woof woof says "Hi."

[woof woof]

Hi, woof woof here.

"woof woof" is for "way out of focus" due to my love of shallow dof flower shots and also because I own a lamp in the shape of a dog... as per my avatar pic.

My name is Alan and I'm 52. I retired at the age of 49 (after working in computing, electronics and technology manufacturing) intending to find some volunteering work to do but instead I now spend time looking after a loved one who needs some help.

My life is pretty full but I do get some time for myself and when I do I like to walk in the country side and at the cost. I live in north eastern England and there's s lovely beach that runs from Redcar through to Saltburn and it's one of my favourite places and I'm often there.

Of course I'm into photography and I started shooting at the age of 10 with a Kodak Instamatic and simplicity appeals to me Although I still have my first camera I do own some (sort of) modern kit. I own a 5D and some nice AF lenses and a G1 and a couple of AF lenses and a range of MF lenses. The G1 is my go to camera if the light is ok, usually fitted with a manual Minolta Rokkor prime lens.

I'm also into two seat sports cars and I've had some nice ones ranging from MG's to Porsche, Merc, Jag (not a two seat) and Lotus and I now own a couple of cars including a MK2 MX5, MX5's are probably my favourite cars and I'm on my third. I also enjoy cooking, reading, writing and all of the usual things but mostly I feel privileged and honoured to be able to improve the life of someone I love and that comes first.

Sometimes I don't get time to myself until the early hours so I may post at unusual times...

I'll look forward to you lot telling me how crap my shots are...

[MattR]

Alan,
Welcome! We've already crossed paths here with the lively discussion on M43 - I've noticed it always seems to evoke a lot of emotion in some. Anyway, like you I've owned a variety of cameras over the years from compact to semi pro film SLRs and pointandshoot to now M43 DSLR. I've enjoyed them all. I also used to live in the North East, back in the 90s. I studied Engineering in Newcastle then worked at Hartlepool power station and then for Reyrolle. Now in Australia doing similar stuffn but in the sunshine. Hope you enjoy the site! Matt

[Dave Humphries]

It seems a "Welcome" is overdue to both Alan and Matt.

Consider yourselves welcomed, gentlemen, glad to have you with us.

[woof woof]

Thanks for the welcome guys!