376
EOS Bodies - For Stills / Re: 5D Mark III - is this a good price?
« on: November 15, 2012, 03:27:01 PM »
Fabulous price if it's a reputable dealer.
June 20, 2013, 12:52:23 AM
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377
EOS Bodies - For Stills / Re: 5D3 & 600ex-rt + AF assist beam = slower focus
« on: November 15, 2012, 03:26:22 PM »totally and completely agree rustmeister...one beer for you! now you only owe me one
Glad to hear it! See my other post. I started another thread on the idea to see if anyone else thinks it's logical. And if we keep the beer thing going, eventually they may add it to the forum.
378
EOS Bodies - For Stills / Re: Does anybody think the 1dx price will come down for the holidays...why?
« on: November 15, 2012, 03:21:42 PM »Like asking if you can afford the monthly payments on Porsche 911.
or
if you have to ask, you can't afford it
Jcns...such an inaccurate post....you must be young and/or lack the wisdom to know that often times the wealthiest people MAKE SURE they know all about the price. Read the book "millionaire next door" and you'll understand what i mean.
I've read it. Now I see why we think alike. Make that two beers I'll buy you. But after that it's your turn!
funny..when we get to six beers just send me a six pack
i hope your next 5d3 performs as good as mine does. i've never sent anything back that i've bought online, how has that gone? do they wait to send the new one until after they receive the returned camera?
I got it through eBay on one of those steal deals from Beach Camera. I've never purchased from Beach before but when I called them directly, their phone rep was extremely helpful, no BS and sent a RMA and FedEx barcode to my email while we spoke. I sent it back that Monday, it arrived there today and he said he would try to get the replacement sent back out to me same day. I had the option of buying another on on Monday and getting a refund when they received the defective one on return but since I paid such a good price, he couldn't do the refund without me losing the difference. So it is just a straight exchange. So I'm halfway through this but so far, they have been as good with it as you could hope/expect. My fingers are still crossed.
379
EOS Bodies - For Stills / Q: A dedicated Still Image DSLR without video? Thoughts?
« on: November 15, 2012, 01:37:50 PM »
This is a purely hypothetical question but I'm guessing many of you have thought about it once or twice.
I'm curious if anyone else would consider a DSLR designed, dedicated and optimized solely for still photography worthwhile / desirable?
Quite simply: If you could get better still images from a camera without video, would you buy it?
- Would you buy it instead of a hybrid model with video features if it produced better still images?
- Would you buy it if the images were the same but it was designed differently for still photography use?
Does anyone else think compromises might exist in hybrid DSLR designs in order to offer HD video on the same sensor?
- Would a sensor designed for dedicated still photography perhaps offer better specs, IQ, sensitivity, speed, [insert other perceived benefit here]?
- How much better would a dedicated still photography camera perform if it didn't have to produce video as well?
- Would the CPU, processing and firmware possibly be less complex, more efficient and stable?
- Would the control layout and ergonomics, menus, etc be easier to use and offer more versatility and/or control?
- Is it possible that video features have delayed R&D while engineers work out new challenges due to the hybrid designs?
- Do you think video increases the price of the camera? Is it logical to think a dedicated still camera might cost slightly less while still offering better images?
Just thought I would throw it out there to chew on. Might make an interesting discussion. Thanks for your time.
I'm curious if anyone else would consider a DSLR designed, dedicated and optimized solely for still photography worthwhile / desirable?
Quite simply: If you could get better still images from a camera without video, would you buy it?
- Would you buy it instead of a hybrid model with video features if it produced better still images?
- Would you buy it if the images were the same but it was designed differently for still photography use?
Does anyone else think compromises might exist in hybrid DSLR designs in order to offer HD video on the same sensor?
- Would a sensor designed for dedicated still photography perhaps offer better specs, IQ, sensitivity, speed, [insert other perceived benefit here]?
- How much better would a dedicated still photography camera perform if it didn't have to produce video as well?
- Would the CPU, processing and firmware possibly be less complex, more efficient and stable?
- Would the control layout and ergonomics, menus, etc be easier to use and offer more versatility and/or control?
- Is it possible that video features have delayed R&D while engineers work out new challenges due to the hybrid designs?
- Do you think video increases the price of the camera? Is it logical to think a dedicated still camera might cost slightly less while still offering better images?
Just thought I would throw it out there to chew on. Might make an interesting discussion. Thanks for your time.
380
EOS Bodies - For Stills / Re: Will the release of the 6D affect the 5D MkIII's price?
« on: November 15, 2012, 10:32:19 AM »Now I've discovered (as have others) that the low light focusing has serious issues, esp if AF Assist is enabled with a flash. It can take 3-5 seconds to lock focus in low light like wedding receptions, etc.I've shot a bunch of wedding receptions with the 5D3 and AF assist enabled on the flash and have had no problem at all. It is a wonderful camera for wedding receptions. With or without flash, the low light autofocus is excellent. If it took 3-5 seconds to lock focus, I would have gotten rid of this camera immediately. I hope you get that problem resolved.
I hope I get it resolved too. That's why I returned mine and I'm waiting for a second copy. There is another thread on this that is fairly busy. Others have had problems as well. I'm glad yours has worked for you as it should.
381
EOS Bodies - For Stills / Re: Does anybody think the 1dx price will come down for the holidays...why?
« on: November 15, 2012, 09:48:00 AM »Like asking if you can afford the monthly payments on Porsche 911.
or
if you have to ask, you can't afford it
Jcns...such an inaccurate post....you must be young and/or lack the wisdom to know that often times the wealthiest people MAKE SURE they know all about the price. Read the book "millionaire next door" and you'll understand what i mean.
I've read it. Now I see why we think alike. Make that two beers I'll buy you. But after that it's your turn!
382
EOS Bodies - For Stills / Re: 5D3 & 600ex-rt + AF assist beam = slower focus
« on: November 15, 2012, 09:41:56 AM »
Hey zim, not sure what acronym you mean but everything's cool here! I feel your frustration, a $3000+ camera that is heavily marketed to do something well should indeed do that something well, esp after we waited extra time for the camera to be released. It's a wonderful camera for all other uses. I wouldn't hold my breath for the low light fix. Start considering what YOU can do to work around it. I am hoping that the 6D is Canon's hail mary throw to the end zone to address the 5D3 low light issue.
I think this is a problem we are going to see more often as DSLRs are being designed to be both still picture cameras and video devices. I hate that Canon has taken this path. It's a compromise that drags down the still picture performance while also hampering the video performance. I wonder if this dual use design challenge is partly to blame for the low light issue.
Canon: Just give me a highest possible quality still picture camera with NO video! I don't use it, I don't need it and I'm trying to understand why it even exists on a pro level camera. Photographers are NOT videographers and vice versa. And those that are, typically will buy the tool that is best for each craft. They don't crave one-device fits-all solutions. I've taken some shaky video with my 60D and it sucks. So what if you can use EF lenses on the thing? The DSLR body design is terrible for video so to make it work, tons of money must be spent on all kinds of contraptions to fix the problems that video camcorder (pro and consumer) makers solved years ago with dedicated HD camcorders that still make better video with AF and stereo sound. IMO, adding video to DSLRs was done to sell more cameras to consumers wanting to move up from point and shoot cameras, not answer any urgent need from photographers and it's a real shame. It's a novelty feature that is likely hurting, not helping the primary use of the camera which is taking still images, not video.
I think this is a problem we are going to see more often as DSLRs are being designed to be both still picture cameras and video devices. I hate that Canon has taken this path. It's a compromise that drags down the still picture performance while also hampering the video performance. I wonder if this dual use design challenge is partly to blame for the low light issue.
Canon: Just give me a highest possible quality still picture camera with NO video! I don't use it, I don't need it and I'm trying to understand why it even exists on a pro level camera. Photographers are NOT videographers and vice versa. And those that are, typically will buy the tool that is best for each craft. They don't crave one-device fits-all solutions. I've taken some shaky video with my 60D and it sucks. So what if you can use EF lenses on the thing? The DSLR body design is terrible for video so to make it work, tons of money must be spent on all kinds of contraptions to fix the problems that video camcorder (pro and consumer) makers solved years ago with dedicated HD camcorders that still make better video with AF and stereo sound. IMO, adding video to DSLRs was done to sell more cameras to consumers wanting to move up from point and shoot cameras, not answer any urgent need from photographers and it's a real shame. It's a novelty feature that is likely hurting, not helping the primary use of the camera which is taking still images, not video.
383
EOS Bodies - For Stills / Re: Will the release of the 6D affect the 5D MkIII's price?
« on: November 15, 2012, 09:16:40 AM »
I agree with the other posts. You're just stating what everyone feels when they decide to get a new camera. Yes you are overthinking it and unfortunately, we all do it and it's normal. IMO, as I've stated in long flowing posts, the 5DIII is overpriced and will likely drop eventually but who knows when. The less they sell, the faster it will drop. If you have a camera you are happy with currently, look at your existing portfolio and ask yourself how much urgency there truly is and consider waiting 6 more months. Maybe by then the 5D3 will be fixed and be worth the wait. (But I doubt it.) Fixed? See below...
Myself, I waited years, got a 5D and skipped the 5D2 and then waited another 6 months after the 5D3 was released. I got one about 3 weeks ago through a $2899 steal deal. Now I've discovered (as have others) that the low light focusing has serious issues, esp if AF Assist is enabled with a flash. It can take 3-5 seconds to lock focus in low light like wedding receptions, etc. It's likely in the AF points design. So if I were you, I would rent one first, esp if low light shooting is your goal. The 5D3 is a dream camera for all other uses. I will definitely be getting a 6D to compare the two heavily and then sell the one that works best for me. I'm hoping the 6D performs in low light at least as good as the 5D3 was marketed to perform in LL but doesn't. Performing better will be a bonus.
Myself, I waited years, got a 5D and skipped the 5D2 and then waited another 6 months after the 5D3 was released. I got one about 3 weeks ago through a $2899 steal deal. Now I've discovered (as have others) that the low light focusing has serious issues, esp if AF Assist is enabled with a flash. It can take 3-5 seconds to lock focus in low light like wedding receptions, etc. It's likely in the AF points design. So if I were you, I would rent one first, esp if low light shooting is your goal. The 5D3 is a dream camera for all other uses. I will definitely be getting a 6D to compare the two heavily and then sell the one that works best for me. I'm hoping the 6D performs in low light at least as good as the 5D3 was marketed to perform in LL but doesn't. Performing better will be a bonus.
384
EOS Bodies - For Stills / Re: DUST!!!!!!! WHAT TO DO!?!?!? (resolved)
« on: November 15, 2012, 08:28:12 AM »Not sure if this will actually help prevent blowing dust into your camera or not, but that's the intent of the attached Hepa filter:
http://www.adorama.com/CPKHJDB.html
Shawn L.
You could use this to blow out your nose too since it is free of allergens! Plenty of stuff I'd like to dislodge from up there!
385
EOS Bodies - For Stills / Re: DUST!!!!!!! WHAT TO DO!?!?!? (resolved)
« on: November 15, 2012, 08:26:40 AM »
There are several good write-ups on the web about sensor cleaning and many systems, kits and tools for sale. I'm sure everyone on this forum have done their part to keep those folks in business. In general I think sensor cleaning is a personal thing where some want to handle it themselves and others are more comfortable having it done for them. Either way, it's unavoidable eventually.
Another note: If you go to camera shows where Canon has a booth, they will usually inspect and clean your camera for free. Some shows have it, some don't. Depends on the size and sponsors of the show I guess.
IMO, sensor cleaning is simply part of owning a DSLR camera. If the user isn't comfortable touching their sensor, fine. But they should be comfortable using a blower because that may save them on location to fix a bad speck problem when other cleaning options aren't possible. The sensor is more durable than you think. It's covered by a transparent shield.
I think the info on lensrentals.com is great for learning more about this. It's pretty interesting. If their methods work on cameras that receive more abuse than personal devices, it will probably work for anyone. Here are links to that and also to another comparison of the various methods and systems available as well. I think they should offer a sensor cleaning service. They should be good enough at it after performing 100's (if not 1000's) of cleanings.
http://www.lensrentals.com/blog/2011/05/the-lensrentals-lens-cleaning-methods
http://www.lensrentals.com/blog/2010/04/how-to-clean-a-camera-sensor
http://www.cleaningdigitalcameras.com/methods.html
Also, notice that taking your DSLR to the gas station and using the air hose there for blowing out your DSLR isn't listed as a method. Why? Well, as tempted as I'm sure you are to blow a 120+ PSI blast of oil+water misting air deep into your camera where it will contaminate everything and likely destroy all the mechanisms like a nasty hurricane, it's just not a good idea. And believe me, when you've worked a hour to get rid of one stubborn spot on the sensor and it just refuses to go away, this sounds a lot better than you'd think! (And don't go licking the sensor either!)
Another note: If you go to camera shows where Canon has a booth, they will usually inspect and clean your camera for free. Some shows have it, some don't. Depends on the size and sponsors of the show I guess.
IMO, sensor cleaning is simply part of owning a DSLR camera. If the user isn't comfortable touching their sensor, fine. But they should be comfortable using a blower because that may save them on location to fix a bad speck problem when other cleaning options aren't possible. The sensor is more durable than you think. It's covered by a transparent shield.
I think the info on lensrentals.com is great for learning more about this. It's pretty interesting. If their methods work on cameras that receive more abuse than personal devices, it will probably work for anyone. Here are links to that and also to another comparison of the various methods and systems available as well. I think they should offer a sensor cleaning service. They should be good enough at it after performing 100's (if not 1000's) of cleanings.
http://www.lensrentals.com/blog/2011/05/the-lensrentals-lens-cleaning-methods
http://www.lensrentals.com/blog/2010/04/how-to-clean-a-camera-sensor
http://www.cleaningdigitalcameras.com/methods.html
Also, notice that taking your DSLR to the gas station and using the air hose there for blowing out your DSLR isn't listed as a method. Why? Well, as tempted as I'm sure you are to blow a 120+ PSI blast of oil+water misting air deep into your camera where it will contaminate everything and likely destroy all the mechanisms like a nasty hurricane, it's just not a good idea. And believe me, when you've worked a hour to get rid of one stubborn spot on the sensor and it just refuses to go away, this sounds a lot better than you'd think! (And don't go licking the sensor either!)
386
EOS Bodies - For Stills / Re: 5D3 & 600ex-rt + AF assist beam = slower focus
« on: November 14, 2012, 12:06:25 PM »First, real quick, what is UAT?
UAT = user acceptance testing.
Ahh, thanks. Technical term!
387
EOS Bodies - For Stills / Re: Does anybody think the 1dx price will come down for the holidays...why?
« on: November 14, 2012, 11:29:23 AM »QuoteCan't wait to hear you got a great deal. Wish you were local, I'd buy you a beer. Have a good day.
Rusty...
I haggled with three of them(online retailers) over the phone but the best deal I could get was a couple 16GB CF SNDisk Extreme pro's.
I'd take you up on that beer...I'm a fellow geek.
That sounds pretty decent to me! 12 fps is going to have to go somewhere very quickly. Since your 5D3 seems to work well, let me know when you sell it.
BTW, where does 'Northstar' come from? Because FSR I can't get Spaceballs' Bill Pullman out of my head every time I read it! Please tell me you resemble Bill Pullman! Ha, ha!
388
EOS Bodies - For Stills / Re: Does anybody think the 1dx price will come down for the holidays...why?
« on: November 14, 2012, 11:25:37 AM »
Ditto, we have State Farm too!
That firehose of cash your kids require won't trickle for long, it will likely flow faster soon enough. And as they get older, you will progressively lose more and more of your personal time to them. That's why I shoot boy scouts, school swim meets, choir, church, etc. It's really just a way do enjoy my hobby while I spend time with them. (And hopefully provide others with meaningful pictures while I try to improve my photography with a lot of shooting material.)
Northstar, let me know how the GoPro works for you! Keep in mind it's strength is video, the stills will be only fair at best. I have the Canon D10 and D20 rugged cams and love them for hiking but have considered the GoPro at some point to mount somewhere and get some occasional video. As big and heavy as the 1DX is, just mount the GoPro to the hotshoe and use it to get companion video and sound to go along with your stills. Here's what that tackle sounded like when he broke his clavicle! Ouch! (Ha!)
That firehose of cash your kids require won't trickle for long, it will likely flow faster soon enough. And as they get older, you will progressively lose more and more of your personal time to them. That's why I shoot boy scouts, school swim meets, choir, church, etc. It's really just a way do enjoy my hobby while I spend time with them. (And hopefully provide others with meaningful pictures while I try to improve my photography with a lot of shooting material.)
Northstar, let me know how the GoPro works for you! Keep in mind it's strength is video, the stills will be only fair at best. I have the Canon D10 and D20 rugged cams and love them for hiking but have considered the GoPro at some point to mount somewhere and get some occasional video. As big and heavy as the 1DX is, just mount the GoPro to the hotshoe and use it to get companion video and sound to go along with your stills. Here's what that tackle sounded like when he broke his clavicle! Ouch! (Ha!)
389
EOS Bodies - For Stills / Re: Does anybody think the 1dx price will come down for the holidays...why?
« on: November 14, 2012, 10:40:01 AM »....the only cost is the $2000, and up until a year ago i was spending that amount monthly for my kids in daycare.
BTW, been there, done that!! When it comes to the money side of things, I really envy all those folks with income and no kids. Wow. And that daycare must have been one of those upscale daycare spas I've heard so much about!
Nah, kidding aside, decent daycare/preschool is really expensive. Which is why we would just put 'em in the back yard with chew toys and water. No wait, that wasn't the kids! Ooops. Sometimes I wonder if there's a difference. Oh yeah, I usually don't want to
390
EOS Bodies - For Stills / Re: Does anybody think the 1dx price will come down for the holidays...why?
« on: November 14, 2012, 10:30:07 AM »Just don't forget that your plans to sell in the future are still dependent on the camera not getting damaged, stolen or lost in a fire. Don't forget to cover those contingencies.
That's what insurance is for...
Yeah, I knew that was probably coming. Insurance is a given and why I added 'And I assume you have' after that statement. It's all good.
You would be amazed at how often I hear how something wasn't insured because either the insurance was too expensive and lapsed or the policy wasn't reviewed often and it didn't actually cover the loss when the claim was made. Then there is the cost of the deductible. And finally, damage may not be covered at all unless there is a rider on the policy or it's a policy specifically written to cover damage. (Observe premium and deductible rising as I type.) In general, insurance is for large losses, not small ones. Most small repairs or losses are out of pocket because the deductible is too high and the claim will raise the premium anyway. Possible repair on the 1DX could be $400 or $4000. Either way, it will cost $400 - deductible. And that increases the $2000 projected cost at the end when Northstar sells it used. (I probably should have left 'fire' out of the list and then insurance isn't always the best option.)
I wasn't trying to negate his strategy, in fact I applaud his thinking it out that far. I do the same thing. I just wanted to say that that time period between purchase and resale is a big gray area full of risk and possible pitfalls to the outcome. Just like any investment. One must be careful to base a buying decision on the future resale value. I think buying cameras is a lot like buying cars, either new or used. You're buying it to use and eventually you will sell it. Almost like an extended lease or rental except you own the equity. And that is exactly what I think Northstar illustrated with his strategy. The big question is what happens along the way to affect that final cost number at the end. Obviously, it's a rough guess. Here's hoping it becomes a classic collectors' item by then and is worth more than was paid for it!!