By Dawn's Early Light

Brought To You By The Letter Elm

Photograph copyright: DAVID McMAHON

As you can probably tell, I enjoy using my camera in severe low-light conditions, just as much as I enjoy using it in strong light. Each is a different discipline, forcing you to look differently at what you choose to frame in your viewfinder. This was taken a few days ago where the Monash Freeway runs beside the English elms that fringe the Yarra River. So many muted shades, so many joys to capture.

Click here: Pentax K100D, Shutter speed 1/4, F4, ISO speed 800.

Nice River, Phoenix

A Night In Shining Armour

Photograph copyright: DAVID McMAHON

I'm full of admiration for those photographers who spend hours or days waiting for the one perfect shot. But as a full-time journalist and father, I don't have that sort of time on my hands. This shot, taken on Friday, is the perfect example of why I always have my camera with me. I was at a traffic intersection after taking an exit off the Monash Freeway - when I noticed that the night-time reflections looked almost metallic on the Yarra River. I knew I only had about 30 or 40 seconds before the lights turned green.

With my right hand I hit the button to lower the passenger-side window. With my left I grabbed the camera bag. I only had time to compose and shoot one quick, hand-held frame when I should have really been using a tripod.

I concentrated on the reflection - which is why you can see the blur on the traffic that was moving on the other side of the Yarra. Not perfect, by any means - but it shows that you can take a photograph in the blink of an eye, if your camera is within arm's reach.

Click here: Pentax K100D, Shutter speed 1/1, F5.6, ISO speed 800.