Posts

digital paradise · Aug 27, 2013

And then there is this.

http://pixsylated.com/blog/update-deciding-between-canon-speedlites-600ex-rt-and-580ex-ii/

richlondoner · Aug 27, 2013

Thanks for the responses guys, will take all your ideas and suggestions onboard...

Rich

Bruce 101 · Aug 27, 2013

Switch the YouTube setting to 1080p and it looks better.

Joe F.N. · Aug 27, 2013

rpt said:
GmwDarkroom said:

Beautiful shot!

Camera, lens, and exposure? Or does that not show because I'm on an iPad?

Click to expand...

Yup! Exif shows up on my browsers on the laptop and I have not yet figured a way to get the Exif on the iPad.

Lovely shot joe.

Correct about EXIF. Thanks for the kind words.

tnargs · Aug 27, 2013

ankorwatt said:
tnargs said:

ankorwatt said:

d800 nope?

D800 AF is based on D4
please explain what is better in 5dmk3 and how you can make a statement like this

Click to expand...

This is the first time I have seen a serious claim that the D800 AF is equal or better than the 5D MkIII AF.

Roger Cicala of lensrentals tested and found that the Canon's phase detection AF is as accurate and consistent as its contrast detection AF, i.e. the standard deviation of MTF values of a series of static shots is the same for both AF systems. This is a remarkable achievement. The D800, 'nope'. It is just not as reliable on phase detection.

And that is with static subjects.

He also says there is a left side AF sensor issue with the D800 that is unresolved, and recommends the camera only be used for centre point AF. I hope THAT isn't 'based on the D4'!

Click to expand...

well, spend a month to compare them and then return

Why don't you direct that very silly and irrelevant comment to Roger Cicala -- it is he who you are taking issue with (although I seriously cannot see the issue in my post that you are taking issue with. You simply haven't said anything except "I wanna have the last word, boo hoo"). ;D

(space provided here for the very silly last word about how he agrees with Roger Cicala but disagrees with me when I quote Roger!
\/ \/ \/ \/ \/ \/ )

rs · Aug 27, 2013

mdmphoto said:
privatebydesign said:

Third party "digital" lenses are not the same thing as EF-S lenses, if you want to butcher the safety stops then some EF-S lenses can be used to take ~~crap~~ heavily vignetted images on a ff camera with the risk of severe damage to that camera, hardly seems worth the effort.

I do remember back in the day people did experiment with the practicality of various EF-S lenses on EF mounts, mainly so they could use EF-S lenses on the 10D as that predated EF-S and was EF only.

Click to expand...

The Tokina (Third-party "digital") 11-16mm f/2.8 lens is in fact designed for crop lenses, and is so marketed; yet its construction does allow it to be used, without vignetting, at 16mm, on FF cameras. I like it because I can use it on both my 6- and 7D bodies, with very satisfactory results. I tried this after learning about it on this and many other forums...

Technically speaking, only lenses with an EF-S mount are EF-S lenses. Which means all third party lens with an image circle only designed to cover an APS-C sensor are in fact EF lens.

The EF-S lenses features an extra bit of plastic at the rear which prevents mounting the lens to any EF mount bodies. EF-S mount bodies have a corresponding extra cut out in the mount, enabling the body to take both EF and EF-S lenses.

Unlike Nikon FX, DX and all Canon mount EF lenses which must be designed to clear a FF mirror, EF-S mount lenses can make use of the extra room left over by the smaller mirror in APS-C bodies, so the rear elements can poke into the body a bit more. This allows some room for manoeuvre on how extreme the retrofocus designs have to be on EF-S lenses.

Pulling out the plastic cover at the rear of a EF-S lens such as the 10-22 does allow it to mount to a FF body, and you can look through the heavily vignetted viewfinder at 10mm - but when the mirror moves, it won't clear the back of the lens until its zoomed in to about 13mm. Incidentally, if you remove the filter the 10-22 fills the frame from 13mm onwards. But I wouldn't recommend trying - even if you stop it down fully, the corners are beyond mush.

jrista · Aug 27, 2013

neuroanatomist said:
KyleSTL said:

...but just wondering if there in any way an SLR could replicate the 'immersive' experience of a high quality eyepiece from a telescope, microscope or binoculars.

Click to expand...

What's one key difference between a dSLR viewfinder and the ocular lenses of a telescope, microscope (my good ones are Zeiss, BTW - we have less good Nikon scopes for tissue culture and a single 'beater' Leica on a lab bench ), or binoculars?

Shape.

The FoV for binoculars and 'scopes is circular, whereas the dSLR viewfinder is rectangular to match the image sensor. I suspect that accounts for a fair bit of the lack of an 'immersive' view through a dSLR VF.

Great point. Additionally, when looking through a telescope of microscope, the image is projected directly into your eye, with little eye relief. When looking through a DSLR viewfinder, the image you see is a superimposed projection of a reflection off a rectangular mirror. Usually it is paired with a fairly significant eye relief (around 20-25mm for DSLRs)...so there is little chance you could get that vision-filling wide angle of view anyway (even if the projection was circular and not cropped to the sensor frame.)

Ruined · Aug 27, 2013

I am not a 20 year photography vet or anything, but I have highly analyzed Canon's line and I can tell you this:

Full Frame bodies are in the midst of a pretty significant transition that probably will be mostly complete by around 2015.

Let's look at a couple of areas:
* Price. The 6D was one of the first "cheap" full frame cameras. Will it be the last? No. As one of the first cheap full frame cameras, there is a lot missing from the 5DMKIII that would be extremely useful - such as the autofocus system mentioned earlier. Or, even for longevity purposes the weather sealing and some of the controls the 5DMKIII has.

* However, even the 5DMKIII has some key features missing that Canon is currently beta testing with the APS-C users. Examples:

-Touch screen: Yeah, I know it is not 100% needed, but it allows you to INSTANTLY pinch zoom to EXACTLY where you want in image preview to see if you got a shot focused just as you wanted. Scrolling through images is also more intuitive, and menus can be made more intuitive via touch as well. And if you do any video at all, without touch you lose the useful touch-to-focus system.

-Wifi: Nice for both remote trigger and could be used at some point for high speed realtime backup. You don't need someone running SD cards to back 'em up if you have a laptop with an 802.11N/AC wireless router that the camera is streaming pics to for backup in the background. Now the 6D does have WiFi (as does the 70D), but it is far from reaching its potential in the field.

-"L" lenses missing IS: Image Stabilization is useful for video, but it is also useful for camera shake, especially in low light/long focal length. But, again here we are seeing a slow uptake as it is tested in the less expensive lenses (with some exceptions of course in the 100mm and over range), refined, and likely will eventually end up in the "L" lenses over time. It is odd that there is an EF-S 17-55mm f2.8 IS, but there is literally no similar focal length zoom of equal speed aperature w/ IS in the Canon EF lens lineup. Likewise we are seeing the introduction of consumer primes with IS across the board while this has not really happened in L lenses yet except in some of the lenses 100mm and longer; you might say IS is not needed, but it is nice to have the option of using. I would bet in a couple of years much more the the L-lenses will offer it.

My strategy: So in summary, the 6D and even the 5DMKIII are missing some key features that it is very likely their successors will have - as things like touch and wifi mature & become an expected feature - while at the same time the price of entry will likely go down as well.

While waiting for that to occur, I would hold on to your T3i until next spring and see what the 7D MKII brings. From the rumors, it looks like it might have some of these features (touch, wifi, excellent autofocus) as well as a refined sensor that may deliver less noise than the 70D. You could also see things added like a headphone jack for audio monitoring that would be immensely useful if you shoot video. In other words, it would be a nice fully featured upgrade to make while the full frame cameras continue to evolve and drop in price...

I've always heard the mantra that a wedding photographer needs at least one set of backup gear, including lenses. It might be interesting to have a setup that is similar to your subject: an APS body, an APS-C body, and a set of lenses that go with each with perhaps some for both (like the 70-200IIL may be too costly to duplicate, but you could get something like a 70-300L for instance to supplement it). Maybe keep your 24-70 for the APS, but buy an EF-s 17-55mm IS for the APS-C (the latter's FOV might be a little more workable with the 1.6x crop). Or, keep the 70-200ii for both, and pop it on the APS-C when you want to make use of the 1.6x reach. I would think it would be nicest to have both APS and APS-C because with Canon's implementations they are both strong in different categories (APS: detail/noise, APS-C: reach/speed).

While it is true you could spend forever waiting for the latest and greatest, I really do think touch, wifi, and the newer autofocus systems (if you were thinking 6D) are worth waiting for. They are not only nice to have, but can significantly improve the end result through quicker target acquisition through improved AF, much faster QA through touch zoom, plus improved backup potential through wifi. And they will most likely be available in all the full frame bodies in 2014-2015, but APS-C has 'em now.

absente · Aug 26, 2013

actually I just saw that i can get a 6D + 24-70 2.8 II for a nice combo price, saving over 400$.

How is the 5D3 + 6D combo working out, anyone using that kind of configuration?

wsmith96 · Aug 26, 2013

Thanks for the replies. I was just curious. I hope in the camera sense that doesn't make me bi-curious....that would be bad

BTW, I have been to precision camera - it's a great store and I go there when I travel to Austin on business. I purchased by EF 85 1.8 there back in June. As my avatar shows, I do live in College Station, so the trip isn't that far.

I also don't have anything against the longhorns - it's a good school. My mom is a longhorn, dad is a Missouri tiger, brother is a Red Raider, Sister is a Southwest Bobcat (can't get used to Texas State...), father-in-law is a Sam Houston bearcat, and cousin is a SFA Lumberjack. It's fun during football season

Gig'em '96.

sunnyVan · Aug 26, 2013

paul13walnut5 said:
Could be pollen from the trees has settled in the interim.
The sun is right on the cusp of the pitched roof in the flare dhot, backlighting everything.
In the flare free shot the sun has moved. Perhaps behind the building and so contrast improves, crap isn't backlit.

I do not believe it is a filter design or coating issue.

IC. Thanks for your help.

Axilrod · Aug 26, 2013

Did you try hitting "INFO" to scroll through the different overlays? One of them should be empty.

Don Haines · Aug 26, 2013

The big thing the 60D and the 7D have over the rebels is the shoulder display and controls. It gives a much better user interface. The 60D is a bit dated now, but is still a great camera. You will not see a world of difference in the RAW images of any of the APSC cameras.

If you want to photograph small birds or fast moving objects, the 7D has superior focusing, but most of the time the 60D will do quite well.

Whichever path you choose, getting and learning a software package like Lightroom will have the most impact for the dollar on your photos.

Krob78 · Aug 26, 2013

7enderbender said:
Krob78 said:

I'll be shipping my EF 100-400mm f/4.0-5.6L IS USM off for repair work this week. It's not been under warranty for several years now.

When I hit my AF (rear button focus), I can see the center point being pulled down as I look thru the viewfinder, it seems to click and keeps trying to capture focus but fails. Then I'll push the front shutter button half way for metering or sometimes just click it and take an image and try to focus again and then it will catch again and focus. When it does focus, it's spot on. Trouble is, it is only focusing about 1 in 5 images now...

Additionally, I can see part of the inside of the barrel moving when I look in it from the 77mm end. It will sway back and forth, whatever direction I move the barrel!

So it's going in, I can't stand it but I need it fixed. Is it wise to join CPS before I send it in or not? If so, what level does anyone recommend joining at?

All the best,
Ken

Click to expand...

Just went through that. I even called them before to see if they had any issues with me joining after my lens broke. In fact, they encourage it even if it's just to get the 30% discount.

So I upgraded my free "silver" membership to "gold", waited for the membership package with the 3-day-rush labels and the free clean & check vouchers and then sent in my broken EF200 for repair and my camera body for cleaning.

The silly old CPS strap and the book that came with the membership are on ebay right now and it looks as if some folks are more than willing to pay enough for those items that it pretty much covers my membership fee. And the 30% does make the repair slightly more palatable. I know, it's probably all a game and a racket that they have factored in in the first place. But I still have a CPS membership card and a pin in the end...

The silly old CPS strap and the book that came with the membership are on ebay right now and it looks as if some folks are more than willing to pay enough for those items that it pretty much covers my membership fee.

What a great idea!

KeoRS · Aug 26, 2013

wickidwombat said:
you need one of these if you are using your elinchrom skyport trigger

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/ELINCHROM-UNIVERSAL-SKYPORT-RECEIVER-/200875414574?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_15&hash=item2ec51b942e

then hook up the 600ex with the pc sync cable and run in manual

Hi, WickedWombat;

I've tried this setup and I cannot get the 600EX-RT to work when triggered from my Elinchrom transmitter hooked on my 5DIII hot shoe. I have the following gear:

-Elinchrom Ranger Quadra Hybrid (built-in skyport)
-Elinchrom Transmitter plugged in my 5DIII hot shoe
-Canon 600EX-RT
-FlashZebra female hot shoe to PC adapter/cable
-Elinchrom Receiver plugged to the 600EX-RT via the FlashZebra adapter

My 600EX-RT is in manual mode. Oddly, if I trigger my 600EX-RT on the flash unit directly it then communicates with my Elinchrom ranger quadra hybrid system and all flashes (including the 600EX-RT) trigger together wirelessly. However, if I trigger my flash system via my Elinchrom transmitter or the test flash button on my ranger hybrid, ONLY the Elinchroms fire and not the 600EX-RT.

Why would it only work one way? Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Kevin

EDIT -

Woohoo! I guess I had to finally post my question after all my searching to finally find the solution: set to ETTL and Group B. Then poof! Elinchrom system can wirelessly trigger my 600EX-RT using a Skyport Receiver and FlashZebra female hot shoe to 3.5mm adapter.

Posted the above solution for any other member who might run into this issue!

Kev

Kernuak · Aug 26, 2013

sama said:
Anybody here have the experience to use gelatin filter on a Canon 17 40 L ? May be some never realize that there is a built-in slot on this lens.

What is the purpose of this design as people mentioned that gelatin filter will probably degrade IQ badly. others stated "As long as it isn't scratched, a proper optical-grade gelatin filter (like Kodak) will be optically superior to any front-mounted glass or plastic filter."

Please share your views, experience etc.

I think with the slimline filters that are now available, there is less need to use one, unless wider or due to a bulging front element. I certainly didn't feel the need to use one when I had my 17-40.

gjones5252 · Aug 26, 2013

Ok awesome it good to know that they are working so well fo reveryone else! I am starting to learn the weakeness so i can be more proficient at using them. I am excited for canon direct refurbished to have them on sale!

CowGummy · Aug 26, 2013

sjschall said:
and there me be a small possibility that I may end up treating myself to a little 'souvenir' while out there... maybe 85mm f1.8?

Click to expand...

You should hit up the B&H store while you're in NY, if you have the time. Definitely a cool spot to look around and try out gear.

Thanks for the tip sjschall! Just had a look at their website and indeed this looks close to photo equipment Nirvana.

Marsu42 · Aug 26, 2013

FTBPhotography said:
Ever shot 1600 speed 35mm film? Probably not. My 7D easily has a 2 stop advantage over 35mm film.

I shot at iso 1000

... but then the print was only 9x13 cm max, so it didn't really matter. You have to correlate noise to the camera resolution and the export size, the current crop sensors only can make use of the full res at low iso but at high iso like the marketing-induced 25600 you have to downscale. Also the color rendition is degraded starting even at medium iso in contrast to a ff sensor.

That doesn't make the 70d a bad camera, or my 60d, or your 7d - but @iso800+ the noise starts killing detail @100% crop, though of course I can shoot action @iso3200 if the export is web sized.

scottkinfw · Aug 26, 2013

I Vote 7D2. But wait, what if I have different needs/expectations than you? Oh well, I guess you have to make up your own mind.

RGF said:
Wait an extra month or a camera that you can own versus perhaps 6 months for an unknown future product. Unless you really want the features you expect on the future 7DM2, I would buy now.

LSV · Aug 26, 2013

Very enjoyable reading Canon Rumormongers (I am one) making fun of Facebookies. It's like heroin addicts looking down their noses at those common alcoholics.

Ewinter · Aug 25, 2013

Sounds good to me. Thanks for weighing in! Just counting down the days now...

Mt Spokane Photography · Aug 25, 2013

Firebird said:
Thanks for your reply!

But would professional cinematographers use DLSR-Bodies at all? Wouldn't they use dedicated movie cameras?

Professional film makers and video makers have been using DSLR's for video since shortly after the 5D MK II came out.

The reasons are many, but it boils down to Technical capability for the cost. A whole industry supporting DSLR's and video has been launched, Canon is selling $50,000 video lenses, and has a large support facility in Hollywood for film makers. Its big business, and rapidly growing. The dual pixel capability along with touch screens means that a high priced focus puller may no longer be needed, just touch the actor or spot on the video LCD and the camera focus will smoothly shift to that point. Add in facial recognition, and clever and innovative people and even more amazing things will be possible.

TWI by Dustin Abbott · Aug 25, 2013

sagittariansrock said:
neuroanatomist said:

sagittariansrock said:

By the way, what surprises me is that Canon still makes and sells the old, crappy 75-300 and even more surprising, even people using Rebels buy them!

Click to expand...

I think a lot of people buy them - because it's cheap, common in retail stores (Target sells them for example, but not the 55-250), and because 300mm sounds better than 250mm, it's a popular lens.

Click to expand...

I had one of those lenses for about five minutes. I am super steady in my hands, but trying to handhold that @ 300mm (480mm equiv) is near impossible!
I guess so, and somehow Canon manages to convince people it is okay to get a non-IS telephoto lens on a crop-sensor camera for people who might not have plenty of light all the time. It took a lot of convincing to get my brother-in-law to buy the 55-250 instead.

Viggo · Aug 25, 2013

I must say i can't imagine using the old way anymore, and I felt that way after about, hm, oh, 3 minutes of owning the 1dX. I set the "SET"-button to jump directly to 100% at the used focus point and never looked back. a VERY good decision by Canon. That not all new cameras run the same feature is pretty hopeless if anyone wants a camera number 2 to use along side one that does.

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