Hey Seoul Sister

Late last week, I did a photo shoot with a photography hobbyist friend of mine, Rodel, and his lovely girlfriend, Joy, to teach me how to use different kinds of photography equipment (external flash, reflectors, the works..). I am planning to buy the basics, and I don't have a clue on what to buy and how to operate them so, I asked them to help me decide and to teach me how to use them.

Since it was on a short notice (and it wasn't a serious shoot), we didn't have the time to cast models. So, where else would you look but inside the comfort of your own home? Hence, we had to ask my skinny-as-a-stick and tall-as-a-pole, little sister to model for us. Okay. So, she's not so little anymore. She's actually thirteen, but too tall for her age. She's really beautiful, in my opinion. And there were way too many times when people (even our fellow Filipinos) thought that she's Korean. She does! And to make matters worse and more confusing, she speaks the Korean language. And no, I'm pretty sure she's not adopted. ;-)

The shoot was planned to be at six in the morning at the Heritage Park in the Tourist Club Area, so we can have the privilege of the beautiful sunrise and the slightly cold temperature. You cannot imagine how Abu Dhabi or the whole Middle East for that matter, can be hot when the clock strikes nine.

Tourist Club Area Skyline at 06:18AM

Pretty Joy :-)

Master Rodel :-)

Ultimate Photographer Love Team: Joy and Rodel

Here are some of my favorite shots without any equipment used. I just relied on natural light and my 18-55mm Kit Lens. For those who do not know what camera I'm using, I shoot with a Nikon D40. :-)

And here are the shots I've taken with the equipment. I really enjoyed using them, so I'll definitely get the external flash, reflector, umbrella, and the rest of the equipment once I've saved enough money.

So, which ones do you prefer? The ones without using any equipment or the ones where I used equipment? I personally prefer both. They both have their own advantages. I guess it would always depend on the situation and the need that has to be met. Right now, I am thinking of buying a Nikon SB-800 AF Speedlight Flash first. But, I'm also wondering if I should buy a new lens before buying the flash, specifically a 50mm f1.8 Nikkor lens or a 24-70mm f2.8, because they're very good for portraiture which is what I'm planning to explore.

Nikon SB-800 AF Speedlight Flash 

50mm f1.8 Nikkor lens

For professional photographers/photography hobbyists like me/pretty much anyone who's had more experience, what can you advise for first-time equipment buyers like me? Is there any particular equipment that you think I should buy? This time, I want to hear from you. :-)

If you missed the part, I've been shooting with a Nikon D40 for almost two years now. And I've never bought a new set of lens for it, because I was quite satisfied with what I get from the 18-55mm Kit Lens. However, I am thinking of investing in good equipment because I want to expand my horizon. I want to learn and try out new things, and I believe that I can still exhaust the capabilities of my camera more than I already have. And besides, it's really really fun to play with what these equipment can offer. Can you imagine how many cool outfit photos I can take with them? ;-)

So, please please please. Your advice will be very much appreciated. Please don't hesitate to leave a comment by clicking the link below this post, or you can always email me: themazuona@gmail.com. Thank you very much! ❤