Photography Bay

Digital Camera News, Reviews and Tips

Nikon D200 Reviews and Resources

By

The Nikon D200 is a DX format 10.2 megapixel DSLR and is the predecessor to the Nikon D300. Both are slated as Nikon’s “advanced amateur” models and have a number of pro-level features while still keeping the price in the reach of serious amateur or semi-pro photographers. The D200 incorporates a weather-sealed magnesium alloy body, an 11-point AF system and 5 frames per second shooting capability, among others. With features such as these, it is often found in professionals’ camera bags as a backup to the likes of the Nikon D2Xs.

Reviews

DPReview.com

It’s one of those cameras which you look forward to picking up, I really got on with its design and ergonomics, it’s small enough not to break your back yet sturdy enough to feel absolutely purposeful, solid and reliable. It fills the photographer with an air of confidence that each time they need it the camera is going to perform.

Thom Hogan

Was the wait for the D200 worth it? Absolutely yes. D100 owners especially should be very happy with their upgrade. Better-than-35mm resolution? Check. Better color? Check. Better metering, AF, and white balance? Check. Improved handling? Check. More pro features? Check. Anything broken in the process? No.

Ken Rockwell

Having used both pro and amateur cameras for many decades, the professional élan with which the D200 dispatches its duties is something I appreciate compared to the D70s. It just feels better. These finesse issues never come across on paper, but are obvious when you pick up the camera and start working.

Let’s Go Digital

For the semi-pro or pro photographer the D200 D-SLR could be the perfect solution and they can have it functioning as a second camera, an all-round backup. The built-in features and technique, inherited from the professional D2x, are just great. The technique is high-level and for its price you will get just about everything you could wish for.

Steve’s Digicams

With a host of features typically reserved for professional cameras, 10.2-megapixels of resolution and excellent image quality, Nikon has not only surpassed Canon in the enthusiast market, they have blurred the distinction with their own professional D2X.

Digital Camera Resource Page

As you might expect, camera performance is first rate. The D200 starts up instantly, focuses quickly, and there’s no shutter lag or delay between shots. The continuous shooting mode was amazing, especially with a high speed memory card.

Cnet

Aggressively priced and stuffed with pro-quality features, the rugged Nikon D200 digital SLR offers the best of the D2X at about one-third the price.

Digital Camera Info

The Nikon D200 delivers excellent 10 megapixel images, and it’s easy for the experienced photographer to operate. It’s an excellent step-up camera for photographers buying a second Nikon DSLR, or for experienced film users who are finally jumping to digital (do such people still exist?).

Imaging Resource

A great part of the appeal of the D200 is its combination of 10.2 megapixel resolution and 5 frame/second continuous shooting speed. It also has a very deep buffer memory, and is no slouch when it comes to offloading images to a host computer either. All in all, an impressive performer by almost any measure.

Where to Buy

If you’re buying online, I recommend sticking with Amazon, B&H Photo or Adorama. These three vendors are reliable, trustworthy and generally have the best (legitimate) prices.

 

Nikon D80 Reviews and Resources

By

The Nikon D80 is a 10.2 MP DX format DSLR which was introduced in August 2006. It is slotted above the Nikon D40/D40x and below the D200/D300 in Nikon’s lineup. The D80 uses an SD memory card, rather than the CF card storage used in the D70, D70s and D200. The higher storage capacity SDHC standard is also supported by the D80. The D80 body retails at $1000 and is available in a kit with the Nikkor AF-S DX 18-135 mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED lens at a retail price of $1300. The D80 can be found at a significant discount, however, on the street.

Reviews

DPReview.com

It’s one of those cameras which just feels ‘right and sorted’ from the moment you pick it up. Things just get better the more you use the camera, you will begin to discover the usefulness of major features like the customizable automatic ISO and the subtle touches like being able to tap the DELETE button twice to delete an image (sounds insignificant, but in use things like this make the D80 far more usable than other cameras).

Thom Hogan

10mp is a lot of data, and the D80 in some ways does it better than the D200 (at least for JPEGs). Acuity is very good with careful sharpening, color is excellent, and noise performance is excellent at low ISO values and more than acceptable at higher ISO values. With the right settings and discipline, this camera performs near the state-of-the-art.

Digital Camera Resource Page

This is a heck of a camera, and one that should be at the top of your list if you’re buying your first D-SLR. If you have a D50 or D70 then I’d strongly consider upgrading. And, unless you need a faster burst rate and even more custom functions, then you can save hundreds by skipping the D200 and getting the D80 instead.

Ken Rockwell

My D80 has the same great image sensor, LCD and viewfinder of my D200 jammed inside a smaller, lighter body like a D50. It’s the same price as the D70 was in 2004: $999. This makes the D80 a screaming deal if you want the most pixels.

Imaging Resource

Shooting with the Nikon D80, we found it to be a very responsive camera in all respects. Startup was quick enough that you’re never likely to notice, shutter lag was low, and shot to shot cycle times in both single-shot and continuous mode were very good. It falls short of its big brother the D200 in several areas, but that’s to be expected, given the substantial price difference between the two models.

Photography Blog

Existing Nikon users won’t be disappointed with this new model as the company have more than met the challenge of producing a camera with suitable features coupled with fantastic image quality for the enthusiast and beginner DSLR user. The Nikon D80 is now part of a crowded market place and there is even plenty of crossover between this model and Nikon’s own 10 megapixel D200 model.

Cnet

With the D80, Nikon has proven that it is very much still pushing ahead strongly. With 10.2 megapixels, lightning-fast performance, high-quality images with very low noise, and a heaping pile of convenience features, Nikon’s D80 will not disappoint.

Nikonians

In short – it’s a mixed bag of goodies. A lot will appeal to the prosumer, and a lot will also appeal to the first-time DSLR buyer or upsell customer.

Camera Labs

The Nikon D80 is without a doubt a very classy camera. It feels great, handles well, performs superbly and has one of the best viewfinders around. At times when rivals struggled with various lighting conditions, the D80’s metering remained unfazed and quite simply delivered great-looking images every time.

Where to Buy

First off, consider going to your local camera store (and I don’t necessarily mean Wolf Camera at the mall). By going to your local camera store, you’re supporting your community and you just might build a lasting relationship with people you can rely on when you need some help or answers. If you’re buying online, I recommend sticking with Amazon, B&H Photo or Adorama. These three vendors are reliable, trustworthy and generally have the best (legitimate) prices. Additionally, purchasing your camera through these links helps support this site.

[tags]nikon, d80, review, dslr, digital, camera[/tags]

Nikon D50 Reviews and Resources

By

The Nikon D50 is a 6.1MP DX format DSLR. When introduced, the camera carried a retail price of $799 for the body only or $899 with a new 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 G AF-S DX lens. The D50 was also available in a kit containing both the 18–55mm and a 55–200mm f/4-5.6 G AF-S DX lens. The D50 was replaced by the Nikon D40 in 2006. You can still find this camera in used and refurbished condition at a variety of photo equipment sellers.

Reviews

DPReview.com

The nicest thing about the D50 however is that it just feels right, build wise it’s a step above the Canon EOS 350D and Pentax *ist DS, it’s also not too small, I’m all for making cameras lighter but there’s a limit as to how small you can make an SLR before the hand grip feels cramped and controls begin to get in the way. The D50 feels as responsive as any film camera and is a pleasure to shoot with. The only change I would make would probably be a larger viewfinder view (like that of the Pentax *ist DS).

Ken Rockwell

Back in 2006, the Nikon D50 was a great camera for basic photographers, non-photographers or backup. Image quality is identical to the D70 and D70s, which means brilliant 12 x 18″ prints that many people confuse with prints from a medium format film camera.

Digital Camera Resource Page

Camera performance is superb: just flip the power switch and the D50 is ready to go. The camera focuses quickly and takes pictures without any noticeable shutter lag. Autofocus speeds were impressive, even in low light. While battery life isn’t as good as the D70s, it’s still excellent (and you can buy a higher capacity battery if you need to). Transferring photos is actually faster on the “cheap model” because it supports USB 2.0 High Speed, unlike the D70s.

DC Views

If you are serious about expanding your hobby though but are in doubt about which one to go for, take a good look at which functions you would really need, as the differences between the D50 and D70s are fairly minimal. The D50 may be lighter and more compact but some more advanced functions are less accessible. The D70s is definitely more bulky but feels more professional, while offering instant access to functions like metering or bracketing. It has white balance and ISO fine-tuning, a top shutter speed of 1/8000, DOF preview and the option for wireless flash control. If you feel that you would never use these functions anyway, go for the D50 and you will live happily ever after.

Steve’s Digicams

The D50’s image quality was excellent. Its exposure and autofocus system complemented each other, producing sharp, well-exposed images. The 5-point AF system is fast and accurate, and its predictive focus tracking is able to keep up with moving subjects. Image noise was not an issue with the D50. At ISO 200 and 400 noise was essentially absent. Shadow noise is detectable in images captured at ISO 800, and noticeable at ISO 1600, but highlight noise is remarkably low even at ISO 1600.

Thom Hogan

The drawbacks are all minor compared to the pluses. The D50 takes beautiful photos when used well, and can give almost any low-cost digital SLR on the market a run for the money in image quality. In short, expect to produce darn good results out of this camera.

Imaging Resource

The latest result of this process is the new Nikon D50 digital SLR, delivering most of the features that made the D70 such an exceptional product, but at a lower price point and with the camera’s size and user interface retooled somewhat to better match the needs of the “family photographer.” – Or anyone else who wants a feature-rich, easy-to-use, compact (but not too much so) digital SLR for a bargain price. What was most surprising to me about the D50 though, was that its image sensor and some aspects of its image quality (notably noise levels) are actually superior to those of the higher-priced D70S.

Let’s Go Digital

All in all the Nikon D50 is an excellent digital SLR camera. Ideal for those who have outgrown their compact camera or for those who want to take their first steps into digital photography. The Nikon D50 may be a so-called entry level model; nevertheless it offers the user almost everything.

Nikonians

This is a great little camera and a fine choice for a new photographer. It has a very agreeable personality that makes photography a pleasure. More advanced photographers might want to step up to the Nikon D70s for some of the additional features and greater media compatibility that camera offers, but many might be satisfied with the Nikon D50.

Where to Buy

First off, consider going to your local camera store (and I don’t necessarily mean Wolf Camera at the mall). By going to your local camera store, you’re supporting your community and you just might build a lasting relationship with people you can rely on when you need some help or answers. If you’re buying online, I recommend sticking with Amazon, B&H Photo or Adorama. These three vendors are reliable, trustworthy and generally have the best (legitimate) prices. Additionally, purchasing your camera through these links helps support this site.
[tags]nikon, d50, review, dslr, digital, camera[/tags]

Canon 1D Mark II Reviews

By

The Canon EOS 1D Mark II is an 8.2 megapixel pro-level DSLR. Introduced in early 2004, the Mark II is the successor to the Canon EOS 1D, which was Canon’s first pro DSLR introduced in 2001.

________________________________

The 1D Mark II uses a 1.3x crop-factor sensor and also includes the following features:

  • DIGIC II image processor
  • Canon EF lens mount (excludes EF-S)
  • 45-point TTL-AREA-SIR autofocus with a CMOS sensor
  • TTL full aperture metering with 21 zone SPC
  • 100–1600 ISO speed equivalent (ISO can be expanded to L: 50 or H: 3200 with custom function)
  • 30–1/8000 sec. shutter speed and bulb
  • Auto white balance
  • Eye-level pentaprism viewfinder with approx. 100% coverage
  • 230,000 pixel, 2.0″ color TFT liquid-crystal monitor with approx. 100% coverage (for JPEG images)
  • E-TTL II flash mode
  • 8.5 frames per second continuous shooting (JPEG: max. 40 frames, RAW: max. 20 frames)

Reviews

DPReview.com

The Mark II is a perfect example of evolution of technology (eight megapixel, CMOS, 40 frame buffer) and also correction of function and usage.

Luminous Landscape

Canon’s accomplishment in producing a camera that can shoot such large files at such fast speeds is nothing short of remarkable.

Steve’s Digicams

With its 8-megapixel imager, accurate autofocus system, precise metering system and robust performance the Canon EOS-1D Mark II is photographic tool that is unrivaled in the industry at the time of this test (May 2004).

The Digital Picture

Is the Canon EOS 1D Mark II for professionals only? Definitely not. Having excellent quality in-focus images appeals to a large number of non-professional enthusiasts as well. Keep in mind – all of us are capable of taking bad pictures with the best camera available. The Canon EOS 1D Mark II has the ability take your photography to a very high quality level.

Photography on the Net

I think it is no surprise to hear me say Mark II is absolutely the best camera I have used. It feels great, it is accurate, versatile, reliable and fast, images look great and print great. What more could you ask?

Imaging Resource

The new EOS-1D Mark II raises the bar while maintaining all that made the 1D such a successful and formidable SLR, offering the same great exposure control, but with a much higher resolution, 8.2-megapixel CMOS sensor.

ZDNet

In a league by itself, the Mark II offers professional photographers extensive customization, excellent photo quality, and market-leading speed.

Where to Buy

First off, consider going to your local camera store (and I don’t necessarily mean Wolf Camera at the mall). By going to your local camera store, you’re supporting your community and you just might build a lasting relationship with people you can rely on when you need some help or answers. If you’re buying online, I recommend sticking with Amazon, B&H Photo or Adorama. These three vendors are reliable, trustworthy and generally have the best (legitimate) prices. Additionally, purchasing your camera through these links helps support this site.

[tags]canon, eos, 1d, mark, ii, review[/tags]

Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX2

By

Panasonic LX2
Popular Photography has a nice review of the new Point and Shoot from Panasonic, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX2. Overall, they seem pretty impressed with it. From the article:

This is a compact for control freaks. Besides aperture- and shutter-priority modes, it offers full manual, with shutter speeds from 1/2000 to 60 sec and a very useful screen graph showing over- or underexposure. It can bracket exposures, too. Scene modes include Night Portrait, Starry Sky, Soft Skin, and even Food. And in autoexposure mode, there’s a backlight compensation feature that works even without the flash popped up.

Even more impressive to me is the capability of capturing in RAW format on a point and shoot. At just over 400 bones, you get quite the package for the price of admission.

Photoshop CS3 Beta Release

By


If you haven’t gotten your beta release of the new free Photoshop CS3 public beta yet, get it now (for Windows or Mac).  Wired has the scoop on the release.  Adobe has been more than generous with the Lightroom public betas.  However, I should warn you that I think Adobe is stringing us along like a crack dealer by giving us a free peek at the goods only to cut us off when we get addicted.  If you shoot RAW and haven’t tried Lightroom yet, you should.  It’s all I use for my RAW workflow and I know I’ll be shelling out the two or three hundred bones for the final release after the beta has expired.

Canon 50mm f/1.8 II Lens

By


This is a must have lens for Canon DSLR owners.

It must be expensive, right? Does it have IS and USM? Is it an “L” lens?

The answer to all three of these question is a resounding “NO”!

The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II can be had at a pittance of about $70 or so, street.  So now, the “why”?

First off, as you can see, it’s cheap. Not only is it cheap by it’s great glass for the pennies you pay. This is probably the best “bang for the buck” lens that Canon offers and the first lens you should buy for your new DSLR.

Furthermore, this lens is a great portrait lens for APS-C sensor cameras like the Digital Rebel XT, 20D, and 30D. It is the equivalent to what an 80mm lens would be on a full-frame camera.

I won’t rehash what others more knowledgeable than me have said about this lens. Below are some links for your reading pleasure which reinforce the points I’ve made.

Bob Atkins’ Review

Individual User Reviews from FredMiranda.com

The Digital Picture’s Review

Individual User Reviews at PhotographyReview.com

Cameras for Christmas

By


You or someone you know has a digital camera on their Christmas Wish List. Which one do you really want or which one should you get for that special someone. I’m picking what I think are the top three cameras in a variety of categories below. I’ll try to give you some kind of sense of what kinds of people fit with which cameras below.

Camera on a Budget – Under $200

The growth of technology has really prompted this catagory of cameras. Four years ago, finding a digital camera under $200 was practically impossible. Sure, you might have seen a few on ebay, but how well did they work – or better yet, did they work at all?

There are several great cameras in this price range now. The Canon Powershot A430 is just one example. At about $135, it’s well within the budget-minded giver’s range. It’s a 4 megapixel cameral with a 4x optical zoom. This is a great zoom for such an inexpensive and small camera. The A430 also comes in several different color schemes, including gold, red and blue.

Another great camera is the Canon Powershot A530. It’s a 5 megapixel and has a 4x optical zoom and runs in the neighborhood of $130. While it’s got more megapixels, it’s also physically a larger camera. Still, on a budget, you can’t go wrong with this camera. You get a lot more than what you pay for here.

Small Camera, Big Picture

On the high side of the technology wave, there are tons of features and specs to consider. A lot of these considerations are making it into smaller and smaller packages. You can get a lot out of a camera that will fit in your pocket comfortably. That’s what this category is all about. Folks who want to have high technology accessible (in their purse or pants) – but not in the way.

[Read more…]

Memory Cards and Cameras

By


I got a question the other day from a new DSLR user, “what about memory cards?”

Because they were using a Digital Rebel XT, my immediate response was Sandisk Ultra II or Extreme III compact flash cards, along with some stats on which sizes held how many pictures and to choose the size based on what they think they’ll need.

But, for everyone else, there’s a ton of brands, sizes, speeds, and types. Everybody’s got their own favorites. I’ve got one recommendation that most people will agree with and another that probably splits the field 50/50.

First, the sure fire bet. SanDisk. You can’t go wrong with the Ultra II or Extreme III versions of the Compact Flash and SD memory cards.

My second suggestion, which everyone will not agree with, is a Hitachi 4GB or larger microdrive. But before I get into why these cards are worth buying, let me delve into the basics of memory cards.

It seems like every camera maker uses a different card and that makes for a plethora of card types: CF (“compact flash”), SD (“secure digital”), xD-Picture Cards, Memory Stick, SM (“Smart Media”), MMC (“MultiMedia Card”), and Microdrives.

Compact Flash
From the top, the CF card comes in two types, appropriately named Type-I and Type-II. The Type-I cards are 3.3mm thick and can be used in Type-I or Type-II slots. Type-II cards are 5mm thick and can obviously be used only in Type-II slots. Most DSLR buyers will be looking at CF cards. All Canon Digital SLRs accept CF cards. All current models accept both Type-I and II cards. Below is a short list of popular DSLRs that accept CF cards:

Canon

Nikon

  • D70 – 6.1MP entry-level DSLR (1.5x cropped sensor – Nikon DX Format)
  • D70s – 6.1MP entry-level DSLR (1.5x cropped sensor – Nikon DX Format)
  • Nikon D200 – 10.2MP prosumer DSLR (1.5x cropped sensor – Nikon DX Format)
  • D2Hs – 4.1MP pro-level DSLR (1.5x cropped sensor – Nikon DX Format)
  • D2X – 12.4MP pro-level DSLR (1.5x cropped sensor – Nikon DX Format)
  • D2Xs – 12.4MP pro-level DSLR (1.5x cropped sensor – Nikon DX Format)

Sony

  • Alpha A100 – 10.2MP entry-level DSLR with built-in image stabilization (1.5x cropped sensor)

Pentax

Olympus

  • E-330 – 7.5MP entry-level DSLR with a live view LCD (FourThirds system)
  • E-500 (also uses xD) – 8MP entry-level DSLR with (FourThirds system)

Fuji

Clearly, with that said, if you’re looking for a DSLR, you’re probably going to be using a CF card or Microdrive (I’ll get into this in a little bit) with it.

SD (“Secure Digital”)
But what if you’re not looking at a DSLR, then your memory options open up – almost too much. I’d say the winner in the most popular memory card format for P&S (or “point and shoot”) cameras is the SD card. We’re also starting to see SD cards trickle into the DSLR world. If you own or have been eye-balling a Nikon D50 then you know what I’m talking about. The D50 is a great entry level DSLR that uses SD cards. P&S cameras had always seemed like “neat little gadgets” to me until recently, when manufacturers started cranking out some real contenders that are sort of hybrids between SLRs and P&S cameras. They typically have a wide to super-telephoto zoom (roughly equivalent to 35mm-400mm+ on a 35mm camera) and frequently are equipped with some sort of image stabilization technology. There’s a handful of P&S cameras that really stand out:

Ok, these hybrid digicams are great for some, but if you want a smaller camera there’s plenty of other options on the SD card platter. Your Canon, Panasonic, Nikon and Kodak cameras are typically going to use an SD card in their compact P&S cameras as well. Here’s a handful that have received rave reviews:

  • Nikon P3 – Wi-Fi capable (for wireless photo transfer), 8MP camera with a 3.5x zoom with Nikon’s Vibration Reduction
  • Nikon P4 – 8MP camera with a 3.5x optical zoom with Nikon’s Vibration Reduction (no Wi-Fi)
  • Canon A540 – 6MP with a 4x optical zoom
  • Canon A700 – 6MP with a 6x optical zoom and a nice 2.5″ LCD
  • Canon A620 – 7.1MP with a 4x optical zoom
  • Canon PowerShot SD700 IS – 6MP with a 4x optical zoom and Canon’s Image Stabilization
  • Panasonic Lumix TZ1S – 5MP with a whopping 10x optical zoom and image stabilization
  • Panasonic FX01 – 6MP with a 3.6x optical zoom and image stabilization
  • Panasonic Lumix LZ3S – 5MP with a 6x optical zoom and image stabilization
  • Panasonic Lumix LZ5 – 6MP with a 6x optical zoom and image stabilization (if I were buying a camera for me today in the compact category, this would be my purchase)

xD
xD stands for extreme Digital. It was developed and used in cameras by Olympus and Fujifilm. There are two basic types: Type M and H. The newer Type H cards claim to offer speed increases over Type M cards, as well as include special “picture effects”, although most of these are only available in use with Olympus digital cameras. xD cards are fast in comparison with older formats such as SmartMedia (SM), MultiMediaCard (MMC) and MemoryStick (MS). They have a small form-factor in comparison with other formats and have a low power consumption.

However, xD cards are much slower than SD cards. Additionally, xD card is a proprietary format only used by Fujifilm and Olympus, much like the Memory Stick card is with Sony. This means that no public documentation or implementation is available. Compare this to the somewhat open SD, or the completely open CompactFlash standard. Typically, because of their proprietary nature, xD cards will be more expensive than the mainstream competitors of SD and CF.

Memory Stick
Like the xD card, Sony’s Memory Stick is a proprietary format, making it typically more expensive. “Memory Stick” is also used in general to describe the whole family of Memory Sticks. This family includes the Memory Stick Pro, a revision that allows greater maximum storage capacity and faster file transfer speeds; Memory Stick Duo, a small-form-factor version of the Memory Stick (including the Pro Duo); and the even smaller Memory Stick Micro (M2). I’ve got a Sony digital P&S camera and I’ve always found this to be confusing. Even after owning my camera for over 5 years I’m still not sure which of the Memory Sticks will work in my camera. This reason alone is enough to dissuade me from buying another Memory Stick supported camera. (Sorry Sony)

For those brave enough to delve into Sony’s Memory Stick world, Sony puts some great features on their P&S cameras. By the way, Sandisk also makes a Ultra II and Extreme III version of the Memory Stick. Below, I’ve listed a few that impress me (just not enough to buy back into the Memory Stick world):

Microdrives
These drives fit into any CompactFlash II slot; however, they may take more power than flash memory – watch your batteries. Honestly, I’ve never had a problem out of my Hitachi 4GB microdrive. I’ve never ran my battery down using it for hundreds of pictures in a single day. High capacity models are usually much cheaper than flash-based counterparts. I’ve heard some people complain about microdrives’s susceptability to breaking. I’ve also heard lots of others say they’ve used them for years and never had a problem. I think, like any electronic device, things break sometimes. I’ve found mine to be a quality device and will likely buy more.

To Sum It Up . . .
If it were me shopping, I’d look for a DSLR camera that accepts CF cards and Microdrives. If I were looking for a point and shoot camera or a hybrid model, I’d go with one that accepts SD cards. What about brands and models of CF and SD cards? If you want blazing speed and reliability get one of the following in the size of your choice:

Sandisk Ultra II Compact Flash
Sandisk Extreme III Compact Flash
Hitachi Microdrive
Sandisk Ultra II SD Card
Sandisk Extreme III SD Card

The Sandisk Ultra and Extreme cards are super fast. Meaning that you can hold the shutter button down on your camera and they just continue to take pictures. Lexar makes good cards too, just make sure you know what you’re buying; they’ve always been labeled a little wierd for me to figure out all the differences. The microdrive I suggested above is slower than the Ultra and Extreme cards, but not so slow that I can’t shoot sports. The buffer in the camera just fills up a little faster and I can’t get as many shots in a row. The microdrive is still a bargain for the price you pay.

If you’ve got a good reason for getting an Olympus, Fuji, or Sony and using their proprietary formats, then go for it. However, I’m staying away from them myself. It’s just not worth the trouble to me.

One last thing to keep in mind:

  • A 1 GB card will hold a little over 100 shots using RAW or about 330 using JPEG.
  • A 4GB card will hold about 330 RAW shots or over 1000 JPEGs.
  • I always shoot in RAW format, so I need more memory. To each his own though.

Until next time . . . Cheers!

What about flash?

By

Someone emailed me about buying a flash today. I thought I’d pass the exchange along to everyone. The question:

A lady I work with just bought a Canon Rebel XT. What is a good compact flash to use? You have one you like. What is it?

My Response:

I use a Canon 420EX. There’s a new model out that replaces it called the 430EX. They use what’s called TTL and TTL-II. You can learn more about why that’s so great on a Canon rig at the Canon Flash Work website.

I would either buy a flash from Amazon or B&H – as opposed to a camera store or rip-off online sites. There’s also the 550EX and the 580EX, which are more of the pro-level flashes and are also in the $350-400 price range. The 420EX and 430EX are in the $250 and under range. There’s a smaller basic flash called the 220EX, which I consider lame even though it’s in the $130 range. You can’t “bounce” the flash because the head doesn’t pivot like all the others from the 420EX and up. This is a feature she wants if she’ll be using it indoor at all!

The ability to “bounce” the flash not only spreads the light more evenly on the subject, but also eliminates redeye. I’d say go with the 420EX or 430EX if she just wants a recommendation. If she really knows what she’s doing and understands what the features on the 550 and 580 models are and why she needs them, then she might consider that. Just looking over some prices, it looks like the Canon 420EX may be the best bang for her buck at under $200.

I’d also recommend reading the Canon Flash Work site. It’s a great tutorial. Additionally, consider a good book if she thinks she needs some help.

That’s it. Send me some more questions folks. Look for new posts. If you’ve got more input or a better answer than me, by all means post it to the comments.