I'm really wanting to take a beginning photography class at my local community college in the Winter session. I can borrow the camera and equipment that I'll need from the school, so I don't need to make a pricey investment now. However, I do have some questions and I'd love to get some responses. On occasion, I'll kick this thread to get responses.
Please feel free to just respond to whatever you want. I'd just love to know what you all think!
1. What is a good beginning camera and any beginning equipment you'd recommend and why?
2. What are some photography websites you like and why?
3. Any books on photography or books of photography you'd recommend to a beginner?
4. About how much should I expect to invest in photography? I love nature photography and photography of places we travel. I don't see myself being a wedding photographer or anything like that.
5. What drew you to photography?
6. What film do you prefer and why? Do you develop your own film or do you do everything digital?
7. Can you maybe post a favorite picture or pictures you've taken? Do you have any photos from when you were a beginner? I'd love to see them. Tell me why you love them!
Here are pictures I've taken with an inexpensive digital point-and-shoot. (Please ignore the date stamp.) I feel like I'm on the cusp of taking good pictures. I lack technical knowledge in terms of some composition and light. I'll learn focus in class and actually focusing it on my own rather than the point-and-shoot will likely go a long way.
The Grand Canyon




Cathedral Rock, Arizona



Disneyland's Magic Castle Moat. (I should crop the people out of the top left corner and lighten the color. It's a bit dark.)

Disney Duck.
