I would disagree. I don't think the K5 metering is that great, I think the Q meters much better for instance. So to learn metering with an older lens I think actually pays dividends with more advanced technology as one learns better how to understand how metering works and therefore how to compensate.

To be honest the 'special care and attention' required isn't that difficult and they are basic skills that any aspiring photographer really should possess regardless of auto this and that.

I would therefore argue that the older lens is the ideal place to start.

Shooting a reflective surface in sunlight, those most difficult of conditions, would I trust my modern camera to get the exposure consistently right? No way.

I have just acquired one myself. The intention is to use it for star trails. None of those battery running out problems!

And yes, I agree with the other sentiments. A raw only digital, nice big view with split prism manual focus and manual everything else. That would be just dandy.

I just choked on my Kronenbourg. I can't believe you would be so dismissive of the older Pentax lenses. I have had some stunning results from them and I often prefer them over modern lenses. One of the joys of Pentax ownership, surely. Chokes once again.

Highlights are way blown, it's impossible to evaluate performance on this basis. A correct exposure is essential and will minimise aberrations.

Adrian Mills ACA. (Dr Orloff ACA).

I was talking about residency for tax purposes, which is irrespective of any right to legally reside, work and visit. I don't think there are any permits to consider, unless the wedding is being held in a tube station.

The tax treatment of the income is not determined by national rules but by the UK Czech Republic tax treaty, already linked above, which takes precedent over the usual national tax laws.

If the work is carried out through an enterprise then Article 7 which deals with the profits of a business applies. In this case since there is no permanent place of business in the UK then the income is not taxable in the UK.

If the activity is through self-employment then Article 14 applies and again as a resident of the Czech Republic with no fixed base in the UK then the income is taxable in the Czech Republic.

From the information given it sounds like Article 14 applies.

Further explanation here

An invoice for the work needs to be a legally compliant invoice from where the business is registered, ie from the Czech self employment scheme.

This assumes that the visits to the UK by the individual remains within the definition of non-residence. This is now determined by a statutory test. If UK visits warrant a status of residence then the situation becomes more complicated.

You can of course contact HMRC to confirm the above advice and reassure yourself that no further formalities apply.

Terrific shots, mastery of very tricky lighting. I guess you're keeping the Stones ones close to your chest.

I agree that Pentax are missing a trick by not sponsoring images like these in some way. My pick is The XX girl.

K55mm f1.8 again, I like the 3d effect this bargain lens gives:

The name of the company has little or nothing to do with the brand name. Pentax will be written on the cameras.

Nobody cares what the company is called. How many people who buy the products could tell you who makes Persil, Fairy Liquid or Benson & Hedges, without consulting the small print on the packaging, or care.

Two different things, no big deal.