The kindness of (sorta) strangers
- June 9th, 2008
- Posted in Uncategorized
- By Edie
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One of the challenges of my new camera is learning to photograph with a new focal length. The lens I have now is a Tamron 28-80mm, and my little Olympus C7645 had a really good zoom lens. I find myself frustrated at the zoom capability of my camera.
I went to Olmsted Point on Saturday night with the intention of re-photographing this shot; As I tried to get the shot composed, I realised I was not going to be able to zoom in close enough. Frustration blossomed and then bore strange fruit.
I noticed the woman standing next to me had a Canon as well, and before I could stop myself I blurted out “You wouldn’t happen to have a long lens I could borrow, would you?”
I didn’t even have time to be mortified at my temerity. “How long do you need?” was her immediate response. I told her what I was using and what I wanted to do, and she offered her Sigma 28-300. I handed her my lens and put the Sigma on my camera. I looked through the viewfinder and almost squeee’d with delight. This was EXACTLY what I needed.
I introduced myself at one point, and she told me her name was Jennifer, and that she knew my work! She reads Yosemiteblog.com, and apparently reads LittleRedTent.net as well
So Jennifer, pick a picture or two, or at least send me your snailmail address; I need to send you your lens cover at the least.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your trust and generosity.


I am so Happy for you, Edie. You are now learning that you are actually not disappointed with the zoom capabilities of your camera because the camera body itself has “no” zoom abilities. You are frustrated because you have what we lovingly call “lens envy” … the one place where sometimes longer is better
…and Jennifer exemplifies what I love about many Nature photographers and those that belong to FM_NorCal…. it is SO fun to share with others and let them try your different lens or even body just by swapping a CF card. May we all continue to foster good will as we all learn by example. Carry on cutie