My DSLR journey began in the spring of 2008. It was a time for me to get serious about what I call “Camera Speak”.
I wanted to combine learning more about camera settings with a holiday abroad. Peter Evans, a British professional photographer now living in France, created a lovely home for art students with his partner, Jill Fellows.
I was thrilled with the warm welcome, spacious en-suite accommodations, and Pete’s ability to patiently explain the function of f-stops, shutter speeds, and ISO settings, over and over and over again. I have to admit it took a little time to sink in. Perhaps it was the jet-lag or maybe the thrill of being back in France again. No excuses. It was a remarkable week and I learned so much. I came home with a desire to return and in May 2009, I was flying across the Atlantic to spend another amazing week with Pete and Jill.
Jill is an artist who gives workshops and teaches week-long courses for painting enthusiasts. She welcomes absolute beginners to those with years of experience.
Their website is http://painting-photography-france.com
My weeks with Pete helped me to develop a better understanding of camera terminology and knowing when to use the different settings to improve my photography. F-stop, shutter speed, and ISO roll off my tongue like another language. I feel almost bilingual.
Take a look at the galleries in the portfolio on my website to see the kind of photography I do. http://www.marionmccristall.com
Prints, canvases, and greeting cards are available at my Fine Art America website.
Everything Neat 
I was going to click the like button but it wasn’t there, so “clicked” -LIKE. 🙂
Thank you for your comment. I’m so glad you liked my post. I am new to social media and have now added a “like” button. I will persist in trying to figure out how to use the features on Facebook and Twitter. 🙂