A little early in the year to think about Farmers Markets in the midwest, but they’re prevalent in other parts of the country – and offer a great opportunity for pictures with lots of different colors and textures.

These pictures were taken during a driving trip out west last year, specifically at the Farmers Market in San Francisco on Fisherman’s Wharf.

Using close ups on the various types of produce can create vibrant colors that stand on their own, but also display well in a collection. Lighting conditions on this day were varied, with some of the produce in bright sunlight (requiring a shutter speed of 1/1000 second at f/11 using ISO 200), while others were in the shade requiring a much slower shutter speed – as slow as 1/20 second.

I was able to shoot at such a slow speed without a tripod because I was using a lens with vibration control (Tamron 28-300 mm VC). I love this lens because it is so versatile. If I can only carry a single lens, it’s this one. I always feel comfortable that I’ll be able to handle any lighting condition with a great choice of focal lengths.