Illinois State Capitol and first attempt at inside HDR

[zombiemann]

On a whim we ended up in Springfield today. I was operating under the assumption that the building would be closed since it's Sunday, so I was only planning on exterior shooting. We happened to see people going in and out so decided to wander inside. We managed to make it into the last tour of the day (at least I was given to believe it was). I wish we had more time during the tour as we were certainly rushed, despite being told to "take as many photos as you like" by the guide. I am planning a trip back during the week soon. During the week the building is open to the public without having to be on a tour. Keep in mind the interior shots are hand held and somewhat rushed. I had to open my aperture wider than I normally would shoot HDR in order to keep shutter speed manageable. Also I know the composition could use some work. The only reason I am really posting these is to see if I am on the right track for when we go back.

 

[The Barbarian]

The color is dazzling like a stained glass window. I would like to see this with a bit less saturation and a little more shadow detail. A tripod or even a monopod would probably let you do that more easily.

I do like the exterior processing.

 

[zombiemann]

Shot 3 actually is stained glass. I had my tripod with me but no time to set up. I can't wait to go back. Thanks for the feedback

 

[The Barbarian]

I have to say also that the images on the board are not nearly as good as the images one gets by clicking the picture. Maybe resizing does that?

 

[Bynx]

Dave that last image is absolutely beautiful. I just wish you had captured the whole thing. But what is there is sheer perfection.

 

[zombiemann]

I am really hoping I can get a better angle on it when I go back. There is a statue directly below the center of the dome on the ground floor. The shot you are referring to Bynx, was actually taken from the second floor area. Actually in the corners of shot number 4 you can see the same statues as shot 2, just to give things some perspective.

I took a few shots of the Illinois House and Senate chambers, as well as the senate hearing chambers, but I haven't gotten around to processing them yet. I am a little worried about them because I know there is going to be some issue with CA. On the other hand it gives me good practice at removing CA, because sometimes I just am not going to be able to avoid it. I really want to get some better lenses, but when your on a very fixed budget the couple hundred bucks for an upgrade will buy a LOT of groceries.

 

[jamesbjenkins]

Dave, these are very cool!

Other than the nuclear flowers in the first image, I don't have any meaningful CC.

 

[Derrel]

Whoa, dude, these are pretty decent!

 

[CaboWabo]

I can say anything the others have said but nice job and hope you get back and shoot some more !!!!

 

[zombiemann]

Thanks for all the feedback and kind words guys. The weekend actually started out as a bust. I spent all day Saturday out and about and when I went through my memory card I was not happy with any of the shots. Sunday I almost left the camera at home (I was SUPPOSED to just be having a nice day out with my better half) but I'm glad I decided to take it.

I've got my eye on what appears to be a decent monopod from Canon, going for 30ish on Amazon. The cheap tripod I have does a pretty good job if I don't have the mast (not sure what else to call the center part) raised. I'm saving up for a 50mm 1.8 (can't justify the 1.2 or 1.4 on my budget) but I might have to replace my tripod first.