DA Photo Contest Forum / Photography / Equipment

Some equip for sale, 20d, 90mm macro, 70-300 IS, 28-135IS

Zeke Smith — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 06:06:36 GMT

Hey guys, I'm upgrading some of my stuff and am selling off what's being upgraded. I have a Canon 20d (near mint, just some brassing on hotshoe - ~6k clicks), Tamron 90mm Macro (1:1) and a Canon 70-300 f4-5.6 IS (great lens). All are in excellent shape. I'd like to get $450 for the 20d, and the lenses I'm still up in the air on. If you're interested let me know.

I forgot about the 28-135 IS that came with my 40d kit. Also selling that.

F-- "error" on Nikon D80!!!!!!

Jorge — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 09:54:54 GMT

I have a question regarding the Nikon D80; nine is a fairly new equipment and recently I have started to experiment a problem since the F-- reading appears on the on display even when the lens is clicked on!!!! This sign is supposed to indicate that there si no lense in the camera or that the attached lense is not CPU. Just by giving a slight extra turn to the lens solves the problem, but, of course, is something that should not be happening. I have read some blogs and apparently the problem is not so uncommon. Many people say it can be dirt in the connectors, and others say it is because the Nikkor 18-135 lense is of not good quality. In any case, I wanted to know if anybody has experimented the same problem with a Nikkon (I have read it happens also with D70's and D60's) and what have you done about it... Thank you for your help, Jorge.

Photography Room

diamondskier — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 10:42:36 GMT

Our son has just moved out and I get his room (that sure sounds strange)! This means I go from having a 8 x 12 room that also has backpacking gear, weight machine, and a grow light setup for my tomatoes to a essentially empty 13 x 15 room. Yippee!!!

So my question is since I'm starting from scratch is there anything I should consider doing to the room? It's in the basement, has an 8' white ceiling, a viewout 3x5 window and cream colored walls with flat paint.

I didn't know if the room mattered so I thought I'd ask and see if any of you had any suggestions.

Thanks,

Kathleen

Switching

Nc16 — Thu, 22 May 2008 10:14:14 GMT

Howz it going everyone. I have been using the Canon Rebel XT(350D) for about a year now. I love the camera and I currently have the sigma 17-70mm, Tamron 70-300 Macro, and also the Canon 50mm 1.8II.

I have been looking to see if I should switch cameras. The reason I want to switch camera (body) is because I want a faster fps, and maybe higher quality(mega pixel). The most exciting point about switching is to switch to a brand that has anti-shake, VR... etc...

I have looked at the Sony A300 even the A350 but like the A300 more for my needs.

So I would like to hear some of the suggestions out there, or maybe someone in Dailyawards has had the experience of switching brands of DSLR, what do you think? I actually would love to switch to Canon 40D but budget is a problem for me. If you happen to have Facebook it would be great if you can add me: nelnel_16@hotmail.com. I would love to meet others who love/ are into photography too.

Thank you in advance,

Have a fabulous day,

Nelson

Telephoto zooms

Nc16 — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 10:13:44 GMT

Hey all, does anyone own the Canon 55-250mm IS lens?

Any opinions from anyone? (quality of the lens, image quality, IS function etc etc...)

Any alternatives or recommendations?
I currently own the Tamron 70-300 Di and Canon 75-300 II, got the Canon in a cheap deal together with another lens. So far I like the Canon better (especially the CA factors), Tamron's color is a bit better maybe. Photo in following link is taken with the Canon without hood http://www.dailyawards.com/image_viewer.aspx?Encryption=Yes&ImageID=VOGOYsdi5YQ%253d

I have read the review below, if anyone is here to see some facts about the lens:D?

http://www.photozone.de/Reviews/Canon%20EOS%20Lens%20Tests/45-canon-eos-aps-c/194-canon-ef-s-55-250mm-f4-56-is-test-report--review

Thank you everyone,
Nelson

Can anyone help, problem here

Nc16 — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 04:41:22 GMT

Hey everyone, I hope everyone is enjoying their photography.

I would like to ask if anyone has ever wiped their (focus screen?) which is where the reflection mirror flips up to when a shot is begin exposed?

I wiped that with a micro fiber cloth and now when I press to change the AF points on my 350D/rebel XT, some of the points don't show up very clearly as a point or very faint compared to before.
Please help.

I would like to know if it's very hard to fix because if it is the focus screen I know a friend that put a focus screen helper on his camera so he can focus a shot much easier. Instead of bringing it to Canon, there's a cost to bring it for an estimate.

Thanks all,
Nelson

Suggestions Please!!

Shannon — Tue, 27 May 2008 04:40:35 GMT

Hey Guys,I am Shannon.I am a newbie in phtotography and need to start with a nice digital camera which I can use for point and shoot..Also it should have features that will be useful for me once I get a good hand on photography.My budget is between £200 to £300.Also I would prefer Canon.I need to choose out of this list.Can you please suggest me a good cam?Also I read the reviews for some but was unable to decide anything..Any advice would be appreciated..

Thanks in advance..

http://www.checkcost.co.uk/digital-cameras/c/4368/mid/68/minp/200/maxp/300/

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/default.asp?view=alpha

Canon's new DSLR

Rocket — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 15:49:03 GMT

In case anyone is interested Canon have announced a new DSLR available July 2008.

The 1000D

http://www.eos-magazine.com/EOS%20system%20folder/EOS%20system/Digital%20cameras/EOS%201000D/keyfeaturesa.html

Sorry its not the replacement for the 5D yet.

Cheers

Ron

edited to fix link

Nikon D40 lens suggestions

lover1969 — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 06:58:12 GMT

Hello everyone!

I need some suggestions on lens for my Nikon D40. I currently have two lens that I like but I can't seem to get those close-up shots without having to actually get really close-up. I would love to take some macro shots of bees but I don't feel like getting stung. If you know what I mean.

Here are the lens that I currently have:

AF-S Nikkor 55-200mm 1:4-5.6G ED

AF-S MICRO Nikkor 105mm 1:2.8G ED

I was looking at the AF MICRO Nikkor 200mm F/4D IF-ED until I saw the price for this lens. Holy cow!!!! That lens doesn't fit in my budget.

I hope someone can offer me some advice on purchasing some lens that will allow me to zoom closer for macro shots. Thanks. :)

Poll on switching

Nc16 — Thu, 22 May 2008 10:20:52 GMT

If you have any suggestions on combination of lens, or other suggestions, please feel free to reply on the Switching post.

Thanks all

Has anyone used the new nikon 3d

User2603 — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:42:55 GMT

I am looking into buying a new camera and was just wondering if anyone has used the new nikon 3D. The hype for it is out of this world and was wondering if its as good as everyone says. Ill basically be using it for studio portraits and the occasional wedding. Thanks for the help

nikon D40x DSLR versus point and shoot!

Kyles :) — Sun, 18 May 2008 18:02:29 GMT

:D My friend lent me his DSLR Nikon D40X last night for a few days to see if I like it............. I can't believe how clear the images are!!! I'm so excited!!! ANd that was just taking few pics around my house at night!!! He has the Nikkor 18-200mm lens. I"m drooling!!! it beats my poor Olympus C770 4Mp by far!!!

I hope to try out a few shots and post some to see if there is big difference. I'm definitely saving up for this little baby!!!:hehe:

I've heard that Tamron have a similar lens that is just as good and bit cheaper so I might buy the Nikon D40x body only and get that lens......:hehe: :P :D :) How exciting!!!! I even dreamt that I my job was as a photographer!!!

Photoshop

DFish — Tue, 13 May 2008 03:36:21 GMT

Does anyone know a reputable place where I can 'afford' to but photoshop? I've been working with the software provided with my camera and it is pretty good, but starting to give my computer some problems. I'd like to get the photoshop CS3 but when I look it up on the web, it's $600 to $650. I can neither justify nor afford that.

Epson 1400 Printer

Rocket — Tue, 06 May 2008 13:41:21 GMT

Does anyone have a continuous ink system for this type of printer or similar?

I am thinking of buying one and would like to know how they perform. (the ink system not the printer)

I usually try to use genuine ink cartridges wherever possible.

Wherever I try to purchase the cartridges for the 1400, the stores seem to be out of stock of one particular colour. The multipack that should be available is always out of stock too. Thats why I am looking at the continuous ink system and just wondered if anyone had any comments good or bad.

Cheers

Ron

DLSR Twin lens kits

Kyles :) — Thu, 01 May 2008 19:17:53 GMT

Are the lenses you get with the Kits worth anything? I've heard that its better value to get the body only then buy the kits - but I was overwhealmed by how many lenses there were and which ones to buy!

I would prefer an all-rounder along with one to do portraits. I also like macro shots.

I'm still saving for my DSLR - been doing a lot of research on the net, reading reviews etc...

I'm down to Nikon or Canon.... Prob the Nikon D40X or Canon 400d - not concrete yet...

The nikon comes with 18-55 and 55-200mm lenses. Then I discovered that you can get VR lenses etc. Are these lenses any good better to get body only?

I dont' have lots of cash to spare, but then again I do want to improve my photography. I want something to improve with - dont need top of range yet! LOL :)

my 4MP camera is getting old and sad and having trouble focusing once I've zoomed in a little.

Where do I start??? The more I read the more I not sure what to go for.

I look at DPreview and sometimes CNET, or just google the camera model and reviews...

Thanks heaps:w00t:

Nikon D2x

bhasmang — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 09:19:40 GMT

Hey Guys, I have a question, I am getting Nikon D2x at a very reasonable price, should I go for it? I mean how is the camera? Which lenses can be attatched to it? This will be my first DSLR if I buy it, so please advise.:cool:

Canon 450D

Rocket — Thu, 01 May 2008 10:36:35 GMT

Well I got it.

I am now the proud owner of a Canon 450D and a

Canon 24-105mm F4 L IS USM.

The lens cost more than the Camera but after taking advise and listening to comments here about the quality of the glass being paramount, I finally went and got one. When I upgrade the 450D at least I will have a lens to keep. (My investment for the future)

Cheers

Ron

Does anyone

Tonka — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 14:50:44 GMT

have any inspiring words that might spark the desire to use my tripod?

:crazy::Whistling:

1D MK III users

Stefon Linton — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 20:51:27 GMT

I need help.....I have recently purchased a 1D MK III, and after several practice sessions, I seem to be struggling with the auto focus capabilities of this camera. After using a 5D for the past year, I stepped up to the 1D MK III. A high number of my initial images captured with the MK III have been out of focus. I have selected the centre point as my main focal point, hit the shutter button half way, and then captured the image. Upon downloading, I find the image not entirely in focus. I have read the manual, several times, but I was wondering if anybody has some advice or tips, regarding this fine camera.

Tripod

LAC — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 09:08:57 GMT

Can you all recommend a good travel tripod? One that is 'packable'?

Thanks.

Monitor Calibration and Ambient Light

hahn23 — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 07:27:17 GMT

[color="indigo"]The last time I calibrated my monitor was sometime back in November. Just went through the calibration process again this morning and found that my monitor had shifted somehow off the optimum settings. Don't know how or why this happened. And, the shift wasn't dramatic, but it was significant.

Why is this important? When I process images on my monitor, I assume others will view my images on their monitors in the same way. So, if my monitor is off, then that assumption is wrong.

In a perfect world, everyone's monitor would be calibrated in the same way. That's not going to happen, is it? So, about all we can do is calibrate our own monitors on a monthly basis with the hope we are hitting the middle of the range of all calibrations.

Along these same lines, monitors can display images in a dramatically different way depending on whether viewed in a dimly lit room or a room with lots of bright daylight. The condition of the ambient light might be just as big a factor as monitor calibration.

Does anyone need help in calibrating their monitor[/color]?

New 40D great but have a question..

thedude — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 14:49:41 GMT

I just got the Canon 40D. i upgraded from a Rebel xt and all i have to say is wow. the screen the functions on it are awsome so easy to use. the only thing i cant figure out is it seems that i have to have the iso up to like 1,000 for the shot to be rightly light. i have a 50mm 1.4 and even on 1.4 inside my house i have to have it on at least 1,000 iso on or the shutter speed will only go up to 30 on P. i do not understand it, i am going to play around with it some more and if i can not figure it out maybe call canon up. any suggestions on this?

Canon 40d or 400d

Jacky vdM — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 04:08:21 GMT

Help out please guys.

So the Rebel will be the 400d? But the 40d is more expensive, is it then a better SLR than the 400d? I know I have a lot of reading and research waiting for me, but I'm starting to do that irritating thing we call a budget plan. A friend of mine bought the 400d, it came standard on a special with the 18-55mm lens, I'm trying to rather figure out a way to get at least more lenses with the initial buy, seeing that it will be cheaper from me to order from the USA than buying here in SA, so I'll rather pay one time shipping costs.

Has anyone ever done business with digicombos.com ? As far as I've been searching, their prices, especially the combo packages, seems to be the best deal / bargain.

And need I remind you guys again, that the dollar to rand conversion is NOT A JOKE? At this stage it is about R7-00 to the dollar. NOT FUNNY.:P

My first DSLR!!!!!!!!!!

Jorge — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 20:18:17 GMT

Maybe this is of not much interest to the members, but I am so happy I needed to shout it out loud!!!!!! Today I drew (like an old western heroe in a duel) my credit card and crossed the bridge towards my first DSLR. Now I feel nostalgic for my old camera, but as well very happy for my new purchase: A Nikon 40x. Yes I know, Canon fans, one being myself, cannot feel but a little guilty to have switched to a competitor brand, but the bargain was so good I just had to take it. I know this won't make me a better photographer, but it makes me a happier one. So if anybody has any comments on this new equipment, I will feel glad to hear them. Now that I shared my happiness, it just remains for me to wish everybody all the best. Jorge.:)

Free Software

Rocket — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 14:21:14 GMT

Hi all, just to let everyone know that the latest version of GIMP Version 2.4.5 is available for free download at

http://www.download.com/GIMP/3000-2192_4-10073935.html?tag=pop.feed&subj=GIMP&part=rss&promo=415&tag=nl.e415&cval=DL-Dispatch-DBU-Fri&ctype=25

This is a usefull image editing package with lots of functions.

Cheers,

Ron

Home Studio : Lighting

Jacky vdM — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 04:51:59 GMT

Help please!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I have bought a light similar to these, for some reason, today, nothing seems to work - the light is just to hard and harsh, I can't seem to get it directed properly. Yesterday evening it worked 100%

[IMG]http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t200/dJHvdM/Home_Studio_Lights.jpg[/IMG]

My background and walls are pure white linen sheets. I don't know anymore, maybe I'm just too tired today, maybe my camera settings are not right. I only shoot studio shots on aperture priority.

These lights are extremely hot, so I cannot diffuse it with sheets too close to it, I'm trying to get around the problem without buying extra stuff (budget running low)

HELP PRETTY PRETTY PLEASE, with a SHERRY ON TOP (pun intended, I need something stronger than a cherry)

The wild outdoors

Tonka — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 10:36:39 GMT

Okay so lets say a friend wants to start taking pictures...the wild outdoor piccies..

on horseback...............

Just starting in photography but quite smart and a quick learner........

would need high magnification..........sometimes.....

and obviously "shock proof" transport via saddlebags....

Would one be able to lets say..ummm....use like a Canon XT or XTi or comparable,
and be able to accomplish this...

and has anyone seen the scope attachment thingys in Cabelas..?

Okay I just thought I would ask about this type of photography..I was sure that there might be one or two of you mountain men or women who might know a thing or two...

Thanks for any info or thoughts.

Canon 450D

Rocket — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 13:27:30 GMT

I have noticed that the Canon UK has changed the launch date for the 450D from march to april on the Canon UK website http://www.canon.co.uk/For_Home/Product_Finder/Cameras/Digital_SLR/EOS_450D/index.asp

I guess I will have to wait a bit longer now.

Neutral Density Filters

freeflower — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 06:28:05 GMT

I've noticed that Richard uses neutral density filters quite frequently. When do you decide to use one, and what strength is required for use? I have some from an old film camera but never had much experience with them. Are they a good investment?

dumb*...uhh...tripods

Tonka — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 15:10:35 GMT

Okay,

I realize that a new lens will not be in my future anytime soon as I was looking at them today...portrait or landscape..

anyway, though I shouldn't have, I picked up a tripod today. :(....lol...

Does anyone have the Slik pro series Able 300 DX?

if so , do you like it?...if not, do you not like it?

Just curious...

I am hoping that it will ease my pain with using a stupid tripod :)
thanks.

Trouble in Paradise - HELP

Glynn — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 05:16:55 GMT

This question concerns my Canon 100mm f2.8 macro lens. The front end is 58mm - it came(obviously) with lens cap attached. However I now find that the 58mm lens cap is ever so slightly too big. Also no 58mm filters can be attached. What I think has happened is this. I bought a third party macro ring light and tried it on for size. I've got a feeling that some sort of sleeve has been left attached to the front threads of the camera - yet it has proved impossible to remove, and I'm fearful of using any more force than I have.

I am hoping that one of you who owns this lens can either confirm or refute that an extra piece is attached to my lens. Here is a photo of

the lens. Now should the lens end at the flanged area (1) making the bit between 1 & 2 additional - or what?

The Canon-Pentax-Panasonic-Canon Purchase Odyssey

Stormhaven — Sun, 17 Feb 2008 15:11:59 GMT

You might remember (if you care to) that I was planning to "upgrade" from my old Canon S3 IS to a DSLR. I bought a Pentax K100d. I wasn't satisfied with the quality of pics (IMO, not as good as the S3 IS), so I sold it on Ebay, and went back to a prosumer. This time I bought a Panasonic FZ18. The quality of the pics was horrible. Way inferior to the old Canon. What to do? My wife was getting fed up with my camera-hopping. Well, today I bought (again) another Canon S3 IS and the improvement is dramatic. It just "shows to go ya" that moving up might be moving down.

Sometimes you have to change girlfriends a few times to know which one you really love.

For the type of photography I enjoy, the Canon is the "girl" for me.

Olympus FE-210

FDPHOTO — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 21:50:24 GMT

My wife is interested in purchasing the Olympus FE-210 7.1 MP. I was just curious as to anyone else who has this camera, is it a good camera?? bad?? User Friendly??

Thanks for any info..

LumiQuest Soft Screen Diffuser

oboy — Sun, 10 Feb 2008 07:18:51 GMT

Is anyone using the LumiQuest Soft Screen Diffuser? How good is it? Does it work with a Canon 10D?
http://www.lumiquest.com/softscreen.htm

New Canon 450D

Rocket — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 15:32:28 GMT

Canon have announced a new DSLR due for launch march 08

Its main features are listed below with a link to canon europe website

The EOS 450D blends uncompromising performance with ease of use in a lightweight, ergonomic body. Capture your world with a 12.2 Megapixel CMOS sensor and the very latest Canon technologies.

Features
12.2 MP CMOS sensor 3.5fps 9-point wide-area AF EOS Integrated Cleaning System 3.0” LCD with Live View mode DIGIC III processor Large, bright viewfinder Total image control Compact and lightweight Compatible with EF/EF-S lenses and EX Speedlites

http://www.canon.co.uk/For_Home/Product_Finder/Cameras/Digital_SLR/EOS_450D/index.asp

Now we have to keep an eye open for the replacement for the 5D

Cheers

Ron

Edited to add below.

Nice to see they have included spot metering in the FOUR metering modes.

(1) Evaluative metering (linked to all AF points)
(2) Partial metering at center (approx. 9% of viewfinder)
(3) Spot metering at center (approx. 4% of viewfinder)
(4) Center weighted average metering

Pentax K100D????

Stormhaven — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 17:05:32 GMT

I want to upgrade to a DSLR, but my funds are very limited. My research suggests that maybe a Pentax K00D would be a good intro camera. Please let me know what you think!

Canon vs Nikon

Kiwi — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 11:10:30 GMT

My friend is buying my Oly E500, which means I will be replacing it with either a Canon or Nikon.
Have had a look at the top 60 photographers. 28 of you use a Canon and 12 use a Nikon. 20 were either unlisted or other.

I was looking at purchasing the Nikon D70, now not so sure.

Equipment update

Glynn — Fri, 21 Dec 2007 05:29:23 GMT

In a previous thread I mentioned acquiring my new camera (Canon 400D +18-55 + Sigma 70-300). I was never happy with the quality of the 400's images - ux problems, so I got a replacement body. Wasn't impressed with that either. So in the end I took all the equipment back, including the lenses and got a credit note.

After a great deal of deliberation, and promises made to the wife I have no hope of fulfilling (but I'll try) I've taken the plunge. My new camera is fabulous - is it possible to know such a thing after only 1 shot - it was for me. I've taken many more since and the IQ is simply outstanding. Its, click, click, click - wow, wow, wow. The camera in question? The Canon 40D.

The choice of lens was the hardest call of all. In the end I went for the following. I may well end up sleeping on the streets in a cardboard box - but by God, I'll be able to get some great shots.

Canon 50mm f1.4

Canon 100mm f2.8 macro

Canon 100-400mm L f4.5/5.6

I'm still wondering whether I've made the right choices (lenswise) - only time will tell. I'm also awaiting delivery of a battery grip, a macro ring light and a set of extension tubes.

I only hope that I can acquit myself as well/better with the new gear as I have with the old.

Photoshop CS3

aurock — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 13:08:37 GMT

I just ordered PS CS3 ... I've never used PS before so I'll be starting from scratch and have a lot of learning to do :w00t: Can anyone recommend a really good helpful book to guide me on my way? I see there are quite a few out there and would appreciate any help in separating the wheat from the chaff :P

Thanks!! :D

FS: Tamron 11-18mm for Canon

Zeke Smith — Fri, 23 Nov 2007 19:23:26 GMT

Hey guys & gals, I'm selling this lens (used it to take my highest rated photos). I'm about to post it on ebay but figured I'd list it here first. Make a great Christmas present for yourselves! Haha...in any case, lens works great, takes great photos and it in great shape. Thanks for looking.

DA Photo Contest Forum / Photography / Equipment

Some equip for sale, 20d, 90mm macro, 70-300 IS, 28-135IS

F-- "error" on Nikon D80!!!!!!

Photography Room

Switching

Telephoto zooms

Can anyone help, problem here

Suggestions Please!!

Canon's new DSLR

Nikon D40 lens suggestions

Poll on switching

Has anyone used the new nikon 3d

nikon D40x DSLR versus point and shoot!

Photoshop

Epson 1400 Printer

DLSR Twin lens kits

Nikon D2x

Canon 450D

Does anyone

1D MK III users

Tripod

Monitor Calibration and Ambient Light

New 40D great but have a question..

Canon 40d or 400d

My first DSLR!!!!!!!!!!

Free Software

Home Studio : Lighting

The wild outdoors

Canon 450D

Neutral Density Filters

dumb*...uhh...tripods

Trouble in Paradise - HELP

The Canon-Pentax-Panasonic-Canon Purchase Odyssey

Olympus FE-210

LumiQuest Soft Screen Diffuser

New Canon 450D

Features

Pentax K100D????

Canon vs Nikon

Equipment update

Photoshop CS3

FS: Tamron 11-18mm for Canon