Guest Post – Mike Fiveson Winner of the First DLR Competition

As the lucky winner in the first Digital Lightroom competition I have since received and downloaded my prize, Topaz B&W Effects 2. While I have some knowledge about using photo software, I will tell you that this software is special.

What I like best about it is its intuitive nature which makes it really good for guys like me who like to jump in without much study required. When I do need to look at the manual, it is easy to understand and written without pretense.

Attached are two photos to illustrate what can be done with Topaz in a matter of minutes.

As you can see, right out of the camera this picture is poorly lit, and would require manipulation to make it, at best, a marginal photo..

By using just some of the tools available in Topaz BW effects 2, this photo has taken on more interest, better light, and is rich in texture..

I am very appreciative of the Digital Lightroom’s first contest and I encourage anyone to enter future contests. It is a simple thing to do, there is no cost, it provides exposure and reward, and even old dogs like me can learn new tricks. Especially when there is a treat involved 🙂

Thanks for coming back and guest posting for us Mike.  You can see more of Mike’s work here

Topaz B&W Effects is the second prize in the DLR Photography competition this time but as Mike says, the competition is not just about the prizes.

The idea behind this project is to celebrate the photography we see visiting your blogs every day.  By submitting a photo, if you win, you will receive the recognition of your peers, gain great exposure for your blog and receive one of Topaz’s excellent photo processing packages.

The theme this time is ‘Movement and Motion’.  You can see a summary of the submission guidelines here and the detailed rules of the competition here.

We look forward to seeing your work!

The Digital Lightroom Team.