Hi All,

I'm what would be classed as an enthusiastic amatuer when it comes to photography, and have been interested in taking pictures since my mid 20's.

My first camera was a Ricoh XR10 35mm SLR - I still have it lurking about the place somewhere! In 2006 I purchased my first DSLR - a Canon 400D with a twin lens kit (18-55 and 70 - 300). I have since changed to a Tamron 18 - 250 and my latest purchase was a Canon 10 - 22. I love the extra wide lens - the Grahamstown Dam series were taken with that lens.

Another camera upgrade - I'm now using a 50D. I'm loving the extra functionality, it certainly is an order of magnitude greater than the 400D. The Tamron lens has been retired, I now use the Sigma 18 - 240.

Another update in the gear situation. I now have a 7D MkI paired up with an 18-200. Once again, its a big step up from the 50D. I've also taken possession of a 70-300 4.5/5.6 L, the recent bird photos have all been with that lens. The 70-300 has been retired, I now have the Sigma 150-600 Contemporary. I’m amazed at the quality of this lens, and having twice the reach has made wildlife photography so much more interesting. The 7D has died - chose to leave this mortal coil in Coober Pedy on our way to Darwin from NSW. I have since moved on to a 90D, supposedly the replacement for the 7D...I will wait and see...

I use LR Classic for post. I was one of those who thought post was cheating, I now believe there is just as much skill in being able to manipulate the image to show what was actually there as in taking the image itself.

On the personal side, I am married, and my wife is my biggest supporter. She is more than happy to tramp around with me, carrying my bag and providing supportive comments on my feeble efforts.