A Mother's Love

[Barbara Ponder]

Here is a completely different composition

[Mike Buckley]

I downloaded your first version again (my favorite of the three) and this time I was able to display the EXIF data. It's impossible for anyone other than you to know whether you could have used a larger depth of field because only you know the distance between you, the fence and the subject and whether you were shooting between open spaces in the fence or with the fence included in the field of view. However, given the high-ISO capability of your Canon 7D Mark II, surely you could have used a faster shutter speed made possible by a higher ISO value. Similarly, if the fence was not a concern with regard to depth of field, you could have also used a higher ISO value, which would have made it possible use a smaller aperture (larger depth of field).

This is the exact type of shooting situation in which using Aperture Priority in combination with Auto ISO prevents you from having to determine on your own the ideal ISO value. On the other hand, if you're more concerned about shutter speed than depth of field, you could use Shutter Priority in combination with Auto ISO.

[Mike Buckley]

Barbara,

Especially when you capture an image this good, push the pixels farther than you normally would to see if you can use post-processing to overcome deficiencies in the capture. I spent less than a minute in the photo shown below to balance the sharpness and contrast of the baby's eyes with the same of the mother's eyes. I also added a slight vignette that I would be willing to bet you wouldn't notice unless you compare your version with mine.

[NorthernFocus]

That is an excellent shot Barbara. A wonderful moment in time and technically well captured.

It also reminds me of the old saying "only a mother could love that face" but in reverse. Only a child could love that mother.

[Barbara Ponder]

Mike, I think I shot both Aperture and Shutter priorities trying to make sure I got the shot. Mom and baby kept on moving so I had to go both above and below the enclosure which had a small almost hurricane fence (but smaller openings)and to add to the mixture the sun was going in and out of the clouds. I am really trying to work on the technical aspect of my photography so your input is appreciated.

[Barbara Ponder]

Wow,what a difference! PP is a real weakness of mine but I am learning, in baby steps. Technology is not my thing so It is a real learning curve. I have been so lucky to find great folks here that have helped me move ahead. I truly appreciate your taking the time to work on this, and the incredible knowledge you share!

[Mike Buckley]

Mike, I think I shot both Aperture and Shutter priorities trying to make sure I got the shot.

If you use Aperture Priority in this situation in combination with Auto ISO that also determines the minimum shutter speed, you can accomplish all of your goals with regard to depth of field and stopping the action. You could accomplish the same goals other ways but more thinking due to less automation would be required.

[Barbara Ponder]

That is an excellent shot Barbara. A wonderful moment in time and technically well captured.

It also reminds me of the old saying "only a mother could love that face" but in reverse. Only a child could love that mother.

Thanks Dan! Yes, beautiful creatures they are not but I suppose to another Mandrill she is something to behold.

[Barbara Ponder]

If you use Aperture Priority in this situation in combination with Auto ISO that also determines the minimum shutter speed, you can accomplish all of your goals with regard to depth of field and stopping the action. You could accomplish the same goals other ways but more thinking due to less automation would be required.

I am not sure I am understanding this right now. I had very little sleep last night so I am headed for bed. Tomorrow I will revisit this as I like the sounds of this for future difficult situations. I know I must sounded very photography challenged and indeed I feel that way at times. All the jargon that goes along with it can just overwhelm me so I sit back and take in a little at a time. My brain just does not think in technology......

[Mike Buckley]

Indeed, the jargon can be overwhelming. Just ask about it once your mind is fresh if you don't understand how to determine whether combining Aperture Priority with Auto ISO might be a good fit for you. I use it for 99% of my handheld shooting because it automatically provides the lowest possible ISO that allows me to meet my requirement for both the aperture setting and the minimum shutter speed.

[deetheturk]

Lovely capture Barbara!

[Barbara Ponder]

Lovely capture Barbara!

Thanks David!