Hello I'm I'm knew here looking for some tips.

[rebent]

So Ive been taking pictures for awhile but never gotten real serious about it but I'm going to yellowstone in a few months and really want to get some great pictures so I thought maybe I could get some advice on things I might be doing right or wrong. I'm also interested in advice on a good super telephoto lens to rent for my trip. I have out to 300mm now. My camera is just a canon xs.

Here are some picture I have been taking.
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[Big Mike]

Welcome aboard.

It's hard to offer any real critique on a bunch of 'random' images. I do see that you have a bit of an eye for creative photos so that's a great start.

 

[PJL]

Yeah, it's more helpful to us (and you) if you narrow your C&C pics down to a few samples and/or have specific questions/issues.

As far as what to rent, it really depends on what you have available around you and what you feel comfortable spending. Unless you're doing bird photography specifically, you'll probably be OK with a 300. If you want a bit longer reach, a Canon 100-400 L might be a good choice; Canon also makes prime (non-telephoto) lenses in 400, 500, 600, and 800 focal lengths. How much focal length you want also depends on whether you plan on using at least a monopod (if not a tripod) on a regular basis. Also, if you're backpacking, weight is a consideration. You don't want to be carrying a ton of lenses (either in number or in weight). Longer lenses, naturally, take up a lot more space and weigh a lot more.

 

[rebent]

I will be using/willing to use a tripod if thats what it takes. I won't be doing any long hiking because I will have the baby with me.

I'm very interested in getting some slow shutter flowing water pictures,landscape pictures,reflective water pictures,and wildlife.

I'm struggling with long zoom wildlife pictures right now but I do not have a long range IS lens and never seem to have a tripod at the right time so that is probably the cause of that. I also don't feel like I'm getting the best colors possible.

Thanks

 

[PJL]

If you want to do slow shutter speed flowing water pictures in daylight, it's a good idea to invest in neutral density filters. They make the image darker (without altering the color) so that your camera can use longer exposure in bright light without completely overexposing the image.

For colors, don't be afraid to turn up the saturation a bit when you're shooting landscapes. And better glass would definitely help you get better colors.

 

[Big Mike]

If you want to do some landscape shots, especially slow shutter speed flowing water, then you will need a tripod.
A circular polarizing filter is also a very, very good accessory for landscape shooting, especially when shooting still water. It will also help to block some light, allowing for a slower shutter speed on moving water. Further to that, you might also want an ND (neutral density) filter for that. Waterfalls ~ Mike Hodson Photography

As for a telephoto, longer is usually nicer for wildlife...but long lenses aren't all that easy to use. The Canon 100-400mm L IS, is a great lens for wildlife, but it's a beast.

 

[Big Mike]

If you want to do some landscape shots, especially slow shutter speed flowing water, then you will need a tripod.
A circular polarizing filter is also a very, very good accessory for landscape shooting, especially when shooting still water. It will also help to block some light, allowing for a slower shutter speed on moving water. Further to that, you might also want an ND (neutral density) filter for that. Waterfalls ~ Mike Hodson Photography

As for a telephoto, longer is usually nicer for wildlife...but long lenses aren't all that easy to use. The Canon 100-400mm L IS, is a great lens for wildlife, but it's a beast.

 

[KmH]

I would suggest looking at some information related to visual image composition. There are many online sources like: Guidelines for Better Photographic Composition: Introduction.

I also highly recommend the following books:
The Photographer's Eye: Composition and Design for Better Digital Photos

The Photographer's Eye Field Guide: The essential handbook for traveling with your digital SLR camera

Learning to See Creatively: Design, Color & Composition in Photography (Updated Edition)

Beyond Portraiture: Creative People Photography

 

[rebent]

I took this one today. This is definitely a type of picture I will be looking for. I'm pretty happy with it. The far left corner of the dock is a little soft though. I'm kind of disappointed there was an older lady fishing off the side with a bobber and instead of seeing it as a great B&W photo opportunity I saw it as a problem and waited for her to leave. Then after she was gone I realized I should have gotten it.