GKPE: General Ramblings thread

[FlyingPete]

I'm kicking myself now for completely forgetting to take/use the cir-pol filter :rolleyes:

That should have given some nice contrast and depth to the shots.
Maybe.

Them dar great shots, but I doesn't think the ole CPL would have helped much at that angle. I did some shooting way down Milford way with a CPL using Velvia Film (lets see how many film related wise cracks we get this time ;) ), some of the skies were so dark they were almost black!

[dgcorner]

That is one hang of a tax rebate to go for those toys! (preparing to be shot down here :eek: ) What about a holiday with the family? That is what I am doing with my next one...

I thought about that actually...;) but we are visiting Manila in 2007 for my father-in-law's 80th, and my dad's 70th... and that is a heck of an expense but it has been budgeted already.

Besides, given my current decent gear line-up, I only have the 20D & 24-70. The 28-105 is so-so, and so is the old 80-200 non USM... both of which I am selling once the new toys arrive...

Now it is a matter of deciding whether I want to shoot wider or longer... the flash is a must...:rolleyes:

[tim]

The joys of a pending tax rebate... what to do...?:confused:

Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 EX DG HSM + Canon 580EX

or

Sigma 10-20 + 580EX

or

Canon EFS 10-22 + 580EX

or

Canon 70-200 2.8L

Help!

Why would you want a Sigma 70-200 when you already have a Canon 80-200? Is that the 80-200 F2.8L?

When I see such disparate lists I wonder if someone is buying tools to make their images, or toys to play with.

[weka2000]

Well John tough call. Sigma 70-200 Sigma 10-20 and 580EX. Have you checked B&H prices. Personally I would get all 3 in 1 hit and be done with it.

I would take up Scotts offer and try first. Your in that boat where you really need both. However as Tim said you have a 80-200. So how often do you use it?

I definalty know that feeling of what to to. My most used lens for landscape is the 17-40 I brought the 70-200 F4 as well and that gets used every now and then but I wouldnt be with out it even though the bigma covers the same range.

I gave up ages ago thinking I could get away wit 2/3 lens at the most. As I learn and discover different things so my glass requirements change.

So now here is my list and what its used for

Canon 17-40 F4...Landscape
Sigma 24-70 F2.8....Walk around, portrait
Canon 50mm F1.4....Low light, portrait
Canon 85mm F1.8...... Portrait
Canon 70-200 F4...... Landscape, odds and ends
Sigma 50-500...Zoo lens, Surf photography, moon shots, other (used 300-500 end the most)

(All the canons were got in the last 2 months)

To get
Sigma 150mm F2.8 macro

My Canon 580EX is never used but cant sell as the 5D dosnt have a flash but in.

[Wazza]

If it's the 80-200 f4.5 / 5.6 , I would get a 70-200 2.8 + flash.

I'm actually not too fond of UWA lens. 17-40 is still a better lens, and on a wider body like 1.3x crop may be perfect for what I need.

As for the Zoo. Last time, I went, had 20D plus Sigma 70-300, (the small one), as the big lens was still in for repairs.. And was asked if Kirst and I were professionals... Of course not.

Yet twice in the past with 120-300 , monopod and never was questioned..

[weka2000]

wazza you are still alive. How are you? Hows the new job working out?

I just get looked at when Im at the zoo with the 5D and bigma.

[theflyingkiwi]

the 17-40 is a great lens and I found I use that more than my walk around lens. Which I am looking at replacing. I have used my sigma since the motor racing and would like something to shot with it. the hamilton zoo isn't that interesting.

If anyone knows of another aminal park that one can vist it would be good to vist that. Or anywhere else interesting.

So Wazza when are you getting the 1DMKIIn ? ? ?

[dgcorner]

That depends.....do you find yourself wanting to shoot wider or longer more often? I use my 10-20 more often than my 70-200 but both are great. I don't think you will find many people that won't agree on the 580EX though.....

John, if you want to try either out let me know.

Thanks Scott! I may take you up on the offer.

[dgcorner]

Why would you want a Sigma 70-200 when you already have a Canon 80-200? Is that the 80-200 F2.8L?

When I see such disparate lists I wonder if someone is buying tools to make their images, or toys to play with.

Hi Tim!

The 80-200 I have is the old, non-USM, consumer grade one which gives you so-so pics. If it were the L then I wouldn't think of buying anything else that will overlap with its focal length. ;-) I probably would have then put a Canon 100mm macro or a Sigma 150mm Macro on the list.

Cheers!

[Wazza]

Job is going ok. Still would like something related to photography, but there just wasn't enough opportunities.

I had a look at a 1DiiN a week back in town, but still won't get one. Need to make more money in photography before I think it's worthwhile. 1DIII I hope you're cheap!

[dgcorner]

Warren -- thanks for the input.:D

Tony, I did have a look at B&H at the combination you mention and I am very tempted to do all that in one hit. I am also inclined to take the 70-200L + the 580EX and defer the 10-20 or the 10-22 (but this one's last on the list since I want to move up to FF in a few years):rolleyes: It is amazing that landed cost for any of the combinations is far cheaper than buying local...:mad: I want to support local merchants but if the prices are absurd...

Mark, 17-40L.... hmmmm...:cool:

[weka2000]

Job is going ok. Still would like something related to photography, but there just wasn't enough opportunities.

I had a look at a 1DiiN a week back in town, but still won't get one. Need to make more money in photography before I think it's worthwhile. 1DIII I hope you're cheap!

You need to make opportunities.

I see there are a few 1D's on trade me the 11.1 Mp verson for $4k they keep poping up. Like you Im waiting to see what Canon brings out next.

However the 5D does all I want. Anything after that and I will just be showing off. Decided to get Good glass first. Will replace My Sigma 24-70 with a 24-105 F4 and then upgrade my 70-200 F4 to a 70-200 F2.8 so all my threads are 77mm :)

How did your stalls go. Sell may photos?

[theflyingkiwi]

You know I would like to replace the 10D at some stage, I would like a 1.3x crop on a 10D type body. sometimes with the battery grip I just find it to much and it would be nice to have a smaller camera.

I am waiting to see what canon does to replace the 30D, or if a good price came up on the 1dmk2n then yes I think I would buy it. Only because I can :)

[Wazza]

Stalls aren't going well. I can only imagine people think they're over priced and can shoot their own sunsets. A few cards have gone, and they say couple people have commented, and also said they'd like some more West Coast beach shots, (half already are of Piha, Bethells etc).
So... I dunno.
Currently big 11x14 is $40
Small 6x8 matt is $25.

The cost of making a big one, plus the time involved to put together and then GST, almost adds up to that.. I really don't want to be dropping, but the small ones, could drop to say $17, bit under 20 and still make some money.

As for other stuff, may have a front cover on a magazine. Will let you know if that happens.

[weka2000]

1dmk2n then yes I think I would buy it. Only because I can :)

Im the same but mine would be 1Ds Mk2. I love FF, now that I have got over the "issues"

[Moppie]

I think of the big downsides to digital photography is how easy its made it for people to take pretty good photos, or photos that are good enough, the average person can't really tell the differnce enough to care.
Even the most basic compact digital camera is considerably more advanced than a 35mm compact.
And of course all the marketing does nothing to help the situation, people are told they can take proffesional quality shots with no skill or knowledge required, and so off they go and point and shoot away, and then wonder why they should bother to pay for a proffesional shot.
I wonder if the same thing happened when the SLR was first released onto the consumer market with Auto Focus and Auto Exposure, and I wonder if the same thing happened again when Auto Focus Compact cameras came out.
Eventualy the novelty of owing a digital camera will wear off, everyone will own one, and learned that they aren't really as good as the marketing says they are, and the marketers will go onto push another over priced product onto an unsuspecting market.
But right now, I think anyone would have a hard time selling prints to the average public.

[FlyingPete]

I think of the big downsides to digital photography is how easy its made it for people to take pretty good photos, or photos that are good enough, the average person can't really tell the differnce enough to care.
Even the most basic compact digital camera is considerably more advanced than a 35mm compact.
And of course all the marketing does nothing to help the situation, people are told they can take proffesional quality shots with no skill or knowledge required, and so off they go and point and shoot away, and then wonder why they should bother to pay for a proffesional shot.
I wonder if the same thing happened when the SLR was first released onto the consumer market with Auto Focus and Auto Exposure, and I wonder if the same thing happened again when Auto Focus Compact cameras came out.
Eventualy the novelty of owing a digital camera will wear off, everyone will own one, and learned that they aren't really as good as the marketing says they are, and the marketers will go onto push another over priced product onto an unsuspecting market.
But right now, I think anyone would have a hard time selling prints to the average public.

The same thing did indeed happen when AF SLR's became avaialble, suddenly ayone with one thought they could become a wedding photographer, or could make money. This time around the effect seems even greater with DSLRs, may be a few years before it all dies back though, as people are still 'discovering' DSLRs.

I for one am in it for the long haul, have owned SLRs now for over almost 17 years, not trying hard to make money though becuase of the fact that so many people are, and everytime I do some comercial work, photography becomes less of a hobby and more like work :(

[dgcorner]

Yep, I'm in the same boat -- I'll stick to photography as a hobby knowing that there are far more capable people out there like Tim and Warren who make a living out of it.

As for Moppie's comments -- yes, the "new" technology is making it easier for the "common folk" to shoot away in full auto and get decent pics. It is also giving more of the "new" hobbyists and amateurs fantastic tools to learn about shooting in manual... and getting good to great pics in just a few months time without the expense of developing and processing film... not to mention instant feedback and gratification from being able to review and discard shots on the go.

The big question is... will there come a time when optics are so damned good that a scene can be captured by your everyday 10.2MP phone camera that can shoot in full manual mode,and then blown up to professionally acceptable standards...

[dgcorner]

One month to go before GKPE IV -- how time flies!

Pete, do you set-up a new thread and start getting confirmation on who's coming along?

[FlyingPete]

One month to go before GKPE IV -- how time flies!

Pete, do you set-up a new thread and start getting confirmation on who's coming along?

Yes it has been on my mind, didn't know it was that close though, will set up a planning thread shortly...

[FlyingPete]

Here it is, need some help on this one though, after the last I think we should cut back on the walking and get back to photo taking!

GKPE IV - The Great Suburban Train Adventure

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?p=1685267#post1685267

[weka2000]

People is where the money is. Along with pets. Portrait is still the bread earner. The key is to be not just "good" but be the "best". Find a market and focus on it with a attitude of nothing but the best. From that you get a name, and a name is worth more.

Anyone can take a photo but not everyone has an eye. If we as a group shot the same subject there would be 1 or 2 shots that stand out from the rest. So what is it about those 1 or 2 shots that sets them apart? Often it is composition.

You then take those 1 or 2 shots and then we all edit them in Photoshop again 1 or 2 will stand out.

We all have gifts in photography, the goal is to find out what it is and then "be the best". For most of us it is a hobby. For me it is a very expensive one but as I dont drink or go out a great deal so I dont worry about the fact that I have over 10K worth of gear and drive a cheap car.

It is also my stress relief. I go out by myself and shoot what ever it is that takes my intrest. I then come hope refreshed.

[tim]

Stalls aren't going well. I can only imagine people think they're over priced and can shoot their own sunsets. A few cards have gone, and they say couple people have commented, and also said they'd like some more West Coast beach shots, (half already are of Piha, Bethells etc).
So... I dunno.
Currently big 11x14 is $40
Small 6x8 matt is $25.

The cost of making a big one, plus the time involved to put together and then GST, almost adds up to that.. I really don't want to be dropping, but the small ones, could drop to say $17, bit under 20 and still make some money.

As for other stuff, may have a front cover on a magazine. Will let you know if that happens.

Dude, that's pretty cheap. Mine are $55 and that's also cheap.

I'm not sure I want to go full frame, you have to be even more careful of DOF.

[tim]

Guys, any thoughts on which of these ads I should run in the wedding magazine? It's a half page ad and it's not cheap.

http://mrwild.co.nz/unprotected/wp/ad/TW-Mockup1.jpg

http://mrwild.co.nz/unprotected/wp/ad/TW-Mockup2.jpg

[FlyingPete]

Guys, any thoughts on which of these ads I should run in the wedding magazine? It's a half page ad and it's not cheap.


Both are great, but I particularly like the second one.

[dgcorner]

The 2nd one... by virtue of eye contact... or at least seeing the eyes that convey some warmth, happiness... plus one gets to see the face of the bride and groom -- there is something psychological about being able to look at or feel the emotions conveyed by the ad.

The first one would have been my pick if the bride was looking up and probably smiling. The mono-chrome gives it classic appeal. You might have one of the bride looking up?

[NordieBoy]

The first one has a sense of "oops, what did I step in"ness.

2nd one is great.

[Moppie]

Second one.

[dgcorner]

Second one.

Moppie, how goes the home renovations?

[Moppie]

Moppie, how goes the home renovations?

Time consuming. But, were getting here.

[FlyingPete]

Time consuming. But, were getting here.

Keep up the Bunnings trips - they do great coffee there!

[tim]

Thanks guys! The three advertising people at the magazine said the first one, but practically everyone else, including people in my target market, say the 2nd. The 2nd it is! :)

[tag141]

I'll add number two for me as well. As for anyone who wants to buy a 1d2N. Canon and all retailers I've phoned have no stock and won't be getting any until at least mid August. How do I know, I've just saved all my beer tokens and now want one. Sods law says as soon as I want something, I cannot buy it anywhere!!!

[forsaken]

definately the second ad tim

shows more of the emotions involved and less of a (as has already been stated) "opps what have I stod in" look

[weka2000]

My tonights effort. All with my new 50mm F1.4

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?p=1685818#post1685818

Oh yes #2 Tim

Tag thats going to make me second :(

[forsaken]

My weekends effort with the sigma 70 - 200 f2.8

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=187946

[dgcorner]

Thanks guys! The three advertising people at the magazine said the first one, but practically everyone else, including people in my target market, say the 2nd. The 2nd it is! :)

Good call -- Listening to the target market is the best thing marketers can do... and the advertising people can get it wrong sometimes...

I guess that the monochrome does have its merits... but again, the picture doesn't tug at heart strings ;-)

[CliveyBoy]

Tim, the bride's face is so concealed, it seems to say "the bride doesn't matter". But more importantly, it is lacking a distinctive style. The second has style, and will attract prospects to that style.

[dgcorner]

I'll add number two for me as well. As for anyone who wants to buy a 1d2N. Canon and all retailers I've phoned have no stock and won't be getting any until at least mid August. How do I know, I've just saved all my beer tokens and now want one. Sods law says as soon as I want something, I cannot buy it anywhere!!!

That will most likely have to do with a pending price increase given that the Kiwi dollar is sliding in the wrong direction... That is the problem when the business backbone of a country is export orientated -- a stronger dollar means we as a nation are not competitive.

On the other hand, countries like Japan, the US and the UK have very strong currencies and yet tend to dominate the world market... so, is there something wrong with what is driving our economy? Commodities, e.g., milk powder, derivatives, et al are dieing with the entry of China... does the country really want to be in this long term?

Now all the companies like Fonterra are jumping up and down... to the detriment of us little folk who get benefits from a strong currency.:confused:

[CliveyBoy]

Did you notice in the latest Harvey Norman catalogue that they are offering the 30D plus the EF-S 17-85mm IS USM lens at $3,299. A bit more believable than last listing!

The Sony Alpha A100 camera and listed lenses seems to be running straight at Canon.

[tag141]

I agree with you but if a camera shop gives me a firm price when they eventually get stock then that's what I'm going to pay. Now, if only Canon had international warranties instead of country only, I'd get my old dear to get me one from the UK or buy from the US.

[dgcorner]

Other than Auckland Camera where else would be a decent place to buy some lenses? The Traders on TradeMe are offering "store" warranties, unlike previous ones that offered either NZ or international warranties.

B&H are offering international warranties for the Sigma 70-200 and the 10-20 but not for the Canons... and I figure that one trip to the shop might just kill the deal if I have to return the Canon lens to the US.

I have decided that I need the 580EX. As for the lenses... it is a toss up between the 70-200 (Sigma or Canon) and 10-20/22...

Back to research...:D

[tim]

Thanks for the thoughts guys :)

[Wazza]

I'm liking the 3rd one Tim.

[tim]

I'm liking the 3rd one Tim.

There's only two!!

[Wazza]

I still like the 3rd. :)

Have a good day.. worktime

[theflyingkiwi]

You know Tim I like the 2nd one. I don't think the 3rd one would be any better. :) However I would say that as an ad it really doesn't cut it. As a business card yes.

For an ad I expect to see more information.

[tim]

The format isn't negotiable, it's set by the magazine, and everyones ad is the same except for image choice and the contact details.

[theflyingkiwi]

now that is interesting. I wouldn't have though a magazine would have such tight guide lines.

But it's there mag and I guess they can do anything they want.

[MattL]

Tim my vote goes to number 2.

[tim]

You can buy advertising space anywhere you like and do whatever you like, but the photographer section of the magazine, which is cheaper, has a prescribed format. Suits me fine, it's cheaper, it's where brides look for photographers, and it saves having to come up with a complex design! :)

[dgcorner]

Moppie -- interesting argument you had with that 17yo who was having problems with his "P&S" There will be people who will not "see" what is actually being said in spite of the answers being right in front of their noses...

[Moppie]

DavidW has given him some fantastic advice too, oh well, he's young, he'll get his reality check at some stage in life and then realise how wrong he was.

[NordieBoy]

I'm amazed how similar the shots are from the 300D/10D compared to the Fuji s602z.
It's only when you get down to pixie peeping that it shows up any difference.

[Moppie]

In the issue if D-Photo that Petes letter is in is an article on a Architicual photographer who used a Fuji Ssomething or other Compact and a meduim format camera for all his work.
He had a DSLR as well (a Noink I think) but hardly ever used it for his proffesional work.

I think there is still rather a lot of ignorance amongst a lot of people who seem to think that unless its really expensive and has changeable lenses its not capable of taking a good photo, and should be left to the simple people who only want a snap shot of thier kids.
You might have picked up that i don't particularly like that attitude, its bordering on bigotry IMO.

[NordieBoy]

Fuji S2 - dSLR - Noink lenses - Built-in battery grip.

[Moppie]

Nope, it was one of thier Fuji Compacts, they showed a photo of him holding it. It was either an s602z one of its brothers.

My uncle used one for a long time, before he got his 20D.
Looking through a stack of photos (about 50) he printed at home not even he could tell which ones were taken were with which camera.
(This is the same Uncle who won the Canon NZ Photographer of the year award, twice, http://terry.portfolio.photoblink.com/net/membermap.aspx?uid=9274)

[NordieBoy]

Damn!
You've got me going now.
I've been looking and can't find it.
I loved my s602z and it would be sweet to find a pro using one :D

Stephen Goodenough was using a Contax medium format, Noink d2x and Fuji FinePix s2.

[NordieBoy]

(This is the same Uncle who won the Canon NZ Photographer of the year award, twice, http://terry.portfolio.photoblink.com/net/membermap.aspx?uid=9274)
I think I'll just hang my camera up now.
Wow.

[tim]

Moppie, do you have any relatives with the name Beddek living in Paraparam or Waikani? I went to uni with a Mike Beddek, his parents live somewhere in that area.

[Moppie]

Moppie, do you have any relatives with the name Beddek living in Paraparam or Waikani? I went to uni with a Mike Beddek, his parents live somewhere in that area.


Tis a small world.
Mike is my cousin, Peter Beddek is his father, my uncle :)
Very high achiving side of the family, Peter started and ran a very succesful quanity survey company untill he retired and become very, very good at photography, and Mike's sister, Amanda, recently discovered a new strain of menengitis.
Mike and Amanda are both living just up the hill from the central city, Kandalaha? and Pete and his wife Katey are in Paraparam.

[Wazza]

Very good? I call those photos exceptional. So many varying degrees of difficulty, macros, landscape, people, high constrasty images.. All very nicely done.

Seems he's a photoshop master too.. My images always look flat

[Moppie]

He's a master of exposure, composition, and VERY good at photoshop.
Although, he's walked me through most of the steps he uses and they are all very simple. Usualy levels, dodging and burning, and selective USM. Thats it.
He just has a fantastic eye for it.
His work is certianly very insperational, there is quite an artistic flair in the family.

[Wazza]

So how did you get left out?

Jokes.. :)

Yeah, I know what I want to do with my images, but I'm so boring in photoshop, I don't like to play around, would rather just be taking more photos.

[dgcorner]

Moppie, your uncle sure has an eye for pics -- wow! And going back to the humble "P&S" -- it certainly is what you do with what you've got rather than having the best and not knowing how to use it.

[tim]

Tis a small world.
Mike is my cousin, Peter Beddek is his father, my uncle :)
Very high achiving side of the family, Peter started and ran a very succesful quanity survey company untill he retired and become very, very good at photography, and Mike's sister, Amanda, recently discovered a new strain of menengitis.
Mike and Amanda are both living just up the hill from the central city, Kandalaha? and Pete and his wife Katey are in Paraparam.

Aye, it's a small country! I haven't seen Mike in a couple of years, I remember his parents too, very nice people. Interesting that he's into photography too! I don't know where they're living, no idea at all.

[Moppie]

I don't know where they're living, no idea at all.

I could find my way there, I stayed there at X-mas, but I have no idea what suburb its in.
Mike is working in IT, something hardware related, with to many long hours.

My uncle used to have a dark room apprently, but thats long before I have any memories, but he let it go for a long time before picking up digital and showing a real tallent for it.

[weka2000]

Did some wifey portraits in the lounge today with the afternoon sun comming in, used the nets to difuse a bit.

Well all I can say is I have a lot to learn. Cant use flash as it blows out the window. Hope to have another go next week.

I think I need to get one of those 4in1 diffusers. Saw a big one at Auckland camera $150

I am on hoiladay for 2 weeks even though I go in every day to change backup tapes :(

Been busy rebuilding our bathroom and laundry. Woops run out of money to put the shower linning aound, so its bath time for all and a pot to wash hair.

[dgcorner]

Did some wifey portraits in the lounge today with the afternoon sun comming in, used the nets to difuse a bit.

Well all I can say is I have a lot to learn. Cant use flash as it blows out the window. Hope to have another go next week.

I think I need to get one of those 4in1 diffusers. Saw a big one at Auckland camera $150

I am on hoiladay for 2 weeks even though I go in every day to change backup tapes :(

Been busy rebuilding our bathroom and laundry. Woops run out of money to put the shower linning aound, so its bath time for all and a pot to wash hair.

Well, you've been busy! Looks like the weather is turning more custardy... looks like we may have to wait till next week to shoot the sunset.

Tina is on leave next week, and hopefully the day we pick to go to Piha turns out alright...

[NordieBoy]

Well all I can say is I have a lot to learn. Cant use flash as it blows out the window.
You're a terrorist arn't you.
The photography is just a ruse.

[FlyingPete]

You're a terrorist arn't you.
The photography is just a ruse.

I like this guy he is funny :D

[NordieBoy]

I sold my 300D :(
To the only bidder :(
Where are the bidding wars when you need them?

But he did get the Grip as well so that helps :)

Now I won't be able to use it as a second body this weekend at the Secondary Schools Kart Champs (119 drivers pre-entered).
The first time I really have a use for a spare body with the 28-70 and I can't use it :(

Oh well, I'll hopefully be able to nick the 200 2.8L for some shots as the owner is coming over with me :D

Also sold a Sigma 70-300 APO.

Hmmm. That's almost enough for a Siggy 70-200 EX :confused:

[Wazza]

Happy birthday Simon! (forsaken) :)

[weka2000]

You're a terrorist arn't you.
The photography is just a ruse.

I know my wife lives in terror when I start my house building projects.
I dont blow up things any more well cant do that in town like you can in the country :)

[forsaken]

Happy birthday Simon! (forsaken) :)


cheer mr wazza.


was a good day even though I decided to go to work, am now waiting fory 300gig drive to format so I can start using it :)

[weka2000]

Forsaken Happy BD, did you get a new lens, flash or camera :lol:

[dgcorner]

SIMON -- Happy Birthday mate! I hope you had a good one!

[NordieBoy]

Happy birthday!

So where's the pics of the cake?

[forsaken]

Forsaken Happy BD, did you get a new lens, flash or camera :lol:

no lens no flash no new camera :(

did get a new hard drive to put my photos onto though:)

So where's the pics of the cake?

no cake either

[theflyingkiwi]

not to sure if anyone had seen this. it's of interest to those that shoot motorsports

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/section/story.cfm?c_id=4&ObjectID=10390036

[tag141]

Did anyone see this photo from Puke this year? First time I've seen it...so sorry if you all seen it before

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=164586&page=8

[Wazza]

Realised Lenzflair is the pro photographer I caught a few glimpses at D1NZ in Taupo on 10th June.. Hi, if you're reading this...

http://www.lenzflair.co.nz/Images/images/images/JP0O5412%20copy_jpg.jpg
Kirst is famous on the right side, using my 70-300 lens, and the NZ Performance Car photgrapher on the left.. I guess I was just outta frame.. Pretty hard to miss my big ass

[scotttnz]

Did anyone see this photo from Puke this year? First time I've seen it...so sorry if you all seen it before

Yeah it was on the front page of the herald. My son is in the top right hand corner of the picture in the blue shirt (honest, you can see him better in some of the other in the series that were in the herald) He thought irt was cool to be on the front page of the paper! Unfortunately I was around the corner taking photos near the hairpin - just across the track from Wazza, Kirst, Duncan, and a few others so missed the crash.

[weka2000]

Does anyone here have a Canon 100mm Macro lens?

I had a play with Scotts old EF-S 60mm but as the 5D only takes EF mount.

I thought that the 100mm would go well with my other 2 primes.

[theflyingkiwi]

Does anyone here have a Canon 100mm Macro lens?

I had a play with Scotts old EF-S 60mm but as the 5D only takes EF mount.

I thought that the 100mm would go well with my other 2 primes.

yea I got that. It's a great lens. I can even use it on my sigma 1.4x even tho I lose focus.

[weka2000]

yea I got that. It's a great lens. I can even use it on my sigma 1.4x even tho I lose focus.

How sharp is it?

[theflyingkiwi]

I find it very sharp. that's one of things that I noticed on the first day that I got it. even at 2.8 it's a nice and sharp.

anyway here is a quick number of shots

http://www.cuthbert.net.nz/potn/macro.jpg

If you wish to see the full size image let me know and I can e-mail it to ya.

[weka2000]

Is yours the USM/autofocus model or the older one. Found out the Canon twin flash units fit on with no issues, dont need an adapter.

Macro is my last bit of glass :lol:

$ 469.95 USD from B&H Thats the USM and Autofocus one

[CliveyBoy]

I have the EF 100mm Macro USM II, and yes, it is sharp with good colour. There is some chromatic abberation, but this can be fixed with DxO or PTLens tools. It is often used as a portrait lens - on film cameras. I found that when I tried it at a wedding, I found that the framing produced by the 1.6 crop took me too far back - I lost personal contact with the subject and that wrecked many shots. So I bought the EF-S 60mm Macro. It fixed the contact issue in portrait work, but is usually too close for macro work, especially small animals. Plants don't take fright. Toadstool-type fungi also are better captured with the 60mm than the 100mm, but in a light tent, the 60 is too far inside the tent for working with it. So instead of selling the 100 Macro, I am pleased that I kept both for my 20D and 30D.

[Wazza]

When I used Tim's 100mm, I was very pleased with the DOF, Colour and sharpness.
I find the 85mm lens, quite similar in fact, apart from being able to get as close

[weka2000]

I would go buy one now, but as we are all still waiting for "dad" to finish the shower I would be killed if I got a Macro over finishing the shower and bathroom :lol:

[scotttnz]

I liked my EFS 60 macro alot, great little lens, but I found I wasn't using it much at all, so sold it to buy the 10-20 which I use much more.

[joeseph]

Macro is my last bit of glass



I can see the headlines now already:
"Auckland Camera went into receivership this week when it's main source of income abruptly ceased. Investigators are turning their attentions to an un-named buyer in south auckland who, for no apparent reason managed to wean himself from the heroin-like addictions of Canon lens purchasing"
film at 11...


:confused:

[weka2000]

I can see the headlines now already:
"Auckland Camera went into receivership this week when it's main source of income abruptly ceased. Investigators are turning their attentions to an un-named buyer in south auckland who, for no apparent reason managed to wean himself from the heroin-like addictions of Canon lens purchasing"
film at 11...


:confused:

Ive only brought 2 Sigmas from Auckland Camera. Trademe is my freind :)

Ive still got bits I need so Im sure I will still shop there, its ashame they dont accept the same credit card as Harvery Norman which is now collecting cobwebs.

[theflyingkiwi]

Mine is the USM verson. it's very quiet. The only time I notice it working is when I am looking thru it. However sometimes it does hunt when at close range. I know it's a common thing, but unsure if it's a 1.6x camera thing and you might have better luck with 5D as it's got better focusing than the 10D.

One thing I did note and that's it's got 2 modes of mesurement. .31m-infinity and .48m-infinity.

[scotttnz]

Well, I did my first lot of (very) low light shooting this afternoon. We took my son and a friend 10 pin bowling for his birthday. The lights were out apart from some projectors and a few black lights, and I would just like to say one thing:

F2.8 IS NOT FAST ENOUGH!

[weka2000]

Well, I did my first lot of (very) low light shooting this afternoon. We took my son and a friend 10 pin bowling for his birthday. The lights were out apart from some projectors and a few black lights, and I would just like to say one thing:

F2.8 IS NOT FAST ENOUGH!

Well spend some money and get a 50mm F1.4 :lol:
Ive been doing portraits and the only light is from our gas heater.

[scotttnz]

Well spend some money and get a 50mm F1.4

50 would be to short for what I was doing. I was at 150-200 most of the time.

This is the best shot. It was taken by the gaming area which is much lighter than the bowling area. Sigma 70-200 @ 79mm ISO 1600, f2.8, 1/15sec. RAW conversion and neat image noise reduction done.

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a310/scotttnz/IMG_9545_filtered.jpg

Looking at the exif on the bowling shots I was only getting 1/4 - 1/8 sec shutter speeds.....not exactly ideal at 200mm for a moving target.

[weka2000]

Good capture. Like the blured background.
She's a hard road getting all the right lens with out taking out a second bank loan.

[scotttnz]

She's a hard road getting all the right lens with out taking out a second bank loan.

Already got a second loan.....

It has certainly made me think about a fast prime......but trouble is I don't shoot in these sorts of conditions often enough to justify it at the moment. I think the kit lens replacement is still next on my list, but that will be expensive and not for a while.

How much did your 50 and 85 cost?

[weka2000]

How much did your 50 and 85 cost?

$450 for the 85 and $500 for the 50

[Wazza]

I've used my 85mm @ 1.8 and 1600 ISO at ten pin bowling, which gave around 1/80th or so.. Wasn't that great, lol

[weka2000]

What 19hrs and no one has said a word, everyone having a sleepy Sunday :lol:

[forsaken]

pretty much. Been doing a bit of winter spring cleaning.

even cleaned off all the rubber and dust of the 20D and its sensor

[weka2000]

Went out tonight heres what I got

[weka2000]

These 2 are a merge of 3 AEB photos. Did I get it right. The save for web looses alot of the colour :(

[theflyingkiwi]

well I am not much of a talker and it seemed like no-one was around. talking to oneself is the first sign of madness. :)

[weka2000]

well I am not much of a talker and it seemed like no-one was around. talking to oneself is the first sign of madness. :)

I dont know some of the best conversations I have is with myself :)

[theflyingkiwi]

I dont know some of the best conversations I have is with myself :)

And that proves my point ;)

BTW nice photos. I think the 2nd one works well.

[joeseph]

What 19hrs and no one has said a word, everyone having a sleepy Sunday :lol:
Been busy lurking! also installing pavers between the drive & letterbox so one doesn't go base over apex :eek: on the wet grass getting the paper in the morning...

[Sweedishcarrot01]

These 2 are a merge of 3 AEB photos. Did I get it right. The save for web looses alot of the colour :(

To be honest, not allot of images posted on here really stand out much to me, however, those are real nice.

[theflyingkiwi]

To be honest, not allot of images posted on here really stand out much to me, however, those are real nice.

by chance you have posted anything on here yet ?

[weka2000]

To be honest, not allot of images posted on here really stand out much to me, however, those are real nice.

I will take the complament, but do you have anything you want to say before the others linch you :lol:

[theflyingkiwi]

hey i don't linch any body. just asking a simple question as I don't think I haven't seen any of his work yet.

[weka2000]

hey i don't linch any body. just asking a simple question as I don't think I haven't seen any of his work yet.

Hey I was thinking we havnt got to the zoo yet. What are your weekend plans for July?

[Sweedishcarrot01]

hey i don't linch any body. just asking a simple question as I don't think I haven't seen any of his work yet.

Hey it's all good, fair question. Have posted a few pics, go back a few weeks to see.

[MattL]

Tony I like number 2 - thats one of your better photos I think - it just needs more colour. Save for web shouldn't take much colour out - perhaps you could try it again with some different settings?

[Sweedishcarrot01]

hey i don't linch any body. just asking a simple question as I don't think I haven't seen any of his work yet.

Actually, I have only posted all of three, should put more up really. Here's the link's.

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?p=1615363#post1615363

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?p=1632097#post1632097

[weka2000]

Hey both you guy are from Hamilton, why the hell am I the only South Aucklander (sniffs under his arms) :rolleyes:

[theflyingkiwi]

gee he talks to himself and he smells :) hmmm something abit fishy about you ;)

[weka2000]

gee he talks to himself and he smells :) hmmm something abit fishy about you ;)

My wife still loves me :D

[Sweedishcarrot01]

Am trying to upload a pic, says it's uploading, but it never makes it that far. Anyone know what maybe wrong?

Thankyou-ta

[weka2000]

Am trying to upload a pic, says it's uploading, but it never makes it that far. Anyone know what maybe wrong?

Thankyou-ta

I have the same issues, it like it times out. Try again

[scotttnz]

Hey Tony, nice pics. I like the first of the 2 Moon, Rocks and Grass ones.

[weka2000]

Thanks Scott. Ambury farm / Mangere Bridge water front is a big area with a lot of oppotunitys if one opens their eyes. This is what Im trying to learn to do "See" The sunset was dull, but I was looking at how the light gave me other photos.

Discovering AEB has been a hudge change to my landscapes. Still need to work on composition and other bits.

Woke up at 4am this morning but figured way to early to get up so went back to sleep. If it was later I would have gotten up and done a sunrise.

Ok just for this week I will get up and do a sunrise from the top of mangere mountain for the group. You guys can linch me if I dont (need the motovation).

[dgcorner]

Tony -- nice series. 2 is my fav. What lens were you using, settings?

I was looking around yesterday... Like Mark says, I don't fancy talking to myself...

Re: South Auckland... strictly speaking there are 4 more of us who belong to that geo-political area... Moppie, Scott, Pete, and I... It just happens that we prefer being in East Auckland...

[weka2000]

Tony -- nice series. 2 is my fav. What lens were you using, settings?...

F16 AEB and my 17-40 3 exposures. AEB is great you should try it, remember set the shooting mode to multi and use a shutter release hold it down untill it takes 3 different exposures. Then export the RAW to PS and merge and do a blending mask.


Re: South Auckland... strictly speaking there are 4 more of us who belong to that geo-political area... Moppie, Scott, Pete, and I... It just happens that we prefer being in East Auckland...

You guys arnt south your east. Manukau city maybe but house prices you guys are what $400k +. Our last value was $215. I guess that why I can spend more on my photography hell my morage is $250 a week. We could live on Sandra's wage alone....I dont need to work, could stay at home and be a kept man ;)

[Moppie]

400K+? I don't think so.
300K+ is more like it, but then we do havea spa bath, and I only a $500 camera.

[theflyingkiwi]

You know Moppie since you have just brought yourself a house, I am supprised you didn't just an extra 5k on it and get some camera gear. After all a morage is a life time of hell :)

[weka2000]

400K+? I don't think so.
300K+ is more like it, but then we do havea spa bath, and I only a $500 camera.

Did you go for the worst house in the best street.....:lol:

[FlyingPete]

You know Moppie since you have just brought yourself a house, I am supprised you didn't just an extra 5k on it and get some camera gear. After all a morage is a life time of hell :)

That could end up being a very expensive camera doing that, $5K over a 25 year loan at current interest would cost over 5K in interest alone!

[Moppie]

You know Moppie since you have just brought yourself a house, I am supprised you didn't just an extra 5k on it and get some camera gear. After all a morage is a life time of hell :)


I wanted to try it, its exactly how I think, unforunatly Amanda thinks like Pete does, and pointed out the true cost.
Which to be honest, over 25years wouldn't really bother me.

My savings are growing, my goal at the moment is a 30D with a 17-85, or 24-70. Which should be with in reach by the end of the year.

[Moppie]

Did you go for the worst house in the best street.....:lol:


Almost, along with the neighbors its the smallest, only they don't have a lawn. :lol:

[weka2000]

Oh to have my time again buying a house, I would have done things a lot different. Sandra wants to move and I hate moving. At this rate we will have the best house in the worst street.

All our neighbours are housing corp tenents so I guess that untill Housing corp sell (unlikley) we will live in Mangere. Sandra priced up Mangere Bridge $400K + now and they are not big homes or sections.

I figure stay put and spend the money on Camera stuff :lol:

[Moppie]

I figure stay put and spend the money on Camera stuff :lol:


And watch the value of your section go through the roof as mangaree turns into a much nicer suburb, which it will.
I was talking about it with someone yesterday, they bought a section in Greenhive 23 years ago for $2,000.
They are still finnishing the house, but its been valued at $5-600,000 :eek:

[weka2000]

Im hoping it will change. Our street is ok.

Well if all goes well my wife will be having a shower tonight. On the 3 section now with the new $140 a sheet white cladding 1 sheet to go which is the taps one. Better get that right or I will have to buy another sheet :lol:

[theflyingkiwi]

That could end up being a very expensive camera doing that, $5K over a 25 year loan at current interest would cost over 5K in interest alone!

I don't get that. it's not like you are getting just 5k over 25 years, one is getting 300+ over 25 years. one is buying a house, which should increase in value. that increase should be more than just the price of a digital camera.

And if one pays 10K or more this year, then you could say that the camera is already paid off.

[FlyingPete]

And if one pays 10K or more this year, then you could say that the camera is already paid off.

That is true. One of the main issues with borrowing extra cash with the mortgage is the bank will only lend you up to 80% of the value or what you pay (whichever is less), any more and they charge a low equity fee of around $5Kish. I tried to get some extra on our mortgage, but it was going to push us into low equity territory :(

[Moppie]

Thats a good point pete, we already had to pay a low equity fee, it wasn't a lot, but it was enough.
Ironicly we paid it by adding it to the mortgage.

[theflyingkiwi]

That is true. One of the main issues with borrowing extra cash with the mortgage is the bank will only lend you up to 80% of the value or what you pay (whichever is less), any more and they charge a low equity fee of around $5Kish. I tried to get some extra on our mortgage, but it was going to push us into low equity territory :(

ouch, well that just bakes the cake then doesn't it. I try not to borrow any money for anything. I am lucky that in everything that I have for my camera I had the cash for. apart from the main purshace of the body and my first lens. (which was $500 less than the cost of a 5D now :( ) which I was <1k off.

I do believe that anyone is better of in any case to save the $$$ than to increase dept.

[weka2000]

[quote=nzlwhich was $500 less than the cost of a 5D now :( [/quote]

Personally I work on the "I want now" and screw the intrest. It was my wife who gave me that attitude when we got the 20D.....her exact words were "Hell we could be dead tommorow" to which point I stoped fighting and just got what I wanted and so did she.

Now how to convernce her I need a 1Ds Mk2 16mp FF camera, harvey can get them in I think :lol: (now why did I want that again)

[theflyingkiwi]

Personally I work on the "I want now" and screw the intrest. It was my wife who gave me that attitude when we got the 20D.....her exact words were "Hell we could be dead tommorow" to which point I stoped fighting and just got what I wanted and so did she.

Now how to convernce her I need a 1Ds Mk2 16mp FF camera, harvey can get them in I think :lol: (now why did I want that again)

Folwoing that then, I should just go out and buy the 1DMK2n and the 1DsMK2, cause I got the money just sitting there

[weka2000]

Folwoing that then, I should just go out and buy the 1DMK2n and the 1DsMK2, cause I got the money just sitting there

Dont you dare, I hate been second :lol:

[theflyingkiwi]

in that case then, just to piss ya off :) I'll buy 2 :)

But I am going to do what warran is doing, wait and see what the 1dmk3 is going to be like or wait for the 40D. I kind like the idea of a 1.3 crop.

[weka2000]

in that case then, just to piss ya off :) I'll buy 2 :)

But I am going to do what warran is doing, wait and see what the 1dmk3 is going to be like or wait for the 40D. I kind like the idea of a 1.3 crop.

Ok I will ring the bank back to cancel the loan :)

[Wazza]

Harvey can get in the big birds? But at Canon RRP price, at $16,999 or real value of around $12,500?

I'm hoping to get a 1DMkIII mid next year, and pay it off within a year.

[dgcorner]

What's the quickest way to Piha? I haven't been there yet and tomorrow seems like a very nice day to shoot some pics with the family... and a sunset too!

[Wazza]

Take the Te Atatu Turn off...

Go through an intersection, past Wendys, follow Edmonton Road, go straight through roundabout from right lane.

Down to bottom of hill,

Left at roundabout near Henderson

Straight through Lights towards Millbrook

Straight through into Millbrook

Turn Right 1.5km into some road. :p

Then left at Parrs Park,

Right at next Roundabout and following main road whole way up and follow the signs!

[dgcorner]

To you guys who have an external flash -- how often do you get to use it when taking pics? I am still undecided to take Tony's advice and get the 10-20/22 + 70-200 EX DG... or (I've decided) the 10-20/22 + 580EX.

So far, I've managed the last year without an extenal flash... and I was wondering whether I can survive another year... but with 2 new lenses...

Cheers!

[weka2000]

To you guys who have an external flash -- how often do you get to use it when taking pics? I am still undecided to take Tony's advice and get the 10-20/22 + 70-200 EX DG... or (I've decided) the 10-20/22 + 580EX.

So far, I've managed the last year without an extenal flash... and I was wondering whether I can survive another year... but with 2 new lenses...

Cheers!

Get the glass ditch the flash. The flash is the cheapest thing of all the 3 items, hell put it on the CCard they are only $650 :)

My flash setup is now up to $2k, the funny thing is I never use my 580ex but real cameras dont have built in flashes :lol:
I am still struggling getting studio flash setup right and it takes up so much room.