The Canon EF-S f/2.8 60mm Macro USM is a portrait-length lens designed for Canon APS-C sized DSLRs like the Canon Rebel XTi and Canon 40D. This lens has an angle of view is equivalent to a 96mm lens on a 35mm camera, with a floating optical system that can focus down to full life-size (1:1) magnification. Inner focusing, driven by a silent and powerful ring-type USM, means the lens’ overall length never changes during focus. It has frequently been heralded as L-quality glass by reviewers and in photography forums around the web. [Read more…]
Nikon D300 Review by Popular Photography
Popular Photography has put the Nikon D300 through the ringer and is very pleased with the results.
A major factor in the D300’s stellar image quality is the new Sony-made 12.3MP (effective) CMOS sensor that captures RAW data with up to 14 bits of color per red, green, and blue channels. Most other DSLRs in this class only provide 12 bits per channel. This gives the D300 an advantage in reproducing fine color gradations, shadow details, and wider dynamic range. But it also increases the file size of images recorded in the 14-bit mode (selectable over normal 12-bit RAW). (Read more)
Popular Photography also named the Nikon D300 its “Camera of the Year,” beating out competitors like the Olympus E-3, Canon’s 40D and Sony’s A700.
You can follow all of the Nikon D300 news and reviews on this page. (Thanks for the tip Jeff.)
Canon 1Ds Mark III Review by Phil Holland
Phil Holland has posted his extensive review of the Canon 1Ds Mark III:
After shooting with the camera with a few days under numerous conditions I can confidently say the Canon 1Ds Mark III is easily the most versatile full frame digital SLR currently available. Currently the only thing similar on the market is the camera it’s replacing. The 1Ds Mark II. In terms of pure image resolution the only cameras that come close are digital medium format bodies and backs. I’ve used a range of PhaseOne backs now and I know they can squeeze out more detail. That said you lose a lot of flexibility for that gain in resolution and in price point.
You can follow the latest reviews of the Canon 1Ds Mark III on this page.
[tags]canon, eos, 1ds mark iii, review[/tags]
Canon 18-55mm IS Lens Compared to 18-55mm Kit Lens
2StepSteve has posted a couple of comparisons of his new Canon 18-55mm IS lens and is older 18-55mm kit lens in a gallery on his SmugMug page. Click on the above image for a closer view of the compelling differences between the two lenses. That’s quite a difference for a lens under $200.
Thanks for posting this Steve and for enabling sharing on SmugMug.
[tags]canon, ef-s, 18-55mm is, lens, review, comparison[/tags]
Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Reviews
The Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM lens is a wide-to-tele zoom lens designed for Canon APS-C sized DSLRs like the Canon Rebel XTi and Canon 40D. It has the 35mm focal length equivalent of 28-135mm. It has Canon’s Image Stabilization system, allowing safe hand-holding at speeds up to three stops slower than otherwise possible. A ring-type USM means both fast and silent AF, as well as full-time manual focus when in the AF mode. It also has a non-rotating front element and the lens length does not change during zooming. [Read more…]
Eye-Fi SD Card Reviews
The Eye-Fi SD Card is a wireless memory card. It automatically uploads pictures from your digital camera to your PC or Mac and to your favorite photo sharing, printing, blogging or social networking site.
How It Works
Basically, you plug the Eye-Fi card into a special reader, set it up on your computer and sharing websites and then start shooting. If you’re in range of your wireless network, the Eye-Fi card automatically uploads the images to your computer and photo sharing websites. It’s got 2GB of storage, so if you’re not in range, it can hold on to plenty of photos until you get back within range of your network.
Who It’s For
For some, this card could come in quite handy. I see a lot of potential in this technology for studio shooters. It’s not quite there yet, as you’ll see from reading some of the reviews below. However, some users will benefit from this technology right away. Think about the photographers that you see at theme parks or special events. If they’re in range of the network (install a few access points if needed), images can go straight to the computer or, say, Smugmug and they’re selling photos faster and more efficiently. No more running cards back and forth.
I think the people that will appreciate this device are the MySpace and Facebook users that like to share photos with their friends. It takes a lot out of their work flow, which they don’t want to have a work flow anyway. It’ll get their party pictures on Photobucket or flickr with less effort than the traditional method. As such, expect to see the Eye-Fi card more in high school and college students’ point & shoot cameras than in serious photographers’ DSLRs.
Gotcha
For now, Eye-Fi only works with JPEG images. That’s enough to keep me from getting one, as I only shoot in RAW. The minimal convenience that I could gain from this card is nowhere near enough reason to shoot JPEG over RAW. Additionally, I wouldn’t use it for the sharing feature anyway, as I always tweak photos before sending them anywhere.
Reviews
Once configured and in a ‘home’ environment it is arguably easier getting images from your camera back to your computer, but you really wouldn’t want to use it as a mass transfer alternative to a card reader.
Sure, the Eye-Fi is basically a cradle replacement. But snapping photos and automatically uploading them in real time to share is truly fantastic, especially when the images can be better than one’s camera phone. And the entire product experience is built with simplicity. If you can get over the price and are sick of cords, we strongly recommend the purchase.
For $99 I would definitely recommend the Eye-Fi. At that price you get 2GB and wireless functionality – that’s a steal. I’m going to set this up on my mom’s camera so she can put family pictures on her neglected Flickr account. The Eye-Fi receives 9 out of 10 Stammys.
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 gear through these links helps support this site.
[tags]eye-fi, sd, card, wireless[/tags]
Canon EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM Reviews
The Canon EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM lens is an ultra wide-angle lens compatible with Canon APS-sized sensor DSLRs, like the Rebel XTi and 40D. The lens is equivalent to a 16-35mm zoom on a 35mm format camera. The consensus among reviewers is that it offers excellent performance and optics. Three aspherical lens elements, plus a Super-UD element, assure image quality. It also has a ring-type USM, which means fast and silent AF along with full-time manual focus. [Read more…]
Lowepro Fastpack Camera Bag
For those of you in need of a new gear bag (*raising my hand*), Lowepro has released a sweet new camera bag. The Fastpack line is a new series of backpacks specially designed for today’s on-the-go technology enthusiast. Whether the task is photographing family travels, or taking a day trip around town, or capturing that special event, the Fastpack backpacks’ triple compartment design provide a durable, lightweight and comfortable carrying solution that holds a digital SLR camera, extra lenses or flash units, a notebook computer, and contains generous storage for accessories and personal gear.
Outfitted for work, travel or play, the 180-degree access panel in the Fastpack makes loading and retrieving camera equipment quick and easy, while adjustable dividers enable its compartment to be fully customized to fit different combinations of gear. With its security flap snapped closed over the camera compartment, Fastpack offers an additional layer of security for valuable photography equipment while maintaining fast access through the side entry compartment – even while the pack is being worn. The top compartment provides ample capacity and puts personal accessories at the photographer’s fingertips. Two of the Fastpack series’ four models, Fastpack 250 and 350, provide an additional compartment with side access to a notebook computer.
All models in the Fastpack line of backpacks feature outer accessory pockets which provide quick access to larger items, and a harness pocket perfect for an MP3 player or mobile phone. With the compatible pouches, Sliplock accessory loops add even more external storage capacity and the mesh side pocket holds a water bottle, car keys or other essentials. Each model is available in red, blue or black.
The compact Fastpack 100 (8.7 x 7.3 x 16.1″) lets you carry a DSLR with a zoom lens mounted, as well as an additional body or lens and a flash unit. Also, there’s room for an MP3 player and a few other miscellaneous items. This is the minimalist’s bag that will come in handy on those hikes and other outings where you’re not going just to shoot but still want to have your camera with you. Here’s the links to trusted retailers for the Fastpack 100 (in the $55-60 range): Amazon, B&H Photo & Adorama.
The Lowepro Fastpack 200 (12.4 x 8.1 x 18.1″), allows you to carry a DSLR with a zoom lens attached, in addition to a couple of extra lenses (or another body) and a flash. You also get more gadget space for an MP3 player, phone, keys, memory cards and more. Here’s the links to trusted retailers for the Fastpack 200 (in the $75 range): Amazon, B&H Photo & Adorama.
The Lowepro Fastpack 250 (12.4 x 8.1 x 18.1″) steps it up a notch and allows you to carry all the gear the 200 holds with some extra wiggle room. The big bonus for stepping up to the Fastpack 250 is the ability to carry up to a 15.4″ laptop (MacBook anyone?) with the same side loading access you get for your camera gear. Here’s the links to trusted retailers for the Fastpack 250 (in the $90 range): Amazon, B&H Photo & Adorama.
The Lowepro Fastpack 350 is made to carry a digital SLR camera, lenses, flash, accessories and a laptop computer with a screen up to 17″. With a side entry camera compartment, you get easy access to your camera, laptop and accessories. Here’s the links to trusted retailers for the Fastpack 350 (in the $115 range): Amazon, B&H Photo & Adorama.
[tags]lowepro, fastpack, camera bag, laptop, 100, 200, 250, 350, review, photos, availability, price[/tags]
Pentax K20D and K200D Reviews and Resources
Pentax has announced the K20D and K200D, which are the successors the previous generation K10D and K100D, respectively. The K20D has 14.6 megapixels and the K200D gets 10.2 megapixels and they are priced at $1299 and$799, respectively.
K20D Reviews
All in all, the Pentax K20D is a decent camera with enough features to keep top-end enthusiasts, travel photographers and possibly even some pros happy. It’s not the 14.6megapixel sensor that makes this the camera what it is, that almost doesn’t matter – it’s the combination of intuitive layout, functions and relative ease of use.
Pentax’s 14MP K20D is a great choice for a midlevel SLR and offers a lot of bang for the buck.
It really does capture a great deal of detail and unlike Sony’s 14 Megapixel sensor and processing engine, this detail remains at higher sensitivities.
If you have a collection of Pentax lenses, you’ll love the new AF Adjustment custom function, which allows you to precisely calibrate each one to the K20D, and the Dust Alert feature shows you exactly where the dust is on the sensor. Studio photographers can now seriously consider the K20D because of the welcome addition of an X-sync socket, and the camera still offers dust and water-resistance and effective anti-shake and dust-removal systems.
With the launch of the K20D Pentax is taking on the top players in the semi-pro DSLR market. It has a class-leading specification, with build quality, handling and performance to match, and has exactly the sort of features that will appeal to advanced amateurs and semi-professionals.
Steady, well-exposed landscapes at ISOs from 100 to 400 are stunning at 16″ x 24″ (A2) print sizes.
The bottom line is that the K20D has one of the most complete feature set of any DSLR. It brings some unique features and exposure modes into a very thoughtful and ergonomic design. Plus, since image quality and performance are great, there is no doubt the K20D is a worthy digital SLR.
Resolution remained high at all ISO settings up to (and including) ISO 1600 but declined sharply thereafter. . . . Image noise became visible at ISO 1600 when shots were enlarged to 100% but was increasingly obvious as sensitivity was increased.
PopPhoto (full test)
Impressive specs? Yes, but the K20D produced impressive results in the Pop Photo Lab, especially in resolution and detail at most ISOs. At 2350 lines of resolution at ISO 100-400, the K20D delivers slightly higher resolution than the Nikon D300.
We’ve just begun our full lab test with an early production Pentax K20D and out initial findings show that the Pentax K20D is very class competitive (particularly at ISOs 100-1600) against other cameras in this category including the Canon EOS 40D, Sony Alpha 700, and the Nikon D300.
Some of the upgrades and additions are good and will be useful, but there are some that seem to be hardly worth the effort. Would it have been too difficult to fit a 3in screen? Then they could have given it a better pixel count than 230,000 keeping it in line with the newer DSLRs from other manufacturers.
Pentax has been kind enough to let us soend a little time with an early sample of its latest DLSR, the K20D. It’ll be familiar to anyone who’s held a K10D but has a number of added features to keep it competitive in its increasingly crowded market segment.
K20D Sample Images
Pre-Production Samples at PhotographyBLOG
Other K20D Resources
K200D Reviews
The Pentax K200D is a capable digital SLR, a very good choice for consumers who are starting to chafe against the limitations of a point-and-shoot digital camera and want to work with a more advanced camera.
With its agreeable mix of automatic and customizable features and its top-shelf image quality, the Pentax K200D is an excellent camera for DSLR newcomers and more sophisticated lensslingers who want robust performance in a compact interchangeable lens format.
While there are a number of aspects to weigh-up, the choice between the K200D and rival DSLRs really boils down to how much you value build quality and Live View. If you want a tough, weatherproof DSLR at a low price, then buy the K200D. If however you’d prefer a smaller, lighter DSLR with Live View capabilities, then go for one of its rivals.
The Pentax K200D is a great digital SLR for beginner, amateur or casual photographers. It’s a very well built camera that reaches out to the beginner crowd. But there are also plenty of “pro” level features that a photographer can grow into.
Just like the Pentax K100D Super, the K200D ticks very nearly all of the boxes for those wanting an easy to use DSLR that delivers images you’ll want to keep straight out of the camera, and with the minimum of user input and effort to boot.
Pentax’s K200D entry-level SLR gives a lot of bang for the buck and has better performance than last year’s model. Despite low noise and pleasingly detailed images, technically inaccurate colors keep it from capturing the gold medal for image quality.
The handling of the K200D is very simple yet it maintains a reassuring, more professional build quality. Images are sure to please even the most critical photographer, with few serious problems bar slight underexposure on rare occaisions.
Pictures from the test camera had a superficial resemblance to our test shots from the K20D, particularly with respect to the extended dynamic range provided by both cameras. However, the K200D showed less inclination to bias exposures slightly in favour of recording highlight details and the yellow-brown cast we found in test shots taken with the K20D shots was much less evident.
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.
Press Release
PENTAX Announces K20D with 14.6 Megapixels, K200D with Advanced Technologies and Five Digital Lenses
GOLDEN, Colo. –(Business Wire)– Jan. 23, 2008 PENTAX Imaging Company announced today two new digital SLR camera models including the PENTAX K20D digital SLR camera with 14.6 megapixels and the PENTAX K200D digital SLR with 10.2 megapixels. Both cameras are equipped with advanced features including dust-proof and weather-resistant bodies, an improved PRIME image processor, and PENTAX developed Shake Reduction that works with any of the 24 million PENTAX lenses ever manufactured. [Read more…]
Canon BG-E2N Battery Grip Review
The Canon BG-E2N is a battery grip for the Canon 40D. Both were announced simultaneously in August 2007. The BG-E2N replaces the older BG-E2 grip. As such, it will also work with the Canon 20D and 30D. Basically, the difference between the two is that the new model has better sealing for weather resistance.
There’s really nothing sexy about the features of battery grips like this one. You either like’em or you don’t. Personally, I like’em. I find that the ease of use of my camera is increased and it is simply more functional than without the grip. Obviously, there are times that arise when you may not want something this bulky attached. For those times, I simply remove the grip and go on with my shooting.
The BG-E2N mounts to the bottom of the camera, with the protruding adapter you see on the left in the picture above being inserted into the battery compartment of the camera. The door to the battery compartment actually removes to facilitate the use of the grip.
Once mounted, you get the ability to shoot with your camera vertically and your right hand set more naturally along the right side of the camera. This is thanks to the shutter release button on the grip (seen in the bottom left of the above image). The great thing about the shutter release is that it feels just like the shutter release on the camera, so it’s quite natural. Additionally, the grip has a main dial, AE lock/FE lock and AF point selection controls for easier vertical shooting, as well as a tripod mount thread on the bottom. The AF point selection comes in rather handy for me, as I almost always select a different AF point when I flip to vertical shooting. For me, it’s a must have.
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 or accessories through these links helps support this site.
[tags]canon, bg-e2n, review, specs, 40d, 30d, 20d[/tags]
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