After reading Hal Stern's latest blog entry on importance of lens filter, I thought I would say a few words about photography   I am not, by any means, an expert in photography.  Although I want to be, I don't have the time for the dedication required to practice photography.

As you all know photography is more of an art than science, but in order for it to become an art, one must learn technology and science behind it first.  I am one of those occasional photo shooter who rely on equipments/technology as much as possible.

I remember somone asking why it is so hard to take good quality photos.  Some experts would say it all depends on type of available light.  Yes, that is true, but I would lean toward the following few resolutions from my limited knowledge:

• drop your bundled lens and buy an expense lens - there is reason why it's expensive.  I purchased Canon 24-105mm f4.0 L IS USM lens for my Canon 400D a couple weeks ago.  It's amazing how the quality of photos improved - trust me
• when you actually press the "shutter release button" to take a photo, you are unknowingly shaking the camera.  IS(Image stabilizer" lens does help here, but the best way to take a photo is to use tripod and release the shutter remotely.
• flash photography is difficult and you can never seem to get it right.  I found something which will dramatically improve your flash mode - Gary Fong's diffuser.  You will be amazed at the result.
  

As suggested by Hal, definitely use lens filter for protection, it's a must.  However, spend a bit more and don't buy the cheap UV filter.  Someone told me taking photos with a cheap UV filter is like shooting thru a dirty window

Photo from APAC GSE FY08 Q1 Meeting - with 24-105mm f4.0L IS USM lens and Gary Fong diffuser