Photolearningism

TOOLS I've been making good use of the Paint.NET tool for basic photo work and felt like it was time to give it a plug. It is a well made, FREE, open-source tool, and has served me well for the past year. It also has a healthy following of users who create plugins. If interested, download from here -  https://www.getpaint.net/download.html  RAW IMAGE EDITING After a ton of reading, experimentation, and testing ideas from the Paint.Net community, I found a combination of dlls and add-ons that allow editing of Nikon RAW images! Please note that I did not create these solutions and am not responsible for any adverse effects of using them (use them at your own risk), but I've found this combination to consistently work with NEF pictures (Nikon RAW images taken on a D5300). I've created a share of the needed files (which is a compilation of different solutions from multiple Paint.Net forum users). Do give them credit for their work! Download these to the "FileTyp

LIFE THROUGH A LENS Sometimes I feel like the world through a camera takes a different shape. It's more than just a moment you're capturing. It's more detailed than colors, lines, and shapes. The image is deeper than a feeling. It's an expression of the heart. A seeking of meaning and understanding. It's an exploration. It's an adventure. It's (always) a learning experience. It's why I sometimes twist myself sideways or upside down.  PHOTOLEARNINGISM I imagine my branding of "Photolearningism" causes some to raise eyebrows with a moment of quizzical fascination. It's not a word you'll find in any dictionary (except maybe Wikipedia some day, if that counts - It's not there now, I checked! LINK to Wikipedia Search  ), but it's the thesis of my photo journey. Let's break it down: PHOTO (or Photograph) =  "An image of an object, person, scene, etc, in the form of a print or slide recorded by a came

BACK ON THE TRAIL I spent some time out in the woods today learning to use my new camera and trying my best not to fall into the flooded creek. At long last, I have a camera that supports manual focus, and my heart has entered euphoria like never before. It was so much more an artistic experience taking photos, rather than verbally negotiating with my camera to "see things" my way. I can't wait to empty off the memory card and post some of my favorites! RANDOM I took a moment to visit with a mound of lingering snow, who didn't object to me taking a selfie alongside. NEW SITE IS ALIVE If you haven't had the chance, definitely come see my brand new site - http://www.nateciraulo.com ! Have a look around and let me know your thoughts - More content will be perpetually added. If you're feeling adventurous, sign up for the mailing list and I'll let you know when new photos are up! Thanks so much for reading! Be back soon, -Nate

THE DEVELOPMENT I'm very pleased to announce that I'll soon be launching my first photography web site! I've spent a good deal of time developing it and creating a custom look that I could add to over time. I'll be formally launching this Saturday, via http://www.facebook.com/photolearningism! Please come have a look this weekend and let me know your thoughts! If you're particularly moved, you can also buy a digital copy of images for sale (no pressure, just making you aware :) )! THE REST I've also been blessed to purchase my first pro grade camera! It's quite complicated, but I'm working the user manual and hope to be showing off new images soon! Thanks so much for your support! -Nate