Two photography projects for 2011

And below are the two things I am willing to invest with this year. Talk about leveling up in photography! But of course, I still have a lot to learn especially the basic ones. An in-depth learning of the exposure triangle would be awesome. Anyone willing to share their expertise? :)

AF-S VR Zoom-NIKKOR

70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G IF-ED

1. High-power 4.3x Telephoto Zoom-Nikkor lens approximates the picture angle performance of a

105-450mm lens on 35mm SLR.

2. Two Nikon Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass elements deliver superior optical performance for both digital and 35mm photography. ED glass minimizes chromatic aberrations, contributing to superb contrast and resolution performance.

3. Focus as close as 4.9 ft throughout entire zoom range.

4. A Silent Wave Motor (SWM) enables fast and quiet auto focusing, along with quick switching between auto focus and manual operation (M/A and M).

7. 67mm filter attachment size.

8. Nikon VR II (Vibration Reduction) Image Stabilization

Vibration Reduction, engineered specifically for each VR NIKKOR lens, enables handheld shooting at up to 4 shutter speeds slower than would otherwise be possible, assuring dramatically sharper still images and video capture.

8. Internal Focus (IF) provides fast and quiet auto focusing without changing the length of the lens, retaining subject-working distance through the focus range.

9. Non-rotating front element provides for convenient use of circular polarizing filters and the Nikon Wireless Close-Up Speedlight System.

10. A nine-blade rounded diaphragm opening makes out-of-focus elements appear more natural.

SB 900 AF Speedlight

1. Powerful, Versatile Speedlight Unit

Atop the Nikon Creative Lighting System, the SB-900 is an indispensable portable light source providing effective solutions to lighting challenges.

2. Complete Flash Head Positioning Freedom

Bounce 90°up and 7°down with 360° rotation elevates creative lighting freedom.

3. Renowned Dedicated Wireless Flash Control

Wireless Commander Mode offers wireless control at the master Speedlight position, controlling up to 3 remote Speedlight groups and an unlimited number of compatible Speedlights. Four wireless channel options help manage wireless conflicts in multi-photographer environments.

4. Choose From 3 Light Distribution Patterns

Optimize light quality by selecting Standard for general illumination, Center-weighted for portraits or Even, for groups or interiors.

5. Color Gel Filter Identification

Automatically identifies mounted color gel filters and adjusts camera white-balance.* *With select Nikon digital SLRs

6. Automatic Format Identification

Automatically senses the FX or DX-format camera in use and optimizes light distribution.

7. Firmware Updating

Allows uploading of performance enhancement developments.*

*With select Nikon digital SLRs

8. Nikon’s Precision i-TTL Flash Control

Delivers precise flash exposures and seamless fill-flash performance—even in challenging lighting situations.

9. Hot Shoe and Wireless Operation

Use on-camera, as a wireless Master Commander or as a wireless remote light source.

10. Expanded Auto Power Zoom Coverage

Smoothly covers lenses as wide as 17mm and up to 200mm in FX-format and as wide as 12mm and up to 200mm in DX-format use.

11. Streamlined Controls and Menus

Convenient Rotary Select Dial sets key functions quickly and a prominent Master and Remote control switch simplifies wireless operation.

12. Flash Tube Overheat Protection

An added measure of safety is provided for sustained high-speed bursts.

13. Flash Value (FV) Lock

Locks in a specific flash output on the main subject, regardless of aperture, composition or the lens’ zoom position.*

*With select Nikon digital SLRs

14. Drip-Proof Mounting Foot Cover (Water Guard)*

Provides enhanced moisture protection.

*Optional

Please note that the images and specs are from the Nikon website.