Messages

1

Software & Accessories / Screen protector question

« on: May 19, 2013, 03:27:00 PM »

The question is about the use screen protectors on DSLR's.  I'm aware this issue has been discussed but I'll kindly ask for a few updated comments.  I reviewed a variety of threads on this issue last year when I ordered my 5D III and I recall there were a variety of views.   

Do you heavy, serious DSLR users use an after market screen protector of any type?  Film, glass or other type?   

I had one of the Giottos Schott glass covers but was not durable.  It cracked when there was no evident stress on the screen.  Or not much.  The $40 cost of another one is not an issue but I wonder if this type gadget is marketed mostly to use newbies who don't know any better.    I'll appreciate you comments...........

2

Lenses / Re: Canon 24-105 F/4L

« on: March 30, 2013, 05:46:40 AM »

Which is why it'll remain my standard zoom for the foreseeable future. Like, say...until Canon releases the TS-E 12-1200 f/1.0L DO AF for $999.

12-1200 f/1 is a great idea.  Perhaps they could get it to the $999 price by just sending us all the parts and we assemble it ourselves.

3

Software & Accessories / Re: Need a tripod for a canon 5d3 that i can carry for vacation

« on: March 18, 2013, 02:22:55 PM »

Depends on budget but if you have the kit described, get  something decent to keep it off the ground.  I bought a Benro Travel Angel last year and have been pleased with it.  It's not in the price range of Gitzos etc and may not pass for 'professional', but it packs very small and has held up very well in my Africa travels.  I bought the CF model and it costs somewhere around $450 or so.  I used the head that came with it. 

4

Third Party Manufacturers / Re: Extenders - Kenko vs Canon 1.4's & 2.0's

« on: March 08, 2013, 12:30:17 PM »

QwRad - I have same camera, lenses and Kenko TC as you discuss. They seem to work fine.   What do you mean by "both had AFMA adjustments by lenses..........etc" 

Learning moment here.......

5

PowerShot / Re: For DH, need recommendations

« on: March 08, 2013, 11:54:19 AM »

Agree that G-12 is a good bridge camera.  I can attest that it's very durable as I drug mine all over Africa before I bought my MK III.  Plus - it allows him some room to grow if he so elects.  it has several easy to access adjustments that are easy to learn.  For video, it's much easier to hold and control than a PS.  I do have the filter kit and it gives nice flexibility.

6

Software & Accessories / Re: BenroStore.com

« on: February 22, 2013, 12:38:16 PM »

I bought a Benro Travel Angel from a B&H and have been very pleased with it.  I am not afraid of Some Chinese goods.  In much of industry, the problem with Chinese goods is not quality of build, but difficulty in getting after market parts.  The Travel Angel seems well constructed at the places that matter most.

I would probably give their store a try if it appeared professional and if I could find some track record.

7

Software & Accessories / Re: BlackRapid & Kirk clamp hook-up

« on: February 21, 2013, 12:55:48 PM »

I'm grateful to all for the comments.  The comments have been very instructive.  I've since ordered a variety of straps, clamps, fasteners, plates, thread-lock compounds.

On the lighter side, how can my photos not improve after all these added gadgets?

Every hobby I've ever had (boats, fishing, golf, woodworking) builds an industry that convinces you that you must have "one of these" to stay in the game.

I'm a sucker for "a better way".  The BR with clamp will be a better way.

8

Software & Accessories / Re: BlackRapid & Kirk clamp hook-up

« on: February 16, 2013, 03:42:12 PM »

Uni-loop option sounds like a good '2nd parachute', at least until I gain some comfort with the clamp staying snug.
Good suggestion...!

9

Software & Accessories / Re: BlackRapid & Kirk clamp hook-up

« on: February 16, 2013, 03:13:36 PM »

OK - that helps. I think I will go that way alhough I suspect I'll develop Carpal Tunnel from continually checking.  At least for a while.       

10

Software & Accessories / Re: BlackRapid & Kirk clamp hook-up

« on: February 16, 2013, 08:40:19 AM »

Yes, I understand the BR has a carabiner type device (sort of) that unhooks from the FastnR screw - but there times I want to be able to stitch to tripod or monopod mode quickly so I prefer to leave my Arca Swiss plates on the camera.   

11

Software & Accessories / BlackRapid & Kirk clamp hook-up

« on: February 16, 2013, 07:56:06 AM »

I'm aware the technique of attaching the BlackRapid FastnR set screw to a 1" Kirk QRC clamp (or similar) has been discussed over the past few months and some of you have posted pictures (Neuro posted a few).   I want to switch to a BR strap and I want some type of fast disconnect.  However, I have two question:

1) By hanging your kit off the Kirk or similar AS style clamp, you are apparently totally trusting the clamp to stay fully tight - and therefore not to have any loosening of the the set screw that tightens the clamp.  I'm trying to get comfortable with that but feel I would be constantly checking the set screw to be sure it's still tight.  Please tell me this is not a concern and why...!

2) Assuming one buys in to the everlasting torque of the set screw as discussed above, why wouldn't it be better to use the 1.75" clamp as opposed to the 1"?  The cost and the weight difference is minor - but the 'holding capacity' of the 1.75" should be much stronger.  Is there any technical reason not to use the larger clamp?

I hope someone can convince me constant jostling and vibration would not loosen the screw that holds my expensive toys, and thus allow gravity to give me a free lesson in physics.   Thanks..........    Tex in Luanda, Angola

12

Third Party Manufacturers / Re: Please advise which 1.4x teleconverter to buy: Kenko, Tamron, or Sigma

« on: February 01, 2013, 06:40:47 AM »

I have the Canon 70-300 L and I have a Kenko 1.4 TC tele-pro - and I've been to Kenya the past two August's for the Great Migration.  I'm going again this year as well.  The Kenko works very well.  During the day on the Masai Mara you generarally have lots of light.   This due to the 6000' elevation, most days are very clear.   Only in the very early morning or late afternoon would I notice the lens 'searching' for focus.  I'm not anywhere near as advanced as some of these participants, but when I had the normal day's light, I could see no drop off on focus speed.  Hope this helps.  FYI -- try and stay nearby or within an hours drive of the Mara River in the Masai. That's the best action is during the Migration. 

Also, I've decided I will sell my 70-300 and move up to the 100-400L.  Just want a bit more reach.  Having said that, I used a Sigma 12-24 for many situations and had as many great pics with it as with the tele's.

13

Lighting / Re: Help w/ fill flash & slow sync

« on: September 21, 2012, 10:40:07 AM »

Thanks for commenting.  Sorry, I was not very clear.  By 'fill flash' I refer to using a single camera mounted flash as supplemental light to highlight faces, near objects in the daytime.  I find myself using that all the time. 
On my other cameras I also use the slow sync feature frequently as well.    For 'fill flash' in the daytime I suppose I can simply go manual and dial down the flash output but htat seems very hit and miss to me.

I have no idea how to get to a slow sync feature where the flash fires after some degree of exposure.  I may not have discribed that very well either.......!!  I'll appreciate your ideas.   

14

Lighting / Help w/ fill flash & slow sync

« on: September 20, 2012, 03:19:08 PM »

I have a 5D MK III and a 430 EX II. I almost never use the flash with this gear,  but with my smaller cameras (and built in pop up flash) I frequently use fill flash during the day and occasional slow sync for night pics. 

I occasionally would like to use fill flash or slow sync flash with the MK III and 430 but it appears the only way is to truely go fully manual.  Any tips or guidelines on how to do either without needing a light meter etc. or simply guessing???    I don't find the 430 user guide much help.  Thanks..........

15

Software & Accessories / Need to PDF a set of photos

« on: August 12, 2012, 09:29:33 AM »

I am a PC user and would like to occasionally generate a single PDF doc of 5-10, or more photos  Are there programs embedded in windows 7 or are 3rd party programs better.