Threads

[email protected] · Apr 30, 2014

Comrades - I always refer to the sun as my light source. But now I am looking for a source of video tutorials on use of speedlights, from soup to nuts -- starting with the absolute basics of 'how to turn this on', through correct flash exposing in various venues and fill situations, up to use of multiple flashes with the radio triggers (either canon or aftermarket.) Strobist seems too complex, and I want something geared specifically to thorough use of canons. Either free or for-pay. All suggestions gratefully appreciated. Thanks for your time.

Scott_McPhee · Apr 30, 2014

I have a Canon 5D MARK III body and have been shooting air shows using my 70-200 f2.8L IS II with a Canon 2 x III extender.

This works pretty well but I could be doing with some extra reach so I am looking at a new lens or lens/EX combination without selling body parts to finance it.

I have come down to the following options:

Canon 400mm f5.6 L with a 1.4 TC - this will get me just under 600mm but at f8.
This worries me in low light situations and I am unsure how the 5D3's AF will suffer - it might not be good for airshows.

Canon EF 300mm f4 L IS USM with either a 1.4 or 2 x TC - this gives me IS and with the 1.4 TC a 420mm lens with f/5.6 and IS. I could also use the lens with a 2X converter to get a 600mm lens with f/8 and IS.
Once again though I am concerned about image quality and AF performance, particularly as I will be focusing fast jets.

Does anyone have a similar combination and can help with the performance of this body/lens and the image quality I can expect?

Sharpness is king for me, I was looking at the new Tamron SP 150-600mm f/5-6.3 Di VC USD but I have ruled it out due to the poor image quality above 500mm.

Canon Rumors · Apr 30, 2014

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<p><em>Canon achieves a world’s first as production of EF interchangeable lenses surpasses 100 million mark</em></p>
<p><strong>TOKYO, Japan, April 30, 2014</strong>—Canon Inc. today celebrated an impressive lens-manufacturing milestone with the production on April 22, 2014, of the Company’s 100-millionth EF-series interchangeable lens for EOS cameras—an EF200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x.</p>
<p>Production of interchangeable EF lenses for Canon EOS-series AF (autofocus) single-lens reflex cameras began in 1987 at the Company’s Utsunomiya Plant, which continues to play a central role in Canon’s lens manufacturing operations. In May 2013, EF lens production surpassed the 90-million-unit mark and now, approximately eleven months later, the Company is commemorating its first-in-the-world1 achievement of having manufactured 100 million lenses.</p>
<p><!--more-->Canon’s proprietary EF lenses, launched in March 1987 along with the EOS SLR camera system, have continued to evolve since their introduction, leading the industry through the incorporation of a wide range of innovative technologies, including such world’s firsts2 as the Ultrasonic Motor (USM), Image Stabilizer (IS) technology, and a multi-layered diffractive optical (DO) element. In May 2013, aiming to further expand the realm of photographic expression, the Company introduced the EF200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x, the world’s first3 super-telephoto zoom lens with a built-in 1.4x extender that makes possible a 200-560 mm focal length range.</p>
<p>In recent years, in addition to renewing such models as super-telephoto lenses ideal for sports and nature photography along with zoom lenses that offer a bright f/2.8 maximum aperture throughout the entire zoom range, Canon has launched multiple entry-class interchangeable lenses equipped with a stepping motor (STM) that delivers smooth and quiet autofocus performance during video recording. As a result, the Company’s extensive EF lens-series lineup currently comprises a total of 89 models.4 In addition to enhancing its lens offerings, Canon has expanded the optical technologies incorporated in its EF lenses into new fields, launching EF Cinema Lenses for digital cinematography in January 2012, and EF-M lenses for compact-system cameras in September 2012.</p>
<p>Furthermore, during the 11-year period from 2003 to 2013, Canon maintained the No. 1 share worldwide within the interchangeable-lens digital camera market and, in February 2014, marked another manufacturing milestone as combined production of its film and digital EOS-series interchangeable-lens cameras surpassed the 70-million-unit mark.</p>
<p>Canon will continue refining its diverse imaging technologies based on its core optical technologies, striving to produce exceptional and reliable lenses and cameras that cater to the varying needs of photographers—from first-time users to advanced amateurs and professionals—while contributing to expanding the photographic and video imaging culture.</p>
<ul>
<li>Among interchangeable lenses as of April 22, based on a Canon survey.</li>
<li>Among interchangeable lenses for SLR cameras, based on a Canon survey.</li>
<li>Among interchangeable lenses for interchangeable lens cameras (SLR cameras, compact-system cameras), based on a Canon survey.</li>
<li>Including two EF lens extenders and three models available outside of Japan. As of April 30, 2014.</li>
</ul>
<p>Source: [<a href="http://www.canon.com/news/2014/apr30e.html" target="_blank">Canon</a>]</p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;">c</span>r</strong></p>

YuengLinger · Apr 30, 2014

Just had my first failure of a 600ex-rt. While getting my setup shots for a big group session, I was turning off one of my Speedlites when I noticed a little resistance in the switch. I did not apply much pressure, but I felt a mild snap. Sure enough, the switch had just broken, and the unit is now on its way to CPS. (I guess you could say the toast dropped butter side up, because the switch left the speedlite powered on, meaning I could go ahead an use it. Only way to power off though was by removing the batteries.)

I have several of the 600's, so I can't be sure exactly when I bought it, but it was within the past 18 months. I know that I did drop one (landed on its side, not an end) while walking fast from about 4' onto a grass covered (but hard) field. That was a year ago, but it never had an apparent issue. I don't know if this is the one with the broken switch, but other than this incident, I have not had a single problem with any of them.

So, as I'm getting more location work (thankfully), I'm wondering if other owners of the 600ex-rt have comments about its ruggedness and reliability.

Also--does anybody actually use the "Lock" position of the power switch?

Thanks!

sanj · Apr 30, 2014

Yes, I know I need more arsenal.

swiss · Apr 30, 2014

http://de.canon.ch/For_Home/Product_Finder/Cameras/Digital_SLR/EOS_1200D/discover/index.aspx?WT.ac=SS_1200D_EOS_SwitzerlandDE

Quackator · Apr 30, 2014

Nuff said:
http://flashhavoc.com/yongnuo-50mm-f1-4-lens-released/

Dylan777 · Apr 30, 2014

Hi guys,
Any thoughts on this flash diffuser? It looks clean.

http://www.flashpipe.com/

Dylan

expatinasia · Apr 29, 2014

Since Sony launched the RX100 I have been an interested fan. Seems to be a very useful camera with some great features and it is so compact it can easily fit on your belt.

Now that they are supposed to launch the Mark III (tomorrow - 1 May) I must admit that the improvements they are rumoured to be making are more attractive than ever. It is expected to have a new 24-70mm f/1.8-2.8 lens.

It also seems to have quite a following over at DPR.

Anyone here have an RX100 or interested in the new Sony RX100 Mark III? What are your thoughts and impressions?

One good and bad thing about Sony is that you are always guaranteed a new version within the next 12 months - sometimes just 6.

Added specs supposed to be:

20MP sensor (same as RX100/M2 models)
ISO 125-25600
24-70mm f/1.8-2.8 lens
Built in View finder (SVGA OLED Tru-Finder 1440k dots)
Tiltable screen (180 degrees up)
Record in XAVC S format (Same format of the Sony A7s but with no 4K output option)
Others same as RX100 II

http://www.sonyalpharumors.com/sr5-sony-rx100m3-specs-records-in-xavc-s-format-just-like-the-a7s/

eyeland · Apr 29, 2014

Hi
I have been doing alot of lengthy outdoor video shoots on my 5D lately. Even without ML raw, this can cause quite the power drain, so I am looking at different budget options for extended shooting. So far I am using extra cells and a car charger, but it is still not enough.
Rather than just buying more cells, I am thinking about getting a grip for the option of using normal AA cells in case of emergency. (If you badly need more charge than expected, you can send someone to pick up a load of AA's at a gas-station)
So, my question is if anyone here has any good/bad experience with the really cheap third-party no-name grips from ebay like this one: http://www.ebay.com/itm/331137824745?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649

I know quality will not be the same as an original grip (possibly worse than the more expensive third-party options) but do you think its safe?
If it's DOA or stops working after a while, that's fine. Ebay buyer protection actually works, and I have always gotten full refunds in those cases. My only concern is if it could cause damage to my camera even though my intuition tells me that this would depend on the cells I use rather than the grip?

Nb. No need to preach about using cheap stuff on paid gigs. I am doing what I can with what I've got (rigging a DSLR for real video production is expensive) and this is meant to be a backup solution rather than something I will rely on regularly.

Canon Rumors · Apr 29, 2014

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<p>We’re told by a new source that a new generation of full-frame CMOS sensors slated for both a forthcoming mirrorless camera as well as updated versions of the current range of prosumer DLSR models.</p>
<p>The new full frame sensors are said to have lower production costs. Yields have improved for these sensors when compared to their predecessors, and that has probably lead to the cost reduction in production. There was also a bit of information about the new sensors having Foveon like technology, we’ve asked for clarification on this.</p>
<p>New source, so a big grain of salt for this one is required.</p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;">c</span>r</strong></p>

YuengLinger · Apr 29, 2014

I've spent time carefully looking through online sample images of the two Canon f/1.2's, the 50mm and the 85mm. Consistently, the shots from the 85mm significantly outshine those from the 50mm in terms of sharpness and contrast. In many cases, colors seem better rendered by the 85mm also.

I own and love the 85mm 1.2, and I feel I'm just starting to hit my stride and understand its wide-open capabilities.

But, even before the latest Sigma anticipation, I've been craving something with a bit more room that allows me to step physically closer to subjects. I've heard negative and positive things about the 50mm 1.2, but that is true about most lenses.

So, I found as many 50mm 1.2 online images as I could, and what I'm seeing is a consistent lack of sharp center focus.

What is really going on? Is it a problem with the lens or the photographers? Are the 85mm 1.2 images on, say, pixel-peeper, being taken by better photographers (because the lens costs more, and, with its several quirks, appeals to more experienced photographers)?

Is the 85mm 1.2 really that much better than the 50mm 1.2? Because, from what I'm seeing in an overwhelming number of samples, the 50mm seems quite soft even dead center. With portraits, I want the option of having sharp eyes without having to apply too much sharpening in post, and I can do this with my 85mm even at 1.2.

Thanks in advance for any insights.

Eldar · Apr 29, 2014

This thread shall be fully focused around comparing all aspects around these two lenses.

Rules:
1: All posted images must have a shot from each lens
2: All shots must be equally framed, e.g. tripod required
(The 50mm - 55mm difference must be accepted)
3: All image pairs must be given the same post processing, preferably as little as possible, to make
sure we don't mask out or increase artifacts
4: All comments and posts must be referring to the images, observed phenomena within the images
and theortical and practical arguments to explain these
5: All images must be accompanied with body, lens, shutter speed, f-stop and ISO information

Both lense have their individual threads, so please keep this thread dedicated to posting and discussing the images and the specific similarities and differences between these two lenses. The other stuff belong elsewhere.

aalbert · Apr 29, 2014

Curious about US based purchasers…. Once you receive your shipment confirmation, let the rest of use know from whom, and when you placed your original order…

In my case I ordered on 4/18 from B&H… Haven't heard anything yet.

wsmith96 · Apr 28, 2014

Hi - it's been a while since I posted, but I have some pictures I'd like to submit for critique. This is a follow up to my previous post regarding a small home studio set up for a beginner. After all of the recommendations, I purchased a boom stand, a rouge flash bender portrait kid, and a second rogue flash bender with diffusion panels. I chose this set up for portability and upon recommendations on the boom stand from privatebydesign - the boom stand was an awesome recommendation!

So, I started with a self portrait using a single flash and a flashbender soft box, and I have to admit that it was hideous. I definitely won't be posting that here. But, I later started using a two flash set up with flash bender soft boxes to take some product style photography, which I will post here

My daughter collected some wild flowers and I took the opportunity to work on my flash photography skills with the flowers in a shot glass. The back ground is a black towel and I have not edited the photographs. These are straight out of the camera. I had a flash on the right set to 1/8th power, and one on the left set to 1/16th power. Ambient light was provided by the light in my dining room.

For those interested - the flowers are called Indian Paintbrushes and are very common to central Texas.

So how did I do for a first try?

Thanks for your feedback,

wes

m8547 · Apr 28, 2014

I've been feeling a need for another backup of my photos. Right now I keep them on my laptop, and I periodically back up to an external drive. But there's still some room for failure, if there's a crash during the backup process, or if my house is robbed and they take my laptop and the shiny hard drive next to it.

I thought about trying to put everything on Flickr since they offer 1TB free, but it's been a pain to get photos into it. The uploader in Lightroom times out all the time, and Juploadr has all sorts of errors, including crashing without notice and completely disappearing during an upload. And anything outside of lightroom means I have to export to JPG, which takes a long time on this 2008 computer and is an extra step and extra hassle. And I guess exporting from lightroom makes JPGs, so it takes just as long.

I tried online backup in the past, but I have 200+ GB of photos, and several hundred GB of other stuff that I don't feel like sorting through to figure out what's still important and what's not. I wasn't patient enough to get much progress last time I started an online backup, but maybe I could try it again? I would prefer not to pay the $5 a month, but it's not too bad for the convenience.

The option I'm leaning to right now is to designate a second backup drive just for photos and important stuff, and keep it at work when I'm not using it. I already have a pile of hard drives, I would just need to clear one out for this use. But what would be the best way to do an incremental backup of certain folders to a second hard drive? I already use time machine (mac) for my normal backups, but it doesn't work well with two drives, so I would need some other way. I don't want to copy things manually.

So I'm wondering what other people out there do, and what works best?

IMG_0001 · Apr 28, 2014

Hi everyone,

As I want to start and practice off camera flash for portraits and still life, I recently posted about modifiers for speedlites and the answers by Neuro and private really got me thinking. I realized that as I would mostly be working inside and probably firing a lot while learning the lightning basics, I would just be burning through batteries and AC monolights started making sense.

I ended up looking around and found some Godox 300Ws monolights that are quite inexpensive (100$) and that could probably provide a stop or two more light than a single hot-shoe flash (assuming 60-80Ws for those). Considering they are cheaper than a speedlite and could potentially provide as much light as 2 to 4 of the latter, they seem like a much better option. They also allow for adjusting the power on single light instead of on a multitude of speedlites, which seems convenient.

I'm going to start off with what I have but those seem tempting for the future. Am I missing something here? Would you stick to speedlites or try something like those? What alternatives would you suggest?

Here is a link to the product : http://www.godox.com/EN/Products_Studio_Flash_SMART_Series.html

Thanks.

P.S. I understand these are probably not suitable for a professional studio, but Profotos or Bowens are not in my price range...

Gareththomasjones · Apr 28, 2014

Hello, I hopefully will be getting a free canon 50mm 1.8 mk2 tomorrow. Unfortunately it is snapped in two. I don't know what piece is broken at the moment, all I know is the auto focus still works and the glass is intact. Im not sure about aperture at the moment, ill report back when I get it.

The question is, are parts readily available. And if so where.
PS I have a highly skilled satellite/electronic/computer wizard available to do the fixing!!

Gareth

Chris Burch · Apr 28, 2014

About 2 weeks ago after a long shoot, my second shooter had a complete failure of a Lexar 32GB 1000x CF Card. The card had completely normal handling and had been used numerous times before without incident. For whatever reason, the controller chip on the card failed, which prevents all access to the card data. I found a company that specializes in "off-chip" data recovery where they pull the chips off and hook up to a NAND reader to pull the data. Unfortunately, this card is using a brand new chip for which no one seems to have the right socket to do this type of recovery. Has anyone else needed to do an off-chip recovery of this card? If so, I would REALLY appreciate knowing what company did it.

This isn't a request for recovery methods or software recommendations...it's a full hardware failure which requires specific equipment to read.

Thanks.

privatebydesign · Apr 28, 2014

600's in stock for $373 again, act fast.

http://shop.usa.canon.com/shop/en/catalog/309834?WT.mc_id=C126149

mackguyver · Apr 28, 2014

I have been wondering how the Canon Cinema EOS primes compare to the EF equivalents, but other than a few videos (and blog/videos) comparing them, I haven't seen anything. I'm not sure why none of the review sites haven't reviewed them, but I'm guessing they work very well for still work.

A few days ago, Canon CPN posted an article, Philip Plisson: the master of maritime, in which the photographer discusses his selection of the Canon CN-E50mm T1.3L F and the article shows several beautiful shots taken with the lens. Given that the lens is close in price to the Zeiss Otus, and theoretically improves on the 50L in a number of areas, I wonder how it performs.

Has anyone used it (for stills) or seen a comparison?

Eldar · Apr 28, 2014

Does anyone have experience with any of the thunderbolt memory card readers?

Jamesy · Apr 28, 2014

I have a 5D3 with the following line-up:
24-105
17-40
40/2.8
50/1.4
85/1.8
100L
135L
70-200/4.0/IS
TC 1.4x, MK.II

I am toying with the idea of selling the 24-105, 17-40 and possibly 50 1.4 and was wondering others thoughts on this and if you have gone that route and regretted it or not. I would likely use the 24-70 as a general walk-around, vacation lens along with environmental portraits. I tend not to shoot video.

Any thoughts or comments would be appreciated.

TeT · Apr 28, 2014

missing my pop up flash from my crop DSLR.. nice to be able to have instant catch light.

Looking for a small flash to replicate that feature.

John

Canon Rumors · Apr 28, 2014

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The new lenses from Samyang that go on sale tomorrow: Samyang 35mm f/1.4 Canon AE, 300mm f/6.3 Mirror DSLR photo lenses and a VDSLR/Cinema series is set to be released on April 29th 2014. Samyang 10mm T3.1, 12mm T2.2 and 7.5mm T3.8.</p>
<p>While all of these lenses are manual focus, the Canon AE 35mm f/1.4 does have auto exposure.</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.samyang-europe.com/index.php/new-products/93-samyang-new-lenses-coming-soon" target="_blank">Read more about the new lenses</a></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.canonrumors.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/10157258_674644589261420_6565789629845688940_n.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-16435" alt="samyanglenses" src="http://www.canonrumors.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/10157258_674644589261420_6565789629845688940_n-575x456.jpg" width="575" height="456" /></a></p>
<p>Source: [<a href="https://www.facebook.com/samyangeurope" target="_blank">Samyang Facebook</a>]</p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;">c</span>r</strong></p>
<p> </p>

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