Hello From California

[Matthew Latini]

Hello everyone,

My name is Matthew Latini and I'm from Southern California. I'm married and have a 12 year old daughter.
Outside of some pictures of my family with my point and shoot over the years, I have very little experience in photography. I've always had an interest in photography and wanted to get more serious but could just never find the time. There was always something more important it seems. I made the decision this past year that I was going to start seriously pursuing photography as a hobby and asked my wife to get me some gear for Christmas. A modest gift of a Canon EOS 550D with an 18-55 kit lens and a Canon EF 70-200 f/4L USM and I am on my way.
Over the last month or so I've been trying to learn as much as I can as quickly as I can. I've been having so much fun reading, learning how to operate my camera, and just getting out and shooting anything and everything I can.
I came across this site on Thursday and by Friday I had joined and I should have some pictures up shortly.
This seems to be a phenomenal place and I'm glad, with all the sites out there, that I came across one that seems to be full of people who just love photography and want to help each other get better and have a great time doing so!
:D

[Julie Kenward]

This seems to be a phenomenal place and I'm glad, with all the sites out there, that I came across one that seems to be full of people who just love photography and want to help each other get better and have a great time doing so!

Matthew, I couldn't have said it better myself.

Since you are so new to photography I'm going to suggest that you start out posting in the Eager to Learn forum where we try to take a more positive and teachable approach to our critiques. You'll be up and running in the other forums in no time I'm sure.

And just as important to digital photography as learning how to get the most from your camera is learning about Photoshop as well. Get up to speed on the basics as quickly as you can and then get ready for a learning curve like no other! It's a massive program but one well worth learning. Start with the latest version of PS Elements if money is a concern or dive in to CS5 if not - they both have so much to offer. There are excellent books on the subject and online classes as well.

Welcome to BPN!

[Daniel Cadieux]

Hi Mattew, welcome to BPN!!

You've found the best place on the web to help you grow into your new hobby. Good advice by Jules, and don't hesitate if you need help

[Arthur Morris]

Hey Matthew, Yes, we all love photography here and we love helping others learn. The three folks who have welcomed you have a combined 35,000 helpful posts :)

You will love your 70-200 f/4. And remember, we only get one ride on the merry go round so you might as well do something that you love....

[nancy hazen]

hello Matthew. I'm from the SD area and am glad to see another socal person joining this website. I'm new here, but have already learned so much. Welcome
Nancy