basically you've got the idea Nigel. A constant aperture zoom is bigger, heavier and more costly. The aperture is not less precise on a variable aperture zoom though, it just changes with focal length. So the set value will be precise enough for the metering system, but won't be shown accurately on the aperture ring, if there is one. If it's controlled by the camera the shown value should change as we zoom.

The 300mm is heavier, professional construction and is built to last many years of hard use. It is also a relatively fast f/4. The 55-300mm is of lighter construction, not so highly corrected and with a more limited maximum aperture. Having said that, it performs extremely well.

If you handled them side-by-side the differences would be very obvious. This isn't meant to denigrate any lens using large amounts of plastic though, because they can be capable of excellent results.

I'd be happy to meet up - the cafe in picture 1 seems like a good place! Any idea what a good time would be?

Ah well, fingers crossed! It can't be as bad as the April visit we had a couple of years back. Torrential rain all day, but our spirits remained high!

We'll be there Saturday and Sunday this time, but I doubt the weather is going to be as great as in these images.

I particularly like the kitchen and its subdued lighting. Very classy.

Nigel the Ghost Hunter?

It's great to see some artistic experimentation. And they have worked. Very well done indeed and very appealing!

With a bit of notice, perhaps that week we can have "humour" for the weekly competition?

OK< this was the set up for one interior. Our friend Des can be seen trying to get the shot of the virtually black interior with his Nikon, but to no avail. It wouldn't focus. But cue the K20D and there was no problem:





Those were on the Isle of Skye, as were the following images from inside an abandoned bothy. We proceeded in as little as possible and with as much caution as possible as the ceilings were all collapsing.







This is all very gentle exploration, but even so being careful is advisable. We particularly watch for any signs of asbestos, which we don't go near under any circumstances.