This is my first digital SLR camera.  I've used film SLR before and must admit that I'm not that great of a photographer.  I'm not studied or trained in photography but have always felt that I have a good eye.  After much research I chose this camera/lens combination (even though it was well above my budget) and after just a few shots I'm convinced that it was a good purchase.  For the first time I feel like I have a camera that, with training, will allow me to capture the pictures that I see.

I learned a lot from this first week of shooting.  First and foremost I realize that I have a problem with camera shake.  Many really great composition shots were ruined because I couldn't hold the camera still while the shutter was open.  I deleted a bunch of them but I put some in this collection to remind me when I've mastered this medium.

I also need to learn better how to adjust to varying lighting situations.  Thursday night I had 4 bright spots throwing a red beam on everyone in the pulpit.  I've not posted most of the shots like this because even Photoshop couldn't make them look good.

I also learned Friday that the 70-200MM lens is too long.  I had to stand over 20' away to get the 4 shot of the Bishop and the plenary leaders.  I'll research a good lens but I'm running (have run) out of money.

All in all I'm still very pleased with the purchase and believe that it will help me discover and deliver the message that I've been trying to find all my life.