sell for more as stock, plus the screen on the 50D is nice, and the focus microadjust. If I'm buying I figure I should probably hit the latest and get another 4-5 years out of it. I must have over 50,000 shots on the 20D, now.