I Finally Learned What an F-stop Is

It's the ratio of the focal length of a lens to the diameter of the aperture. In photography, a higher f-stop indicates a smaller aperture, and thus a lower amount of total light gathered. Adjusting the aperture diameter is one of the primary ways a photographer can influence the exposure of the image; it is also key for controlling depth-of-field effects. Anyway I have been continuing to read about how my camera works and wanted to let everyone know.

In the last month, I completed a number of excursions around Spain, and of course brought my camera with me. First was a weekend visit with my friends Sandro (of GOOD SLOP BAD SLOP fame) and Kevin in Madrid. We spent our time trying various cafes, restaurants, and clubs; looking at museums and palaces; and otherwise catching up about life. I tried a fairly decent specialty coffee bar/art gallery and stopped in on a tai chi class in the park. We learned about the Temple of Debod, which was constructed in the 2nd century in Egypt and relocated to Madrid during the 20th century. We visited el Rastro and each bought leather jackets. 😎

This was my first time making it to the capital city, and although I enjoyed myself I don't feel particularly inclined to make it back anytime soon. It was very nice to be surrounded by so many people and to have so much activity, but Madrid to me is lacking any sort of unique cultural history aside from being a central location on the peninsula.

Later, yo hice senderismo with Camilla and Robby near a town called Vélez Blanco. The hike was pretty mild, but more than anything it was rejuvenating to get outside and walk around for a bit. I chatted with a few Spaniards during lunch and they gave me lots of recommendations of foods to try at Mercadona. There are some old cave paintings with this jester kinda guy on the wall; he is a pretty common symbol to see all around town. I left the group for a spell and got a beer in town, where I met a lovely charming retriever (see below).

The main stop on our hike was the castle looking over the town:

Most recently I spent a few days in Granada with my friend Pella. In another hilly city, I elevated my heart rate when exploring the winding and narrow cobblestone roads. Around every other corner it seemed there was someone playing guitar and singing; the guy I photographed had a really warm and silky tone. We walked around la Alhambra and took in the impressive architecture. I bought a really cool coin pouch and Pella and I saw a flamenco show which was intimate and intense, energetic and emotional.

The highlight of this trip for me was the hostel; it was by far the coolest one I have stayed in. Naturally, I didn't get any photos of it. The house had so many plants, decorative tiles and natural light; the employees brought their dogs in to hang out during the day. I met so many kind and open people also traveling through Europe, and it was really nice getting to hear their stories. I spent hours just hanging out in the courtyard playing the lute and sketching, chatting with whoever came by.

During these trips a number of animals came to me in my viewfinder… here they are:

Until next time...