Does anyone have any suggestions for newer photographers on how to learn more? I've been practicing a LOT but still need some help with flash. I have a DSLR Canon Rebel XTi and use a 18-200 F3.5-22 lens. Flash is something I have not worked with as of yet and I feel it's like this black hole in my photography work. It's something that I am just circling around and avoiding but no matter how much I try to avoid it, I am going to eventually need to dive in! I am keeping my eye open for a community photography class but have yet to see anything. Also, I have been contemplating taking some courses @ a local college, but that is awfully expensive.

Would any have the time to teach me or have any suggestions as to where to go? I'm a very busy person and that doesn't allow me much time to attend the group events unfortunately. Love photography, want to learn more and meet people who love it as much as I do! Thanks group!

Suggestions for new Photographers.

Milwaukee library system and commercial photo equipment retailers have many sources / books to help you become a better photographer.

There is no mystery to using flash.

Milwaukee group at events have many helpful people willing to share their experiences / helping you
become a better photographer. Show up.
You will find it fun and entertaining.

I'll second what Mike says... try to attend a Meetup from time to time, or get involved in a Flickr group or something.

I have never taken a formal photography class. Whatever level competance I have attained has come from going to group shoots, 1 day workshops, photography club meetings, and anywhere else where there were other photographers willing to share their knowledge.

As far as flash goes... are you talking about on camera flash, or studio flash? Big difference there, and each have their own uses. If you are talking about the pop up flash on your camera, IMHO, the only good use for it is for fill flash outside on a subject less than 15 feet away from you.

Give Strobist.com a look. It is an entire site dedicated to teaching people how to use flash and sharing ideas. The site has a huge following. In fact, the blog's owner, David Hobby, is giving out the third assignment to his readers.

Ben

Thank you Ben, great site, I just spent over an hour watching videos , highly recommended. These are the suggestions we need to pass on to other photographers.

Rigo, glad I can help. I am more than happy to share whatever I have learned or know (which is not much :-). There are a bunch of other sites I frequent. Maybe we can start a new thread and have everyone share the sites they go to on a regular basis.

Check out morgueFile's site. I like the presentation and the information on the "Classroom" link.
http://www.morguefile...
The Jodi Coston Lessons are well organized and free. You can participate in the lesson and the discussions.