DSLR Camera Guys (2 Viewers)

[Jojo the circus boy]

Great info thanks, thought that might be the case. I can't find body only though, at adorama. And I need the camera by Thursday, before I go back to Hawaii. I'm in LA now, btw.

Adorama is heavily back/ordered on both D7000 kits & body-only - and is guesstimating a 2-3 month wait for this item

Sonny - Have you looked at the Canon 60D? I don't mean to start a Canon/Nikon war as both make excellent cameras, but if you don't have any investment into Nikon lens system then you should take a look at the Canon 60D. Popular Photography mag did a test between the two and they opt for the Canon. They claim the Canon has higher resolution, one stop better noise control and focuses slightly faster. Just thought I'd throw that option out there as it appears the Nikon D7000 is not going to be available for a couple of months.

I haven't and I am going to the shop now, found a local guy with the D7000. I may take a look at the Canon but I have little time to do so.The guy suggested I get a 300 lens (for surfing shots). I really have no idea what lens I'll be buying, even after reading the info here. Kind of confusing in the end, with all the options/pros/cons.

Anybody have any last minute advice? Also, appreciate ALL the help in here, really, I'll be stoked either way I'm sure. Thanks.

300 is probably the better lens for surfing, I assume you will be at a decent enough distance to warrant the longer range. Maybe look into a monopod that you can stick one end into the sand (let someone else suggest a brand, etc...). You should be able to shoot free hand with a 300, but for sharper easier shots I think a monopod would help.

 

[CrossEyed]

Great info thanks, thought that might be the case. I can't find body only though, at adorama. And I need the camera by Thursday, before I go back to Hawaii. I'm in LA now, btw.

Adorama is heavily back/ordered on both D7000 kits & body-only - and is guesstimating a 2-3 month wait for this item

Sonny - Have you looked at the Canon 60D? I don't mean to start a Canon/Nikon war as both make excellent cameras, but if you don't have any investment into Nikon lens system then you should take a look at the Canon 60D. Popular Photography mag did a test between the two and they opt for the Canon. They claim the Canon has higher resolution, one stop better noise control and focuses slightly faster. Just thought I'd throw that option out there as it appears the Nikon D7000 is not going to be available for a couple of months.

I haven't and I am going to the shop now, found a local guy with the D7000. I may take a look at the Canon but I have little time to do so.The guy suggested I get a 300 lens (for surfing shots). I really have no idea what lens I'll be buying, even after reading the info here. Kind of confusing in the end, with all the options/pros/cons.

Anybody have any last minute advice? Also, appreciate ALL the help in here, really, I'll be stoked either way I'm sure. Thanks.

I'm assuming he means the 70-300 VR. I can't compare it to others, but I can tell you that I've gotten some nice shots with mine. It's fast, pretty sharp, and the VR is a must-have for zoom lenses.

 

[Jefferson the Caregiver]

Sonny, just make sure you get the 70-300 VR, if you don't get the VR, the lens sucks.

Pair that up with the kit lens and I think you will be in good shape for a while.

 

[Buddy Ball 2K3]

I currently have a Panny Lumix PS and love it. I am looking to get into the bigger boys at some point.

Any thoughts on the Lumix Gh2?

 

[Sonny Lubick Blowup Doll]

Yeah, VR, I knew/read enough to know that's a must...

 

[guderian]

I don't recall if we talked about software in here, but it seems that Photoshop Elements is the way to go for an amateur?

 

[HellToupee]

I currently have a Panny Lumix PS and love it. I am looking to get into the bigger boys at some point.

Any thoughts on the Lumix Gh2?

I have had a few Panny Lumix's & have been really pleased with themfor the micro 4/3 I'd go with the Olympus over the Panasonic because the Oly has the IS built in the body where the Panny doesn't

http://www.olympusamerica.com/cpg_section/...asp?section=pen

 

[scottybo]

Ok, so I got the Canon T2i Refurb + the Sigma 50-200mm DC OS HSM. I will live with this for now to start and eventually sell the Sigma in favor of the Canon 75-300 IS USM once I get more accustomed to a dSLR.

 

[CrossEyed]

Anyone have or used the new Nikon 28-300 VR? I think this has jumped over the 18-200 VR on my list of "hope to have one day" lenses. Other than a prime or maybe a really wide, I can't imagine having a need for any other lens.

 

[Jojo the circus boy]

Anyone have or used the new Nikon 28-300 VR? I think this has jumped over the 18-200 VR on my list of "hope to have one day" lenses. Other than a prime or maybe a really wide, I can't imagine having a need for any other lens.

Ken Rockwell reviewLooks like the 18-200 VR still trumps it for travel due to weight.

He keeps mentioning it is great for FX cameras and not so great for DX cameras (distorts too much I believe requiring you to fix in photoshop).

It also costs about 2x as much as the 70-300.

I guess if you don't already own the 18-200 or the 70-300 it might make a good purchase (I own both though).

 

[CrossEyed]

Anyone have or used the new Nikon 28-300 VR? I think this has jumped over the 18-200 VR on my list of "hope to have one day" lenses. Other than a prime or maybe a really wide, I can't imagine having a need for any other lens.

Ken Rockwell reviewLooks like the 18-200 VR still trumps it for travel due to weight.

He keeps mentioning it is great for FX cameras and not so great for DX cameras (distorts too much I believe requiring you to fix in photoshop).

It also costs about 2x as much as the 70-300.

I guess if you don't already own the 18-200 or the 70-300 it might make a good purchase (I own both though).

As an FX and 35mm film lens, I am reviewing it as such. It works great on DX cameras, but it's a silly focal length range for them.

Any idea why he might feel this way?

 

[Jojo the circus boy]

Anyone have or used the new Nikon 28-300 VR? I think this has jumped over the 18-200 VR on my list of "hope to have one day" lenses. Other than a prime or maybe a really wide, I can't imagine having a need for any other lens.

Ken Rockwell reviewLooks like the 18-200 VR still trumps it for travel due to weight.

He keeps mentioning it is great for FX cameras and not so great for DX cameras (distorts too much I believe requiring you to fix in photoshop).

It also costs about 2x as much as the 70-300.

I guess if you don't already own the 18-200 or the 70-300 it might make a good purchase (I own both though).

As an FX and 35mm film lens, I am reviewing it as such. It works great on DX cameras, but it's a silly focal length range for them.

Any idea why he might feel this way?

I assume because since it only goes down to 28mm you miss out on the wide angle which is pretty key. So a 28mm is actually a 42mm lens (in 35mm film equivalent or 1.5x 28mm) whereas an 18mm = 27mm (film equivalent) which is why the 28mm lower end of the zoom range makes sense for 35mm film lenses.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/35_mm_equivalent_focal_length

 

[Jayded]

Does anyone have recommendations for CF (Compact Flash) cards you've used and liked that don't cost an arm and a leg?

I recently sold my XSi and am upgrading to a 50D, requiring the change in memory. I'm thinking 16 or 32 gig initially to start and once I get a few gigs booked and certain income coming in, I'll go buy the more expensive card(s). Is there a speed at which it will just be painful? I'm looking at a few 233x cards that should do the job unless that's too slow.

 

[Lehigh98]

Ok, fellas. Heading to Disney for the first time with the kids and need to make sure the gear is ready.

Listing this out here part as inventory for me to think through but mostly for comments / suggestions.

After looking back at some of the older Disney-related posts I think I definitely want to rent a 18-200 as well for "walking around".

Where would be the best place to rent one from for a Disney trip? Mail order or are there reliable shops down there?

Here's what I have:

Canon Digital Rebel XT 8MP Digital SLR Camera

EF-S 18-55mm f3.5-5.6 Lens

EF-S 55-250mm f/4.0-5.6 IS Lens

EF 50mm f/1.8 I Lens

Speedlite 430EX II Flash

Old Sony DCR-HC96 MiniDV 3.3MP Digital Handycam

Oldish Flip UltraHD Video Camera - Black, 8 GB, 2 Hours (2nd Gen)

Here's what I'm going to pick up for the trip:

Lowepro SlingShot 202 AW

Lowepro Bottle Bag (Black)

Dedicated (Bayonet) Lens Hood, for Canon EF-S USM 18-55mm

Dedicated (Bayonet) Lens Hood, for Canon EF 75-300mm

Lens Cap Keeper / Holder for ANY SLR or DSLR CAMERA

TWO BATTERY And CHARGER For CANON Digital Rebel XT Xti

SLR Rainsleeve

Rent a Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS

- SHould I also purchase / rent a hood or filter for this or will the ones on my other lenses fit?

Not sure if I should upgrade my video capabilities from my old (widescreen but non-HD) handycam and 2nd Gen Flipcam.

Did you guys shoot much video at Disney? What did you use? What would you suggest? (cheap, I need to pay for the trip too)

Any comments / suggestions for something else on what I plan to pick up?

Other suggestions for things to take along to capture as many magical moments with the kids as possible?

TIA!

 

[CrossEyed]

Ok, fellas. Heading to Disney for the first time with the kids and need to make sure the gear is ready.

Listing this out here part as inventory for me to think through but mostly for comments / suggestions.

After looking back at some of the older Disney-related posts I think I definitely want to rent a 18-200 as well for "walking around".

Where would be the best place to rent one from for a Disney trip? Mail order or are there reliable shops down there?

Here's what I have:

Canon Digital Rebel XT 8MP Digital SLR Camera

EF-S 18-55mm f3.5-5.6 Lens

EF-S 55-250mm f/4.0-5.6 IS Lens

EF 50mm f/1.8 I Lens

Speedlite 430EX II Flash

Old Sony DCR-HC96 MiniDV 3.3MP Digital Handycam

Oldish Flip UltraHD Video Camera - Black, 8 GB, 2 Hours (2nd Gen)

Here's what I'm going to pick up for the trip:

Lowepro SlingShot 202 AW

Lowepro Bottle Bag (Black)

Dedicated (Bayonet) Lens Hood, for Canon EF-S USM 18-55mm

Dedicated (Bayonet) Lens Hood, for Canon EF 75-300mm

Lens Cap Keeper / Holder for ANY SLR or DSLR CAMERA

TWO BATTERY And CHARGER For CANON Digital Rebel XT Xti

SLR Rainsleeve

Rent a Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS

- SHould I also purchase / rent a hood or filter for this or will the ones on my other lenses fit?

Not sure if I should upgrade my video capabilities from my old (widescreen but non-HD) handycam and 2nd Gen Flipcam.

Did you guys shoot much video at Disney? What did you use? What would you suggest? (cheap, I need to pay for the trip too)

Any comments / suggestions for something else on what I plan to pick up?

Other suggestions for things to take along to capture as many magical moments with the kids as possible?

TIA!

This is just me talking, but if I was taking the 18-200 I sure wouldn't be carrying 3 additional lenses around with me.I love my Lowepro slingshot, I think that's a good purchase for a Disney trip.

 

[Lehigh98]

Ok, fellas. Heading to Disney for the first time with the kids and need to make sure the gear is ready.

Listing this out here part as inventory for me to think through but mostly for comments / suggestions.

After looking back at some of the older Disney-related posts I think I definitely want to rent a 18-200 as well for "walking around".

Where would be the best place to rent one from for a Disney trip? Mail order or are there reliable shops down there?

Here's what I have:

Canon Digital Rebel XT 8MP Digital SLR Camera

EF-S 18-55mm f3.5-5.6 Lens

EF-S 55-250mm f/4.0-5.6 IS Lens

EF 50mm f/1.8 I Lens

Speedlite 430EX II Flash

Old Sony DCR-HC96 MiniDV 3.3MP Digital Handycam

Oldish Flip UltraHD Video Camera - Black, 8 GB, 2 Hours (2nd Gen)

Here's what I'm going to pick up for the trip:

Lowepro SlingShot 202 AW

Lowepro Bottle Bag (Black)

Dedicated (Bayonet) Lens Hood, for Canon EF-S USM 18-55mm

Dedicated (Bayonet) Lens Hood, for Canon EF 75-300mm

Lens Cap Keeper / Holder for ANY SLR or DSLR CAMERA

TWO BATTERY And CHARGER For CANON Digital Rebel XT Xti

SLR Rainsleeve

Rent a Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS

- SHould I also purchase / rent a hood or filter for this or will the ones on my other lenses fit?

Not sure if I should upgrade my video capabilities from my old (widescreen but non-HD) handycam and 2nd Gen Flipcam.

Did you guys shoot much video at Disney? What did you use? What would you suggest? (cheap, I need to pay for the trip too)

Any comments / suggestions for something else on what I plan to pick up?

Other suggestions for things to take along to capture as many magical moments with the kids as possible?

TIA!

This is just me talking, but if I was taking the 18-200 I sure wouldn't be carrying 3 additional lenses around with me.I love my Lowepro slingshot, I think that's a good purchase for a Disney trip.

Right, would probably drop at least the kit lens, and not sure how much 250 gets me over 200 either.

 

[ODoyleRules]

Ok, fellas. Heading to Disney for the first time with the kids and need to make sure the gear is ready.

Listing this out here part as inventory for me to think through but mostly for comments / suggestions.

After looking back at some of the older Disney-related posts I think I definitely want to rent a 18-200 as well for "walking around".

Where would be the best place to rent one from for a Disney trip? Mail order or are there reliable shops down there?

Here's what I have:

Canon Digital Rebel XT 8MP Digital SLR Camera

EF-S 18-55mm f3.5-5.6 Lens

EF-S 55-250mm f/4.0-5.6 IS Lens

EF 50mm f/1.8 I Lens

Speedlite 430EX II Flash

Old Sony DCR-HC96 MiniDV 3.3MP Digital Handycam

Oldish Flip UltraHD Video Camera - Black, 8 GB, 2 Hours (2nd Gen)

Here's what I'm going to pick up for the trip:

Lowepro SlingShot 202 AW

Lowepro Bottle Bag (Black)

Dedicated (Bayonet) Lens Hood, for Canon EF-S USM 18-55mm

Dedicated (Bayonet) Lens Hood, for Canon EF 75-300mm

Lens Cap Keeper / Holder for ANY SLR or DSLR CAMERA

TWO BATTERY And CHARGER For CANON Digital Rebel XT Xti

SLR Rainsleeve

Rent a Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS

- SHould I also purchase / rent a hood or filter for this or will the ones on my other lenses fit?

Not sure if I should upgrade my video capabilities from my old (widescreen but non-HD) handycam and 2nd Gen Flipcam.

Did you guys shoot much video at Disney? What did you use? What would you suggest? (cheap, I need to pay for the trip too)

Any comments / suggestions for something else on what I plan to pick up?

Other suggestions for things to take along to capture as many magical moments with the kids as possible?

TIA!

Less is more. I'd ditch the 50mm and the external flash, since you'll have good outdoor light for 90% of the pictures. You may want to think about a small tripod if you plan on doing any fireworks pictures (need exposure time of 1 to 3 seconds)

 

[sho nuff]

Agreed with those above...if you had the 18-200...I don't think the 250 is going to give you much more that you would want to carry it around too.

And not sure how often you would even use the external flash while there.

Odoyle makes the great point of the small tripod.

Im looking into one of the flexible ones for my next trip. Something I can have near me attached to a rail or something to get better fireworks shots or night shots.

Im headed there in June...Im hoping to have the 18-200 lense by then. Will be with the slingshot bag as well. And the small tripod.

and the extra battery (though, I don't remember coming close to running out at any time during a day while I was there last trip.

This trip will be more important to me to have the 18-200 lense. Last one my father was with me and he usually had the 55-250 on his during the Nemo and Lion King shows (and some other things) while I had the kit lense on getting the wider shots. Worked out well to get both types of shots between us to share. This time, its just me and I don't want to be switching out the lenses in the dark during a show.

 

[CrossEyed]

I got a Gorillapod for Christmas. Haven't been able to use it yet, but I would think it would be a good thing to take on a Disney trip.

ETA: If you get a tripod, invest in a wireless remote also.

 

[sho nuff]

I got a Gorillapod for Christmas. Haven't been able to use it yet, but I would think it would be a good thing to take on a Disney trip.

ETA: If you get a tripod, invest in a wireless remote also.

Yeah, that is what I am going for as far as a trip to Disney.

 

[Lehigh98]

Ok, fellas. Heading to Disney for the first time with the kids and need to make sure the gear is ready.

Listing this out here part as inventory for me to think through but mostly for comments / suggestions.

After looking back at some of the older Disney-related posts I think I definitely want to rent a 18-200 as well for "walking around".

Where would be the best place to rent one from for a Disney trip? Mail order or are there reliable shops down there?

Here's what I have:

Canon Digital Rebel XT 8MP Digital SLR Camera

EF-S 18-55mm f3.5-5.6 Lens

Canon EOS Rebel T2i 18 MP CMOS APS-C Digital SLR Camera

EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS

EF-S 55-250mm f/4.0-5.6 IS Lens

EF 50mm f/1.8 I Lens

Speedlite 430EX II Flash

Old Sony DCR-HC96 MiniDV 3.3MP Digital Handycam

Oldish Flip UltraHD Video Camera - Black, 8 GB, 2 Hours (2nd Gen)

Here's what I'm going to pick up for the trip:

Lowepro SlingShot 202 AW

Lowepro Bottle Bag (Black)

Dedicated (Bayonet) Lens Hood, for Canon EF-S USM 18-55mm

Dedicated (Bayonet) Lens Hood, for Canon EF 75-300mm

Lens Cap Keeper / Holder for ANY SLR or DSLR CAMERA

TWO BATTERY And CHARGER For CANON Digital Rebel XT Xti

SLR Rainsleeve

Rent a Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS

- SHould I also purchase / rent a hood or filter for this or will the ones on my other lenses fit?

Not sure if I should upgrade my video capabilities from my old (widescreen but non-HD) handycam and 2nd Gen Flipcam.

Did you guys shoot much video at Disney? What did you use? What would you suggest? (cheap, I need to pay for the trip too)

Any comments / suggestions for something else on what I plan to pick up?

Other suggestions for things to take along to capture as many magical moments with the kids as possible?

TIA!

Update: Just pulled the trigger on a refurbished T2i through the Canon loyalty program for $543 shipped.The trip just got more expensive before we even got on the plane.

Hopefully I made a chunk of that back selling the XT and accessories.

Was just thinking about how we bought our first digital right AFTER our honeymoon (2002) and we were kicking ourselves that all our pics were on a crappy film camera. Figured I'd upgrade sometime soon and better to do it before the trip this time than after. Actually used that first digital (Canon SD400) for the trade in (-$128).

Anyway, what's the best way to come up to speed on shooting with the T2i (or improve my DSLR shooting in general) quickly before this trip? Wanted to take a class at our local camera shop but can't make the 2 that are scheduled before the trip. Are there any online tutorials or DVD's you'd recommend? If not, how about a book that would help? TIA!

Also, any recommendations for the best value in SDHC cards?

Best place to buy extra knock-off batteries and a charger?

 

[Jefferson the Caregiver]

Anyway, what's the best way to come up to speed on shooting with the T2i (or improve my DSLR shooting in general) quickly before this trip? Wanted to take a class at our local camera shop but can't make the 2 that are scheduled before the trip. Are there any online tutorials or DVD's you'd recommend? If not, how about a book that would help? TIA!

Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson is a good read

 

[HellToupee]

Also, any recommendations for the best value in SDHC cards?

Best place to buy extra knock-off batteries and a charger?

I've been using Transcend cards from amazon for a couple of years now. A few months ago I switched from the class 6 to class 10's. Great value for the $

 

[ODoyleRules]

Anyway, what's the best way to come up to speed on shooting with the T2i (or improve my DSLR shooting in general) quickly before this trip? Wanted to take a class at our local camera shop but can't make the 2 that are scheduled before the trip. Are there any online tutorials or DVD's you'd recommend? If not, how about a book that would help? TIA!

Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson is a good read

Good suggestion. Congrats on the new camera - I can't picture the learning curve being that significant between the XT and the T2i. I will cheat by exploring others Flickr pictures and see what settings they used (to the right of the picture, click on the camera model and it will bring up all the EXIF data). As I recall for our Disney trip, I left the camera on Auto or Program the whole time. I was more concerned with getting the right expression on my kids' face than optimizing the F-stop.

 

[AcerFC]

Came in here to check when I bought the camera. Of course it's just over a year ago

When i put the camera on, sometimes it registers no aperture. Has anyone else ever had this problem. Really hoping it doesn't take a ton of cash to fix. Doest matter what mode it's in. Last couple of times I have taken a picture and the aperture pops on after that

 

[bradf35]

Came in here to check when I bought the camera. Of course it's just over a year agoWhen i put the camera on, sometimes it registers no aperture. Has anyone else ever had this problem. Really hoping it doesn't take a ton of cash to fix. Doest matter what mode it's in. Last couple of times I have taken a picture and the aperture pops on after that

It sounds to me like the issue is with the lens if I had to guess. The aperture blades can stick in the lens sometimes causing problems. This could also just be the contact from the lens to the camera. You might try to clean both of the contacts to see if that helps. If that doesn't work and no one else can help you you might try to post at www.fredmiranda.com. There is a lot of great info over there.

 

[AcerFC]

Thanks Brad F. I took the lens off and recontacted and I have not had a problem since

 

[CrossEyed]

Given the uncertainty of things in Japan, I went ahead and ordered the Nikon 18-200 VR. Not sure if the disruptions over there will result in shortages and/or price increases. I'll be sure to post some thoughts after I get a chance to shoot with it.

 

[The Z Machine]

I'm a total newb to DSL stuff.

Questions:

1) Do I need a DSLR and macro lens in order to resolve details around 0.010", or will a good point and shoot do the trick?

2) Is it worth getting a new DSLR camera or is buying used an option? What about used lenses?

3) What's the difference between an entry level DSLR and a mid level DSLR?

4) Do all DSLRs shoot in HDR and RAW?

Thanks!

 

[The Ref]

Guys - The wife is looking for a DSLR, and I Agreed to buy her a used one. I'd like something basic that isn't going to cost a fortune. Any recomindations?

 

[BoltBacker]

I'm a total newb to DSL stuff.Questions:1) Do I need a DSLR and macro lens in order to resolve details around 0.010", or will a good point and shoot do the trick?2) Is it worth getting a new DSLR camera or is buying used an option? What about used lenses?3) What's the difference between an entry level DSLR and a mid level DSLR?4) Do all DSLRs shoot in HDR and RAW?Thanks!

I'm just a hobbyist but I do some photography for work as well.1) I'm one of the few people I know that made the switch to DSLR but still use my point-and-shoot quite a bit so I may be a little biased. If you have a lot of light you can get surprisingly good results with a P&S in most situations. A DSLR is better of course but it's a price/performance issue. Keep in mind there are a ton of DSLR accessories available that will help you take better macro photos beyond just the capability of the camera and lens. But again, that keeps adding to the bill as well.2) For the most part I've only read great things about buying used equipment but I've opted to purchase refurbished from the original manufacturer. Be careful though because sometimes the refurb "deals" aren't really noticeably better than buying new. There are some gems of a deal when there are additional discounts on refurb equipment at the Canon direct store for instance. Another interesting option is renting lenses for specific shooting events.3) Build quality and a few features. I'm really of the opinion you should start thinking about your purchase from the other end though. For instance you stated you had an interest in macro photography. Research some of the better macro lenses out there. I almost pulled the trigger on the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM last week when they had 10% off their refurbs and it sounds like it would be an excellent option for you. It's not the model with image stabilization but for the most part you'll want to use a tripod for macro work anyway and you can save hundreds of dollars on the non-IS model. It's a very well reviewed lens and it may be useful for you for the next decade or more... and will hold it's value much better than a camera body. I'd suggest finding the best lens you can afford to get the type of shots you want and then choose the camera body to use with that lens with the budget that's left over. Keep in mind you may also want to invest in some equipment like a good tripod that allows low shooting angles and possibly lighting that will give you excellent macro results. Even the accessories will hold their value longer than the camera body over the years so it's my thought to be economical when thinking about the actual camera body.4) To the best of my knowledge all DSLR's shoot in RAW and auto-bracket photos. DSLR's are sophisticated mobile computers but I'd still prefer to play with HDR in a stand alone program on a real computer though. I wouldn't care if in camera HDR was a feature or not. It's kind of like "digital zoom", a "feature" that's best left well after the photo has been taken imo. It's a fun hobby and is more accessible than ever right now. The DLSR camera bodies are very economical but if you don't have good lenses I'm not sure it's worth making the jump... assuming you can shoot with good light. The current crop of P&S's are really amazing but they are still limited in terms of sensor size and relatively slow lenses so lighting can be a challenge. Best of luck!

 

[BoltBacker]

Guys - The wife is looking for a DSLR, and I Agreed to buy her a used one. I'd like something basic that isn't going to cost a fortune. Any recomindations?

Sony and Canon both have some very good refurb deals on the camera with a kit lens. Here's an example..."Sony Alpha A330 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera (REFURB) w/ 18-55 Lens $299.99 Free Shipping, Mar. 20 12 PM Sony Style has the Refurbished Sony Alpha A330 10.2MP SLR Digital Camera w/ 18-55 Lens for a low $299.99 Free Shipping (see final price in cart). Tax in Most.The Sony Alpha A330 features a tiltable and extending 2.7" LCD w/ Live View; in-camera image stabilization via sensor shift technology means that your lens don't need to have IS built-in. The added bayonet mount is also taken from Minolta's design, so you can actually use some Minolta lens off eBay (Be sure to check compatibilities)."

 

[BoltBacker]

Given the uncertainty of things in Japan, I went ahead and ordered the Nikon 18-200 VR. Not sure if the disruptions over there will result in shortages and/or price increases. I'll be sure to post some thoughts after I get a chance to shoot with it.

Probably a wise play. Anyone else notice a sharp rise in price on lenses starting even before the earthquake? Is it because of the dollar being weak? General inflation?I've been trying to save my pennies to purchase a Canon EF 135mm f/2.0L USM and am starting to wonder if I should pull the trigger before the price of lenses creep even higher.

 

[CrossEyed]

Given the uncertainty of things in Japan, I went ahead and ordered the Nikon 18-200 VR. Not sure if the disruptions over there will result in shortages and/or price increases. I'll be sure to post some thoughts after I get a chance to shoot with it.

BTW, I ordered this from WorcesterElectronics through Amazon on Friday and it arrived yesterday (although I need to go to the PO today and pick it up). Pretty impressive response time.

 

[Jefferson the Caregiver]

I'm a total newb to DSL stuff.Questions:4) Do all DSLRs shoot in HDR and RAW?Thanks!

I would have to say that almost all DSLRs have the capability to shoot RAW at this point, but I haven't really researched it.For HDR, you just want a camera that can bracket shots. If your camera can shoot at least 3 shots simultaneously, you can do HDR with those exposures. You can even do HDR with a single RAW file if you had too. Ideally though for HDR, a tripod is the best way to go and then it doesn't even matter if your camera brackets or not. About 5 exposures is the best way to do HDR but if your camera does not have the ability to bracket those simultaneously, then you will need a tripod.Also you need another program like Photomatix or Topaz to assist you with the HDR conversions.

 

[The Ref]

Guys - The wife is looking for a DSLR, and I Agreed to buy her a used one. I'd like something basic that isn't going to cost a fortune. Any recomindations?

Sony and Canon both have some very good refurb deals on the camera with a kit lens. Here's an example..."Sony Alpha A330 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera (REFURB) w/ 18-55 Lens $299.99 Free Shipping, Mar. 20 12 PMSony Style has the Refurbished Sony Alpha A330 10.2MP SLR Digital Camera w/ 18-55 Lens for a low $299.99 Free Shipping (see final price in cart). Tax in Most.The Sony Alpha A330 features a tiltable and extending 2.7" LCD w/ Live View; in-camera image stabilization via sensor shift technology means that your lens don't need to have IS built-in. The added bayonet mount is also taken from Minolta's design, so you can actually use some Minolta lens off eBay (Be sure to check compatibilities)."

Thanks! Edit: The wife has a new camera in the mail. I'm going to make her wait till next month for her Birthday though.

 

[ODoyleRules]

I just ordered a Neutral Density filter before a Northern Calif vacation where I'd like to experiment with long exposure shots. Do these filters stack? or should I take off the lens UV protection filter when I shoot with the ND filter? Any other things to consider when doing waterfall/ocean pictures?

 

[CrossEyed]

I'm a total newb to DSL stuff.

Questions:

4) Do all DSLRs shoot in HDR and RAW?

Thanks!

I would have to say that almost all DSLRs have the capability to shoot RAW at this point, but I haven't really researched it.For HDR, you just want a camera that can bracket shots. If your camera can shoot at least 3 shots simultaneously, you can do HDR with those exposures. You can even do HDR with a single RAW file if you had too. Ideally though for HDR, a tripod is the best way to go and then it doesn't even matter if your camera brackets or not. About 5 exposures is the best way to do HDR but if your camera does not have the ability to bracket those simultaneously, then you will need a tripod.

Also you need another program like Photmatix or Topaz to assist you with the HDR conversions.

Yep, I have the Topaz Labs plugin that works in Aperture. Does a nice job for relatively quick and easy HDR.Sample 1

Sample 2

Sample 3

 

[BoltBacker]

Guys - The wife is looking for a DSLR, and I Agreed to buy her a used one. I'd like something basic that isn't going to cost a fortune. Any recomindations?

Sony and Canon both have some very good refurb deals on the camera with a kit lens. Here's an example..."Sony Alpha A330 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera (REFURB) w/ 18-55 Lens $299.99 Free Shipping, Mar. 20 12 PMSony Style has the Refurbished Sony Alpha A330 10.2MP SLR Digital Camera w/ 18-55 Lens for a low $299.99 Free Shipping (see final price in cart). Tax in Most.The Sony Alpha A330 features a tiltable and extending 2.7" LCD w/ Live View; in-camera image stabilization via sensor shift technology means that your lens don't need to have IS built-in. The added bayonet mount is also taken from Minolta's design, so you can actually use some Minolta lens off eBay (Be sure to check compatibilities)."

Thanks! Edit: The wife has a new camera in the mail. I'm going to make her wait till next month for her Birthday though.

No problem. There are also a ton of small inexpensive accessories that can make using a dslr a blast so you might also consider checking a few of those out. They include a circular polarizer, camera bag, tripod, monopod, rubber lens hood, flash, hot shoe cable, quick-release or a ball head for the tri/monpod, grip, second battery, shutter release, and a million more. Some of these can be VERY expensive but you can find things that work for now for very little $ and upgrade the accessories that she uses most at a later time. Some of this stuff only costs about $5-$15 and works very well in my experience. Watch shipping costs on some of the cheapest items though... often they charge as much for shipping as they do the item itself.

 

[BoltBacker]

I just ordered a Neutral Density filter before a Northern Calif vacation where I'd like to experiment with long exposure shots. Do these filters stack? or should I take off the lens UV protection filter when I shoot with the ND filter? Any other things to consider when doing waterfall/ocean pictures?

Even if you could stack them I'd worry a little about flair. Some people like flair though. It would seem to me that the ND Filter would be protecting the lens already making the protection filter redundant, no?Three very inexpensive things I might consider around waterfalls are these items...http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000PTFDYOhttp://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002BL10QO(check the size before buying for your specific lens)http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0029Z9QIQ Depends on your situation, but when I took a late spring trip to Yosemite one time I was not prepared for the amount of mist in the air around some of the waterfalls. At that time I didn't have a dslr but I wouldn't make that trip again without at least having those things.

 

[ODoyleRules]

I just ordered a Neutral Density filter before a Northern Calif vacation where I'd like to experiment with long exposure shots. Do these filters stack? or should I take off the lens UV protection filter when I shoot with the ND filter? Any other things to consider when doing waterfall/ocean pictures?

Even if you could stack them I'd worry a little about flair. Some people like flair though. It would seem to me that the ND Filter would be protecting the lens already making the protection filter redundant, no?Three very inexpensive things I might consider around waterfalls are these items...http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000PTFDYOhttp://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002BL10QO(check the size before buying for your specific lens)http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0029Z9QIQ Depends on your situation, but when I took a late spring trip to Yosemite one time I was not prepared for the amount of mist in the air around some of the waterfalls. At that time I didn't have a dslr but I wouldn't make that trip again without at least having those things.

Good info. My question on the ND filter was trying to save time. Popping the ND filter on/off would be easier than doing replace with UV filter and that's why I was asking. Now that I got the lens, I realize that it will take me 2 seconds to figure this out for myself. Thanks for the info on the other gear. I've added the lens cloth to my cart already - that's a really good idea. On the lens hood, I've seen other people use these but I've never really observed any noticeable glare in any of my pictures. Do I just have a bad eye for this, or does lens glare pop up only in certain situations? I generally like to minimize the amount of stuff on the camera, as I like to be able to just grab the camera and fire away without too much thinking. For $5-6, I guess I should just give a try.

 

[CrossEyed]

With my new 18-200 lens, would you guys recommend getting a circular polarizing filter? Or should I just put on a good coated UV filter for some added protection and forget about the polarizer?

 

[BoltBacker]

Good info. My question on the ND filter was trying to save time. Popping the ND filter on/off would be easier than doing replace with UV filter and that's why I was asking. Now that I got the lens, I realize that it will take me 2 seconds to figure this out for myself. Thanks for the info on the other gear. I've added the lens cloth to my cart already - that's a really good idea. On the lens hood, I've seen other people use these but I've never really observed any noticeable glare in any of my pictures. Do I just have a bad eye for this, or does lens glare pop up only in certain situations? I generally like to minimize the amount of stuff on the camera, as I like to be able to just grab the camera and fire away without too much thinking. For $5-6, I guess I should just give a try.

I often use the lens hood as protection from more than just light hitting the lens. For instance when I've been in a few waterfall situations you'd be amazed about the amount of mist that's just wafting around in the air. The long lens hood allows you to put that plastic cover entirely over the lens but keeps the top of the plastic from drooping into the field of view the lens. I like having the cone of protection on the lens when there's all sorts of small stuff flying in the air when it's dry and windy. Plus, I'm a little paranoid about bumping my lenses against things(one reason I hate wearing my DSLR around my neck) and just the little bit of rubber around the end of the lens makes me feel just s little better. You'd be amazed how much it articulates and it's extremely light. In my experience the filters have screwed into these types of hoods pretty nicely. To each their own, just explaining why I like to use them.BTW the great thing about that particular style of micro-fiber cloth is it retracts into the neoprene holder and the cloth itself stays pretty dry. It also has a little plastic hook to attach it to a handy place on your bag/jacket/clothes so it's conveniently available when shooting. I had just a cloth originally and still use that at home but found the one linked much more handy when out shooting photos.

 

[BoltBacker]

With my new 18-200 lens, would you guys recommend getting a circular polarizing filter?

I live on an island where there are plenty of lakes so I get a great deal of use out of the polarizing filter, but in many other situations even if you weren't getting glare off water/windows/etc I still think it makes the sky look better. You could probably do the same thing in photoshop later but it's a pretty simple step to just use the filter and save yourself that much work in front of the computer later. You seem pretty capable with computer editing your photos so it may not be quite as useful to you as some other people.

 

[Parmcat]

Man am I pissed right off.

Just got back from a week in San Diego with the family. Had plans to see a lot of stuff, the Zoo, Sea World etc, and had rented a 100-400 for the week. On the morning of the second day, my Canon 40D started showing ERR99. I have seen this before, and it cleared up when I cleaned the contactas on the lens.

Not this time.

It looks like my shutter is shot. I will send it in to be sure, but the timing couldn't have been worse.

Never did get to mount the 100-400 either....

Crappy!

 

[Sarnoff]

 

[Don Quixote]

I've been looking for the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX Nikkor Lens. Best Buy, Adomara, etc. all show out of stock. Does anyone know if Nikon stopped manufacturing this lens, or know of another reason it might be out of stock everywhere? TIA.

 

[CrossEyed]

I've been looking for the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX Nikkor Lens. Best Buy, Adomara, etc. all show out of stock. Does anyone know if Nikon stopped manufacturing this lens, or know of another reason it might be out of stock everywhere? TIA.

I bought one of these last June from Amazon for $197. They have 4 available through Amazon right now, but they are $364. ETA: There is one merchant on Amazon selling them for $299.

 

[Don Quixote]

I've been looking for the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX Nikkor Lens. Best Buy, Adomara, etc. all show out of stock. Does anyone know if Nikon stopped manufacturing this lens, or know of another reason it might be out of stock everywhere? TIA.

I bought one of these last June from Amazon for $197. They have 4 available through Amazon right now, but they are $364. ETA: There is one merchant on Amazon selling them for $299.

Yeah, I saw Amazon had a few in stock, but was hoping to avoid paying $364 for it. Maybe I will check out the other merchant, or just put in a back order for it at Adorama or B&H (although their price is still much higher than the suggested price of $199 too). I guess I should have bought last year when it was selling at that price.ETA: BTW, do you like the lens, and think it's still worth getting at a ~$280 price? The reviews that I read of it were pretty good, but a lot of comments were that it's a great lens for the price (presumably referring to the $200 price). I'm fairly new to DSLRs, so just have the 18-55 kit and a 55-200, and, based on reviews, it seemed like a good one to get.

 

[Jojo the circus boy]

If you are looking for an awesome low light lens: http://www.adorama.com/US%20%20%20%20434781.html

http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/5014af.htm