Hi Ay6810, yeah Panorama4 is very user friendly, showed a few people at work and they were very impressed. One guy had just recently paid $60 to have 3 shots stitched at a photo shop and he was really pissed that I did similar in about 3 minutes, even more so when I told him I would do it for free.
As for tips on macro, I am a very green novice mate, only bought a set of close-up filters cuz I didn't know if it would be my thing but so far I like it, want to get a better macro lens.
I find using a tripod is a bit bothersome so I am trying a monopod, less legs to worry about allows you to get in closer and instead of continually shifting the tripod, you can gently pivot in and out a tiny bit to get sharp focus. So far it seems to be the way to go for me especially when you get little critters that keep moving. When we meet on the outing you can have a try with my stuff. It may not suit you but at least you won't have to waste money to find out.
Did you know the kids playing in the park? There is a lot of stuff in the media here in Oz about people taking pictures of kids without parental permission.
I teach, so dun want to have anything to do with them after hours in my own time.:bsmilie::bsmilie: though the ones I teach are much older.
Have taken some photos of friends kids and it is nice to see the pics you have taken printed
and up on their walls when you go around to visit
Looking forward to meeting you soon, keep shooting.:thumbsup: