Do you take your DSLR on trips with you?
Jul 17th, 2007, 08:33 PM
#42
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Yeah, I confess that I did. I'm with you... but in some cases, standing on some of the more minor principles seems imprudent. Especially when the issue is with a matriarch type at a local market full of friends and relatives.
The Atlas Berbers make, carry and presumably know how to use these really beautiful ceremonial daggers....
Jul 18th, 2007, 12:46 AM
#43
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Kristina, there are certain Nikon lenses you will not be able to use with a D40X.
scrb - why did you save your converted RAW files as TIFF and not as Jpeg? Yes Tiff is huge and really not necessary. As long as you have kept the RAW files safe as your "negative" it is fine to save the conversion as a jpeg.
scrb - why did you save your converted RAW files as TIFF and not as Jpeg? Yes Tiff is huge and really not necessary. As long as you have kept the RAW files safe as your "negative" it is fine to save the conversion as a jpeg.
Jul 18th, 2007, 04:57 AM
#44
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Maybe I need to read the manual.
I can choose either RAW or TIFF but when I choose RAW, it saves .RAW files and .jpg files.
The .RAW files are about 16 MB and the .jpg files are about 1.1 MB.
But when I choose straight JPEG, the .jpg files are 2.5-3.0 MB.
So I don't know if I still have to convert the .RAW to different .jpg files or if I should store the .jpg files which my camera saves.
It seems counterintuitive that the smaller .jpg files saved in RAW mode would look better than the larger .jpg files.
The killer is that RAW mode cuts the capacity of my SD cards to 1/5 or 1/6.
I guess I could switch back and forth between RAW and JPEG modes, depending on the shot scenario.
I can choose either RAW or TIFF but when I choose RAW, it saves .RAW files and .jpg files.
The .RAW files are about 16 MB and the .jpg files are about 1.1 MB.
But when I choose straight JPEG, the .jpg files are 2.5-3.0 MB.
So I don't know if I still have to convert the .RAW to different .jpg files or if I should store the .jpg files which my camera saves.
It seems counterintuitive that the smaller .jpg files saved in RAW mode would look better than the larger .jpg files.
The killer is that RAW mode cuts the capacity of my SD cards to 1/5 or 1/6.
I guess I could switch back and forth between RAW and JPEG modes, depending on the shot scenario.
Jul 18th, 2007, 05:44 AM
#45
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hetismij-
I've only done limited research on this and I know virtually nothing about SLR cameras, having never used one.
From what I can tell, the with D40X if you want to use an AF lense, the motor has to be built into the lense because the camera does not have one. Is that what you mean?
I'm thinking this won't be an issue for me since I don't already own other lenses. Or does this just limit my choices too much?
I thought the Nikon D40X would be a good first DSLR for me since I'm already familiar with Nikon digital cameras and it's one of the smallest and lightest ones out there (important to me).
Any other recommendations for a first time user of DSLR?
I've only done limited research on this and I know virtually nothing about SLR cameras, having never used one.
From what I can tell, the with D40X if you want to use an AF lense, the motor has to be built into the lense because the camera does not have one. Is that what you mean?
I'm thinking this won't be an issue for me since I don't already own other lenses. Or does this just limit my choices too much?
I thought the Nikon D40X would be a good first DSLR for me since I'm already familiar with Nikon digital cameras and it's one of the smallest and lightest ones out there (important to me).
Any other recommendations for a first time user of DSLR?
Jul 18th, 2007, 06:04 AM
#46
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Kristina, you may find that as you progress with your DSLR that the lens you really want doesn't work with the D40X. Otherwise it is I believe a good camera.
Pentax will shortly be bringing out the K100D Super with a few extra goodies on it thet the regular K100D doesn't have. The K10D is a superb camera, but maybe not a beginners.
The new Olympus cameras are tiny - they are the smallest DSLR there are. You may want to consider those. Because of the system they use they give you a 2x crop factor instead of the 1.5 offered by Nikon or Pentax.
Sony also have a good DSLR, based on the Konica-Minolta.
I would suggest you go to a good camera store and handle a few cameras. See which you like the feel of. Do not be persuaded by salepersons into something you don't want - they are on comission!
Good Luck, and have fun.
Pentax will shortly be bringing out the K100D Super with a few extra goodies on it thet the regular K100D doesn't have. The K10D is a superb camera, but maybe not a beginners.
The new Olympus cameras are tiny - they are the smallest DSLR there are. You may want to consider those. Because of the system they use they give you a 2x crop factor instead of the 1.5 offered by Nikon or Pentax.
Sony also have a good DSLR, based on the Konica-Minolta.
I would suggest you go to a good camera store and handle a few cameras. See which you like the feel of. Do not be persuaded by salepersons into something you don't want - they are on comission!
Good Luck, and have fun.
Jul 18th, 2007, 06:17 AM
#48
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RAW is RAW. The smaller jpeg that the camera also saves is for display on the camera's LCD, as well as for browsing on your computer. It doesn't need to be high quality as if you shoot RAW, presumably you want to use process the RAW files for eventual use. You can decide the final output JPEG quality on your computer.
Jul 18th, 2007, 07:01 AM
#49
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Kristina - don't forget the Canon XTi (400D) in there also. I have the XT and the size is pretty much the same - very easy for my stubby fingers to grasp and hold securely.
Scrb - that's the hardest part about going RAW, giving up the memory space. Also, remember that you will ALWAYS have to do some post processing when shooting RAW.
I use it and I love it, but I know for some it's too much work at the "end of the line" for their tastes so they don't bother and just keep shooting jpg.
Also remember that the data dumped from the 16mb RAW file to make the 3mb Jpg file is about 12mb. That's a lot of information to dump because a computer chip decided it wasn't necessary. Think if clicked a button on your computer and told it to remove 3/4 of your stored data - do you think you might miss something? That's what convinced me to give up the space and go RAW.
Scrb - that's the hardest part about going RAW, giving up the memory space. Also, remember that you will ALWAYS have to do some post processing when shooting RAW.
I use it and I love it, but I know for some it's too much work at the "end of the line" for their tastes so they don't bother and just keep shooting jpg.
Also remember that the data dumped from the 16mb RAW file to make the 3mb Jpg file is about 12mb. That's a lot of information to dump because a computer chip decided it wasn't necessary. Think if clicked a button on your computer and told it to remove 3/4 of your stored data - do you think you might miss something? That's what convinced me to give up the space and go RAW.
Jul 18th, 2007, 07:10 AM
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Kristina, you are mostly correct: THE D40X will limit you to newer lenses made especially for it. Because these lenses have the anti-shake built into them, they will cost more than (some) lenses for other cameras. This isn't a huge deal if you don't have older lenses you want to use.
Also, most DSLR users do not turn into lens junkies with cases full of $1,000 lenses. Nikon lenses tend to be expensive, but they are very good, and there are less expensive alternatives. The only thing you're cutting yourself off from is the long line of older Nikon lenses which won't work on the D40X (and can sometimes be had for cheap).
All of the major DSLR lines are excellent cameras. There's no way to really say Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Olympus, or Sony is "best" -- it depends on what works for you. Try them in your hand. Shop around. Think about what lenses you want.
I chose Pentax because I liked the way it felt in my hand, I liked the controls, and due to the rebate it was considerably cheaper than the D40 with the lens range I wanted (particularly the ultra-wide). I'm very happy with my choice. If I had more money I'd own a D200 (and a Saab and a house on the ocean)!
Also, most DSLR users do not turn into lens junkies with cases full of $1,000 lenses. Nikon lenses tend to be expensive, but they are very good, and there are less expensive alternatives. The only thing you're cutting yourself off from is the long line of older Nikon lenses which won't work on the D40X (and can sometimes be had for cheap).
All of the major DSLR lines are excellent cameras. There's no way to really say Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Olympus, or Sony is "best" -- it depends on what works for you. Try them in your hand. Shop around. Think about what lenses you want.
I chose Pentax because I liked the way it felt in my hand, I liked the controls, and due to the rebate it was considerably cheaper than the D40 with the lens range I wanted (particularly the ultra-wide). I'm very happy with my choice. If I had more money I'd own a D200 (and a Saab and a house on the ocean)!
Jul 18th, 2007, 07:23 AM
#51
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Thanks for all the information and recommendations. I will certainly go into a store or two and handle the cameras. I'm not sure yet what I want or when I want it.
I have two trips in the works for next year; Rome and Vietnam. If I had a trip to Africa to see the wildlife planned I'd certainly buy one now, but for city travel I just don't know if I'd want to walk around with a bulky camera all day (which brings us right back around to the OP's question!).
I have two trips in the works for next year; Rome and Vietnam. If I had a trip to Africa to see the wildlife planned I'd certainly buy one now, but for city travel I just don't know if I'd want to walk around with a bulky camera all day (which brings us right back around to the OP's question!).
Jul 18th, 2007, 09:05 AM
#52
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I agree with Fnarf - all of the dSLRs are good cameras.
If the pentax K100D had been around when I bought, I would have gone with it. Since it wasn't around, and I was familiar with Canon, I went with the XT. I chose the XT over the original Rebel because it fit better in my hands.
One thing that can help make a decision is to look at your lens options.
With the Pentax, you don't have to buy IS/VR lenses because the anti-shake is in the camera - and that means every lens is IS/VR.
With Canon and Nikon (I believe), you will spend more on lenses for the IS/VR ability. That means that the non-IS/VR lenses will be non-IS/VR.
The lens systems are the major investment, so choose according to them.
If the pentax K100D had been around when I bought, I would have gone with it. Since it wasn't around, and I was familiar with Canon, I went with the XT. I chose the XT over the original Rebel because it fit better in my hands.
One thing that can help make a decision is to look at your lens options.
With the Pentax, you don't have to buy IS/VR lenses because the anti-shake is in the camera - and that means every lens is IS/VR.
With Canon and Nikon (I believe), you will spend more on lenses for the IS/VR ability. That means that the non-IS/VR lenses will be non-IS/VR.
The lens systems are the major investment, so choose according to them.
Jul 18th, 2007, 09:43 AM
#53
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When I bought my Canon XTi, I didn't really consider other brands as I have several older EOS lens I could use. But now, all the main lenses I use are new, except the 50/1.8.
I didn't regret getting the XTi at all. Just saying that one of the main reasons turned out to be a non-reason.
BTW, the XTi grip is pretty horrible. The D40 is much more comfortable in my (and others') hand. I now have a camcorder-style grip band to hold the camera, in addition to the main camera strap.
I didn't regret getting the XTi at all. Just saying that one of the main reasons turned out to be a non-reason.
BTW, the XTi grip is pretty horrible. The D40 is much more comfortable in my (and others') hand. I now have a camcorder-style grip band to hold the camera, in addition to the main camera strap.
Jul 18th, 2007, 10:33 AM
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I'll share my (random) thoughts.
Carry my DSLR ? ABSOLUTELY !!(Actually, abso - &#($ing - lutely!) Like someone else upthread, I will give up other conveniences to carry my camera.
I hate swapping out lenses - and always wish I had one that was at home. Actually, I hate carrying them even more So, I was recently having problems with a lens -- after lots of research and time spent at the camera store locally (they are worth the time and effort!), we figured out it was because it was from the film version of the same body. I had used it for about 7000 photos, but it just started being cranky (like me sometimes).
I bought a new, all-purpose lens -- a Tamron 18-250. I wish it were faster for low light, but overall, I'm really happy with it. And I leave other lenses behind unless I know I need a specific one.
My biggest problem? How to carry it. I *hate* "camera bags". I solved the problem by finding a square-ish black padded camera bag (v ugly) that I put inside a 'real' purse -- which I carry diagonally across my body. I feel safer this way with it in front of me (vs a backpack bag), but yet it doesn't scream EXPENSIVE CAMERA. Its not the ideal thing, but works. I want to check out the Crumpler bag that someone mentioned upthread.
Kristina, as a "beginner", I would recommend three things:
1) practice, practice, practice
2) take a class - either through your local community college or extension. I took a for-credit class that forced me to shoot many different things - terrific!
3) Get a guide -- Magic Lantern is the brand that I like. I carry it with me and review it whilst on the plane.
On a side note, has anyone used a lensbaby ?
Carry my DSLR ? ABSOLUTELY !!(Actually, abso - &#($ing - lutely!) Like someone else upthread, I will give up other conveniences to carry my camera.
I hate swapping out lenses - and always wish I had one that was at home. Actually, I hate carrying them even more
So, I was recently having problems with a lens -- after lots of research and time spent at the camera store locally (they are worth the time and effort!), we figured out it was because it was from the film version of the same body. I had used it for about 7000 photos, but it just started being cranky (like me sometimes).I bought a new, all-purpose lens -- a Tamron 18-250. I wish it were faster for low light, but overall, I'm really happy with it. And I leave other lenses behind unless I know I need a specific one.
My biggest problem? How to carry it. I *hate* "camera bags". I solved the problem by finding a square-ish black padded camera bag (v ugly) that I put inside a 'real' purse -- which I carry diagonally across my body. I feel safer this way with it in front of me (vs a backpack bag), but yet it doesn't scream EXPENSIVE CAMERA. Its not the ideal thing, but works. I want to check out the Crumpler bag that someone mentioned upthread.
Kristina, as a "beginner", I would recommend three things:
1) practice, practice, practice
2) take a class - either through your local community college or extension. I took a for-credit class that forced me to shoot many different things - terrific!
3) Get a guide -- Magic Lantern is the brand that I like. I carry it with me and review it whilst on the plane.
On a side note, has anyone used a lensbaby ?
Jul 18th, 2007, 10:54 AM
#56
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This thread has turned into a great resource for dSLR cameras and photography.
I asked my local camea store about lens cases and he said they don't stock them anymore - that people just put their lenses loose into their bag or napsack. This seems to be quite a departure from what I am used to from my SLR days.
I can see the handiness of not having to fumble with another case, but is this so?
I asked my local camea store about lens cases and he said they don't stock them anymore - that people just put their lenses loose into their bag or napsack. This seems to be quite a departure from what I am used to from my SLR days.
I can see the handiness of not having to fumble with another case, but is this so?
Jul 18th, 2007, 11:11 AM
#57
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I never use lens cases - they harbour dust and can cause fungus to develop in your lens. Mine are either on a shelf or in my backpack or other camera bag.
There are some excellent bags out there which do not scream camera bag - look at Billingham or National Geographic for example. Plus Crumpler for a more trendy version - though thieves are cottoning on to them now I gather. A handy backpack if you don't have big lenses is the LowePro Slingshot.
And I have a sever case of LBA - just my empty wallet prevents me from persuing it too much
The Pentax K10D also of course has the advantage of being weatherproof so is alos practically dust-proof which makes it great for travelling. Provided yu are careful when changing lenses that is.
There are some excellent bags out there which do not scream camera bag - look at Billingham or National Geographic for example. Plus Crumpler for a more trendy version - though thieves are cottoning on to them now I gather. A handy backpack if you don't have big lenses is the LowePro Slingshot.
And I have a sever case of LBA - just my empty wallet prevents me from persuing it too much
The Pentax K10D also of course has the advantage of being weatherproof so is alos practically dust-proof which makes it great for travelling. Provided yu are careful when changing lenses that is.
Jul 18th, 2007, 11:24 AM
#58
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Robjame - I don't use lens cases either. I normally use my beltpack bag. If I get a bigger lens someday (looking at a supertele), I'll have to rethink as it won't fit into my beltpack.
I also never worry about the logo on my bag. I figure what does it matter that my bag says "Lowepro" when I've got the camera out and everyone can see it's an SLR...
I also never worry about the logo on my bag. I figure what does it matter that my bag says "Lowepro" when I've got the camera out and everyone can see it's an SLR...
Jul 18th, 2007, 12:03 PM
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toedtoes:
I agree about not worrying that people will know my bag is a camera bag. After all, unless you leave it in the bag, people will know what you've got. It's the same thought I have about people who worry about looking like a tourist, you can't hide the fact.
The Crumpler that I have is advertised as a camera bag that doesn't look like one, but that wasn't a factor in my purchase. For me, the design of the bag was most important. The fact that I could get in a gorgeous red colour (my favorite colour) was a bonus compared to all the black and olive coloured bags out there.
I agree about not worrying that people will know my bag is a camera bag. After all, unless you leave it in the bag, people will know what you've got. It's the same thought I have about people who worry about looking like a tourist, you can't hide the fact.
The Crumpler that I have is advertised as a camera bag that doesn't look like one, but that wasn't a factor in my purchase. For me, the design of the bag was most important. The fact that I could get in a gorgeous red colour (my favorite colour) was a bonus compared to all the black and olive coloured bags out there.
Jul 18th, 2007, 12:11 PM
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Also on the topic of bags, I own a Lowepro Slingshot 100 as well. I use that when I'm on day trips, hiking etc. where I want to have my hands free and am not concerned about being in crowds with it on my back. And I don't need to carry items like travel guides, umbrella, etc. It's just doesn't have storage ability for items like that.
Different bags for different days. Now if only Lowepro would make bags in red...
Different bags for different days. Now if only Lowepro would make bags in red...
