For several months my compact camera has intermittently malfunctioned in several ways. One of the irritating features was when I pressed the zoom function it started video recording instead. On my recent walk in Shrewsbury the zoom function failed completely.

I take pleasure in photographing what I see when I am out and about and although I have my larger ‘mirrorless’ camera that is not convenient on every adventure.

I was reluctant to choose the same make camera that had failed, it is the second that has failed me and Mr C’s camera of the same make (and model) recently stopped functioning properly. I settled on a Canon G7X MkII and searched for the cheapest option from a reputable supplier. I was surprised to find a kit including the camera, memory card and flexible mini tripod had recently been reduced. It was cheaper than buying the camera on its own. A bargain not to be missed!

My planned afternoon walk in the sunshine testing out my camera didn’t go according to plan, I ended up with a quick walk along a local pathway as the sun was setting. I am happy with the quality of the images and I am reminded why I always loved Canon cameras.

I now have to get to grips with the menu system so I can fine tune my photographic ideas.

Today was a day to remember and re-learn photography techniques. The day was; enjoyable, productive, informative and tiring. I have the notes from the course and my additional notes, written up after I got home. I am pleased with some of my photo results, which were quite different from what I usually achieve in similar situations.

The course also covered aspects of nature and thirds, which reminded me of conversations with a friend of mine.

I had a great day

Thank you Panasonic for the money off offer (plus the software) when I purchased my camera and thank you Paul for such an informative course, I will be joining you on part 2 soon

There are four types of leaders:

The best leader is indistinguishable

from the will of those who selected her.

The next best leader enjoys the love

and praise of the people.

The poor leader rules through coercion and fear.

And the worst leader is a tyrant despised

by the multitudes who are the victims of his power.

What a world of difference among these leaders!
—
In the last two types, what is done

is without sincerity or trust – only coercion.

In the second type, there is harmony

between the leader and the people.

In the first type, whatever is done happens

so naturally that no one presumes to take the credit!

Verse 17 from the Ralph Alan Dale translation 2002