I have mixed feelings about these - a fee is charged to enter, a percentage of images are chosen and increasingly the only place they get shown is on the CD or in the catalogue that is sent to the ones selected.

Then every acceptance adds another point towards awards that can be put after our names.

I just get the feeling it's a bit like buying a qualification, although it is true that we have to have our images selected. I'm still thinking about it.

What's the general feeling about these things?

There are only three variables that control the amount of light that hits the sensor.

Aperture and shutter speed are directly connected, so increase one and the other has to decrease to compensate.

ISO controls the sensitivity of the sensor (similar to the speed of the fim) and if increased means smaller apertures can be used whilst still keeping a hand-holdable shutter speed.

If you use Av, then in dark condition you'll need to open up the aperture to get the shutter speed up. If you use Tv under the same conditions then making the shutter speed right will adjust the aperture accordingly. So it really doesn't matter which way round you do it.

Personally I use Av to define the depth of field and if the shutter speed falls too low then I increase the ISO or use a tripod.

You can make an argument Ed without being abusive to others. With freedoms come responsibilities, a principle well known and understood in the world we live in today.

I've removed the quote from the deleted post. Unfortunate timing I think....

If you do and he complains, you will get a 7 day ban for abuse of the PM system, so please don't.

Offensive post removed, no more please.

Ironically, even before this thread was started we were discussing the subject.

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Ah, if only you could see how cheerful I am as I reply to your missives Chris.

Now there's a thought - a webcam for the forum so we could all look at each other.