My Photography 'Skillz'

I just logged on to my Flickr account - something that happens once in a blue moon - to see if Nina had posted up any pictures of lunch at 'Satay Junction' (which Kim has done; pics coming up soon!). There was 1 new message in my Flickr Inbox, so I clicked on it, and received an extremely pleasant surprise:

"One of your photos has been short-listed for inclusion in the tenth edition of our Schmap New York Guide, to be published early April 2010." :O

The picture they have in mind is the one below:
I used it in one of my blog entries last year.

I don't even think it's a particularly good picture. I just had a look at other members' pictures of the Apple Store on 5th Ave, and some of them put mine to shame. Plus, I used a mere point and shoot camera!

I suspect the lady in the tight blue dress with the rockin' bod did it for them. Thank you, mysterious lady!

But it does feel good to be acknowledged for excellence, especially when it concerns something that you personally strive to be good at. I've gained a genuine interest in photography as of late. In fact, I'm taking a photography class next semester. Will be exposed to the secrets of the darkroom, usage of mysterious red light, etc... I've also hinted to told my mom that I'd like my first DSLR camera for this year's birthday. Have been talking to people who own professional cameras, and there seems to be a very clear divide between those who advocate Canon and those who prefer Nikon. Some of these peeps have pretty fierce brand loyalty, and they'll try to convert you to 'Canionity' or 'Nikonism'! I remain torn, but I'm sure that when I hold the one that's right for me, I'll know it.