Messages

1

Canon General / Re: Beach Vacation in a month... & I'm scared for my gear.

« on: May 19, 2013, 10:14:34 PM »

I have a similar trip planned and will be down in the sand working to photograph endangered nesting birds.  I dont plan on changing lenses outside unless it's DEAD calm and that's usually never the case on a beach.

Canon does offer a cleaning service which is relatively inexpensive.  If you are concerned about sand contamination, you can always send your gear to Canon for a full cleaning when you get back.  Dont feel that your gear would be ruined if you plopped it in the sand accidentally.

If you are reasonably careful with making sure you have brushed the sand off of the joint between lens and camera, you should not have any problems.  Avoid cleaning the front lens element if you can or use a UV filter on the front (a sacrificial lamb).  You can unscrew it and wash it under the sink with soap and water if it gets salt haze built up on it.

Enjoy your trip and dont worry about your gear.  It's why we own Canon!

2

EOS Bodies - For Stills / Re: F/8 Autofocusing impressions

« on: May 17, 2013, 11:36:29 AM »

Tried it with my 600 F4 and didnt like the IQ.  So I put the 2XIII in with my 70-200L IS II where it will stay.  F8 AF was what I expected.  Slower than without and IQ did not meet my QA! 

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EOS Bodies - For Stills / Re: 5D Mark III focus points off center

« on: May 15, 2013, 10:29:32 PM »

Wow, I fortunately do not have any problems like that.  All AF points are dead on with my copy.  I use Reikan FoCal to test ALL of the AF points and it will give you a heat map of the AF points and the calculated AFMA for each point.  It takes a LOT of shots to map all of these on the 5D3 but if you suspect something is off, run the test and send a copy of it back with the camera to Canon.  I would imagine if you complain enough and it came back worse than it was, they should give you another one...or at least a refurbished unit rather than blow you off.  With enough pushing they should take care of this even if the warranty is about to expire since the issue was reported while it was STILL under warranty.

I would press them for a replacement and keep pressing until they do it.

To be honest I've never heard of this issue from anyone else.  Yes in some cases some of the AF points are off by 1 or 2 AFMA but in normal use you dont even notice that with most lenses as the AF variance is often more than that from one shot to the next.

I had exactly the same problem and it was real.  After three service visits they exchanged the mirror box. Atfer that repair the AF points' misplacement was corrected however since then I struggle with AF system. Since almost a year from purchase the camera is being serviced all the time without any good solution. My guaranty is almost over and the camera is like piece of crap. I can only suggest you to push the store to exchange it as probably any service will not fix that. I checked 3 canon services and every time if one thing was corrected the other one was not working properly. Right now center and left points are backfocusing and right points are focusing in opposite direction. One year of frustration without taking photos. Unfortunately IMHO if you think your AF points are misplaced-you are probably right. In my camera when I focused on the edge of any target it focused far away. And it was obvious that it happened only in one edge of focus point. It is normal that the real focus point has more area than its layout in viewfinder however not only in one direction. As I said-they fix this but camera probably lost all factory tolerances and now AF is just useless.

4

EOS Bodies - For Stills / Re: 5D Mark III focus points off center

« on: May 15, 2013, 01:00:19 PM »

Yes but it sounds like he is comparing the viewfinder square with what is displayed on the LCD screen on the back.  They are two different things not linked together...at least not on the 5D3.

The red AF point markers on the rear LCD are not tied to the point in the viewfinder...though they attempt to show you which AF point was activated during the shot, they are not calibrated to the PD sensor.

Ok you are worrying about a problem that doesn't exist.  First off phase detect uses a separate sensor near the focus screen.  Contrast detect uses the actual sensor to perform the AF.  In live view the mirror is locked up and therefor PD sensors  are out of the picture.

They don't have to be in alignment because both are not used at the same time.

I don't think the worry was about phase vs. contrast detect. Rather, as you look through the VF at the focus screen (transmissive LCD) representation of an AF point, if that point (the whole array, really) is sufficiently misaligned with the AF sensor, that is a problem.  For example, when framing a tight portrait an AF point (the real one on the AF sensor) pretty much covers an eye - if I put the VF representation of that point on the eye, but misalignment results in the selected AF point in the AF sensor being over the ear, the thin DoF of a fast prime shot at a wide aperture means the subject's eyes are OOF, and that's a missed/throwaway shot.

5

EOS Bodies - For Stills / Re: 5D Mark III focus points off center

« on: May 15, 2013, 11:47:37 AM »

Ok you are worrying about a problem that doesn't exist.  First off phase detect uses a separate sensor near the focus screen.  Contrast detect uses the actual sensor to perform the AF.  In live view the mirror is locked up and therefor PD sensors  are out of the picture.

They don't have to be in alignment because both are not used at the same time.

6

EOS Bodies / Re: 5D Mark III with Continuous RAW Video Recording

« on: May 13, 2013, 12:51:27 PM »

So let's be clear... ML does not modify the camera firmware with perhaps the exception that it needs to be able to boot from the card.  ML software rides on top of the firmware so it's considered and Add-on.

I think it's because the two cameras are purchased by different types of people. I own a 5D3, but would not dream of buying a 1D X or 1D C...if I needed to shoot in 4K, I'd rather rent (probably a RED Scarlet or the upcoming BMCC Pro).

Canon understands that a hacked 5D3 will see a surge in sales due to Magic Lantern, but they also understand that a hack in the 1D X to match the 1D C specs would result in a drop in purchases for that camera.

Say what you will about Canon, but they're not idiots.

So, you're telling me that a hacked 5D3 won't cannibalize sales of their higher-end cameras and video recorders? I find that hard to believe. I also find it hard to believe that a large number of 1D C cameras are being sold, as opposed to the 1D X. People who need the 1D C to shoot video all day long will continue to buy the 1D C. People who want to occasionally shoot video on the 1D X should be allowed to use the potentially more unstable hack if they want.

Is it true that if there are any rules ML would be breaking by modifying the 1D X, it would be the same as when modifying the 5D3?

7

EOS Bodies / Re: 5D Mark III with Continuous RAW Video Recording

« on: May 13, 2013, 12:18:57 PM »

Will be interesting to see if they can get RAW video out on the HDMI port as well.  If so then that opens the world up to using a blade...forget the CF cards.

Regarding heat, they did not say that heat wasnt an issue.  They said that they did not know if heat would be an issue or not.  Canon does build in some safeguards to protect the camera from self destructing into a ball of flames.  The issue here is now long will the 5D3 record RAW video before the camera shuts down.  That's where the difference lies with the 1DC and CXXX series.  They can pretty much shoot video all day without a heat problem.... STILL, the 5D3 may very well be an option when a budget is of concern and the videographer doesn't mind spending some down time to cool off.

Yes it's still early in the development and we may find out that this mode causes permanent damage to internal components due to inadequate heat dissipation....but if you are running ML then you already understand that could happen at any time for any reason.

Definitely a potential game changer for some narrative work, and people doing really short clips. But anyone doing event work (weddings, etc) wouldnt really be able to use it. I remember how mad people were at the 4GB limit (which meant 12mins or so); no way they'd settle for 700 frames.

But, since I'm one of the people who records short clips, I'd love this capability in my 60D, even if its for 10-15s

The thing to remember is this is still in early stages.

They are already working on continuous shooting.
The other issue there is the size and costs of the 1000x and 1066x cards.
I wonder if or when they get the HDMI out working as well, you could hook it up to an Ninja 2 and basically have no need for space or card issues?

The 1Dc is basicaly a 1Dx with other Software and a bigger heat sink.
I'm not sure if it is the same problem here but I'd be carefull not to damage my 5D due to more heat from the raw output.

They are claiming that heat is not really an issue, in reality the 1DX "should" be hackable and not have the heat issues too.
The thing stopping them there is Canons legal team.

I wonder how long it will take before Canon come down on ML for releasing this.
It could put a large dent in C100/C300 sales.

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EOS Bodies / Re: No 7D Mark II in 2013? [CR2]

« on: May 12, 2013, 10:15:39 PM »

I agree with you.  I would rather wait than buy something rushed to market that makes it only slightly better than a 6D with an APS-C chip.

Well... seeing the new 7DMII won't be release this year, might due to many reason yet it might upset many user especiallty those who have been used 7D for more than 3 - 4 years...

From rumors spread & analysis, yet "WE ALL"are giving a high expectation on new 7DMII. Wat will happened if the new 7DII has just add on features:

Rumors specs:
■21MP APS C
■ISO 100-25600 (L: 50, H1 51200, H2 102400)
■10fps
■Video ‘stills burst’ mode 30/60 fps
■Full HD video with manual control
■Single CF Card Slot
■19 AF Points all Cross
■On chip phase detect pixels for liveview and AF tracking
■100% Viewfinder
■Viewfinder LCD Higher Resolution Than 7D
■3.2″ LCD
■GPS, WiFi
■Alloy body with better weather sealing over 7D

Some logic:
1) Dual Digic 5 vs Dual Digic 4 - to crop on higher pixel performance, noise & speed + etc
2) 21Mp vs 18Mp - do you really want 21Mp with noise?
3) 10 fps vs 8fps - 8fps kinda good
4) Wifi + GPS vs Wifi + GPS Adapter - you can add on this grip accessories

We expect (wishlist):
1) Dual Digic 6?
2) 21Mp is good, provided low noise and high ISO useability
3) 63 AF as 1DX or similar?
4) Dual CF or CF +SD
5) Full size body
6) New battery

I believe when 7D are born, is really a Monster!
We expect it to be much better than current 7D, why not wait for a MONSTER to reborn? Me too a disappointed user waiting fro 7DMII.

Think another way, maybe CANON is listening therefore they really wanna build another moster which not to dissapointed sport/wildlife user...

=) cheers

9

Lenses / Re: AFMA Accuracy vs. Precision

« on: May 12, 2013, 08:44:36 PM »

And in fact some of his tests show that this is not the case.  He routinely tests AF repeatability without AFMA adjusting cameras to lenses and although the data shows AFMA is off, repeatability is pretty much the same no matter where your AFMA is set.

One other thing he discovered is that new lenses provide AF feedback to the cameras and only the new cameras make use of it (5d3, 1DX, maybe 6D but that came out after his tests were completed).  So your best AF accuracy AND repeatability are with using a new lens with a new body.  Other combinations provide just the "standard" old-school AF.    Canon hasn't really boasted much about this but Roger was cracked open a few lenses and found the sensors.  The tests show that only the newer cameras make use of it.

There were several parts to this series but here is one that describes the AF repeatability.  I'll leave it up to the reader to find the previous and future posts on the subject:

http://www.lensrentals.com/blog/2012/08/autofocus-reality-part-3b-canon-cameras

I would also respectfully submit that in all likelihood, a camera WILL AF differently and with less consistency with varying lighting conditions and the type of light used.  I will even go as far as to submit that AF systems will vary depending on the subject target used.  However I am pretty certain that AFMA doesn't affect repeatability.

Have any of you found the same to be true?

Thanks

I've not noticed it. But I haven't looked for it either. The new lenses on the new bodies were tested by Rodger at lens rentals. I don't think he mentioned anything like this, and it would seems an unusual effect from such a system.

10

PowerShot / Re: Two New PowerShot Cameras Leaked

« on: May 12, 2013, 08:23:15 PM »

Yaaaawwwnnnnnnnnn!

11

Lenses / Re: Canon 500 F4 IS vs Canon 300 f2.8 IS II

« on: May 12, 2013, 07:12:13 PM »

Due to smaller pixel density, smaller noise patterns (so you can crop deeper), and the new Mk II lens paired with the 5D3 offers closed loop AF for better accuracy and repeatability.

And not to diminish the fact that it has 4 stop IS so handheld is rock solid even with the 2XIII attached.

I have been using the 300mm f/2.8 II with the 1.4 and 2x TCs III for nearly a year with initially the 7D and now the 5D3 for bird photography. It is so sharp with the 2xTC that the 1.4 stays in its grey leather pouch unless the bird is too close. The camera and lens are sufficiently light that an old geezer like me can carry them around all day. By the way, the lenses perform even better on the 5D3 than on the 7D.

12

EOS Bodies - For Stills / Re: EOS 5D Mark III Firmware 1.2.1 Available for Download

« on: May 12, 2013, 09:59:22 AM »

Could be a bit of marketing but it likely stems from the fact 1) there are a lot of counterfeit batteries out there and 2) both the counterfeit and 3rd party batteries are often made cheaply...maybe the same actual batteries just packaged and labeled differently.  Some of them burn up and melt down while charging AND once installed in the camera.

To be honest, I've never had a 3rd party battery last as long as a canon battery in both shots per charge and battery life.  You really get what you pay for.  As far as other 3rd party accessories go, I have also figured out that the canon accessories are mostly built better and have less issues.

I've stopped wasting my money and have just bought the canon accessories as that is usually where I end up anyway.

I just talked to CPS Hollywood the other day and got into a conversation about what 3rd party accessories I should get, and they warned me not to use any 3rd party batteries because they might blow up in camera, I told them I've been using Canon DSLRs with only 3rd party batteries for about 10 years and not only have I never had that happen but I've also never heard about it either but the lady insisted that they have seen it...

I don't mean to be an alarmist but now with this extra warning in camera about 3rd party batteries and the fact they tweaked the camera to misread some chipped 3rd party batteries I can't help to wonder if they did something that might make this happen :/  like no longer restricting something on the higher capacity aftermarket battery. I've had batteries from other stuff blow up on me before (an Apple Macbook, an Avid portable M-Audio recorder and a few cellphones) they just bloat up and no longer work.

This is probably just some marketing trick to scare me into giving them more money but I wouldn't surprised. (who the hell is running Canon now a days anyway?)

I think its part alarmist, part reality. Canon can't QC third party battery manufacturers.  While I'm sure a quality 3rd party battery vendor wouldn't put out a failing product, thats not stopping some cheap knock off vendor from providing batteries for canons and users purchasing them.  All it takes is one battery failure and canon is correct in their assessment.  And considering all the battery options I see on ebay, I see it more a likelihood that a user would buy one just to save a few bucks.

If you are going to spend $3K on a camera, a $70 battery is part of the cost of doing business.  Playing lottery with a microprocessor controlled power source is a risk.

If I put out a pro product, I'd definitely put out a boilerplate statement about using OEM accessories just to save me the pain.  Sure OEM cost more, but you are paying for reliability.

13

EOS Bodies - For Stills / Re: EOS 5D Mark III Firmware 1.2.1 Available for Download

« on: May 11, 2013, 04:30:31 PM »

You can do it using the EOS Utility or you can simply copy the .FIR file to the root directory on your SD or CF card.  Then press Menu on the camera and go to the Firmware option.  You can upgrade from there.  Also dont forget to remove the FIR file or format your card.

Ok, I'm feeling pretty dumb right now.  -I went to the Canon website to load the new firmware to my computer. The only thing coming up an update procedure PDF. Is the firmware hiding in there somewhere. Help would be appreciated:) Thanks in advance!

So go here:
http://usa.canon.com/cusa/consumer/products/cameras/slr_cameras/eos_5d_mark_iii#DriversAndSoftware
In the first drop list select the OS.
In the next drop list select the version

Next click the Firmware link below.

Now under "File Description" you will see "EOS 5D Mark III Firmware Version 1.2.1 [<Operating system>]".
Click it.

That will lead to a Disclaimer and an End User License Agreement and a button that reads "I Agree - Begin Download" (I would not have capitalized "A", "B" and "D" - but then that is me...). Click it to download the firmware.

Hope this helps.

Ok, I know this sounds boneheaded.....
I've found the firmware update to download, but I don't see the instructions there on HOW to install the firmware safely on the camera...?

Am I missing the link there on this?

Thanks,

cayenne

14

EOS Bodies - For Stills / Re: EOS 5D Mark III Firmware 1.2.1 Available for Download

« on: May 11, 2013, 12:11:16 PM »

That didn't happen because of the fw update.  It's a long standing bug.  When you remove a card and close the door the camera ignores your settings and reverts to the card that's still there.  EVEN WHEN THE POWER IS OFF.  You then have to go back and set all of your card settings again.  If you take a card out and leave the door open, then reinsert the card, the settings will be retained.

Has anyone had Eye-Fi problems since updating their firmware?

My camera will no longer activate my Eye-Fi card when I "enable it" in the menu.  It's not working but I don't know whether it's the new firmware or the card is just bad since I haven't used the Eye-fi wireless in awhile.

EDIT:  Never mind, I got it working.  It turns out that the firmware update changed playback of my dual cards to use the CF card which means images I lock as a flag to selective transfer via Eye-Fi wasn't getting recognized and thus the card didn't think there was any images to transfer.  Changing the playback card to the Eye-Fi card fixed this.

15

EOS Bodies / Re: Download Firmware 1.2.1 link for 5DIII

« on: May 09, 2013, 10:43:27 PM »

You can customize it to "protect" mode!   I use that with the eye-fi to tag photos I want to send to my ipad.

No improvement on the red focus points - Booooo Hisss
No ability to customise the stupid rate button - Hope magic lantern can do something here instead since canon have no interest in being helpful

Well that sucks.