BajaNomad - Wanted: Suggestions for a new digital camera.

Wanted: Suggestions for a new digital camera.

turtleandtoad - 5-28-2007 at 05:33 PM

That's the one. I've got the older version, but they are the same camera. The new XT has a bunch of additional bells and whistles, mainly concerning the camera/computer/printer interface, none of which I need. So if you happen to run across one of the original EOS Digital Rebels at a good price, you may want to go for it. The price is pretty good also, but I did find one for about $500 when I was looking for one for my wife. Didn't buy it though, she decided she wanted my old Olympus Digital instead.

The only problem with the original was a software glitch when in Flash mode. The photos came out way too dark. But the photos could be fixed on your computer easily. I had to have my circuit card replaced after taking the camera on a trip on the Maid of the Mist (don't ask) and the new card didn't have the problem anymore. So even the older ones are capable of being fixed.

But be wary of the "Gray Market" cameras. They are legit cameras, but most are built for the non-English speaking market. They will be programmed in a foreign language and come with an operators manual and software in that same language. I'm not sure if the warranty is even valid on these in the US. This applies to all camreas, not just the Canons.

So if you're shopping on-line, make sure you call them and ask about this.

I also have a couple of additional lens, my favorite is the gyro-stabilized 70-300 Telephoto. Worked great in Yellowstone! No lugging around a tripod for me.

comitan - 5-28-2007 at 05:43 PM

Pompano

Yes buy a quality camera as shown, but also buy one of the small cameras that fit in your pocket, I like the Olympus camedia the lense cover turns it on and protects. They take a picture you will be happy with 85% of the time. When you have an expensive camera you tend to protect it and not have it with you when you need it.

Mas Megas

MrBillM - 5-28-2007 at 05:58 PM

Watching a segment of "It's All Geek to Me" on Discovery Science I was gratified to see something I've said for a long time now. All of this More and More in the Megapixel Race is mostly Un-needed BS.

As a test, they took the same photo at various Megapixel settings, then enlarged and printed the photos in a large (around 14 x 16 format). Among the persons attempting to select in correct order the photos according to the resolution, only one was 100 % correct.

The bottom line recommendation was nothing over 4-5 Megapixels was worthwhile to other than a professional photographer.

Bajafun777 - 5-28-2007 at 05:59 PM

Pompano, if you don't really want to buy new go to this site: stealitback.com they let you bid for what they have. They have all the law enforcement agencies and some other government agencies which includes a lot of towns, airports, shipyards,etc. putting found lost of stolen property on this site to be sold, as they could not find their owners. I bought a laptop and had a friend install my programs, a digital camera that was still new and in the box, a set of Penn golf clubs and bag only paid $59 dollars. They have every brand you can think of but only buy the ones they list as good, as those they are saying work and nothing is wrong with them. I even bought a night scope for $65 dollars that I had priced for almost $400 dollars. Check it out see what you think. I have never gotten anything that did not work or that I was not happy with. Note: sometimes the items are listed new and still in the box. I currently use a Sony CyberShot 12X 6Mega Pixels with a Super Steady Shot and it takes excellent pictures and I need all the help I can get in this area. If you bid wait until the last 5 minutes and post your maximum bid, bid at least $10 over what is currently posted and they go up mostly $2 dollars at a pop so this gives you a little breathing room to get the bid, good camera hunting. Later, bajafun777

Mexitron - 5-28-2007 at 06:10 PM

MrBillM--

Very true about the high pixels being mostly useless...only problem is that the better features usually come on the higher pixel cameras :rolleyes:

Diver - 5-28-2007 at 06:13 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by turtleandtoad
..... my wife .

WIFE ????

When did you and Robin get married ??
I notice her pictures now incorporated in your website.
And you got a new "Toad" !
CONGRATULATIONS !!

.

turtleandtoad - 5-28-2007 at 06:14 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by MrBillM
Watching a segment of "It's All Geek to Me" on Discovery Science I was gratified to see something I've said for a long time now. All of this More and More in the Megapixel Race is mostly Un-needed BS.

As a test, they took the same photo at various Megapixel settings, then enlarged and printed the photos in a large (around 14 x 16 format). Among the persons attempting to select in correct order the photos according to the resolution, only one was 100 % correct.

The bottom line recommendation was nothing over 4-5 Megapixels was worthwhile to other than a professional photographer.

I agree to an extent. Anyone that is just taking photos for standard size prints, or for use on the web doesn't need much above 2 mp.

I've taken photos with my 2.1 mp Olympus D-490 and blown them up to 2 ft by 3 ft and printed them out on a wide format color plotter and they came out great. However, when I did the same shot with my Canon it came out much better. The difference at this level of magnification is obvious; as it is if you're going to be zooming in on a small section of the original photo.

Another thing some people look for is whether you can get RAW data from a camera (I'm one) for better control of the photo with photo software. Most of the smaller cameras don't have this function.

turtleandtoad - 5-28-2007 at 06:22 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Diver

Quote:

Originally posted by turtleandtoad
..... my wife .

WIFE ????

When did you and Robin get married ??
I notice her pictures now incorporated in your website.
And you got a new "Toad" !
CONGRATULATIONS !!

.

Oh, didn't I mention that?

We got married on March 19, while at the Escapee's RV park (Rainbows End) in Livingston, Texas.

Ken Bondy - 5-28-2007 at 06:24 PM

Pompano are you looking for a point-and-shoot digital only or do you want to make the jump into DSLR?? If the latter, you might look at the Nikon D40 and/or D70. I have used the D70 for several years as my workhorse topside camera and I am VERY happy with it.
++Ken++

Roberto - 5-28-2007 at 06:37 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Ken Bondy
Pompano are you looking for a point-and-shoot digital only or do you want to make the jump into DSLR?? If the latter, you might look at the Nikon D40 and/or D70. I have used the D70 for several years as my workhorse topside camera and I am VERY happy with it.
++Ken++

I agree (mostly) with Ken. A D40 is a great choice - small, light, great quality.

The D70 (actually, D70s) is a great camera as well, but getting a little long in the tooth in these days of ultra-rapid changes. I have one, but that's not what I would buy today. If I wanted something a little better than the D40, the D80 is the one I would go for.

A great source of common-sense info site about cameras is Ken Rockwell

[Edited on 5-29-2007 by Roberto]

Ken Bondy - 5-28-2007 at 06:40 PM

Good advice Roberto. I was aware of the D80 but didn't realize it had a lot more features than the D70. Jeez, the world is passing me by.
++Ken++

Roberto - 5-28-2007 at 06:43 PM

As quickly as things happen in the digital photography world, it doesn't take much for the world to pass you by.

Iflyfish - 5-28-2007 at 07:06 PM

Canon PowerShot Digital Camera / Canon CP720 Photo Printer Bundle / New

This is a great camera, 5mp, it is on the site stealitback.com

Iflyfish - 5-28-2007 at 07:08 PM

Mrsfish has had two of these, purchased for four hundred.....this one comes with printer. Great buy.

Thanks for turning us on to the site Bajafun777

Iflyfish

Digital camera

Loretana - 5-28-2007 at 07:22 PM

Pompano,

I heartily second Ken's recommendation for the Nikon series.

I bought a used D-70 on ebay in March for $312.00, camera body only.

All the lenses I have for my monster N-90 fit it beautifully.

Any Nikon, for that matter, will give you the quality results
that I think you're ready for.

Happy shooting!! :dudette:

tripledigitken - 5-28-2007 at 08:01 PM

Pompano,

I agree with Ken regarding the D70S. It is the camera that I am using presently. It isn't too big and heavy. It opens up the entire Nikon Lenses also. The 18-70 kit lense is a great all around lense. The D80 is the replacement and is an improvement over the D70S, the biggest IMO is the 2 1/2" screen, it is very bright.

I think the D80 would be great choice for 1/2 the price of the D200.

I will warn you that lenses are worse than fishing equipment, it becomes a disease buying the darn things.

Ken

Cardon - 5-28-2007 at 08:41 PM

Pompano, I'm using a Nikon D50 with an 18-200 VR lense and I'm very happy with it. I think the Canon Rebel would be a good choice too. Its better to get a cheap SLR body and an expensive lense than get the expensive SLR body with a cheap lense. Here are some pics that I took earlier today at a Memorial Day service here in Salt Lake City with the above combo(the Ken Rockwell site gives the 18-200 VR lense its highest recommendation).

Some civil war reenactors at the service

Hey, I'll toss in some cowgirls too!

Alan - 5-28-2007 at 08:50 PM

A few years ago I bought my wife a Nikon Coolpix and got a Canon Powershot for my daughter. This gave me the unique chance to compare both cameras side by side through real use. The only things comparable between these two cameras were their size and their price! Canon Powershot was the hands down winner.

The shutter release on the Nikon was so delayed you could almost see people age. The Canon's pictures are decidedly clearer and the color more crisp.

We also bought underwater housings for both of these cameras for a Carribean vacation. We found it was really neat to use the video function when shooting underwater. When we played them back we found out that the Canon also records audio whereas the Nikon doesn't.

I understand that that you are more interested in a SLR but based on my side by side comparison with these two cameras and my experience from many years ago comparing my Minolta X-700 to my sister's Canon AE-1, I am now firmly sold on Canon. One other thing to consider is the batteries. My daughter's Powershot uses standard AA's but my wife takes an expensive CR-2 or something strange like that. With all of the different places we go, the ability to use AA's is a strong selling point in my book.

ncampion - 5-28-2007 at 08:55 PM

A good point and shoot for Baja water environment is the Pentax Optio W 20. 7.0 mp, compact and ....WATERPROOF.... A bullet proof little camera that I take everywhere.

I have tried others

The Gull - 5-28-2007 at 08:59 PM

The Rebel XT is the one. Put on a EFS 17-85 zoom and you will be the envy of this world (I did this).

I had used SLR's forever. Minoltas and Nikons SLR's and then switched to Nikon digital. Baaad idea.

The fixed lens pocket types shoot great pictures, but you look like a guy who needs the SLR action and flexibility.

Never go back to a fixed lens.

comparing film to digital

Skipjack Joe - 5-28-2007 at 11:43 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Roberto
A great source of common-sense info site about cameras is Ken Rockwell

[Edited on 5-29-2007 by Roberto]

From the Ken Rockwell site:

"I find that it takes about 25 megapixels to simulate 35mm film."

He further refers you to Arizona Highways, which will not accept digital file submissions for its magazine. It makes this interesting recommendation:

"If you’re planning to switch to a digital camera soon, don’t give up on film just yet. Remember always to back up your digital photographs on film. Even if you have already made the move to digital, consider that today’s best cameras record digital files at a little more than 11 megapixels. But what if, in the near future, the standard moves up to 20 megapixels or higher? If you have backup on film, you can scan your images at a higher resolution. But will your old 11-megapixel files be convertible? We don’t know for sure."

I was happy to find this information as I'm not entirely sold on digital cameras yet. Nothing beats an image from some coffee shop book made from a 4X5 negative. They're immediately recognizable because they stand head and shoulders above anything else.

My research has shown that each camera manufacturer uses their own processor to record the real world and these seem to be significantly different. Unlike film, which could be changed from shooting to shooting, your chosen camera has that built into it. I find that the canon colors more closely match the real world and nikon slightly saturates them. I think the above images show that. The saturation is quite pleasing but look slightly artificial to me (in a good way). I have found these differences to be more important than the features a camera has.

I would recommend the following, Pompano. Fry's lets you purchase any camera with a full refund if returned in 2 weeks. Compare several cameras that interest you using this policy. I did. There may be other ways to actually use cameras without buying one. I don't know. I was surprised to find out how much I disagreed with the recommendations of experts.

P.S the coolpix was/is a great little camera. I loved it's color balance.

Bob and Susan - 5-29-2007 at 05:42 AM

pomp

film is OUT...period

megapixels are everything
software does the rest

size is the most important...as always :lol:

the smallest cameras that fit in you pocket even make movies (.MOV files)
BIG is "old school"

point and shoot...
and the ability to adjust to different enviorments or moods

The Gull - 5-29-2007 at 06:20 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Pompano
The selection criteria is getting narrowed down to these notes:

First, I prefer a digital SLR type, rather than another point and shoot.

Second, after thinking about what I mainly use my camera for, I am compiling a 'needful' list of features that my camera could/should have. My thinking is running along these lines:

Exposure modes.....Auto v.s. manual focus?

Focusing.....again, Auto or Manual.

Metering light....general or selective (like in the centered image ones)..how important?

Power supply....AAA or it's own lithium rechargeable?

Lenses and accessories...probably the most important feature list of all. No cheap lenses! You get what you pay for. But what other systems accessories and integrations with the existing systems and equipment should one look for?

Lastly, I am thinking I am not too old to learn a few new tricks...and I am certainly not young enough to know everything...so I think I might like attending some good lectures or workshops. For everything from basic photography to digital, black & white, landscape, freelance, and so on. Anybody do this?

A little learning goes a long ways. In my case, being dumber than a box of rocks..(my wife's worn-out expression) it all helps.

a) Get both
b) Get both
c) All of them have some degree of "averaging" it is just how. XT has lots of points for the average.
d) For our green freaks on the site, recharge.

BizRate, Shopzilla and PriceGrabber websites do a fantastic job of comparison shopping. I found some great prices and actually bought from some New York and New England dealers. Warning, some of the Rebels are knock-offs - bad. Try Abe's in New England - honest sellers.

Hey Cardon

The Gull - 5-29-2007 at 06:25 AM

For the group in the trees and the woman saluting (great one) were you on AP with manual focus? Or full auto?

Cypress - 5-29-2007 at 07:03 AM

Pompano. Have owned only one, a Kodak DX3700 and it has been pretty much useless, after 3 or 4 pictures the batteries would need recharging. My daughter recommends Pentax, uses 'em at work putting together virtual tours for real estate ads. Not sure about the model #. :spingrin:

Ken Bondy - 5-29-2007 at 07:27 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Pompano
Ken...On the Nikon D80, I like the 2 1/2 inch screen for my eyesight and quick reviews. The 18-70 lens kit looks to be a good one. On becoming a lens junky, I suppose I will become an addict quickly, much like my tackle collection. A note: Nikon is the only major company I have researched so far that keeps the same lens mount throughout it's SLR range. The electronics may not work on the older cameras, but the lenses will still fit.

Pompano
The 18-70 zoom came with the D70 when I bought it. I have found it to be an extremely useful lens, the range is just right. I hardly ever take it off, only for bugs and flowers (I use their wireless closeup kit) and for telephoto stuff. You are right about the mount, I like the new digital lenses (light, lots of electronic bells and whistles) but I have a closet full of Nikon lenses collected over the last 30 years and they all work with the D70.

++Ken++

tripledigitken - 5-29-2007 at 09:32 AM

Pompano,

Here are a few more sellers that I have bought lenses from and are very competitive, and offer good service.

Buydig and B&H. (It seems all the competitive sellers are on the east coast.)

By the way stay with USA waranteed equipment, not grey market or import. No warantee on the grey/import.

Also if you do decide on the Nikon DSLR I would be happy to share my experience with the lenses I have bought and the ones I use the most while in Baja.

By the way you will find out that Nikon vs Canon is much like Ford vs Chevy or any other rivals. Both are very good systems, I just went with Nikon.

Cardon - 5-29-2007 at 09:56 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by The Gull
For the group in the trees and the woman saluting (great one) were you on AP with manual focus? Or full auto?

Gull, I was switching between settings. To see what settings I used for any of the pics- go to my website and put your cursor over any picture and a little box comes up that says "photo info". If you click that it gives you full exif info like exposure,aperture,shutter speed,flash,focal length etc. very useful stuff. Also, there are two thumbs that show up, if you like a picture click the thumbs up, if you don't like it then click thumbs down.

This man being interviewed was one of the speakers. As he was giving his talk he noticed this lady joining the crowd with her walker. He stopped his talk and recognized her as a WWII veteran and gave her a salut and she returned the salut- a touching moment.

It was a great day.
We remembered the dead.

Flags were flown.

And hearts were touched.

Bob and Susan - 5-29-2007 at 10:06 AM

since 1991 nikons are made in thailand...

the reason nikons were the best in the past was not for technology but for the lenses...
and you needed a microscope to see the differance
the mechanicals were actually crummy

"flashing" a nikon was ONLY for others...
it was like wearing a rolex...
and of course time is time

no professional uses film any longer...
only "artists"

"it's NOT the 70's any more"... that time has passed

mtgoat666 - 5-29-2007 at 10:58 AM

Digital rebel is a good camera, but going with an SLR means you'll soon be buying lots of (expensive) extra lenses, and also means you'll be getting a bulky camera (can't fit in pocket).

The Canon G7 (<$600) is Canon's high-end point and shoot, and is a great camera that gives you almost as much creative control as an SLR, but is pocketable. G7 is light years ahead of the Nikon Coolpix you had. G7 has live histogram, which none of the Canon SLRs have yet.

Skipjack Joe - 5-29-2007 at 11:06 AM

This website could be helpful to you. The models that are reviewed have a 'SAMPLES' dropdown menu which allow you to examine and compare images made by one versus another. Note the difference in color rendition between canon and nikon images. Nikon colors have a bit more 'punch' to them. I think I like them a bit more for landscapes.

http://www.dpreview.com/

BigWooo - 5-29-2007 at 11:18 AM

Pompano,

One more thing to look at for comparison: Pentax K10D (although a good deal on a Nikon would be tough to pass up). I just spent weeks talking to camera owners and researching digital SLR's. After a lot of back and forth trying to decide on Nikon or Pentax, I bought the Pentax K10D. I liked the added features along with the way the camera controls were laid out. Might just want to give it a look before you make a final decision. So far I'm really impressed with it.

I also used the above website, really helpful.

[Edited on 5-29-2007 by BigWooo]

tripledigitken - 5-29-2007 at 11:19 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bob and Susan
since 1991 nikons are made in thailand...

I have new Nikon Digital Lenses made in Thailand, China and Japan. The one made in Japan is the most expensive.

Ken

[Edited on 5-29-2007 by tripledigitken]

Bob H - 5-29-2007 at 11:39 AM

I just purchased the Nikon D40 and it should arrive this week. I based my decision after much research and the comments by Ken Rockwell here

http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d40.htm

Purchased the camera with three lens kit on Ebay for $698.00
Includes:
Nikon D40 SLR
Nikon 18-55mm Lens
Nikon 70-300mm Lens
High Resolution Wide Angle Lens
1GB Secure Digital Card
3 piece Filter Set
All aluminum hard case
Medium Soft Case
3 piece cleaning kit with screen protectors
52" Vidpro TT-250 tripod
Hi Speed USB Card Reader/Writer

Can't wait for this to get here.
Bob H

turtleandtoad - 5-29-2007 at 11:47 AM

A word on battery life. This is often overlooked when shopping for a camera, and when a battery life is given it's almost always given for the lowest picture quality settings.

Your best bet on battery life is to ask an owner!

For example, with my Canon Digital EOS Rebel set for the highest quality, and using a gyro-stabilized lens or a flash, I can usually fill up two 512 mb memory cards (about 250+ shots) and still have a little power left on the battery pack. The Canon uses it's own unique (and somewhat pricy) battery pack and I always carry a charged spare.

On the subject of lenses, I totally agree. Some of mine cost twice the cost of the camera!

Oh, and the AE-1 lenses (which I also have a bag full of) are NOT interchangable with the Rebel. It's a totally different mount. And there isn't any "adaptor" out there that will make them fit. That is just a rumor that's been floating around ever since the Rebel came out.

Ken Bondy - 5-29-2007 at 12:06 PM

Bob and Susan your comments are difficult for me to understand. But I have often been accused of being slow. I have embedded some comments [in brackets]:

Quote:

Originally posted by Bob and Susan
since 1991 nikons are made in thailand...[is there something wrong with that?]

the reason nikons were the best in the past was not for technology but for the lenses...
and you needed a microscope to see the differance
the mechanicals were actually crummy [having owned Nikon F3, F5, Nikonos V, Nikonos RS, and Nikon D70 I emphatically disagree with that. What basis do you have for that statement?]

"flashing" a nikon was ONLY for others...[sounds like you have some animus for Nikon products. Is there a reason for that?]
it was like wearing a rolex...
and of course time is time [is that a typo? if not, what does it mean and what relevance does it have to this discussion? Are you saying that all watches read the same time with the same accuracy, and extrapolating that to "all cameras take the same quality pictures"? If so, that's quite a leap.]

no professional uses film any longer...
only "artists" [artists are not professionals? puzzling comment. BTW I know several highly successful professional underwater photographers who still use film exclusively. All generalities are, of course, false, including this one.]

"it's NOT the 70's any more"... that time has passed [also fail to see the relevance of this statement to the current discussion on digital cameras.]

[Edited on 5-29-2007 by Ken Bondy]

Cypress - 5-29-2007 at 12:23 PM

Pompano! I gave you some bad info. My daughter, the digital camera guru, said to go with a HP, 5 meg:px with a memory card. Not sure what all that means , but it's worth knowing. Good Luck.

Roberto - 5-29-2007 at 12:23 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by soulpatch
Ken Rockwell certainly has a strong endorsement for the D40....... although the metering on the 200 seems to have him pretty excited. Sheesh, the more I read the more confusing a decision will be.

Once you are a certain level of quality, things start to get fuzzy. Megapixels are not what make good pictures. And,you can't take a good picture if your camera isn't with you. That's the reason why a camera like the D40 makes so much sense - with it's light weight, small size and reduced price, you are more likely to have it with you when that great picture arrives. The D80 is better (technically), but will non-pros take better pictures because they have it? Doubtful.

Cardon - 5-29-2007 at 01:19 PM

I think all cameras nowadays are good but I would probably limit my choices to Canon or Nikon for these reasons:

1. The 3rd party lense makers like Sigma,Tokina,Tamron make virtually all their lenses to work with Canon or Nikon but very few of their lenses will fit the other brands like Pentax,Olympus, Fuji etc. The cameras may be good but the choices of lenses is limited.
2. If you are out in the field and forget how to make certain adjustments with your camera then chances are someone around will have a Canon/Nikon and can help you get your camera set just right.

Since all cameras now take great pictures I think the best thing to do is go to a camera store and see which camera feels best in your hands.

Paulina - 5-29-2007 at 01:40 PM

I have the Nikon D50, it fits in my hands perfectly. I'm not a digital savy pro, have no idea about most of what was said in this thread, and it seems to work just fine for me. I liked it because it felt like my 35mm that I took too long to give up.

P<*)))><

Roberto - 5-29-2007 at 01:44 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Cardon
Since all cameras now take great pictures I think the best thing to do is go to a camera store and see which camera feels best in your hands.

Mostly, this is true. There are however, some (huge) differences between most SLR-type cameras and high-pixel point-and-shoot cameras.

1. The shooting speed. SLRs are designed around the needs of professional photographers, and can take pictures as fast as you can click (or faster if using continuous shooting). This can make the difference between getting a shot and not.

2. Lens quality, and diversity of same.

mtgoat666 - 5-29-2007 at 02:57 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Pompano
A DSLR camera. As I stated earlier, I prefer a SLR camera with some heft to it and not a shirt-pocket camera, handy as they may be.

And my choices so far from all the great recommendations presented here are these:

1. Nikon D40 & D50, but of the Nikons most likely the D70 w/18-70 zoom

2. Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT w/17-85 Lens

3. Pentax K10D with good zoom lens

I look forward to hefting these cameras w/lenses to see which one I like in my hands the best and then trying them out one by one.

Many thanks...
My camera quiver is becoming stuffed with arrows of good information on what and where to buy.

Suggest you go with Canon or Nikon, as they have the best selection of lenses (mfg and after-market). I don't know the Nikon line very well, but if you go Canon, I suggest you buy body only, and get an "upgrade" to the "kit" lense. The kit lens is a so-so lens. Colors are noticeably better with Canon's better lenses.
Buying a SLR after having a P&S is just the beginning of things you will buy (lenses are like meth, very addictive).

Skipjack Joe - 5-29-2007 at 02:58 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Roberto

Quote:

Originally posted by Cardon
Since all cameras now take great pictures I think the best thing to do is go to a camera store and see which camera feels best in your hands.

... and 3 -> viewfinder.

Most point and lick have no viewfinder. You're supposed to use the LCD screen. No matter how bright the LCD screen you can't see the damn image with the sunlight on it. And who shoots into the sun? The small view finder of the high end point and shoot cameras are almost useless. They're the size of those old brownie instamatics. Composition? - forget it.

This, of course, has nothing to do with your needs, Pompano, as you've already decided on a DSLR.

Bob and Susan - 5-29-2007 at 03:09 PM

ken
true im not the professional you certinally are but...

i've had two nikons both had mechanical problems...
when nikon moved to thailand the "old quality" went away
the cheaper units for the masses started showing up

now they are just overpriced and "running on their reputation" IMHO

they both took the same basic pictures other brands took
i've read many articles on the lenses...

the real skill is from "artists" like you...the photographer
NOT the camera :light:

composition is the key
most don't see it...i guarantee that

susan's rolex was an excellent watch but mostly jewlery...
people NEVER looked at her they looked at the watch
really weird

susan gave it away to our daughter who will use it forever
but...
i've seen many "old timexes" keep the same time...and run and run

i've developed many a picture in the dark room and
if you know guys still using film...they are old, stuck in their ways and "out of touch"
FILM IS DEAD.

the disagreement here is that with todays technology you DO NOT have to have the "old style" SLR's...
you need "meg:pix" and software

do you think the cameras on the SAT's above have big cameras :lol:

small is the future...ask ANY college kid...i have

Skipjack Joe - 5-29-2007 at 03:23 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bob and Susan
do you think the cameras on the SAT's above have big cameras :lol:

small is the future...ask ANY college kid...i have

You mean I have to get rid of mine? :no:

Paulina - 5-29-2007 at 03:27 PM

" You mean I have to get rid of mine? "

No, but you should loose the boots.

P<*)))><

DENNIS - 5-29-2007 at 03:37 PM

Edward Weston could have done more, had he been blind, than anybody else since could do with a camera. Black and white zone system photography wont soon be replaced with digital anything.

Thanks Skipjack.

DENNIS - 5-29-2007 at 03:56 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bob and Susan

i've developed many a picture in the dark room and
if you know guys still using film...they are old, stuck in their ways and "out of touch"
FILM IS DEAD.

Jeezo, Bob ------
How can you say that? I shoot with a 4x5 using excellent optics but, with or without them, the silver image hasn't been duplicated digitally. Not to mention the creative options available in the darkroom after pre-visualization and exposure considerations.
Perhaps , no, probably for sure, the day will come but it isn't here yet. Im getting old, as you mentioned but, I don't want to see the day when the take-over happens although, it won't take away the pleasure I have now doing my own work.
More pixels wont capture the moment and more money won't produce good photography. It's still, as you said, the shooter who is the artist. Ken Bondy's fotos will attest to that.

Bedman - 5-29-2007 at 04:48 PM

Pomp....

http://www.digitalreview.ca/cams/NikonD70versusRebelXT.shtml

Go here and take a look at the "Side by Side" comparison of Rebel XT 350D and the Nikon D70.

Pick and choose the features you like and are important to you. More, is not better if it doesn't do what you want it to.

They are both great cameras. I own a Rebel XT 350D (for the last 10 months) and like it. Lens, Lens, Lens. Get a good one (or 3? )

I still take the little click and shoot when the need rises.

Bedman

Is film based photography dead?

tripledigitken - 5-29-2007 at 05:23 PM

I have recently been to 3 Photographic Art Showings. Here in San Diego and in Taos. I have started asking if the work is digital or film. The vast majority of the pieces turned out to be film based. A few were digital. The consensus was that the richness and depth of color was superior on film, even more so with black and white.

Last year I took a class taught by the local president of the Photoshop User Group. The work this artist does is highly morphed pieces done with Adobe Photoshop. To my surprise, his work was scanned photo's from a 35mm film camera into Photoshop. Again his answer was the superiority of depth of color only film can achieve.

His opinion was that with todays digital media one could not achieve what Ansel Adams did with his old equipment. He wasn't referring to composition either.

I'm not going back to film, but to those perfectionists they won't be trading theirs in either.

Ken

Iflyfish - 5-29-2007 at 05:44 PM

Mrsfish has gone to a Canon EOS 20D, 8mgpxl, with a hard body and 400 zoom lense as well as a few other lenses. Her old Canon point and shoot was a 5mgpxl.

I can tell you that megapixels do matter. She is putting together dvds on her Mac that we play on our 40" plazma and the resolution is stunning. The older camera she was using produced images that would "grain out" with this sort of magnification.

For image making, the Mac is a great way to go. It is hard for me to say this as I am PC, she says she is Apple and I am Apricot.

Mrsfish will take literally hundreds of photos to get just a few and the digital allows for ease in doing this with flash memory storeage that is now bigger than the capacity of the CIA in the seventies. Large capacity flash memory cards are very useful indeed as is a camera with low energy consumption and a spare battery pack is a good thing to add to the purchase.

Thaaaats all folks.

Iflyfish

BajaHawk - 5-29-2007 at 06:02 PM

I got the Pentax K100D. It was a no-brainer since I had a collection of lenses from the mid-80's (the camera takes all the Pentax K mount lenses).

I would have gone for the K10 if I had a money tree - instead I have a practical wife. :spingrin:

I am very happy with the camera so far. The "shake reduction" works well, I can hold it steady enough to snap pics with a 500 telephoto lens.

I look forward to using it in Chivato/Mulege in about three weeks!!!!!

DENNIS - 5-29-2007 at 06:10 PM

Film in the above test shows more detail, grain of paper, therefore less contrast in a close-up shot.
Digital shots have more close-up clarity due to heightened contrast. Clearer to the eye on a close-up.
Blow them up and the film shot would, or should more closely depict reality with normal contrast.

Bottom foto....Beautiful.

Skipjack Joe - 5-29-2007 at 06:54 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Pompano
..with my Nikon Coolpix 4300, which is in dire need of repair.

Time to get it fixed and gift-wrapped, again..shhh.. :rolleyes:

Here is the photo.

What are your opinions and critiques?
Please be blunt and honest.

What would a D70 or a Rebel with the right lens add to this photo?

[Edited on 5-30-2007 by Pompano]

That's a wonderful picture Pompano. A special time of day. I particularly like the boat, islands and water. I have seen wet sand that looks like that water and it's always striking. I like that the islands and boat are not total silhouettes and have detail in them.

Now for the criticism:

Usually a landscape that cut right in half by the horizon is not optimal. It's as though the photographer wasn't sure whether he wanted you to look at the sky or the water. You can actually make two good images here: (1) islands, boat, and sky or (2) islands, boat, and water.

I find the water most attractive and would crop it as follows. This is a simple suggestion and I hope you're not offended of the liberties I took with your image. As far as what one camera would add that another did not. I'm a big believer that the camera in you is the most important camera.

Pompanos.jpg - 50kB

DENNIS - 5-29-2007 at 07:03 PM

Nice touch, Skipjack ----

While he's at it, he might try putting an empty Pacifico bottle under his right foot. It wont work if it's full......has to be empty to level out the horizon/waterline.
I know.....Picky Picky Picky.

[Edited on 5-30-2007 by DENNIS]

Bob and Susan - 5-29-2007 at 07:31 PM

again the quality of the picture is from the photographer not the camera
oh yea and the area that pomp lives helps...sooo pretty

the computer software corrects the imperfections

and this from a 41k size picture made for the internet

Warning

The Gull - 5-30-2007 at 06:13 AM

In wide angle mode, with a true wide angle lens, do either get "shadows" in the picture when using flash. Had a Nikon that did that.

Now it should be down to the displays and weight. The ease of using either will come down to the nature of the software in the displays.

You need to go to a camera shop and play "shopper".

tripledigitken - 5-30-2007 at 07:57 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by The Gull
In wide angle mode, with a true wide angle lens, do either get "shadows" in the picture when using flash. Had a Nikon that did that.

Now it should be down to the displays and weight. The ease of using either will come down to the nature of the software in the displays.

You need to go to a camera shop and play "shopper".

Yes my D70S will do the same thing with my 12mm-24mm zoom. The built in flash is marginal and should only be used with a 50mm+- lense. It has no or little adjustablily and can't be bounced off the ceiling. It will do a reasonable job of fill lighting in daylight with a close subject. At night or at a distance it's horrible.

Anyone serious about using a flash will use flash attachments available from the manufacturer. Nikon has two models of flashes that work fantastic. Just dig into your wallet.

Wait till this topic evolves to Ball Heads and Tripods. Can't wait for that thread. :yes:

Ken

turtleandtoad - 5-30-2007 at 09:58 AM

A tip on using a Canon DSLR, when using a remote or timed trip make sure you put the provided cover over the eyepeace. Otherwise you run the risk of excessive light entering the camera. Especially if the sun is behind the camera.

Don't know if this is true with the others.

BajaHawk - 5-30-2007 at 06:10 PM

If you buy from a shop in San Diego check out : Point Loma Camera on Roscrans (619) 224-2719, Georges on 30th Street/off University www.georgescamera.com, or Nelson's Photo www.nelsonphotosupplies.com.

All have smart staff and will work with you.

Ken Bondy - 5-30-2007 at 06:17 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Pompano

Nikon D70 - includes "Commander mode" with internal flash provides for wireless Nikon Creative Lighting System support with dedicated external speedlights.

Pompano the Commander mode is EXTREMELY useful when using the wireless closeup strobes mounted on a ring on the front of the lens. Without it you need a separate sensor. If you are interested in that type of tight shot (flowers, bugs), and you go with a Nikon, I would strongly recommend one with the Commander mode. ++Ken++

It's Obvious

The Gull - 5-30-2007 at 06:40 PM

From the rear view (and I've used both cameras styles) the Rebel gets you to the information faster and displays critical information without having to look through the viewfinder. The handling of the menus on the Rebel is nearer to web-based thinking with tabs to scroll through the different screens. Nikon was much more cumbersome...or I was too stupid (could happen).

See the smaller body in all dimensions. Makes a difference when you hand carry (not bag carry) your stuff. With a full range zoom that you are considering, you will leave the bag behind and take off for the day and night with nothing but the camera and possibly an extra battery and storage disk in your pocket.

Don't underestimate the flash differences, as you will be using that feature more often than any other besides the point and shoot characteristics in daytime.

Another take on that crop.

Natalie Ann - 5-30-2007 at 10:11 PM

One of the things about cropping, Pompano, is that it can happen as many ways as the eye sees a pleasing image. I really liked your original photo, as well as Igor's cropped example of same... and in no way do I mean to try to 'improve' on what's already good. I just wanted to show you the way I see that photo.

(Hmmm.... no image... let's try this again)

[Edited on 5-31-2007 by Natalie Ann]

oh rats... let me work on this.... :no:

[Edited on 5-31-2007 by Natalie Ann]

Natalie Ann - 5-30-2007 at 10:14 PM

ok... try again:

pompano-pix3.jpg - 30kB

Skipjack Joe - 5-30-2007 at 10:23 PM

Pompano,

This is probably obvious, but if you're going to plunk down a grand for a camera make sure you can return it if you don't like anything about it, regardless if it's broken or not. I'm not sure you can do that with these internet deals. I still think it would be great if you could shoot with it before you made the purchase. Perhaps your ladyfriend from NIKON can arrange something like that.

Natalie, It's interesting how many good images you can create when you've got something good to work with to start out.

[Edited on 5-31-2007 by Skipjack Joe]

Skipjack Joe - 5-31-2007 at 06:58 AM

How many people like to sit and read at Barnes and Nobles until they find something they really like and then buy it on Amazon?

cameras

lewm - 5-31-2007 at 07:52 AM

You might want to take a look at [vanns.com] for a camera. They offer free shipping & no taxes. I think they have 5 stores in Montana. I live in Laughlin, Nv. I recently bought a plasma tv from them $200 dollars cheaper then Sam's club plus no tax & free shipping to my door.

DianaT - 5-31-2007 at 09:54 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Pompano

Quote:

Originally posted by Skipjack Joe
How many people like to sit and read at Barnes and Nobles until they find something they really like and then buy it on Amazon?

..or spend hours talking with new cars salespeople, aining knowledge, test driving, and then buying their vehicle from some online discount site. Come time for warranty work or maintenance, those folks are usually put to the back of the waiting list...forever. (Hello, Dave Smith Motors!:rolleyes

NOTHING beats buying locally and/or personally.

p.s. I really do like that Point Loma Camera store next to Shelter Island. They have done very good work for me in the past with my old Canon AE-1...plus a few hundred rolls of film-developing over the years.

[Edited on 5-31-2007 by Pompano]

We bought our last camera at Nelson's in San Diego, and when we lived in the Central Valley, we always used Boot's Camera in Fresno.

Like you, I shopped the internet and places like Best Buy, but I like to buy things like a camera at a small shop---was very close to the Best Buy price, but came with tons, and tons, of help and advice. Also, the help did not stop when we walked out the door.

Good Luck----will look forward to more and more great photos and the great stories that go along with your photos.

Diane

Bob H - 6-2-2007 at 08:15 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bob H
I just purchased the Nikon D40 and it should arrive this week. I based my decision after much research and the comments by Ken Rockwell here

http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d40.htm

Purchased the camera with three lens kit on Ebay for $698.00
Includes:
Nikon D40 SLR
Nikon 18-55mm Lens
Nikon 70-300mm Lens
High Resolution Wide Angle Lens
1GB Secure Digital Card
3 piece Filter Set
All aluminum hard case
Medium Soft Case
3 piece cleaning kit with screen protectors
52" Vidpro TT-250 tripod
Hi Speed USB Card Reader/Writer

Can't wait for this to get here.
Bob H

Pompano,
I received my camera package (above) a couple of days ago and absolute LOVE it! Great pricing found on ebay from Digitalcorp... Here's a link

http://search.stores.ebay.com/DigitalCorp_nikon-d40_W0QQfciZ...

Or search DigitalCorp for other models...

http://members.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewUserPage&us...

Let us know your final decision.
Bob H

[Edited on 6-2-2007 by Bob H]

Bob H - 6-2-2007 at 08:26 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bob H

Quote:

Pompano,
I received my camera package (above) a couple of days ago and absolute LOVE it! Great pricing found on ebay from Digitalcorp... Here's a link

http://search.stores.ebay.com/DigitalCorp_nikon-d40_W0QQfciZ...

Nikon D80 packages...

http://search.stores.ebay.com/DigitalCorp_nikon-d80_W0QQfciZ...

Let us know your final decision.
Bob H

805gregg - 6-11-2007 at 10:58 AM

I'm looking for a Nikon D40x I didn't see it on Digitals list. The 40x has 10.2 mega pix and there is a new underwater housing made for the D40. I found a D40x at WiseTronics. com with 3.5 18-135 nikon zoom lens $749 anyone find one cheaper?

[Edited on 6-11-2007 by 805gregg]

[Edited on 6-11-2007 by 805gregg]