This Week in the Digital Photography School Forums (8-14 Nov ’09)

Weekly Assignment

The Economy is on everyone’s mind at the moment, and our forums are no exception. This week we wanted you to show us photos that represented the troubled economy. Our winner this week was bmjesus‘s dropping coins. The depth of field in this shot was very effective with a strong focus on the coins, and the movement of the coins was nicely captured. One of the things that stood out in this shot was the human aspect of it and the sense of despair that it conveyed. Our first runner up was BryanC‘s Beaten Dollar. This photo was one that stood out not necessarily because of the photo, but because of the idea and the post-processing that brought that idea into reality. It is a creative idea, and it also interjects a bit of humor in a sometimes dark situation. Last, but not least was was gapsoteric‘s A Question that Nobody Can Answer. The woman in this shot was begging for coins in a bus terminal in the Philippines. The shot grabbed our attention and puts a takes an emotional look at what can happen during an economic downturn.

Turn it up to 11 this week because the assignment is Noise/Sound. The challenge is to display an audio medium in a visual format… not something that is easily done. In case you’re new to the assignments or you just need a reminder of the rules, there are only a few to remember. First, the photos for this week’s assignment must have been taken between 4-18 November 2009. Second, your post must include the date the photo was taken and either “Assignment: Sound” or “Assignment: Noise”. And finally, your EXIF should be intact and it’s useful if you can include some of the main points (e.g. camera, lens, aperture, ISO, shutter speed, etc.). Next week’s assignment will be Kinetics. For the assignment the moving part of your photo should be your camera. Zoom the lens, move the camera in your hands, and if you’re really brave, you can even throw the camera in the air. Good luck!

Hot Threads

• Photography Stocking Stuffers: It seems like the holidays are right around the corner, which may mean it’s time to start thinking of (and hinting about) stocking stuffers for the photographer in your life. If you’re looking for ideas for small photography gifts under around $20, check out this thread, and if you have ideas, add your own.
• Water Figures: Without a doubt, rt80639 posts some of the most awesome high speed photography shots. In this thread, he explains how he took his latest speed photography shot involving paint on a speaker. This one really shouldn’t be missed.
• The 12 Days of DPS: On the first day of DPS what did your true love bring to you? Based on the old Christmas carol, SoxAddict has started a series of threads for some numeral shots. See the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth days over in the forum and post you own shots.
• What Would You Do: Another week means it’s time for another chance for you to practice your post-processing skills on another member’s photo. Whether you’re a novice or a pro, you’re welcome to participate in our WWYD challenges.