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1DX or 85mm 1.2?

I am a wedding photographer and have two 5D mark IIIs, a 70-200 f/2.8L IS II, a 50mm 1.2L, a 24mm 1.4L, a 100mm f/2.8L IS and three 600ex-rt flashes. I have more than what I need to take amazing pictures in almost any situation but I after I buy something I find myself looking to the next thing to buy. I don't know what is wrong with me it is like a disease. I know I am crazy and should just be content with what I have. So if you were in my situation and you were going to buy something new would you sell one of the 5D3s and get a 1DX or would you buy the 85mm 1.2? I am a little afraid the 85mm 1.2 will be a little slow focusing at receptions similar to the 50mm 1.2. I just don't understand that my 70-200 and 24mm are able to focus really well in almost no light but the 50mm is very slow and unreliable. If the 85mm is anything like the 50mm in that regard it may change my decision. I would love to use it for portraits and almost always shoot at very large apertures. As a matter of fact I love a shallow DOF so much that I usually shoot two or three Brenizer method images each wedding to get the effect of f/0.5 or f/0.6.

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First L Lens... OH MY #^(*^!& GOD

So my 24 1.4L II arrived from B&H this afternoon. Having rented the lens last week and been blown away with its performance, I knew what it was capable of in "real world" shooting situations:


Untitled by Nοah Fence, on Flickr

Though, being my first L lens and all, I decided to conduct an impromptu "formal" test just to see the differences between it and my 28mm 1.8 under relatively controlled conditions. Suffice it to say, my jaw hit the floor and I had to mop up the drool. Let me preface this by saying that I'm not a pixel peeper, gearhead, or test chart shooter. The following results are 100% crops from the original images, representing about 50% of the frame (this means the edges of the test shots are actually mid-frame). Shot on a 5D Mark II, center AF point. No processing other than crop and jpeg compression. The 28 1.8 image was 1/3 stop underexposed, since I was geeking out so much over my new 24mm that I forgot 1.8 is actually 2/3 stop slower.

Canon 28 1.8 @ f/1.8:
ISO 100 1/50


Canon 24 1.4 II @ f/1.4:
ISO 100 1/60


My only regret is that I didn't spring for one of these babies sooner!

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ST-E3-RT mini review

After waiting MONTHS my ST-E3-RT has come in from B&H, meanwhile I've been using 3 600RT's on a 5DMKII.

  • Now with the complete package I'm completely flabbergasted and happy with how well these work.
  • The ST-E3-RT is much smaller than I expected, it doesn't add much of any weight to the camera and I'm glad to not have a monster heavy flash up there!
  • I like that the display is horizontal - easy to access and tweak while shooting
  • It was an issue to know which of my flashes was the master, with the ST-E3 it's obvious
  • I don't miss the focus assist light at all. Your milage may vary, but for me that was never very useful anyhow (doesn't help in full darkness, and takes too long in partial)
  • I still have my 580 which is the flash I throw up there when I just want a shoe mounted flash (not often hopefully, just a little fill when outside)
  • Of course it works flawlessly

Knee jerk reaction you see to the Canon RF system is along the lines of too expensive. My take is sure you can get cheaper setups, but find one that is this minimalistic, feature filled, and reliable. I'm not paying an assistant so putting out a little more for a tiny kit I can put in a small bag pays for itself, and it always works.

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5D ("Mark I") + 600EX-RT Is this going to work?

Hi, I am new here! :) I've been browsing the forum for a few hours now but not many of you (if any!) still use EOS 5D. I do, for quite a few years now (I love it and it's still enough for me). I am a lover of daylight and have never been in need for a flash. Now I am and decided to buy one--thinking of the future possibility of upgrading camera body and creating a flash system. I read many reviews by people complaining on 580EX II exposure issues (rather the only other lamp I'm considering) and, on the other hand, many people love this lamp (mainly because of it's GN and master-ability). Anyways my question is: will 5D work with 600EX-RT? As far as I know it should (both devices use E-TTL II, the one limitation I learned so far is the limited number of flash groups that can be controlled by 5D connected to the 600ex but this won't be an issue for me now) -- if I mount the flash on a hot shoe or connect it to the body with OC-E3 off-camera shoe cord, but this seems limiting. So what about ST-E3-RT plus SR-N3 cable? Will this work? (I read 2nd curtain won't work wirelessly) Or maybe there is another way of connecting body to flash (inside, in a small studio) so that the total newbie to the strobists' world could learn lighting without being too much limited by the setup/gear? Thanks! :)

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Smallest capable speedlight for 5D m3

So I totally love my new 5D miii, but I have noticed that there are certain situations that I really miss a built in flash. I only really use it for extreme backlight portraits, as I normally much prefer natural light, but in certain cases flash is indispensable. I was just on vacation and I was shooting some family stuff on the beach with a sunset in the background and it was killing me not to have a built-in. My Aunt kept wanting to use my "fancy" camera instead of here nikon d5000, but I had to concede to her that since she had a flash her camera was better off for that situation. I was able to get a bracketed shot of my mom (attached) but it was lees than ideal in this situation (I made her stand very still).

That being said, I started looking at extremely light, extremely small, speed light/flash options. Portability is of the highest order here, because I will only use it in these situations if I have it, and I always pack very light. I want it to basically be a replacement for a built in flash. The best option I can find so far (I've only looked at canon flashes, but am open to 3rd party) is the 270exII. It seems small and light, has ETTL-II, has a remote release (handy, I guess) and can even be used as a slave (I imagine that I would have to buy another flash to be the master though because I assume that functionality is not built into the 5d mmiii). the only little thing I see missing is IR focus assist and radio transmitter slave mode. I would like to have those features as well, but not at the cost of a lot of extra size.

Thanks in advance for your expert knowledge and help...

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Sigma 30mm f/1.4 or Canon 35mm f/2?

I'm trying to find a fast prime for my 60D that fits within the normal focal length. Right now I have a 50mm f/1.4, but it's too long for indoors use, which is going to be my main purpose for using a fast prime. I'm still keeping it for portraits, but I'd like something a good deal wider.

A 24mm would be ideal (closest to the 35mm EFL), but I can't find one on my budget that has gotten decent reviews. It seems that fast primes only start to get good around 30mm onwards.

Anyway, I've pretty much narrowed it down to the two lenses in the subject. Any opinions? Whichever one I choose, I'll be using it in situations that would require shooting wide open.

I'm also considering the Canon 28mm f/1.8, but consensus seems to be that it's pretty soft wide open.

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lens recommendations for a vacation

I know, the least exciting type of post, but I would be very grateful for any advice on what to bring and what to leave behind.

This summer I had planned on going out with a pro-photographer, but he was unable to secure the permits in time. So, my wife and I are heading to Europe in a few weeks. We will be hitting London, France and Brussels.

My current kit:

5Dm3
24-105L
70-200L IS II
14L II
50L
100L IS

I will be carrying whatever kit I bring in a Lowepro Flipside 400AW.

I was thinking about taking the 50, the 70-200, 14, a monopod and one flash. The first two lenses are my favorite walk around combo. Any advice would be very welcome. Also: should I look into a second battery (I don't have a the optional grip)?

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Canon EOS-1D X Availability

HTML:
<div name="googleone_share_1" style="position:relative;z-index:5;float: right; /*margin: 70px 0 0 0;*/ top:70px; right:120px; width:0;"><g:plusone size="tall" count="1" href="http://www.canonrumors.com/2012/08/canon-eos-1d-x-availaiblity/"></g:plusone></div><div class="tweetmeme_button" style="float: right; margin:0 0 70px 70px;"><a class="tm_button" rel="&style=normal&b=2" href="http://www.canonrumors.com/2012/08/canon-eos-1d-x-availaiblity/"></a></div>
<strong>We need more!</strong>
<a href="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=canorumo-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=B005Y3T1AI" target="_blank">

Amazon has begun shipping the Canon EOS-1D X</a> I’m being told by a lot of people. Another big shipment to Amazon is expected in the near future. As far as I know, they haven’t yet reached the end of their preorder list.</p>
<p>The best retailer to keep an eye on if you haven’t preordered yet, is probably <a href="http://www.cameracanada.com/enet-cart/product.asp?pid=5253B003" target="_blank">Norman Camera</a>. They have twice had the camera available and in stock. A new shipment is expected soon. <a href="http://www.cameracanada.com/enet-cart/product.asp?pid=5253B003" target="_blank">Camera Canada</a> may also be at or near the end of their preorder list.</p>
<p>Niether <a href="http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/827036-REG/Canon_5253B002_EOS_1D_X_EOS_Digital.html/bi/2466/kbid/3296" target="_blank">B&H Photo</a> or <a href="http://www.adorama.com/ICA1DX.html?kbid=64393" target="_blank">Adorama</a> has updated me about the length of their preorder lists or when they expect their next shipment.</p>
<p>Both <a href="http://www.lensrentals.com/rent/canon/cameras/canon-eos-1dx" target="_blank">LensRentals.com</a> and <a href="http://www.lensrentalscanada.com/product_info.php?cPath=103&products_id=565&mcatPath=1" target="_blank">LensRentalsCanada.com</a> have the EOS-1D X in stock and available for rent.</p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;">c</span>r</strong></p>

First new episode of my Cooking Show with 5D3

Hello all,

I've been goofing around past year or so, doing a cooking show on youtube called:
CWI:Cooking While Intoxicated

Anyway, I've shot and edited my first full episode (there is a 1min test real I posted first just making a drink).....it was shot with my new 5D3 w/ kit 24-105 lens, edited with FCPX.

The opening camera angle is horrible, not sure why I did that...but what I'm most proud of, is the audio editing. Much of this was shot last Memorial Day, I'd had a few cocktails, and new camera ,etc.
I found that I'd forgotten to turn the darned microphone (Rode videomic) on for most of the first half of the video shot. Every scene that I'm not shown talking in...was dead silent.

I went back and set the camera up, recorded 'dead' room sound..then, ran the juicer with a cantelope...chopped the canteloup....every background sound was redone by me. I think I did pretty good, but there are a few places audio is off....but I had nothing original at all to work with.

Also,was my first attempt at split screening, etc.

Anyway, I know I have a ways to go..but I'm learning:

Let me know what you think (if you have a fast connection, turn it up to full 1080p):

CWI: Cooking While Intoxicated - Pineapple Popsicle


Thanks,

cayenne

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Canon EF 35 f/1.4L II [CR2]

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<strong>The next 35mm…</strong>


The oft rumored EF 35 f/1.4L II is being talked about again. We’re told an announcement for the new “L” prime will only happen once the new <a href="http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/843008-USA/Canon_5175B002_EF_24_70mm_f_2_8L_II.html/bi/2466/kbid/3296" target="_blank">EF 24-70 f/2.8L II</a> begun shipping in decent quantity.</p>
<p>That would put the announcement sometime in 2012 with availability probably being in early 2013. One patent for the optical forumla has <a href="http://www.canonrumors.com/2012/07/patent-canon-ef-35-f1-4l/" target="_blank">been around for a while</a>.</p>
<p>I’m told as many as 3 prototypes exist, though they have only made it to a very select few photographers.</p>
<p><strong>CRs Take


</strong>I’m pretty confident this lens will be announced sooner than later, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see it paired with a new high megapixel camera.</p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;">c</span>r </strong></p>

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Canon EF 40mm f/2.8 STM Product Advisory

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<strong>To Users of the EF40mm f/2.8 STM Interchangeable Lens for Canon Digital SLR Cameras


</strong>Thank you for using Canon products.</p>
<p>It has been confirmed that the autofocusing function of the EF40mm f/2.8 STM lens, which was released in June 2012, may not operate correctly.</p>
<p>The details of this phenomenon are described below.</p>
<p><strong>Affected Product


</strong>EF40mm f/2.8 STM</p>
<p><strong>Phenomenon


</strong>If pressure is applied to the lens barrel while the lens is mounted to the camera (pressure can be applied even while attaching the lens cap or while carrying the camera with the lens attached in a bag), the autofocusing function of the lens may stop working.</p>
<p>*This phenomenon does not occur during normal shooting.</p>
<p>*This phenomenon does not result in a malfunction of the lens.</p>
<p><strong>Workaround


</strong>When the above phenomenon occurs, detach and reattach the lens, or remove and reinsert the camera battery to restore the operations.</p>
<p><strong>Market Support


</strong>The firmware to address this phenomenon will be available for download in late August, 2012.</p>
<p>Once this firmware is ready, we will make an announcement on our Web site.</p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;">c</span>r</strong></p>

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EF 500 f/4L IS II & EF 600 f/4L IS II Stock News

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<strong>More are coming!


</strong>We knew more would come eventually, but when?</p>
<p>I’m told new stock should start hitting retailers sometime this month and next month, it may not be enough to clear the preorder backlog though.</p>
<p><em>Preorder at B&H: <a href="http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/754507-USA/Canon_5124B002_500mm_f_4L_EF_IS.html/bi/2466/kbid/3296" target="_blank">EF 500 f/4L IS II</a> | <a href="http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/754508-REG/Canon_5125B002_EF_600mm_f_4L_IS.html/bi/2466/kbid/3296" target="_blank">EF 600 f/4L IS II</a></em></p>
<p><strong>Big white firmware 1.1.1 update


</strong>I have sent our 300, 400 and 600 in to Canon Canada today for the firmware update, I’ll update you on how long the process takes.</p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;">c</span>r</strong></p>

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7D and 5D II that different?

Hello all,

I've been sitting on the fence between a 7D and 5D II for about 3 months now. I've been reading a lot online about the difference between the two cameras. I hear people talking about the "feel" of 5D images and how the color is better, but is it really that different or is it just pixel peeping? I'm not a professional wedding shooter, just a guy with a hobby. That doesn't mean I don't want the best, but that's a $600 difference that I'd rather not spend if I don't have to.

I mainly shoot landscapes and portraits of friends and family. Thank you!

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60D long exposure lock-up

I was wondering if anyone else had their 60D lock up with long exposures. Mine first did it during a 1/2 hour shot of the stars, on a pretty cool (25 degrees farenhiet) night. It has since done it at 5 minutes, and as low as 30 seconds one time. I have used different lenses and SD cards, all class 10. It freezes while trying to save the file. I thought the higher the ISO the more it had to process, and maybe that did it, but it froze on me at ISO 800, 5 minutes one time also. I would say I have had this happen about 5 times now. Also in perfectly warm weather. Just curious on thoughts. Should I shoot raw? Thanks fellow shooters.

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EF 70-200 f2.8 IS L USM MKII weird noise (attached)

Hi! My EF 70-200 f2.8 IS L USM MKII is making a weird noise since I started using it with the 1D X... I do not remember this "gear" noise in the past, just a faint whoosh... a lot lest than the MKI version. I sent it to the CPS service and they say there is nothing wrong and that the noise is normal.... I do not have another at hand to test, but I sent this sound file to my nephew who have the same (purchased both at the same time) and he says the noise of his is not even close to this one I have. Even my Sigma 120-300 that is twice as big makes less noise.

This noise is when it engages and release the IS not during.

I'll appreciate if you can download the file and listen and compare to yours.

Thanks.

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Cave shooting & curse of the green box

So I was doing some shooting while in a lava cave, not knowing any better I stuck two 600RTs in my pocket and away I went (5DMKII 24-105 lens). I was surprised at how difficult it was to take pictures (I shouldn't have been).

First problem, the camera can't focus (duh). I finally stuck it in MF and tried to focus to what it should be - tons of blurred shots.

Second problem; not enough light (duh). I had one flash on top and one in my hand, and it still wasn't enough to light up some of the big spaces most of the time. A few shots worked out more or less, must have been an accident.

Third problem, in desperation I went to the green box to try and get something, guess what I found? The 600RT wireless turned off. Of course its dark so you can't easily see everything going on with your camera (and I was walking along at the same time), but that green mode is so blindly stupid that it even turns off wireless and the flash goes into no RF master mode (might as well have had a 580 up there). WTF ... half the reason I want a 1 series body is so I don't have to see that awful green box anymore.

Anyhow, you want a challenge? Go shoot in a cave. I'd recommend trying ...

  • Bring some high powered flashes, two 600's at the minimum
  • Put the wide angle barn door on the flashes (I did this eventually and it helped). I'd be curious to try a small softbox too but that might kill too much light
  • Use a MF prime lens light a Zeiss or Voightlander for precise manual control
  • Manual mode, f/9 1/100s and let the flashes to the heavy lifting
  • Wide angle seemed to work better, shorter focal lengths just made it look like a bad picture of a rock face

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Suggestions needed from the community

Hi all,

I'm an advanced amateur (5 years shooting) looking to get your advice on my next purchase. I don't consider myself a photographer, I just enjoy taking pictures and preserving the moment. I play around in most genres of photography. Primarily nature, family, etc...

Below is a link to my Flickr page to give an idea.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/atosk89/6803869748/#

I currently own a Rebel xTi, EF-S 18-55 (kit), EF 28-135 IS, EF 75-300, and EF 50 1.8 II.

I'll leave it at that. Thanks in advance for your suggestions! :D

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