Photographing something different was a bit of a challenge - after all I already take copious photos of nature, buildings, street scenes, art etc - what was left? The two things that sprang to mind were wildlife and portraits. I discounted the first, as until I get my new camera I can’t really get photos of anything except at fairly close range, and decided on the latter. Next problem how to find someone to pose, I somehow didn’t think my husband or son (home from uni for the weekend) were likely to be willing guineapigs.

Fortunately yesterday was a non-working day for me and I had invited a friend to lunch. I managed to persuade her to have her photo taken. After initial reluctance she really got into it and was so pleased with some of the results that she is planning to send a few to her daughter who is currently working in South Africa - she also very kindly said I could post some of them on the blog.

We started off with her posing, albeit in a relaxed fashion over a glass of wine, at the kitchen table - this clearly wasn't going too work too well - see below!

although in many ways this is an attractive photo - I don't really feel any connection with my friend's personality

So I decided to continue chatting and snapping and eventually she seemed able to ignore the camera as I walked round her to get shots at different angles - we were both pleased with the results and then spent some time processing them.

I would be really interested in having your feedback re which version of this shot works best!

When it was time for her to leave we walked back to her car (we can’t bring cars to the house at present in case they get stuck in the snow) and took some outdoor shots. Again I tried the ‘chatting and snapping technique’ and am pleased with the results

Again I'd really love to know which one you prefer!

I've really enjoyed this assignment and experimenting a bit more with photoshop - I also can't wait to find more willing subjects for portraits!