Just joined the forum and thought I'd share a little of my photography experience. Even though I took photography courses and did some of my own B&W darkroom work in college (early 1980's), I was mostly a point and shoot snapshot gal until we bought a cabin in Colorado in 2009. With all the wildlife literally walking up to my door, my interest in photography was renewed and I bought a DSLR (Canon XSi). I took refresher courses on the basics and now find myself signing up for photography tours and going places specifically for taking photographs. My main interests are wildlife, landscape and macro (to the extent I can manage without a macro lens).
This forum looks like a great resource and I look forward to participating and also getting feedback on my photos. It's really difficult to self evaluate when you are still learning what to look for. Thanks so much to the people who provide this great place to share ideas and learn!