Fiona, I had the idea for the shot right from the start but no mouse.
I even bought a rubber rat as it looked like I would be using that, but then the pesky cats left a dead mouse which I found one morning.
So hopefully no harm done

Cheers Don, I also work in the building and construction trade so knocking up a few stud walls and plastering is something I do on a regular basis.
Your video would be interesting. Thanks!
And thanks for the link Gartmore.

Did you see that big metal 100 foot tall spike that someone's stuck in the pavement?
I nearly walked straight into that after too much Guinness.

It would make a good shot though looking straight up.

I almost often shoot RAW. However I was just wondering, on the odd occasion I do want to shoot jpeg, what have other owners found to be the best 'in camera' settings to stick with, which produce the most acceptable image straight out of camera.
I am talking about tone, saturation, sharpness, contrast, noise reduction etc.

This is for the K10d.

All good advice, it's appreciated!

Thanks for replies so far. I suppose this begs the question is the kit I have identified good enough for what I wNt? If so I would be happy to go through thr trial and error exercise with it untill I know how it works and how to get the best out of it. A course is also something I would be prepared to go on.

I am planning on setting up a "studio" area in my double garage where I have lots of space.
I have a back drop and a couch and I would like to set up to shoot portraits and body shots on the couch.

I do not have any experience with studio lighting or photography.
Furthermore I want to end up with shots that look commercially acceptable, ie as good or as close to professional studio shots - but on a tight budget.

I have seen this and wondered if it would fit the bill, or if I should be considering other options. http://www.srsmicrosystems.co.uk/528/Pro-Line-Apollo-180-Studio-Lighting-Kit.htm...

And are there any resources on the net that would help explain about studio set ups.

Initially it will be family and friends, but would like the option of having a set up that is sufficient to produce results where I can charge.

Any help and advice appreciated.

I'm off to Butlins at Minehead in a couple of weeks.
(Sorry, realise this doesn't help with your question).

I like the first shot, it has a retro feel to it. I would crop a bit more off the bottom.

Shot 2 might benefit from more detail in the foreground.

I like number 3, I like the light within the flower, the markings and texture of the yellow and the sharpness of the greenery.

Coker, for me, it needs a little more exposure if shot in RAW, and/or a bit more contrast. As it stands it looks a little flat.