Review - Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II

This lens pretty much lives on my camera for youth football and baseball season. I just finished football with it and was very pleased. Image quality was improved over the older model especially when all the way out. The shorter minimum focus distance allowed some shots that would have been blurry previously when the runner was almost at my feet. I can't totally attribute it to the lens but my keeper rate was also up this year. Probably my favorite lens for its versatility.
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Best & Most Rented Gear of 2015 by LensRentals.com

infared said:
I am amazed at the wide range of gear that that Lens Rental employees chose...
None of which I own or have tried. LOL! Those Profoto B2's look interesting....

Editor from LensRentals here. The Profoto B2s are incredible, and likely would have been my favorite product from this year. I didn't choose it though, because I'm personally sponsored with Profoto, and I didn't want the hassle of people accusing me of making it a sponsored post. The Canon 35L II (My choice on the list) is incredible though, and one of my absolute favorites from this year.
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Canon 430Ex III (non RT) worth the money?

Mt Spokane Photography said:
You seem to have answered your own question. You do not intend to use the R/T features, so why buy it?


Rather than spend big bucks for a single arm bracket, consider a dual arm unit, and a flash controller. You can set the flash ratio and do things you cannot do with a single flash unit.
You can get more light as well, which lets you stop down further.

I'm not a big fan of Cowboy Studio, but the idea is a good one.

http://www.cowboystudio.com/product_p/octopus%20flash%20bracket.htm

Of course, Wimberly has a kit to setup a dual flash unit, but for someone on a limited budget, I'd get the two flashes plus wireless controller over one with a expensive bracket.

http://www.tripodhead.com/products/flash-bracket-macro-brackets.cfm
I have tried that octopus flash bracket in past with a pair of Nissin Di700 and Nikon D90 setup. I didn't find it particularly comfortable to use.
IMG_0137 by Chaitanya Shukla, on Flickr
With small flashes like 270ex and others that bracket is a really good macro flash bracket with medium and large flashes it gives the most painful setup to shoot with. a friend of mine here had purchased the Kirk Macro flash bracket(universal) couple of months back but he doesnt seem to have use for it anymore and is selling it at a good price.
http://www.kirkphoto.com/Macro_Flash_Bracket-Universal.html

with that bracket I can use the 430ex as well as the 270ex for macro shooting with someone else doing the duty of handholding the 2nd flash.

I was wondering with the cheap Yongnuo transmitter available on ebay, was it worth the premium for the RT model? as it might be easier to sell it compared to Non RT one.
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135mm f/1.4 full-frame lens coming from third party

ahsanford said:
H. Jones said:
CanonFanBoy said:
As shallow as the depth of field in on the Canon EF 135mm f/2... I just don't know what this new third party lens could ever be used for in my life.

If you ever wanted ultra-ultra-thin depth of field while photographing planes landing at airports, now there's a lens for you!

It's not that long a focal length. :D

Look, I'm making fun of the realities of a 6+ pound prime lens without autofocus, but there is an opportunity for Mitakon.

If you like taking portraits with a 70-200 f/2.8 lens shot wide open, now imagine that with far creamier bokeh / far greater subject isolation. There's absolutely a market for that.

People who spoon with their 135mm f/2L lenses at night like people did with their Amiga computers when they were discontinued will understand.

People who buy sell everything they own for used copies of 200mm f/1.8L or 200mm f/2L IS lenses will understand.

I'm not buying that monster because I'm not one of those people, but call me crazy, someone on this forum will absolutely buy one of these.

- A

My 135mm f/2L is my 70-200's sister wife. That's how I spoon.
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Canon FD 50mm f/1.2 L

Haven't done any real shooting with it since picking up the a7rii. Just some snapshots around the house. This is a straight dxo conversion. I would mask out the purple ear fringing but I want to show it straight up. I am going to have some fun with the closet lenses I haven't used in decades. I think this is the best reason to get one of these cameras.

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Looking for Books and very in-depth reviews/write-ups of Canon 7D ii

I can't vouch for it, but you might look into:

http://www.fullstopbooks.com/canon-7d-mark-ii-experience/

He has one on the 5DS/r as well. I haven't read them yet, so you need to look for yourself. I do know that the Apple iBooks download has formatting issues. Works fine with PDF download to iPad with Goodreader APP.
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Lastolite Triflector

keithfullermusic said:
Pookie said:
Yep, this is what I was talking about. And you don't even need gaff tape as Avenger and Kupo make foam core holder specifically for this application. Or go free standing...

16$ vs. 246$
http://www.adorama.com/KUKG600611.html?gclid=Cj0KEQiA-ZSzBRDp3ITHm5KO_JYBEiQA1JjHHCzOOfH63eyDu37uDJGe6LOezLoF84IS2vdk9aLTqp0aAhXm8P8HAQ

In the UK the price in USD for the Triflector is $187. Also, if I used the forks I would need three, plus 3 light stands, 3 reflectors of the same size, and I'd have to make sure I didn't impale any clients.

I appreciate the recommendation of it- it actually does look awesome, and I might pick one up. However, it doesn't seem like a substitute for the Triflector.

Only one stand for that is needed... you'd just need a multi-point attachment. Also fairly cheap. I def like Lastolite though, don't get me wrong. Just if you are really talking about mainly in studio use one Kupo/Avenger is worth tons more in the long run. You could even hang Triflectors on it if you really want to go that route. Way better than the cheap light weight stands Lastolite uses and shows with that set-up.

I've used these for years and never hand one unintentional impaling, there have been time I wanted to intentionally do it though ;D
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2nd curtain sync with cable -> camera

Hi Ryan.
Privatebydesign pretty much covered it, but rather than faf about with a flashlight/torch, I'd recommend to go buy one of these you will find so much more to do with it eventually.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Gamesaloreu-Digital-Multimeter-Voltmeter-Ammeter/dp/B016Q2ZFSM/ref=sr_1_93?ie=UTF8&qid=1450430236&sr=8-93&keywords=digital+multimeter
If you are ok waiting buy really cheap on line, if your like me a bit impatient buy local retail for about £$20 if you can get one with a buzzer for diode test it makes it easier, you don't have to look for the scale just listen for a beep, no beep, no continuity! (Or incredibly high resistance on the cable=effectively no continuity) also check for crossover of paths, each male pin should only connect to its equivalent on the female end, it may be that it connect to 2 which would cause problems.
If you are not sure how to use the meter, ask for a local contact, if you are near me I'll show you.

Cheers, Graham.
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5D mk3 at higher ISO vs 7D mk2 at lower ISO

I would have to say that either choice will do - if the light is good...

My preference though would be for the 5D3 (which I have used but not owned) over the 7D2 which I currently use.

Have a look at this thread, which offers similar considerations regarding reach/quality with 6D/7D2:
http://www.canonrumors.com/forum/index.php?topic=23719.0
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Sony Announces a68 A-mount Camera for US and Canada Markets

HTML:
<em>New Model Features Ultra-Fast 4D FOCUS, Translucent Mirror Technology and more</em></p>
<p><strong>SAN DIEGO, Dec. 17, 2015</strong> – Sony Electronics, a worldwide leader in digital imaging and the world’s largest image sensor manufacturer, has today introduced the α68 (model ILCA-68) camera with ultra-fast 4D autofocus to the US and Canada markets.</p>
<p>The new camera, which was announced for the European market last month, is the latest model to feature native compatibility with Sony’s extensive collection of A-mount lenses.  Inheriting many pro-style features from the acclaimed α77 II, the α68 features Sony’s unique 4D FOCUS system that delivers extraordinary AF performance under any shooting conditions – even in lighting as low as EV-2 where many other cameras struggle.</p>
<p><!--more--></p>
<p>This system utilizes 79 autofocus points – the most AF points on any interchangeable lens camera with a dedicated phase-detection AF sensor<sup>1</sup>.  Included are 15 cross points as well as a dedicated F2.8 AF sensor point for dimly-lit scenes.  This all adds up to extremely fast, wide area AF with predictive tracking that locks faithfully onto fast-moving subjects.  Additionally, the camera utilizes Sony’s unique Translucent Mirror Technology to deliver constant AF tracking at up to 8 fps<sup>2</sup>.</p>
<p>The camera features a 24 MP<sup>3</sup> APS-C Exmor CMOS sensor with a wide ISO 100 – 25,600 sensitivity range<sup>4</sup>, allowing it to produce outstanding image quality for both still images and video.  The sensor is teamed with a powerful BIONZ X image processor that uses Detail Reproduction and Diffraction-reducing Technologies plus Area-specific Noise Reduction, resulting in pristine, finely detailed shots every time.</p>
<p>Full HD movies use the efficient XAVC S<sup>5</sup> format, enabling high bit rate recordings at up to 50 Mbps with outstanding detail and low noise. With Translucent Mirror Technology, shooters can enjoy non-stop continuous autofocus with accurate subject tracking during video shooting, producing crisp, professional looking footage.  With a powerful array of advanced controls and capabilities, the α68 has plenty to offer experienced amateurs as well as step-up photographers and first time interchangeable lens camera customers.</p>
<p>Framing stills and movies is a pleasure through the clear, bright OLED Tru-Finder, which features 100% frame coverage with high contrast and accurate color reproduction.  Complementing the Tru-Finder, the 2.7-type LCD monitor tilts up to 135 degrees upwards or 55 degrees downwards for comfortable composition from a wide variety of shooting angles. Serious photo enthusiasts will also value the backlit top display that allows quick confirmation of camera settings, whether shooting handheld or on a tripod.</p>
<p>As found on the critically acclaimed α7 series, the α68 has a control wheel on the camera’s rear that allows quick fingertip adjustment of camera settings, as well as 10 customizable buttons<sup>6</sup> that frequently-used functions can be assigned to.  There is also a front control dial for quick adjustments of settings and a sturdy grip to ensure a balanced shooting experience, even when using heavyweight prime or telephoto lenses.</p>
<p>The new camera features SteadyShot INSIDE stabilization to reduce the effects of camera shake and allow for blur-free handheld shooting at all focal lengths, with any compatible lens.  Additionally, the inclusion of a Multi Interface Shoe and Multi Terminal lets users expand their creative options with a wide range of optional accessories, including flashes, lights, microphones and remote commanders.</p>
<p><strong>Pricing and Availability

</strong>The Sony α68 interchangeable lens camera will be available in April at authorized Sony retailers in the US for about $600 body only or about $700 in a kit along with the DT 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 SAM II lens.  In Canada, the body and kit will also be available in April and will be sold for about $800 and $950 CAD, respectively.</p>

Updated: The Nikon D5 has Leaked

Re: The Nikon D5 has Leaked

Tugela said:
This is why your camera will often continue to process data long after you have actually taken your shots (a long exposure for example, where data is collected over a period of time and then summed).

You're not helping your case with silly statements like that. In a long exposure, the data are collected ('data' are plural, nor singular) over a long period of time and summed by the sensor, while the shutter is open – once the shutter closes, there's no difference between a long and short exposure in terms of processing. If your camera continues 'processing' you are confusing that with long exposure NR, where a dark frame of the same exposure duration is taken and subtracted (which removes hot pixels, but actually adds random noise) – that extra time is the second exposure, not 'processing'.


dilbert said:
The system can only go as fast as the slowest component and right now the slowest component is the CF card.

In practice, the mirror is the limiting factor that determines fps. The buffer size then limits the number of shots that can be taken at that frame rate. Only after the buffer is full do other factors come into play.
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Review - Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM

Besisika said:
ritholtz said:
Canon sold it for $110 during blackfriday.
I would have bought one if I new. Please let us know next time.

Thanks for the review Dustin, much needed.
Have been thinking about it for a while now.
Hi,
Canon is selling for $129 now.

http://shop.usa.canon.com/shop/en/catalog/ef-s-55-250mm-f4-5-6-is-stm-telephoto-zoom-lens-refurbished?WT.mc_id=C126149
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