You have a PM

There a lot to be said for living in a community where people feel comfortable to say "Hello" to strangers when they pass and will stop for a chat given the slightest encouragement. We've been very happy here - hope you and your family are too.

Originate from Portsmouth, with a few via's before arriving here. Lepton Great Wood and the fields below where you live are regular dog walking territory for us. Came because a friend passed on a rental when I was between homes and stayed because the village school was excellent. How about you?

I'm over the fields, across Beldon Brook in Highburton. Probably less than a mile away. Settled here by accident about 18 years ago...

I understand where you're coming from with this. I have it centre stage from my bedroom window - and a 'portrait' approach just isn't right. I spend 3 or 4 nights a month in London, often staying near the Post Office Tower and catch sight of it unexpectedly in gaps between buildings or reflected in office blocks and have long thought I should capture these... if only working for a living didn't get in the way.

Hi BrixtonNick,
I recommend you consider purchasing this link'Techniques of photography - a Time Life book'
Considering the aspects of photography that you want to learn about I have never seen a better reference book than this. I've had a copy for 30 years. It very clearly explains with illustrations and example photographs all of the basics - focal length, aperture, depth of field and how it varies, hyperfocal distance and loads more. Even has a section on the darkroom. My kids [all Pentaxians] learned from this book and are consequently perfectly at home using manual lenses on their DSLR's. And at this price on eBay it wont break the bank.
Regards Gary

"In my opinion, the Sigma would be a great starter!!"

To hopefully support this view (depending on what you think of my images ) the 5 most recent uploads to my Flickr page were taken with this lens. It should at least give some insight into the versitality of the lens. Link on my profile.
Regards Gary

You have a PM

Arrived today - and I must comment on the fantastic condition of this lens. Really does you credit Percy, thank you very much.

Hi Percy - have sent you a reply.
Gary