~sigh~ I really don't know what goes through those morons minds when they do things like this...are they that bored? It's really sad to see behavior like this...unfortunately it seems to only esculate from there.

Photoshop CS is excellent as a RAW conversion program...just make sure your digicam is supported. There are several updates to the raw plugin...I don't think there are many digi cams yet that support DNG. Does yours have DNG file format? Usually the software that comes with the cameras leaves something left to be desired. So if you have PSCS that is your better choice. Hope this helps. :))

I just checked...it does seem that Amazon's gift certificates work world wide. However their products are generally more expensive. So most likely I would need to up the $50 to $75.

Not sure if it works like that through Amazon or not. I guess if they do...the winner would also be able to possibly choose a book on photography as well or basically whatever they like. I'll check into it. My other question to everyone would be concerning participation, if anyone is really interested in this idea.

Um, personally I think the oringal one looks better. You are correct in saying that the hand belongs to nobody. Almost as if it's someone elses hand that is pulling at her hair. To me, the original would be close to impossible to crop and still look ok....just my two cents.

Hi Brenda, lots of great advice given. I've actually shot a few weddings. Talking to the priest before hand is a good idea. Also scouting the location you will be setting up during the ceremony. Most churches don't allow flashes to be used during the actual ceremony...You will find most photographers will use available light only during the ceremony. You might also ask if more lights are going to be used during the wedding and if so, you can ask for a test run to where you can measure the light with a lightmeter etc. On one of my wedding shoots, I was actually allowed behind and to the right of the priest (no flash)...I set up a tripod and was able to capture the Bride and Groom from the front side the whole time. Most likely the lighting will be tungsten...so you might want to also consider if you will like those results or set your digicam to tungsten lighting to give more natural tones or if you use film, you may want to consider either a filter to correct the lighting or buying tungsten film for the actual ceremony. I hope what I'm getting at is not so confusing. Part of the reason I no longer photograph weddings is the stress...takes a WHOLE LOT of patience and very special people to do it. So I really wish you all the luck and hope things turn out well for you!

Well I for one think you should enter it. Not sure what he's smoking or getting ready to, but my first thought was a little mother weed going on there. :) This IS a social issue. Nice work on using and developing the film and getting the scene setup.

Here you go making us all envious of your new toy. tsk tsk. haha. That is fantastic Randy and I really look forward to seeing the results. Good luck and most of all...Have fun!!

Oh, and I can send you lot's of pictures of it inside and out if you need...because most of the time you can't tell through their smaller pictures.

Hi Michelle, well I have an amazing camera bag that would work well for you. ;) Hold two cameras and plenty of lenses...tripod and all those extra compartments. Even comes with another detachable bag. Although it's not waterproof they do have it in a waterproof version. It also is extremley comfortable to wear even when it feels like 100lbs. It's from the Lowepro backpack series...You'll find a vast array to choose from. Mine is the Nature Trekker AWII...hope this helps!

Thanks Tedz! This was taken Chain'o Lakes, Indiana. And of course that's Andy unknowingly having his backside photographed for my humor. lol.

lmao...now this is more like it. Reminds me of myself waiting for the darn coffee to hurry up and finish. Great humor and entry!

A lovely entry, and it would be all to easy to get up in the mornings to walk to beach...nice shot. :)