GKPE: General Ramblings thread

[dgcorner]

Fran, what's with the ever changing avatars...? 2 or 3 in the last couple of weeks... ;-) I'm getting confused:lol:

[NordieBoy]

Just trying to find one I really like :D

[Wazza]

Was like me at one stage with avatars. This year I've stuck with only a couple.

Maybe we need a famous jumping shot from Pete? :D :lol:

[DaveE]

@Tim, saw your comment about the 50mm 1.8. Like your style !
I shouldnt be laughing cause I've got one, but I bought that lens because it got amazing reviews about how sharp it was. (but it isn't that sharp). I guess I still use it from time to time because it is the only lens I have that goes to 1.8
I dont think I would buy another prime lens just find them too limiting for my point and shoot style ;-)

[Wazza]

85mm 1.8 is sharp. Wouldn't like to know what the 85 1.2L is like though. :lol:

[dgcorner]

:lol: Tim does know how to stir the pot :lol: I own a Nifty and it does give me enough bang for the $ that I spent on it. However, ever since I got the 24-70/2.8 the 50 has been collecting dust... but not for long -- I'm taking it out for the Old School Photo Challenge on Rangi!

[tim]

I have a laugh stirring things up from time to time... people hate me saying that a lens they own is crap! Wazza, your 85mm lens is amazingly sharp, I kinda want one.

I'm strongly considering upgrading to the 24-70 F2.8L, my Tamron isn't giving me consistent results. Some shots from the last wedding aren't focused right, and i'm pretty sure that by now by technique is ok. Can anyone who's used both comment?

[joeseph]

I'm strongly considering upgrading to the 24-70 F2.8L, my Tamron isn't giving me consistent results. Some shots from the last wedding aren't focused right, and i'm pretty sure that by now by technique is ok. Can anyone who's used both comment?
Can't comment as I've only used the L - you're welcome to borrow it, actually I'd be keen to see what it can do in more capable hands. I'll see what it'd cost to courier down to Welly if you like...

[Wazza]

http://wazza.nfscity.com/20d/85.jpg

There's a beautiful subject with the 85mm testing DOF.


Here's another shot, pretty funny
http://wazza.nfscity.com/20d/nrl_04.jpg - Look at their eyes on the ball. :)

[Moppie]

Nice pussy.

The leage players look like well trained dogs chassing a stick.

[Wazza]

Sorry, had my eyes on the wrong cat. :o

[weka2000]

Can't comment as I've only used the L - you're welcome to borrow it, actually I'd be keen to see what it can do in more capable hands. I'll see what it'd cost to courier down to Welly if you like...

Ive got the sigma 24-70 and beside the noise of the autofocus its very sharp

Cant afford "L" yet :)

[Wazza]

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=166464

Latest post sharing.. Some wicked surf/swell in there. :lol:

[tim]

Can't comment as I've only used the L - you're welcome to borrow it, actually I'd be keen to see what it can do in more capable hands. I'll see what it'd cost to courier down to Welly if you like...

That's a very generous offer, but I can go try one out at a photography store here first to see how I like it. Maybe i'll take you up on it later on... thanks :)

[dgcorner]

Focussed on the wrong cat ;-)

[::John::]

Ive got the sigma 24-70 and beside the noise of the autofocus its very sharp

Cant afford "L" yet :)

In Manual focus mode, Tony, there is no noise :) and that's what happens if you get the Sigma 24-70 too wet and are a bit unlucky...

[Wazza]

Two days since a post?

I wonder where everyone went. :p

Just got home. Feels a bit weird after not being here since Friday. :o
Now where's my 32" LCD. :lol:

[NordieBoy]

Well I've been...

Wait for it...

Taking photos :D

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=167393

[theflyingkiwi]

Well I've been...

Wait for it...

Taking photos :D


You know I had thought about taking photos, but that's just wrong. Anyway I think I need to find one of those cables that's connects the flash to the camera. Anyone got ideas as what they are called.

BTW that's a nice set of photos.

[CliveyBoy]

Anyway I think I need to find one of those cables that's connects the flash to the camera. Anyone got ideas as what they are called.

"Canon Off-camera Shoe Cord 2" (No part code it seems). 0.6m curled. Canon = obscenely expensive. There are alternatives.

I find that now I have the ST-E2 wireless flash transmitter, I rarely need the cord. Even when the flash is alongside the transmitter, local scatter is enough to fire. But the cord is useful if I need the flash behind me: the transmitter can be connected to the cord, and pointed behind.

[NordieBoy]

I've thought about using fill flash for some shots but am scared :D
I know nothing about flash and the only external one I have is a Sunpak Softlite 1600A that was given to me and is 500 years old.

[theflyingkiwi]

I had thought of getting the wireless transmitter, but I am not to sure of the cost. I only have one flash and I need to move off the hot shoe flash to try something out regarding marco photography.

[weka2000]

Mine cost $275 from HK they are about $450 in shops

[Wazza]

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=167450

My precious.

[dgcorner]

Two days since a post?

I wonder where everyone went. :p

Just got home. Feels a bit weird after not being here since Friday. :o
Now where's my 32" LCD. :lol:

Me? Recuperating from the trek!!! I think Tony would be proud -- we all made it to the top, that's after taking the loooooong coastal trek... and in spite of the cramps locking up my legs for a bit I did manage to join everyone else.

Now to have a look at the pics and post some. ;-)

[TKRFAN]

Hi Everyone

I have discovered this thread and thought it was about time to introduce myself :)

I am Tracy (female) from Palmerston North, and if you have noticed any of my photos that I have posted you will guess by now that I love motorsport LOL. It seems there is a great community of kiwis on here - I just wish I had poked around the forum more and read this thread well before Pukekohe then I could have met some of you!

As I have mentioned I am just a beginner - especially with the digital SLR, so all comments, hints, etc are more than welcome :)

I am not just into motorsport though, quite like the smaller inhabitants of the planet (eg insects), but don't have any macro lenses as yet, so makes taking any photos of them a bit tricky! Although I did play around a bit at Butterfly Creek while in Auckland and got a few shots that I liked.

[Wazza]

Whoops, Kirst and I should have directed you here earlier in the week.

There's a couple other members in Palmerston North.

rendezvous - my best friend
and another lady

[dgcorner]

Welcome to the GKPE!

[theflyingkiwi]

Hi Everyone

I have discovered this thread and thought it was about time to introduce myself :)

I am Tracy (female) from Palmerston North, and if you have noticed any of my photos that I have posted you will guess by now that I love motorsport LOL. It seems there is a great community of kiwis on here - I just wish I had poked around the forum more and read this thread well before Pukekohe then I could have met some of you!

As I have mentioned I am just a beginner - especially with the digital SLR, so all comments, hints, etc are more than welcome :)

I am not just into motorsport though, quite like the smaller inhabitants of the planet (eg insects), but don't have any macro lenses as yet, so makes taking any photos of them a bit tricky! Although I did play around a bit at Butterfly Creek while in Auckland and got a few shots that I liked.

Welcome

[Wazza]

Who stole the nice weather? Looked out earlier to blue skies.. and now it's gone all dark. I was even considering photographing a sunset knowing the next few days are pretty scrappy.. :(

Anyway, my productive day saw me scour 85,000 photos to select about 40 printable shots at 12x8" ready for mounting/framing and selling. :lol:

[theflyingkiwi]

Who stole the nice weather? Looked out earlier to blue skies.. and now it's gone all dark. I was even considering photographing a sunset knowing the next few days are pretty scrappy.. :(

It must have been me. I just biked home and it's still a fantastic day :) even better now that I am home :)

[tim]

It was lovely here in Wellington, I spent the day as an assistant to a commercial photographer I know, he was shooting stills for use in a movie, in one of Peter Jacksons studios. Not a Peter Jackson movie, a low budget short film. It was quite cool, a good learning experience.

[joeseph]

Just for something completely different, I spent most of the day walking - around the new Womens prison in Wiri would you believe (and before you ask there are no inmates yet) Looks like I'll be be doing porridge all next week putting in I.T. stuff. I must have done something to upset Theresa to get such a sentence... :confused:

[weka2000]

The weather represents how I feel. Man gots the "blues" and cant seem to shake.

Must be some type of photography crisis, all my photos look like c#^p wife had a dig at my waterfall photos saying they were boring. My photography idea of shooting woman between the ages of 30-50 is raising more issues than I care to address and I havnt even started.

Asked a couple of woman there thoughts the answers I got was extremes so now im stratching my head.

Someone shoot me :( Winter must be on its way.

There must be something great around the corner and now is a test, and thats the thought im sticking to :lol:

[scotttnz]

I must have done something to upset Theresa to get such a sentence...

Someone showed her some of your posts on here.....

There must be something great around the corner and now is a test, and thats the thought im sticking to

GKPE4 is only 3 months away:)
I see you have bid on the 17-40 on trademe....I'll stay away from it then....
I'm starting to think the 17-40 might be a good replacement for my kit lens, and if I ever go FF it would replace the 10-20.

[dgcorner]

The weather represents how I feel. Man gots the "blues" and cant seem to shake.

Must be some type of photography crisis, all my photos look like c#^p wife had a dig at my waterfall photos saying they were boring. My photography idea of shooting woman between the ages of 30-50 is raising more issues than I care to address and I havnt even started.

Asked a couple of woman there thoughts the answers I got was extremes so now im stratching my head.

Someone shoot me :( Winter must be on its way.

There must be something great around the corner and now is a test, and thats the thought im sticking to :lol:

Tony, it's what you call a mid-life crisis... getting closer to 40 must be doing it... I went through something similar. How to get over it...? Focus on the good things that you have in life -- Sandra, the kids, health, wealth, a job, a 5D, a bunch of lenses, and us in the GKPE ;-)

I'm learning to focus on the silver lining and trying to live up to the quote in my sig.

[dgcorner]

Just for something completely different, I spent most of the day walking - around the new Womens prison in Wiri would you believe (and before you ask there are no inmates yet) Looks like I'll be be doing porridge all next week putting in I.T. stuff. I must have done something to upset Theresa to get such a sentence... :confused:

Duncan -- remember that big sister/brother is watching... someone who earns a bundle like that, and is ruthless enough to kick out someone after her position has got to have a thousand eyes and ears ;-)

Aren't you glad that you're going to be working without any cat-calls from some of the women:lol:

[weka2000]

Mid life crisis / mens PMT who knows I just feel flat. Which I knew how to shake it, all I want to do is sleep cant be assed doing anything else. Even going to work is a pain.

Payday tommorow might trying shopping theropy works for Sandra shes always happy spending :)

I do know the artistic type people are also more up and down......dude got anys uppers man I ve just used up all my downers :rolleyes:

I was bumed I wasnt there saterday.

Still a bit sore that Sandta said my waterfall photos were boaring I was going to say the womans got no taste but she did marry me.

[dgcorner]

Mid life crisis / mens PMT who knows I just feel flat. Which I knew how to shake it, all I want to do is sleep cant be assed doing anything else. Even going to work is a pain.

Payday tommorow might trying shopping theropy works for Sandra shes always happy spending :)

I do know the artistic type people are also more up and down......dude got anys uppers man I ve just used up all my downers :rolleyes:

I was bumed I wasnt there saterday.

Still a bit sore that Sandta said my waterfall photos were boaring I was going to say the womans got no taste but she did marry me.

Shopping just might do it for you -- I can hear an "L" calling your name:lol: Uppers? Coffee is all I have at the moment:lol: As for Sandra's comment, let's just say that it is hormonal and temporary;)

[FlyingPete]

Mid life crisis / mens PMT who knows I just feel flat. Which I knew how to shake it, all I want to do is sleep cant be assed doing anything else. Even going to work is a pain.

Payday tommorow might trying shopping theropy works for Sandra shes always happy spending :)

I do know the artistic type people are also more up and down......dude got anys uppers man I ve just used up all my downers :rolleyes:

I was bumed I wasnt there saterday.

Still a bit sore that Sandta said my waterfall photos were boaring I was going to say the womans got no taste but she did marry me.

Perhaps too much of a good thing, all that flash gear, it gets addictive, you need bigger better gear to get the same kick, keep it up and the next thing you will have a hassy with a Phase 1 back ;)

[DaveE]

@weka2000.

You think you've got it bad. Look at my gallery, its got nothing but pictures of beaches in it. (http://www.photography-cafe.com/gallery/index.php?cat=10589)

I think I'll try and head out and take some waterfall pics. Got to get into some people photography, candids would be the thing. Can anyone provide some advice on this ?

On another note I was going to come along on Saturday to meet everyone but my father got rushed to hospital and I spent till 2am Sunday morning waiting for him to come out of his op. Hopefully next time.

@Joseph - yes I have to worry about Big T as well ;-)

Cheers

[theflyingkiwi]

this may be of interest to some. I don't know how open it would be to photographers but it may be interesting to go

http://www.topgeartrackday.co.nz/index.html

and if you had a performance car, you could even take part.

[Wazza]

Poor Duncan. What a sentence. Wouldn't like to be in your shoes. At least you're getting paid. I'm sitting here in my prison, with nothing happening. :)

[weka2000]

Found the problem, to much "ines" caffine, nictoine. Garbage in garbage out.

Wazza so when you want to get togather for my next "landscape" lesson
A day out at Karekare/piha.

[Wazza]

The day I remember to bring my charger home, so I don't have a flat battery. :lol:

[weka2000]

The day I remember to bring my charger home, so I don't have a flat battery. :lol:

Buy another charger and leave one where there is not one. I was looking at Thursday / Friday

[CliveyBoy]

Buy another charger and leave one where there is not one. I was looking at Thursday / Friday

Or, buy a spare charger - with car lighter connection. Mine stays in the car, and is great for high-demand or poor-memory situations. Together with a third battery - you've used one, insert the replacement, and it's gone open circuit, and you are in the middle of an event! Safety requires 3 charged batteries (assuming no grip in use).

eg SterlingTek (http://store.yahoo.com/sterlingtek/canbp511acba.html)

[Wazza]

I have 4 rechargables, plus the 6x AA rechargaable battery slot in grip, and 2 chargers at Kirst's place. (one is mine, and one is hers), but comes in handy when charging two at a time.

Thursday/Friday sounds good.

I need to find a 580EX and possibly a off shoe cord for a wedding on the 20th.
:o

[theflyingkiwi]

I need to find a 580EX and possibly a off shoe cord for a wedding on the 20th.
:o

get wireless :) more freedom which will also mean more battery.

does anyone know where I can find a decent battery charger. I got one from dick smith which is totaly crap. It needs to charge AA and D batterys.

[Wazza]

Post Number 2000....

User Name Posts
weka2000 344
dgcorner 317
Wazza 162
forsaken 153
Moppie 133
MattL 131
tim 116
scotttnz 116
FlyingPete 114
NordieBoy 107
joeseph 95
iKirst 88
CliveyBoy 24
nzl-g3user 24
IainB 19
kiwibloke 16
DaveE 13
Stubbienz 11
Marshal 7
Elyse 6
downunder 2
tag141 1
TKRFAN 1

[theflyingkiwi]

Post Number 2000....

User Name Posts
weka2000 344
dgcorner 317
Wazza 162
forsaken 153
Moppie 133
MattL 131
tim 116
scotttnz 116
FlyingPete 114
NordieBoy 107
joeseph 95
iKirst 88
CliveyBoy 24
nzl-g3user 24
IainB 19
kiwibloke 16
DaveE 13
Stubbienz 11
Marshal 7
Elyse 6
downunder 2
tag141 1
TKRFAN 1

Well we can see who the most talkive of the bunch and it ain't Tim :)

[CliveyBoy]

I have 4 rechargables, plus the 6x AA rechargaable battery slot in grip, and 2 chargers at Kirst's place. (one is mine, and one is hers), but comes in handy when charging two at a time.

I need to find a 580EX and possibly a off shoe cord for a wedding on the 20th.
:o

Sorry, Wazza - I didn't mean to imply any shortcoming on your part: far from it. I was trying to say that to overcome my memory lapses, I carry items permanently in the car.

If you cannot borrow, locally, I could courier up my 550EX, ST-E2 and off-choe cord.

[Wazza]

Wow thanks for your generous offer. Don't know if I could accept such a thing going long distance like that.

I could hire one in Auckland for about $40+GST.

KIrst had a 430EX but sold it and was going to buy a 580EX, however that money has gone into a Fiji trip at New Years. :)

Still unsure whether to buy more flash gear myself. I prefer natural light, but sometimes it's unavoidable, such as this wedding is at 5:15pm! It will be dark. :o

[tim]

How'd you do that count Wazza? Hope it wasn't manually!

The 580EX is a great flash, the single button head rotate is great. I lost the little high voltage port cover for mine, maybe it's in my camera bag somewhere... otherwise i'll have to order it as a spare part! Having one flash is essential, having a backup is almost as essential, even if it's a used 420EX. I'm using natural light a lot more, but flash is often essential. Sometimes I set up a mini speedlite studio at a wedding, it works great :)

Today i'm doing a comprehensive album price list, since I have four to make in the near future. Also have to do an album design contract. Plus all my electronic devices keep beeping at me to do other stuff. I'm SO MUCH busier now i'm doing this full time than when I worked two jobs! Happier though :)

[Wazza]

On the sub-forum page, down the right side which says "2003" replies, you can click on that link and it will display who's posted in each thread and how many times.

Until a few weeks back, I was always behind Matt and Moppie, but have been contributing more Ramblings than usual lately.

[CliveyBoy]

Don't know if I could accept such a thing going long distance like that.

Your choice - and it would only cost you about $9 to return. From my "triplist":
LowePro SL Pouch 60AW
Canon 550EX flashgun
ST-E2 Transmitter
Bracket Grip
3 x 4 AA NiMH batteries
Lumiquest ProMax reflector/diffuser
Off-camera shoe cord 2

[weka2000]

Seems I have more to say than most, but more likley more opinionated than most :)

[dgcorner]

Crickey, I didn't realise I was a type-aholic :-) Just goes to show that I need to really find myself a job:lol:

[dgcorner]

Scott, we're lagging behind in the GKPE Fornightly Challenge. What are we doing for #4? Comments and suggestions welcome.

[joeseph]

Or, buy a spare charger - with car lighter connection.

Thanks Clive! - for setting off a lightbulb in the back of my brain. I have been wondering for awhile how to power my portable HDD from a BP-511 battery and that link set me off in search of ultra-cheap charger for same. I found better than a whole charger - you can buy just the adapter plate for an Inca charger and use the adapter plate to clip on a BP-511 to the portable HDD with just a couple of wires to connect.
photo.co.nz's got the adapter plates for only $11.81 whole charger is $67.28
see link for picture:
http://www.teds.com.au/www/6/1001102/displayproduct/1001440_1001236_.html

once I get one I'll add some info the the "do you cobble" thread...

many thanks!

[downunder]

Good grief! looks like I better pull finger and start joining in, I've got a lot of catching up to do :)

Post Number 2000....

User Name Posts
weka2000 344
dgcorner 317
Wazza 162
forsaken 153
Moppie 133
MattL 131
tim 116
scotttnz 116
FlyingPete 114
NordieBoy 107
joeseph 95
iKirst 88
CliveyBoy 24
nzl-g3user 24
IainB 19
kiwibloke 16
DaveE 13
Stubbienz 11
Marshal 7
Elyse 6
downunder 2
tag141 1
TKRFAN 1

[FlyingPete]

Thanks Clive! - for setting off a lightbulb in the back of my brain. I have been wondering for awhile how to power my portable HDD from a BP-511 battery

Wouldn't it be great if the Speedlites had a "battery cartridge" so you could put in AA's BP511's of the 350 battery, but then that would be a little too clever.

I rigged up a battery pack for my old sony once based of D cells, had a regulator that provided the 8.4V DC the charger did, basically I got another 6 hours above the standard 2 hours, for the first 6 it just showed up like it was plugged into the wall. Was a real pain though carrying those D cells.

There used to be an externla battery pack availalbe for speedlites and SLR's, for use in cold climates you "wear" the battery under you jacket to keep it warm, also great for avoiding battery changes on the speedlites.

[weka2000]

Crickey, I didn't realise I was a type-aholic :-) Just goes to show that I need to really find myself a job:lol:

I need to get away from the computer more. We could be like the 2 old guys in the balconey from the muppets

[FlyingPete]

I need to get away from the computer more. We could be like the 2 old guys in the balconey from the muppets

Don't temp me to Photoshop ;)

[weka2000]

Don't temp me to Photoshop ;)

Pete you got me hooked on that 70-200 F2.8 now
There are plenty of F4's on trademe but the dont take a 77mm thread.

I have a photohop idea for the senior management team at school. I refer to them as Huey, duey, luey and anty daisy.

[joeseph]

Don't temp me to Photoshop ;)
no need - just google: Statler and Waldorf images! :lol:

[NordieBoy]

The Sigma 70-200 takes 77mm :D

[weka2000]

The Sigma 70-200 takes 77mm :D

Hey scott want to borrow the bigma while I borrow your 70-200, yes I know I will get the short end of the stick 300mm short.

I still feel the Canon is the better glass. To me the sigma was a bit soft. I want a 70-200 for portrait work as well.

But honey I want "L" so what if its twice the price and it white. People may not notice my photos but the will notice me :)

100% crop @200mm Canon 70-200 F2.8

[forsaken]

congrats mr Wazza on you name and pictures being published in NZPC magazine #114 pgs 100 - 104.

[NordieBoy]

And NZPC is what?

[forsaken]

New Zealand Performance Car Magazine.

I thought everyone knew that :)

[NordieBoy]

Ahhh.
I don't have a car.

3.75 motorbikes, 2.5 roadbikes and 2.25 mountain bikes.

[weka2000]

I cant afford a performance car :(

[dgcorner]

I need to get away from the computer more. We could be like the 2 old guys in the balconey from the muppets

:lol: :lol: :lol: I wonder whether I can upload the theme song from the muppets to play...:lol: :lol: :lol:

[dgcorner]

Tony and I would look like this:

[weka2000]

edit out the guns and put in cameras, would be perfect.

[tim]

Want to see me wind some more people up?

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=167661#13

[dgcorner]

Want to see me wind some more people up?

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=167661#13

It is amazing how many women Tim has managed to brainwash... include Warren in the picture and WOW :lol: :lol: :lol:

[dgcorner]

edit out the guns and put in cameras, would be perfect.

That's going to be a tough one... but a nice challenge.

[NordieBoy]

That's going to be a tough one... but a nice challenge.
FC Challenge #4?

Take photos of cameras and PS them into the pic?

:D

[Wazza]

Thanks for the heads up about NZPC, Simon. Kirst went out and bought it for me, how nice is she?! :D

Anyone need some lawns cut? I'm running out of money. Does that mean I just have to take any old job. :(

[weka2000]

"Hire wazza for a day" odd jobs nothing turned down.

I will start the bit at $10 per hour for 8 hours = $80

[Wazza]

I'll be happy to shoot portraits for yourself and Sandra ;)

[mrmeal]

Hi everyone I'm a first time poster, long time lurker so go easy on me :)
Well in fairness I should tell you an important fact before I ask you to go easy on me. I don't own a Canon (around them quite a bit though if that helps), in fact I bought "another" digital camera breed of the SLR variety the same day someone here bought their 20d ;)

But the community atmosphere around this kiwi bunch has kept me coming back to read the thread on a daily basis. BTW thanks everyone who went to Rangi over the weekend, you all helped keep the Monday morning reading to a manageable level doing the weekend catchup lol. I won't say who originally pointed me onto this forum other than to say it was a 'couple' of people. That way my choice in camera won't be detrimental to their reputations in anyway :)
If I ever get a chance to come out with you lot, I promise I'll walk 10 paces behind the group and not make eye contact.

[theflyingkiwi]

Hi everyone I'm a first time poster, long time lurker so go easy on me :)
Well in fairness I should tell you an important fact before I ask you to go easy on me. I don't own a Canon (around them quite a bit though if that helps), in fact I bought "another" digital camera breed of the SLR variety the same day someone here bought their 20d ;)

But the community atmosphere around this kiwi bunch has kept me coming back to read the thread on a daily basis. BTW thanks everyone who went to Rangi over the weekend, you all helped keep the Monday morning reading to a manageable level doing the weekend catchup lol. I won't say who originally pointed me onto this forum other than to say it was a 'couple' of people. That way my choice in camera won't be detrimental to their reputations in anyway :)
If I ever get a chance to come out with you lot, I promise I'll walk 10 paces behind the group and not make eye contact.

Welcome, I am sure at the end of the day we don't care about the make and model of your camera. However we might just be able to get you to change your camera :) :lol:

where in the country are you?

[mrmeal]

Auckland, out East. lol I have so many 20d's around me when we go out as a group, it just might rub off eventually. Three of the 20'ds are already in the fold here. I'm very very amatuer, but as far as principles go a lot is similar so I'm learning as I go from reading an playing with the camera. albeit very slow. I'm an impatient sod, I'd love to have the knowledge and skill as the others, but just have not had the time behind the shutter to learn by experiment. I need to get out more with the camera, and shoot some rubbish shots and learn form them ;)

[theflyingkiwi]

well I think you might be in luck. there seem to be a few people in auckland that know what they are doing with a camera. ;)

but at least you don't have one of those film cameras, that would just be wrong :)

[Wazza]

If it's a Nikon, it might be better off with film. They're film bodies weren't bad, but always lagging in digital realm. :lol;

Welcome anyway mrmeal.

What's the name signify?

[iKirst]

Hi everyone I'm a first time poster, long time lurker so go easy on me :)
Hullo Hayden. Fancy seeing you in the POTN part of the interweb thingy ;)

Considering you've already stalked the kiwi threads for a bit.. I'm sure you already know they're a grand bunch. That is if you exclude me.

Although you have a noink, the principals of SLR functionality is the same as Canon, so I'm almost certain you'll pick up a tip or two. That is, unless, you're learning impaired :lol:

[dgcorner]

mrmeal/Hayden -- welcome to the forum & the GKPE. We won't bite because you have a Nikon or something else... just make sure you don't make any snide remarks about our gear ;-):lol:

Keep an eye out for mini-GKPEs that happen on the spur of the moment -- these "little" outings keep us going till the next one in about 2-3 months.

Well, that makes us 8 from the East -- Matt (MattL); Scott (Scotttnz); Moppie; Pete (Flying Pete); Tommy (TommySharp); Stephen (stjac); and myself... anyone I missed out?

[weka2000]

Who owns a Nikon, its apublic hanging offence here isnt it :)

[mrmeal]

could we come to a compromise and meet in the middle with say a public stoning instead?

As far as film cameras go I used to own a Canon EOS 500N, that gave me the bug for SLR which I sold just before derailing the train and buying Nikon D70s. I started out on the 'right' track, then must have had a sandshoe blowout. :)

[Moppie]

Welcome along, we all make mistakes, just as long as you learn from it. :)

[Wazza]

:lol:, Kirst must have told you to get the Nikon, knowing one day she'll own L lens, that she doesn't want to share!

[weka2000]

could we come to a compromise and meet in the middle with say a public stoning instead?

As far as film cameras go I used to own a Canon EOS 500N, that gave me the bug for SLR which I sold just before derailing the train and buying Nikon D70s. I started out on the 'right' track, then must have had a sandshoe blowout. :)

That seems fair. Tell you what we will give you $50 for the nikon D70 and as a group we will take you out and get you a nice CANON 20D and some glass because we all love to spend money on our camera.

Welcome to the group. Feel free to ask questions and have a good old chat.

[weka2000]

:lol:, Kirst must have told you to get the Nikon, knowing one day she'll own L lens, that she doesn't want to share!

When did iKirst get "L" glass and what did she get.....or is this a "whats yours is mine" situation

Wazza this week a no go due to a work overload. I am keen to get togather to go over some points and tips.

[Wazza]

"one day she'll own L lens"

One day...
She doesn't like her 70-300.

Might get her to get a Sigma 70-200 2.8 and use a teleconverter for longer. ;)

[joeseph]

could we come to a compromise and meet in the middle with say a public stoning instead?

Sure we can come to some arrangement ;)
welcome aboard!

[Wazza]

You do have two 20Ds after all ;)

[Moppie]

Iv just posted my first photo from last weekend.

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?p=1493306#post1493306


Ok, so its really 22 photos ;)

[scotttnz]

Saw the 17-55 f2.8 IS in Camera & Camera queen St today. I was in a hurry, so couldn't stop and try it out. At $1999 I don't think I will be getting one....unfortunately.

Nice Pano Moppie!

Welcome aboard mrmeal!

Lets try some subliminal suggestion.....

nonac a teg ,aremac nokin lles

[weka2000]

nonac a teg ,aremac nokin lles

LOL

[forsaken]

howdee mrmeal. We will talk you into trading up one of these days.

if you change cameras as much as cars then it shouldn't be too far away :)

[forsaken]

Thanks for the heads up about NZPC, Simon. Kirst went out and bought it for me, how nice is she?! :D


was going to text ya but thought kirst could give you the news :)

your shots are the better ones that they have of that day btw

:cool:

[downunder]

Need to replace my efs 17-85 for something faster and was thinking about the 17-55 2.8 but would really like the 16-35L 2.8 and 24-70L 2.8, but the costs are so high! If you get to try the 17-55 please post I would be interested in what you think of it.

Hi to mrmeal

As for the subliminal suggestion it got me worried for a sec, i thought you guys had your own canon language. Sounded a bit hobbitt like!:)

Saw the 17-55 f2.8 IS in Camera & Camera queen St today. I was in a hurry, so couldn't stop and try it out. At $1999 I don't think I will be getting one....unfortunately.

Nice Pano Moppie!

Welcome aboard mrmeal!

Lets try some subliminal suggestion.....

nonac a teg ,aremac nokin lles

[downunder]

Just checked the price of the 17-55 f2.8 is at auckland camera and its listed at $1799 so with gst off thats $1599 which is about $300 cheaper than B & H !

[tim]

You're right, that's cool it's cheaper to buy in NZ than B&H!

[forsaken]

my take on GKPE #3 http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=168357

[Moppie]

So Warren what photos did you get in NZPC?

And more importantly, did they pay you for them?
That magazine has a bad reputation for NOT paying for photos.

[mrmeal]

Thanks all for the warm welcomes. lol on the subliminal messages here was me thinking those applied to sigma lenses alone ;)

Forsaken: If I apply the same principle I have for cars to cameras, then I'd end up owning two or three haha. Who knows though if a canon comes up at a good price, I could very well be interested, don't tell Kirst though I probably wouldn't hear the end of that statement :) At this stage I'm happy with the Nikon, I compared it to the canon 350d when I was purchasing, and in my opinion the Nikon felt better in my hands. The 20d was very nice, but with my expereince I couldn't justify the cost at the time. I guess my interest in photography is growing stronger though, largely due to being emmersed in those surroundings by my good mates with canon appendages. So who knows..... I just bought a 50mm f2.8 lense to add to my collection for it. I'm still very green around which lenses are better than others but I'm getting there ;)

[Wazza]

50 2.8? Is that a Nikon? Don't they do a f1.8?

Mine cost $95 second hand, but retail for $165 new

[mrmeal]

oops yes you are right my good man, typo. Shouldn't type with nose. ;) F1.8 it is.

[theflyingkiwi]

50 2.8? Is that a Nikon? Don't they do a f1.8?

Mine cost $95 second hand, but retail for $165 new

Yea but everyone know that the 1.8 verson isn't very good. Everyone should get the 1.4 verson.

I too got the 1.8 MK2 and starting to wonder if I need it as it doesn't seem to get any use at the moment.

[tim]

Everyone knows my opinion on the 50mm F1.8, though i've made it a little more obvious just now... until CDS or Pekka change my title to something that annoys me less. Now how do I make my sig blink...

[Moppie]

LOL Tim, is it really that Bad?

At least your title isn't Corn of the Crop.

[tim]

"Cream of the corn might be a nice new title ;) Pekka changed me back to the default for now, and removed my colorful sig. Suggestions for title welcome!

[Moppie]

Speaking of going on a Crusade against something:

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=168129

I really don't like the term "Point and Shoot."

[Wazza]

So Warren what photos did you get in NZPC?

And more importantly, did they pay you for them?
That magazine has a bad reputation for NOT paying for photos.

Did it through a 3rd party/event organiser who also runs other events at Meremere.

It appeared they weren't the type for paying, so went in a bit low, but gave them 31 pics and asked for $200+GST, and they said yes. Then they probably published 8 pics or so.

[Moppie]

They share (or did) a staff photographer with NZ Classic Car, who uses a 1D, although if they can get free photos they will always use them instead of paying.

Simon will know him, a guy from Wellington we know as Toksin took some really good photos of a Drift event down that way and had them published in a 3 page spread in NZPC. They were really good photos, but he got absolutly nothing for it.
I nearly took some photos for the local Lotus Agent (before he moved to Waiuku) for an NZPC article, untill I realised I wouldn't get paid.

[theflyingkiwi]

"Cream of the corn might be a nice new title ;) Pekka changed me back to the default for now, and removed my colorful sig. Suggestions for title welcome!

I did like that chatty wind bag title. I though that was right on the money. :D But I did see that a couple of other people had thought it was abit rough.

how about Mr know it all :)

[dgcorner]

I did like that chatty wind bag title. I though that was right on the money. :D But I did see that a couple of other people had thought it was abit rough.

how about Mr know it all :)

How does "Chatter Bug" sound? :-) Then again, on this thread it looks like Tony reigns supreme.:lol: :lol:

[weka2000]

Im not into second place. Its 1st or nothing :)

[dgcorner]

Just back from another interview...:rolleyes: boy, the consultant was scratching his head wondering how I've managed to stay unemployed all these 10 months...:D He cannot understand how someone with the experience, presentation, and attitude I have has not been offered a job. . . I scratch my head and wonder too:confused: :lol:

The silver lining is that the guy promised that he would put me in front of several prospective employers, but he wants to spend an afternoon with me before meeting them. He says he wants to know what it is that is keeping the employers from hiring me... Just a few minutes ago, one of his colleagues called and wanted to meet up with me tomorrow:D

[Moppie]

So that means you have a Job?

I think there is a reluctance here to employ people from over seas just incase thier way of doing things so totaly forgian to our own.
Its total crap of course, with the exception of a few specialist diciplines.

[dgcorner]

Hi Moppie!

No job just yet ;-) I would have thought that the reluctance of employers would have been with people fresh off the boat and not with someone who has some 5 years local experience in key account management, not to mention having worked all my life with the top multinational companies in the world.

I guess that I just have to keep on knocking on doors and one will eventually open and let me in. ;-)

[weka2000]

You will get a job and spend the first week thinking of all the things you could be doing at home :)

[theflyingkiwi]

or even better, all things at your job you can photograph :)

so what kinda of work do you do dgcorner?

[FlyingPete]

Our TV blew up this morning :(

We switched it on to play Elizabeths Hi % DVD and it made a ticking sound (a bit like a spark) then shutdown. THe faint smell of ozone gave the game up.

Rang Eastern Hi-Fi, then the local Loewe sevice guys - minimum $500 for fix, a bit much for a 29" CRT, even if it is 100hz digital. Can buy a new Panasonic for that.

Not ready to jump on the 30"+ LCD/Plasma bandwagon yet, too much money for a TV, will beg/borrow/steal until then...

BTW, John good luck on the job interviews, hooking up with a good agency really helps.

[Moppie]

Amandas parents got a 32inch widescreen Panasonic Plasma the other day.
$4,000 for a lot of pixels, and not really worth the investment if you ask me.
Especialy when you can get a CRT, or rear projection set for a faction of that cost with far better image quality.
And lets be honest, who here really needs the extra bit of space you get from a slim line LCD or Plasma?


I hope Elizabeth is coping ok with out a TV though, it can tough dealing with such a loss, especialy when your so young.

[dgcorner]

or even better, all things at your job you can photograph :)

so what kinda of work do you do dgcorner?

I'm in sales & marketing, been doing this for some 18 years. The funny thing about the situation is that I keep on hearing that there is a severe shortage of good sales people:lol:

[dgcorner]

Tony -- that is indeed the irony of things. Now if only staying at home pays me enough to meet the daily expenses. I don't need much anyway.

Pete, I hope Elizabeth is coping well. There were a few flyers for interest free TV deals. I would stay with a CRT or rear projection for a little while more. The LCDs are nice only if you have enough cash to spare... and yes, a good agency/consultant makes a heck of a difference in a job search.

[joeseph]

And lets be honest, who here really needs the extra bit of space you get from a slim line LCD or Plasma?
have you seen our lounge lately? I could park a small car in the space freed up if I replaced the rear-projection telly we have. Not sure that the piles would put up with the weight - maybe not such a good idea! :)

[Moppie]

have you seen our lounge lately?

Its roughly the size of my apartment, and certianly bigger than the lounge in the new house, wait till you see how small that is :)

[joeseph]

Anyone seen the e-bay listing for New Zealand? apparently it's only worth $3,500
Also in retaliation for sale is Australia - yours for only $1.50
(can't find link, so can't put a bid in - please help & support a worthy cause... :) )

[forsaken]

Simon will know him, a guy from Wellington we know as Toksin took some really good photos of a Drift event down that way and had them published in a 3 page spread in NZPC.



been a while since I've heard from that boy, must be loving uni life

[scotttnz]

will beg/borrow/steal until then...

Pete, we have a 21" you can borrow while you ponder your next move. It's at the inlaws at the moment, but they don't use it, so let me know if you want it.

[forsaken]

oh oh oh


on the good news front, I picked up my 18 - 55 lens today :) exactly 2 months after dropping it of @ Harveys place. Was covered under warranty in the end.

Thank you Canon

[theflyingkiwi]

I'm in sales & marketing, been doing this for some 18 years. The funny thing about the situation is that I keep on hearing that there is a severe shortage of good sales people:lol:

sales and marketing, how interesting :) no really it is. I had though many years ago marketing would be interesting to get in to, but got in to IT, oh well.

[theflyingkiwi]

Anyone seen the e-bay listing for New Zealand? apparently it's only worth $3,500
Also in retaliation for sale is Australia - yours for only $1.50
(can't find link, so can't put a bid in - please help & support a worthy cause... :) )

hahaha, saw that on the news. I wonder if they will accept a trade on a used 10D ?

[weka2000]

Ah yes sales. Tried it once hated it. Have taken a dislike to salespeople as well..door to door, telemarketers, MLM marketing and when you go into a shop people trying to sell you something with out finding out what your needs are.

I guess its the hard sell, the pushyness that really gets me.

You want to see good sales goes to Auckland camera. Helpful, freindly and not pushy and you always spend more than you planned.

Oh John this is no reflection on you.
Just had a war with the BP station up the road over a faulty gas bottle. They told my wife that it was leaking I went down told them I wanted it back NOW, they told me it would take 3 hrs to empty, so I said I would be back at 7pm, arrived at 7pm and the workers seem hide except for one who could get away. All this only to find out that the idiot who filled it didnt have the nossle on tight and caused it to leak.

Waste of money to get a new gas bottle and all the fuel my wife spent running around. This waste of money is cutting into my "L" fund

feeling better now.....in bed listening to Eric Clapton blues :)

Anyone heard from Mattl?

[weka2000]

hahaha, saw that on the news. I wonder if they will accept a trade on a used 10D ?

Did you see the USA debt clock, its running out of digits LOL wonder what they would get on E-Bay for the USA

[dgcorner]

Ah yes sales. Tried it once hated it. Have taken a dislike to salespeople as well..door to door, telemarketers, MLM marketing and when you go into a shop people trying to sell you something with out finding out what your needs are.

I guess its the hard sell, the pushyness that really gets me.

You want to see good sales goes to Auckland camera. Helpful, freindly and not pushy and you always spend more than you planned.

Oh John this is no reflection on you.
Just had a war with the BP station up the road over a faulty gas bottle. They told my wife that it was leaking I went down told them I wanted it back NOW, they told me it would take 3 hrs to empty, so I said I would be back at 7pm, arrived at 7pm and the workers seem hide except for one who could get away. All this only to find out that the idiot who filled it didnt have the nossle on tight and caused it to leak.

Waste of money to get a new gas bottle and all the fuel my wife spent running around. This waste of money is cutting into my "L" fund

feeling better now.....in bed listening to Eric Clapton blues :)

Anyone heard from Mattl?

Pushy sales people are what give the industry a bad name. It is the ones who are there short term that couldn't care less about your needs... all they're after is their quotas rather than repeat business. A dissatisfied customer will tell a minimum of 7 to 10 people how bad the service is, a satisfied one tells 3...

[Moppie]

Hmmmmmm, Lets hope the American Empire can hang on a bit longer, I don't really want to be around when it falls (and like all empires before it, it will, and since its wealthiest in history, when it falls, it will fall hard).

[FlyingPete]

Pete, we have a 21" you can borrow while you ponder your next move. It's at the inlaws at the moment, but they don't use it, so let me know if you want it.

Might take you up on that, neighbours have offered a 29", if that isn't any good, or doesn't happen.

We lived for three months without a TV a few years back, but then we didn't have a 2.5 year old :rolleyes:

[theflyingkiwi]

Did you see the USA debt clock, its running out of digits LOL wonder what they would get on E-Bay for the USA

I missed that part. now that's funny. I am not to sure how many might get this but it's a quote from an american movie.

"I'll buy that for a dollar"

[theflyingkiwi]

Hmmmmmm, Lets hope the American Empire can hang on a bit longer, I don't really want to be around when it falls (and like all empires before it, it will, and since its wealthiest in history, when it falls, it will fall hard).

Well the Roman Empire lasted for thousands of years. I would think that the american country as a whole would last alot longer than that. Just remember that it's just not america that will fall. All countrys supporting it and being supported by it will also fall.

[weka2000]

Found this for us sigma guys with flash units

http://www.pbase.com/miljenko/sigma150flash

[tim]

"Mr Know it all" or "Chatty Windbag" does seem best...

I wouldn't care if my TV blew up, i'm not sure i'd bother to replace it. My flatmate watches it, and I watch it for about 15 minutes per day that i'm eating... if I can't find anything decent to read instead!

[NordieBoy]

I watch TV for motorsport on sunday and Top Gear.

[dgcorner]

Found this for us sigma guys with flash units

http://www.pbase.com/miljenko/sigma150flash

That looked interesting. A pity though that he was with the Dark Side ;-)