As you can see from my last post, I’m now using Flickr again instead of Zenfolio. I don’t have any real issues with Zenfolio, I just decided I liked the Flickr format a little better. I have deleted all of my existing Flickr photos and will be adding them back over time.
I also took the switch as an opportunity to upgrade from Adobe Lightroom 1.4 to 2. I don’t really need any of the new features, but the third-party Flickr plugin for 1.4 had some issues that were corrected in the LR2 version.
I ended up going with Flickr, too. The fact that I get a free Pro account helps with that, as does the fact that my current web host kind of sucks. For the past couple of days, I’ve actually been working on a WordPress plugin that will let me integrate my Flickr photosets into my main site (the existing plugins all either suck or don’t do what I want).
I still haven’t splurged on Lightroom yet. I think it’s pretty much inevitable, but it’s hard to give up that money. Especially since I don’t even have a camera bag yet.
I’ll be interested to see your WordPress plugin.
For $300, its retail price, buying Lightroom is a tough, but inevitable decision. For $99, its academic price, which you qualify for, it’s an absolute no-brainer. Buy Lightroom. You won’t regret it. I think they do a free 30 day trial if you’re still not convinced.
As for camera bags, I’ve had a Lowepro Nova 3 for several years now, and I’ve been very happy with it. Before our next trip that involves a lot of walking, I plan on getting a Lowepro Slingshot, probably the 200 AW.
So, what camera did you buy?
I’ve have used Lightroom, and I agree it’s totally worth what it would cost me. I’ve been on a pretty tight budget as of late, though, so I’m not sure whether it’s worth the cost right now, or if I should wait while. My big concern with waiting is that it’ll be more of a pain to move tags, etc.
Thanks for the links to the bags. I’ve been thinking about getting a combination laptop/camera bag first, which would be better for airline travel (basically for my honeymoon in June). I think a smaller bag would probably be more useful day-to-day, though, so I’m torn on that, too. I miss the days when I wasn’t paying for a wedding and student loans and California rent, and I could afford to spend a bit of money and not miss it. :)
I ended up getting the Canon XSi kit. It’s nice, and I fits all of my needs with room to spare. If I stick with the photography thing long enough, I might upgrade to one of the higher-end cameras, but right now, there’s just no reason. I almost went with the XS, but I’m glad I didn’t. The lower frame rate in raw would have bothered me. I’ve already managed to fill the buffer on my XSi a few times. I can’t imagine how frustrated I’d be with the XS.
Wait until you have kids. Then you’ll really wonder where your disposable income went. :)
As you know, I have the Canon Rebel XTi. I considered the 40D, the next model up, but decided on the XTi. I definitely made the right decision. For most people, the Rebel series is perfect.
I’m assuming you got the kit lens. It does fine outdoors, but a faster lens will make a world of difference, especially in low light or when you want to throw the background out of focus. Definitely pick up the nifty fifty when you get a chance. Of course, you already knew all that because you did your research. :)