GKPE: General Ramblings thread

[scotttnz]

We have a 30" Dell Widescreen in here to evaulate, hmmm Imax on the desktop, it even has card readers in the side, I want...

Pete, get me one while you are at it!

[theflyingkiwi]

well check this out
http://www1.ap.dell.com/content/products/compare.aspx/20lcd_nz?c=nz&l=en&s=dhs

the 24" for juist over 1k. not bad.

Pete can you get cheap stuff from Dell. I am expecting not but no harm in asking :)

[FlyingPete]

well check this out
http://www1.ap.dell.com/content/products/compare.aspx/20lcd_nz?c=nz&l=en&s=dhs

the 24" for juist over 1k. not bad.

Pete can you get cheap stuff from Dell. I am expecting not but no harm in asking :)

Nope, couldn't whilst I worked there, definatly can't now I don't ;) The only staff deals to be had in Dell are ex-demos or adding an extra unit to a large customer order with a good discount and paying the customer for it :rolleyes:

This is what we have here at the moment, comes with a free $1200 video card though!
http://www1.ap.dell.com/content/products/compare.aspx/30lcd_nz?c=nz&l=en&s=dhs

[dgcorner]

Back from AC - met Moppie & Duncan there ;-) There's still one more bubble level available if anyone is interested.

And just when I am ready to take the 70-200 on its paces the weather turns to custard! Grumble, grumble... ;-)

[weka2000]

You guys are shocking all you want is to spend money on your toys. You are setting bad examples to us poorer folk :rolleyes:

[Moppie]

hehehhehehe

[FlyingPete]

hehehhehehe

I know your secret ;)

[Moppie]

I know your secret ;)

Its not very well hidden :D

Have to wait untill thursday till have a 70-300 to add to the sig as well :)

[FlyingPete]

Its not very well hidden :D

Have to wait untill thursday till have a 70-300 to add to the sig as well :)

Canon A80, 550EX, Sigma 17-70 Macro.
Like to see some good photos?
Have a forum search for GKPE :)
Have you Calibrated your Monitor lately?

Yeah what good is a Sigma 17-70 Macro and a 550EX on an A80!

Actually you got the 550 working so I can imagine you would find away of mounting that Sigma :rolleyes:

BTW did you get the CF card today?

[Moppie]

The 550EX works very well with the A80 thank you very much.
Especialy with the extended off shoe cord, I can hold the photosensor infront of the A80 flash, and so block it from the subject.

Havn't yet figured out to make the 17-70 work though.......

[dgcorner]

Moppie, when are you updating your sig??? hehehehe ;-)

[Moppie]

Already have, hehehehehehe :D

[dgcorner]

Already have, hehehehehehe :D

I think something is missing :lol:

[dgcorner]

HELP!!! I've been asked to shoot the school play at my son's school. I need all your gracious tips and advise on how to go about shooting properly. Ta muchly!!!

[Moppie]

I think something is missing :lol:

SSShhhhhh!!!! ;)



The play will be fun to shoot, Pete and Matt are the two experiance guys with dark events :)
Iv done some work, but it was with my A80, and the photos were very atmospheric :)

[scotttnz]

So, Moppie, when does the 30D arrive?

John, that will be a perfect test for yout 70-200 f2.8 IS!

[scotttnz]

Ahh so you've got it already? I found the evidence....and I quote:

As has been said keep it.
I just stepped into a 30D, and I can still see a massive need for my old reliable A80.


From another thread. Yes it is true, there are other threads on POTN.

[Moppie]

From another thread. Yes it is true, there are other threads on POTN.


Im impressed, you ventured into the "compact" forum :p


Yip, I took the afternoon of work, and went into AC.
Talk about a real fight to get them to discount, altough they do have a good point they say thier margins are already pretty low, short of ordering from B&H only Graham would have been cheaper, and only a very little bit cheaper.

I walked out in the end with a new 30D, Sigma 17-70, Lowpro Nova 2 and a Sigma 70-300 on order.
I won't tell you what it all cost me.

[scotttnz]

Im impressed, you ventured into the "compact" forum :p

Nah, I just went to your profile and clicked "Find all posts by Moppie" I knew you would have to post something on it somewhere!

[weka2000]

Moppie finally you own your very own DSLR :lol:

[theflyingkiwi]

Congrats moppie, how does it feel to own your very own DSLR. I guess borrowing someone elses now is out of the question.

I would recommend testing it tho, for either front focusing or back focusing issues. :lol:

[weka2000]

Congrats moppie, how does it feel to own your very own DSLR. I guess borrowing someone elses now is out of the question.

I would recommend testing it tho, for either front focusing or back focusing issues. :lol:

Got to be carefull with Sigma lens on canon bodys :)

[Moppie]

Moppie finally you own your very own DSLR :lol:


Duncan sounded almost disapointed when he showed up, and realised I didn't need to borrow his 20D again :lol:

So, who wants to borrow an A80? Really good way to strip your technique down to the basics? :cool:

[FlyingPete]

Duncan sounded almost disapointed when he showed up, and realised I didn't need to borrow his 20D again :lol:

So, who wants to borrow an A80? Really good way to strip your technique down to the basics? :cool:

Actually it should do the rounds, 1-2 weeks on the A80, no DSLR in that time, that will seperate the men from the boys :lol:

[Moppie]

Actually it should do the rounds, 1-2 weeks on the A80, no DSLR in that time, that will seperate the men from the boys :lol:

Alright, who's first? :lol: :lol:

[weka2000]

So, who wants to borrow an A80? Really good way to strip your technique down to the basics? :cool:

So based on that you should be able to produce the best shots from a DSLR in the group :rolleyes:

[theflyingkiwi]

Got to be carefull with Sigma lens on canon bodys :)

sigma lens on canon bodys are fine :rolleyes: yea right. well moppie has got himself a sigma zoom :)

I did some more testing with the canon 100 macro and the 28-135 set at 100. Both of these produced a better result than the sigma. The full photo looked like a back focus issue :( Ohh well I sent it away today.

So I guess we have a new king in the house, moppie. We should all be able to learn something then on the next outing. :lol:

[weka2000]

sigma lens on canon bodys are fine :rolleyes: yea right. well moppie has got himself a sigma zoom :)

I did some more testing with the canon 100 macro and the 28-135 set at 100. Both of these produced a better result than the sigma. The full photo looked like a back focus issue :( Ohh well I sent it away today.

So I guess we have a new king in the house, moppie. We should all be able to learn something then on the next outing. :lol:

Buy Canon Lens you wont be dissapointed :lol:
better still buy from AC.

Well my focus at the moment is on photoshop, I need to develop a workflow. Looking back on some photos a year ago the photos are fine but the PP was crap. Like Scott said a while back get the basics right first.

I think I still need to slow down when I compose. I need a little check list on my camera just to reming me what basics I have to remember.

Oh and its bloody cold where did the warm sun go?

[scotttnz]

I am still very satisfied with my Sigmas!

Here is Version 1.1 of the photo I promised:

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a310/scotttnz/IMG_0817_2.jpg

Tell me what you think.

[Moppie]

So I guess we have a new king in the house, moppie. We should all be able to learn something then on the next outing. :lol:

Becareful what you say grass hopper,
I believe I taught you something on our last outing, and I didn't even own a DSLR then :p :p

[weka2000]

I am still very satisfied with my Sigmas!
Well you should be with the 10-20 the last owner made sure it was a good copy :lol:

[forsaken]

congrats moppie, its about time you joined the darkside

[scotttnz]

Well you should be with the 10-20 the last owner made sure it was a good copy :lol:

Yeah, sometimes buying second hand is a good thing! Actually, didn't I test it for you?

It is my most borrowed lens too! :)

[Wazza]

w00t Sigma.


Love that shot Scott, saw the first one, but sadly forgot to comment. Sorry if I'm a bit too self minded sometimes. I skim the forums, post rapidly, thankful I can type 100+wpm.. then bugger off. :p

[scotttnz]

w00t Sigma.


Love that shot Scott, saw the first one, but sadly forgot to comment. Sorry if I'm a bit too self minded sometimes. I skim the forums, post rapidly, thankful I can type 100+wpm.. then bugger off. :p

Thanks Wazza, but I have decided I don't like it. That version looks fake, or overprocessed to me. I am happy with the composition, but really I should have ditched the filter, or at least taken 1 with and one without. A leason learned.

[Nzshrimper]

congrats moppie, its about time you joined the darkside
i dont think he bought an apple mac aswell but i could be wrong.. :rolleyes: ;)

[Nzshrimper]

Here is Version 1.1 of the photo I promised:
Tell me what you think.

Might be my screen but its looks a little to orange to me. (the sky) may be a little to much. maybe a happy medium between the two versions.

still its a great composition.

[weka2000]

I should have ditched the filter, or at least taken 1 with and one without. A leason learned.

Same lesson I learned with the tabacoo filter.

[dgcorner]

Scott -- composition is spot on... though the sky is too orange-brown. Have you tried the dodging/burning tools? It may help lighten the colours a bit.

Had a chat with Pete. Now I guess that I just have to get my exposures spot on for the school production. I am waiting to hear back if they have a dress rehearsal -- I would rather shoot during rehearsals since having a shutter like the 20D is going to attract unwanted attention...

[tim]

I spent the evening at ImageLab, hearing about what they do and their amazing machines. They have a $600,000 Durst Lambda, and an amazing Durst inkjet about the same price that can print on anything up to 40mm thick and 2.5m wide! Metals, papers, wood, cellphones, that roofing iron that's all wavy - really, anything. Their ink cartridges are something like $10K each.... and I thought mine were expensive!

HELP!!! I've been asked to shoot the school play at my son's school. I need all your gracious tips and advise on how to go about shooting properly. Ta muchly!!!

Read this tutorial. Don't get in the way, use fast lenses, no flash.

http://www.photo.net/learn/concerts/mirarchi/concer_1.htm

Im impressed, you ventured into the "compact" forum :p

Yip, I took the afternoon of work, and went into AC.
Talk about a real fight to get them to discount, altough they do have a good point they say thier margins are already pretty low, short of ordering from B&H only Graham would have been cheaper, and only a very little bit cheaper.

I walked out in the end with a new 30D, Sigma 17-70, Lowpro Nova 2 and a Sigma 70-300 on order.
I won't tell you what it all cost me.

Nice one Moppie :) How come the 17-70 2.8-4.5?

[Moppie]

Nice one Moppie :) How come the 17-70 2.8-4.5?


Im surprised it took this many pages for someone to ask :)

After useing a 24-70 2.8L, a 28-105, and of course the kit lens, and knowing the coverage of my old A80 (which was 35-105 in 35mm terms) I had a good think about what range I would need for most of my shooting.
I loved the speed and prescion of the 24-70, but its was also a little big and heavy, and while I loved the constant 2.8, I also couldn't manage the cost of even the Sigma version.
And, 24 just wasn't quite wide enough on the crop sensor, so that also rules out the 28.
The kit lens is, if you get a good one, opticaly rather good stopped down, but its cheaply built and rather slow.
So I had a look around and found the Sigma, tried it out, and liked how it felt, and how fast it focused for a non-HSM lens.
It covers the range I would like, its fast enough for most of the shooting I do, all the samples Iv seen shows its sharper than it should be for the price. And its relativly compact and light.
I'll wait till I know more about what Im doing, and have a better idea of what I need, and of course Im in a better position to pay for it, before I invest in more expensive glass (70-200 2.8L) :cool:

[tim]

At least you thought about it! If I had to have one lens I might get the Sigma 30mm F1.4, but the 17-55 is pretty nice :)

[Wazza]

I've just helped Kirst get these images web ready, didn't need anything doing, except resize and watermark.. Her pc is a bit slow, so web images, then emailed to her, so she could upload.

http://www.ikirst.com/gallery/d1nz5

Take a look.
I thought they're really good. :)

[Nzshrimper]

who is that in image 15 (the guy with tha canon)- some nice photos there.. i do like numbers 59 and 73

[Wazza]

That's Grey from NZPC

Simon/forsaken from forums is in there too, on far left of a pic, in the pits...


This is me:
http://www.ignitionmagazine.co.nz/content/coverage/19/photos/IMG_3383.jpg
(closest)

[Nzshrimper]

That's Grey from NZPC

Simon/forsaken from forums is in there too, on far left of a pic, in the pits...


This is me:

(closest)
i see they got you best side ..;)

[IainB]

Might be my screen but its looks a little to orange to me. (the sky) may be a little to much. maybe a happy medium between the two versions.

still its a great composition.


I agree. The composition is excellent, but the dominant colour(s) I feel should be in the main subject matter. The sky colour is too strong and somewhat artificial.

[scotttnz]

Thanks for the comments Iain.

OK.....the Great Kiwi ISP hunt is on. Xtra must die, now that my contract is finished. So who should I use? My requirements are simple. I am currently on a 1Gb plan and 9 months out of 10 that is enough. But I want a bit of headroom because I want to start hosting my own pics instead of using photobucket. Which brings me to requirement #2: I need/want a fixed IP address. No more noip.com for me. I want 2Mbps+ downstream, and 256 or 512Kbps upstream would be nice, but could probably live with 128Kbps if I had too. Oh, and I want it to work with minimal outages etc.

Any recommendations?

[CliveyBoy]

Oh, and I want it to work with minimal outages etc.

Any recommendations?

Emigrate?

[dgcorner]

Tim: Thanks for the link -- much appreciated!

Warren/Kirst: Nice series there!

Scott: Have a chat with Mark/rabsoft -- he has some very interesting insights re ISPs.

Off to put the 17-40 & 70-200 through the paces... will post pics soon. ;-)

[dgcorner]

Emigrate?

:lol: :lol: :lol:

[theflyingkiwi]

Tony what's happening with your bussines card? have ya got a design yet ?

[Wazza]

There's not much wrong with Xtra.

Only

Ripping us off
Bad ping times
Drop offs
Full speed, slows down, full speed.
And they can't get it right first time when configuring your house for broadband. We had to wait an extra day or so, as they forgot to change a setting

[weka2000]

Tony what's happening with your bussines card? have ya got a design yet ?

Will do this week once school/home settles down again

[MattL]

Emigrate?

Best. Anser. Ever.

[MattL]

Moppie - Congrats! May your new kit bring you as much happiness and good photos as your old kit!

[MattL]

John - RE Event photography:

With 2.8 IS, you are so sorted. Use a monopod if you can, tripod if you cant.
You will get alot more useable / enjoyable shots staying on the tele end. Headshots, Head and shoulders, half body - with one or two people in frame with a good gesture or expression. If you try and fit the entire stage in, it' will look like a photo of a school hall.

Use the bokeh to your advantage. No flash, stay out of the way. With 200mm you should be able to walk the back of the hall behind the seats and not get in anyones way that way.

My other suggestion is to watch it once first, and take note of any good moments that arise. Most of the good shots will only be there for abour 4 seconds so you need to be prepared and know when they are - then when you shoot on your second time you wont be caught off guard.

Best of luck.

[dgcorner]

John - RE Event photography:

With 2.8 IS, you are so sorted. Use a monopod if you can, tripod if you cant.
You will get alot more useable / enjoyable shots staying on the tele end. Headshots, Head and shoulders, half body - with one or two people in frame with a good gesture or expression. If you try and fit the entire stage in, it' will look like a photo of a school hall.

Use the bokeh to your advantage. No flash, stay out of the way. With 200mm you should be able to walk the back of the hall behind the seats and not get in anyones way that way.

My other suggestion is to watch it once first, and take note of any good moments that arise. Most of the good shots will only be there for abour 4 seconds so you need to be prepared and know when they are - then when you shoot on your second time you wont be caught off guard.

Best of luck.

Thanks Matt -- I appreciate the input. I will end up shooting the play on both nights just to make sure that I capture the moments that are, as they say, priceless. This also gives me more practice shooting such events, whilst providing the school with picturs for their magazine -- it's a win-win situation:D

[tim]

Remember that with a 200mm lens your DOF will be tiny, whereas with a shorter fast prime you'll get more DOF at the same shutter speed. I use a combination of the 70-200 and the 50mm F1.4, one on each body. A monopod with the 70-200 is a good idea, since it gets pretty heavy after a while. Well, it's always heavy, it just starts to feel heavier after 2 hours!

[dgcorner]

Remember that with a 200mm lens your DOF will be tiny, whereas with a shorter fast prime you'll get more DOF at the same shutter speed. I use a combination of the 70-200 and the 50mm F1.4, one on each body. A monopod with the 70-200 is a good idea, since it gets pretty heavy after a while. Well, it's always heavy, it just starts to feel heavier after 2 hours!

I'll be taking my monopod with me... and an assistant too (my son who wants to watch the play for free:rolleyes: ) I will most likely be switching between my 24-70 and the 70-200 depending on where I'm allowed to park and shoot.

That link you gave me is a huge help - thanks again!

[weka2000]

My other suggestion is to watch it once first, and take note of any good moments that arise. Most of the good shots will only be there for abour 4 seconds so you need to be prepared and know when they are - then when you shoot on your second time you wont be caught off guard.

Best of luck.

Would it be worth also taking a couple of test shots. What ISO are you going to use?

[Wazza]

Depending on lighting, F 2.8, ISO 800/1600, and you'll be getting around 1/125th
That's when I shot some theatre. :p

[iKirst]

I've just helped Kirst get these images web ready, didn't need anything doing, except resize and watermark.. Her pc is a bit slow, so web images, then emailed to her, so she could upload.

http://www.ikirst.com/gallery/d1nz5

Take a look.
I thought they're really good. :)
Thanks Warren :) Apologies for breaking the lens... :o

[dgcorner]

Well, I couldn't find any ducks for the 70-200IS test... so here's a couple of what I got:

Pukeko
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f236/dgcorner/GKPE/IMG_0003-01-1.jpg

Ally in the Garden
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f236/dgcorner/GKPE/70-200test.jpg

[tim]

Shooting theatre i'm anywhere between 1/30th F1.4 ISO 1600 and 1/100th F2.8 ISO400. Just see how things go, and be careful of motion blur. Grainyness is ok, too much motion blur isn't.

[tim]

John - those are 600+KB images you've put inline there.

[dgcorner]

John - those are 600+KB images you've put inline there.

Oops - will edit.

[weka2000]

So John how does it feel having a lens worth more than your camera :lol:

[theflyingkiwi]

john, I like the first one

[tim]

I like the Ally shot :)

[Moppie]

I like the Ally shot :)


Its kinda funky actualy, although I love the colours in the first one, the yellow, and blue and green togother.

[dgcorner]

So John how does it feel having a lens worth more than your camera :lol:

It feels goooooooood:lol: Now to maximise the lens' capabilities

john, I like the first one

I like the Ally shot :)

Its kinda funky actualy, although I love the colours in the first one, the yellow, and blue and green togother.

Thanks guys -- funny how there are no ducks when you need them:lol: . But I do agree that the greens, blues and blacks on the first make good contrasts.

[theflyingkiwi]

ok Moppie, when are you posting pictures that you have taken with your new camera?

[joeseph]

ok Moppie, when are you posting pictures that you have taken with your new camera?
Just for giggles, you could do a blue sky at F22... ;)

[Moppie]

Eh?
You mean I take pictures with it?

I thought I just had to own it, and then talk about it a lot, including why I need to upgrade to a 5D, and get a 70-200 F4L, before I get a 70-200 2.8L, but then I might need a prime as well. And of course the only reason I got the Sigma glass was so I could upgrade to Canon glass later on.

Or am I doing this wrong?
I mean, I can't actualy imagine taking photos with it? Its seems like its a far to complex device for something that simple.

[Wazza]

Oh a 70-300 ;)

I have a 70-300 shell now, after the internals broke for the 3rd time in general use. Just zooming in and out, it gets a bit sticky, and breaks every now and then. ;)

[dgcorner]

Oh a 70-300 ;)

I have a 70-300 shell now, after the internals broke for the 3rd time in general use. Just zooming in and out, it gets a bit sticky, and breaks every now and then. ;)

Warren, you just had to rub it in!!!:lol: Now Moppie will start having sleepless nights!

[Moppie]

No problems for me, Mines the Mark II Macro version, it works a little different :p
And, it has a nice red ring on the end, which was good for a laugh in AC when I picked it up.

[FlyingPete]

If anyone has any time can you please have a look at the GKPE beta site: www.gkpe.org.nz/beta

I am seeking feedback as I have a number of issues:
1. The first page has a slightly revised finish, it has a shorter main window and the inclusion of the logo, the other two working pages are the older design
2. It is too big, looks fine on a 1280x1024 screen but not everyone has that, i am trying to avoid any scrolling of the ie window
3. The scroll ais not black in Firefox (rabsoft sent me a fix for this, but I couldn't get it too fly)
4. Comments and suggestions on text presentation please I did have a shot at making it look like the EOS menu system, but it didn't really work, have left the red headings though (used to have blue and yellow as well)
5. I would really like to have all this being one page with the buttons changing the window content, at the moment each button has a descrete page
6. The links page sucks
7. The POTN page is light on info perhaps these should be combined?

Oh and lastly comments on that logo thingy.

[Moppie]

Im running 1024x768 here at work and it looks pretty good to me. Just fills the page nicly, although I do have to scroll to see all of the memory card at the bottom.

And there are some alignment issues here: http://www.gkpe.org.nz/beta/AboutPOTN.htm

[FlyingPete]

And there are some alignment issues here: http://www.gkpe.org.nz/beta/AboutPOTN.htm

Opps I thought I reverted that page to the old version :o

That does show how complex the graphics are though!

[theflyingkiwi]

Eh?
You mean I take pictures with it?

I thought I just had to own it, and then talk about it a lot, including why I need to upgrade to a 5D, and get a 70-200 F4L, before I get a 70-200 2.8L, but then I might need a prime as well. And of course the only reason I got the Sigma glass was so I could upgrade to Canon glass later on.

Or am I doing this wrong?
I mean, I can't actualy imagine taking photos with it? Its seems like its a far to complex device for something that simple.

Hey that's my thing. I'm the only one in the group that has a camera and doesn't use it :) I still havn't figured out what a photo is yet

Pete, it looks ok but even on my work screen it's too big

[weka2000]

Anyone know where I could learn about studio lighting. I need to be shown, following a book is not helping at all.

UPDATE.. Found someone who for $200 come to my house and spend 1 hrs showing me how to set it up :)

[theflyingkiwi]

I had thought you had given up on the studio work tony?

[weka2000]

I had thought you had given up on the studio work tony?

Somethings dont go away. Shooting woman between the ages of 30-50 is one of them. So I will follow my dream and see how far it takes me.

http://www.anja.co.nz/ (http://www.anja.co.nz/) So for $200 an hour Im hoping she will show me where im going wrong

[theflyingkiwi]

that will be good for ya, I hope ya going to take notes. :) I hope ya going to share the info too :) It also nice to see that other photograhers are willing to share information, even if it's at a cost.

[tim]

Pete, you've done a good job with that concept, but I think it's too cheesy.

[FlyingPete]

Pete, you've done a good job with that concept, but I think it's too cheesy.

Any suggestions? I am in the process of reducing the size of everything, that may help a little.

[weka2000]

that will be good for ya, I hope ya going to take notes. :) I hope ya going to share the info too :) It also nice to see that other photograhers are willing to share information, even if it's at a cost.

Yes she was really helpful and happy to chat. I guess sometimes you need some one to give you a leg up.

[MHP]

Pete it goes all funny on Safari, the graphics get split, it is still operational though.

Congrats Moppie on the new camera..... may the force be with you.

We're outa here in 2 weeks, fly to Greece to meet the ship. All go at the moment working out visas, med test etc. and packing up our little house and business. Will maybe do a blog- will let yas know if it gets done as might not have enough time to do it as it gets hectic on there, anyway some of you might be interested.


take care all

Mark.

[FlyingPete]

Pete it goes all funny on Safari, the graphics get split, it is still operational though.

Now that is a browser I have not been able to test with :rolleyes: I am starting to dislike HTML, it is no way one size fits all :evil:

We're outa here in 2 weeks, fly to Greece to meet the ship. All go at the moment working out visas, med test etc. and packing up our little house and business. Will maybe do a blog- will let yas know if it gets done as might not have enough time to do it as it gets hectic on there, anyway some of you might be interested.


Have fun! I would jump at that sort of oportunity if I was in a position too, funny thing is my mother-in-law is going on a cruise out that way next year!

[tim]

Any suggestions? I am in the process of reducing the size of everything, that may help a little.

A normal webpage with normal menus rather than a cheesy camera is my suggestion. It looks like a personal home page from the 80s or 90s to me.

My club home page is the kind of thing I mean: http://www.wps.org.nz/

[FlyingPete]

A normal webpage with normal menus rather than a cheesy camera is my suggestion. It looks like a personal home page from the 80s or 90s to me.

My club home page is the kind of thing I mean: http://www.wps.org.nz/

What does everyone else think about beta the site? I am having some coding issues with it at the moment, and do not really want to waste my time if it not really suitable.
Pleas be honest, pretend I am Tony and you are Tim ;)

What sort of look does everyone want? The current beta is very "gear head" orientated.

[weka2000]

Pete the camera is fine. We are a different group so why not do it differently.

[Moppie]

pretend I am Tony and you are Tim ;)



I need another bourbon! I think you need a reality check, its just simply not that easy. And don't use the 50 1.8, its a crap lens.


I actualy like the camera look, gives you an instant idea of what we are about, and makes that site a little interesting.
GKPE is about fun, and that is what it says to me.

[weka2000]

LOL love it.
At least Tim and I agree on the 50mm F1.8 :)

[Wazza]

Pete it goes all funny on Safari, the graphics get split, it is still operational though.

Congrats Moppie on the new camera..... may the force be with you.

We're outa here in 2 weeks, fly to Greece to meet the ship. All go at the moment working out visas, med test etc. and packing up our little house and business. Will maybe do a blog- will let yas know if it gets done as might not have enough time to do it as it gets hectic on there, anyway some of you might be interested.


take care all

Mark.
WOW!
So soon.

Best of luck mate,

If you're keen, I'm willing to meet up if you have a spare slot on your schedule, likely one morning before work. Would be good to meet up with one of awesome photos, talent, and job prospects across the horizons from ships ;)

I'd just like to know all the details regarding the company your working for.. I know you mentioned to me in the past, you may share the info, as you know a lot of contacts.

If I was to do a similar thing, would be looking approx April next year onwards.

PM/Email/anything. :p

[MHP]

O.k I'm over hearing about the 50mm 1.8 in here- the 50mm 1.8 is the best bang for buck out there, right now there is an image of food splattered across the country taken on a 50mm 1.8. you just have to know how to use it and some copies are better than others, just as with all lenses on both accounts. i think you would all be surprised at some images taken with this lens and if shown would not be able to see the difference. So for you newbies to photography, get it, because like I said, bang for buck it's the bomb!

[Wazza]

It certainly is, however my 85 1.8 takes nicer shots, you just gotta take an extra couple of steps back.

Just on a short break, stinking headache, will read the PM more thoroughly later after work. I did have a couple of things on this Saturday. What time would I be needed? Morning/Evening (I know most shots taken in ideal light, like dramatic effects). I'm free every morning, but evenings/sunset type of images could be difficult, as I only have Friday and Saturday nights..

[weka2000]

O.k I'm over hearing about the 50mm 1.8 in here- the 50mm 1.8 is the best bang for buck out there, right now there is an image of food splattered across the country taken on a 50mm 1.8. you just have to know how to use it and some copies are better than others, just as with all lenses on both accounts. i think you would all be surprised at some images taken with this lens and if shown would not be able to see the difference. So for you newbies to photography, get it, because like I said, bang for buck it's the bomb!

Its a plastic peice glass no wonder its so cheap. And its loose horrible.
Its not untll you get a 50mm F1.4 you know any better :)
Optically the F1.8 is ok but the f1.4 is way better

[Moppie]

Congrats Moppie on the new camera..... may the force be with you.



The force or the focus?
Yes, I see, the focus is strong with this one.....mmmmummmmm....

I don't know if I could pack everything up in 2 weeks and take off for several months, I might manage it, but I know Amanda would never for it.
Hope the tours goes well, couldn't think of a better opertunity to see the world.

[weka2000]

The force or the focus?
Yes, I see, the focus is strong with this one.....mmmmummmmm....



So when do we get to see a photo out of your new camera :rolleyes:

[FlyingPete]

Its a plastic peice glass no wonder its so cheap. And its loose horrible.
Its not untll you get a 50mm F1.4 you know any better :)
Optically the F1.8 is ok but the f1.4 is way better

I bet I have made more money out of my f/1.8 than you have made out of all your gear :p

[weka2000]

I bet I have made more money out of my f/1.8 than you have made out of all your gear :p

Well I should think so as Ive only been doing DSLR for 1 year :p

[NordieBoy]

I made $80 out of my MC7 2xTC.
It cost $70 and I sold it for $150 :D

Who says you can't make money in this game.

[Moppie]

So when do we get to see a photo out of your new camera :rolleyes:


Ok, I think Im getting this DSLR thing worked out.
Iv had a look at what others have been shooting, apprently the best shots are of Ducks Bottoms, well I could find any ducks so I shot a seagull instead. Does that count?

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v31/Moppie/seagullbutt.jpg

[MHP]

Its a plastic peice glass no wonder its so cheap. And its loose horrible.
Its not untll you get a 50mm F1.4 you know any better :)
Optically the F1.8 is ok but the f1.4 is way better

thats not what I'm saying, I'm saying that for the price it is a blinding lens, there is better obviously and there's worse, but i don't think anyone should knock it, because it is awesome for the price.

[MHP]

The force or the focus?
Yes, I see, the focus is strong with this one.....mmmmummmmm....

I don't know if I could pack everything up in 2 weeks and take off for several months, I might manage it, but I know Amanda would never for it.
Hope the tours goes well, couldn't think of a better opertunity to see the world.

force mate force ;-) THE force!, if you have the force within you can accomplish amazing things!

Na it's not for everyone, but I live for this kinda thing, if there's not something exciting happening I tend to get a bit bored, luckily Zoe is the same... I found my soulmate :-)

gotta tell ya though, my mums totally over it!! been hassling me for years to come home and settle down, i do it for 1.5 years and rip up and take off again. some things just aren't meant to be.

oh, and that seagulls nice and sharp !

[Moppie]

oh, and that seagulls nice and sharp !


Thats the red ring on the front of the Sigma that makes it so sharp ;)


I used to be pack it up and go anywhere type, did it once around the South Island in an old Triumph.
Unfortunatly by never settling down at one thing for long enough I never got enough money together to make it over seas, or really travel anywhere.
If I hadn't met Amanda I never would have settled down, now it just seems like the most natural thing to do, and I know Im better off for it. I deffinitly found the the perfect partner when I met her, and she knows all the lines to Episodes 4, 5 and 6 off by heart :)

[scotttnz]

Pete, you've done a good job with that concept, but I think it's too cheesy.

I don't think it is cheesy, I think it is cool! But maybe I am cheesy?

Mmmmmm......pizza.....with lots of cheese.....

[FlyingPete]

I don't think it is cheesy, I think it is cool! But maybe I am cheesy?

Mmmmmm......pizza.....with lots of cheese.....

I think it is 4-1 then, we are keeping the cheesy pizza camera :D

[Moppie]

Hmmmmmmmmmm:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v31/Moppie/IMG_0350.jpg

Thats a blue sky with Auto levels applied.

[scotttnz]

and she knows all the lines to Episodes 4, 5 and 6 off by heart :)

Ahhhhh......the perfect woman!

[FlyingPete]

Hmmmmmmmmmm:

Thats a blue sky with Auto levels applied.

I just showed that to Shona, and she got the problem straight away, are you sure it was a new camera? My sensor has never been that bad :confused:

[theflyingkiwi]

Hmmmmmmmmmm:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v31/Moppie/IMG_0350.jpg

Thats a blue sky with Auto levels applied.

Hmmmm I guess you got alot of cloning to do then. :lol:

that's not a very nice look. this proves that you should have stayed with the p&s :)

[scotttnz]

Hmmmm I guess you got alot of cloning to do then. :lol:

Wait, that was episode 2. I thought we were talking about episodes 4, 5, & 6?:rolleyes:

[theflyingkiwi]

Wait, that was episode 2. I thought we were talking about episodes 4, 5, & 6?:rolleyes:

well everyone knows 4 5 and 6 are just cheesy

1 2 and 3 are just plan bad. :D

[IainB]

What does everyone else think about beta the site? I am having some coding issues with it at the moment, and do not really want to waste my time if it not really suitable.
Pleas be honest, pretend I am Tony and you are Tim ;)

What sort of look does everyone want? The current beta is very "gear head" orientated.

I'm just catching up with developments.... Pete, I agree with Tim. The example he provides (WPS) is classic and more to my liking. But that's easy for me to say, knowing nothing about web design. I have to congratulate you on the effort you have put in.

[downunder]

Have been asked to take pics for a building companies new web page, they want candid pics of builders at work, did a trial today but went to the wrong site first (Doh) and by the time I got to the right site it was midday and very glary, took a few test shots and am reasonable happy with the composition but was wondering what camera settings others would use under morning condiions. I shot these on the 70 -200 at f/5.6 Av mode iso 100, any advice greatly appreciated.

[downunder]

oops forgot to attach pics

[Moppie]

I just showed that to Shona, and she got the problem straight away, are you sure it was a new camera? My sensor has never been that bad :confused:


Having seen others post similar results in the EOS forum, apprently Canon pre-dusts some SLRs before they sell them :)

Its looks and feels pretty damn new, certianly had that lovely freash new plastic smell that only hangs around for a few hours.
However, I might be making a stop at AC tomorrow, and asking for a free sensor clean :)

[downunder]

my 20D is probably due for a sensor clean, never had one as I'm a bit scared of stuffing it up!

[Moppie]

Unless you can see the spots on your images, I don't think its worth worrying about.

In the oringal of the photo I posted only 3 of those spots are just visable, and Iv yet to see any of them in the 150 odd photos Iv taken so far. (5 fps is good :D )

But, since its a new camera it would be nice to know I can start with a clean sensor.

[downunder]

I see spots on most things these days, not sure if it's to much alchohol or dirty glasses:confused:

[tim]

Hmmmmmmmmmm:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v31/Moppie/IMG_0350.jpg

Thats a blue sky with Auto levels applied.

You should use "Tims Sensor Cleaning Service". At your own risk, of course. Though I promise to be sobre when I clean your sensor...

[tim]

I bet I have made more money out of my f/1.8 than you have made out of all your gear :p

I'll take that bet...

[Wazza]

Does that include the 30K for those few good shots, aye Pete.

Tim is about to be shocked ;)

[tim]

I haven't added up my revenue from my wedding work... after a little thought I don't really want to post numbers. Let's just say i'm not doing too bad. The 20D's should least 2-3 years, perhaps with a shutter replacement, which Wazza is well on the way towards.

[Wazza]

:p

The figure quoted was a random one.

Anyway, my 20D shutter actuation is over 100,000. 64,000 on the original one, and approx 40,000 on current one. I need some more HDD space. If I shoot one more event in RAW, I'll be officially out of space.

[tim]

Wazza, you could just shoot less...

[Wazza]

motorsports and aviation really whack out the shutter count.

I can go out take waterfall/sunset pics, shoot 50, all print worthy.. But a drift event will be 1000-1400 pics

I just burnt 3Gb onto disc.

Of the 1200 odd pics, only about 10 were completely unusable, plus a few were too smoky, beyond my control - So I think my keeper rate is pretty good.
Just need to put that to use at a wedding ;)

Goodnight

[Moppie]

You should use "Tims Sensor Cleaning Service".


Do your travel and do it onsite?
Or does it require your borrowing my 30D for a month? :p

[FlyingPete]

Good morning all!
I'm just catching up with developments.... Pete, I agree with Tim. The example he provides (WPS) is classic and more to my liking. But that's easy for me to say, knowing nothing about web design. I have to congratulate you on the effort you have put in.

I may throw together a more classically designed version, the goal was to have something different that will stand out, for all the professionalism of some other very tidy sharp designs, they are often not that memorable. Unfortunately being memorable does not mean being good, remember that site from the photographer in the south island a few weeks back :o

Many years ago I used to work as a graphic artist (I got out for three reasons, 1. I was better at fixing their computers 2. I had trouble coming up with original ideas and 3. You can never please everyone!), unfortunately that was before the world had heard of the web, so this is only the second site I have designed.

Having seen others post similar results in the EOS forum, apprently Canon pre-dusts some SLRs before they sell them :)

Its looks and feels pretty damn new, certianly had that lovely freash new plastic smell that only hangs around for a few hours.
However, I might be making a stop at AC tomorrow, and asking for a free sensor clean :)

Hmmm that new camera smell :D

I'll take that bet...

Wan't talking to you :p I know you have made a heap more than me, my photographic income is purely to pay for the toys. So far if you include what I have spend vs what I have made I am only out of pocket by $500, that is a self sustaining hobby, jut how I like it :D

[CliveyBoy]

Do your travel and do it onsite?
Or does it require your borrowing my 30D for a month? :p
Moppie, I will be in Auckland on Saturday evening, and could bring my gear for sensor-filter cleaning. We could meet if you wish. I checked my 30D straight off, and it showed nothing like what you have.

First step is a very careful inspection using a head lens. A wet, wiping treatment may not be needed, as 90% of the time an antistatic removal is sufficient. The dust will move in the chamber, and some will aggregate to create large specks.

You might like to try using manual focus and setting it to infinity, then shooting a properly exposed shot of a plain wall, or distant light source. (I use an Expodisc into the sun.) That tends to defocus anything external. The autolevels is the test! I have yet to see a completely clear sensor after cleaning by anyone.

Your choice, but I most definitely would not leave it.

[CliveyBoy]

oops forgot to attach pics
The lighting on the faces could be lifted, perhaps. I know the subject is the building process, but we humans work to faces if they are present.

An assistant with a reflector is all that would be needed. A fill flash could also work, but that cannot be as narrowly-directed as a 30" reflector.

[FlyingPete]

Moppie, I will be in Auckland on Saturday evening, and could bring my gear for sensor-filter cleaning. We could meet if you wish. I checked my 30D straight off, and it showed nothing like what you have.

First step is a very careful inspection using a head lens. A wet, wiping treatment may not be needed, as 90% of the time an antistatic removal is sufficient. The dust will move in the chamber, and some will aggregate to create large specks.

You might like to try using manual focus and setting it to infinity, then shooting a properly exposed shot of a plain wall, or distant light source. (I use an Expodisc into the sun.) That tends to defocus anything external. The autolevels is the test! I have yet to see a completely clear sensor after cleaning by anyone.

Your choice, but I most definitely would not leave it.

The family is out of town for the weekend (cause I am working past middnight today and out all day Sunday) so I am also around to catch up on Saturday, may be a good idea anyway to go over anything for Sunday.

[dgcorner]

Pete: gkpe.org is down :-(

Steve: those pics are alright. It might be my screen but seems like they are slightly underexposed? I have to agree that shooting under the midday sun can be difficult. Even more difficult is getting those blokes not to mind you taking pics. I just hope no one points a hydraulic nail gun your way ;-) EDIT: Also having the midday sun means getting the faces darker... a flashgun or reflector as Clive mentions?

[FlyingPete]

Pete: gkpe.org is down :-(



Oh yay. I will txt Mark, he is hosting some other sites on his server as well...

[FlyingPete]

Techpac are doing a special on those Seagate CF drives, $147ex for the 4GB and $269ex for the 8GB, both come with Crucial card readers too.

I had one on demo through work about 8 months ago, it has major issues with the new firmware on my 20D, apparantly there was an issue with certain firmwares on these drives not working with the newer formwares on Canons.

If they have fixed that, these would be a very good deal.

[IainB]

Techpac are doing a special on those Seagate CF drives, $147ex for the 4GB and $269ex for the 8GB, both come with Crucial card readers too.

I had one on demo through work about 8 months ago, it has major issues with the new firmware on my 20D, apparantly there was an issue with certain firmwares on these drives not working with the newer formwares on Canons.

If they have fixed that, these would be a very good deal.

Have you checked out this review?
http://www.webaperture.com/articles/lib/rev/sg_cf_0601
It appears firmware version 2.0.3 can have issues with these drives. Solved by reinstalling 2.0.2.

[weka2000]

I just showed that to Shona, and she got the problem straight away, are you sure it was a new camera? My sensor has never been that bad :confused:

Looks like it was taken with a 5D :lol:
Moppie my 30D got a sensor clean just after I got it. The only lens that goes on it is the Bigma so that should take care of dust from now on.
The 5D gets dust like metal filings with a magnet.

[Moppie]

Moppie, I will be in Auckland on Saturday evening,


Would be great to meet up, what time are you going to be in Auck?
Im hosting a small dinner party that I guess will start around 5, if your going to be up before then we might be able to organise a quick get together.

[Moppie]

Oh well Im off to AC, then into the city for a shoot, and from there I don't know......
The weather will deciede how far I go from there, but might head west.

[CliveyBoy]

Would be great to meet up, what time are you going to be in Auck?
Im hosting a small dinner party that I guess will start around 5, if your going to be up before then we might be able to organise a quick get together.
I will not be in Auckland until early evening. Perhaps there will be time after the event the next day to chat for a little while. Do you know a good cafe in the area?

[dgcorner]

Techpac are doing a special on those Seagate CF drives, $147ex for the 4GB and $269ex for the 8GB, both come with Crucial card readers too.

I had one on demo through work about 8 months ago, it has major issues with the new firmware on my 20D, apparantly there was an issue with certain firmwares on these drives not working with the newer formwares on Canons.

If they have fixed that, these would be a very good deal.

Pete -- that's great value... though one would need to revert to the 20D firmware 2.02 (not that it probably matters)

[FlyingPete]

Pete -- that's great value... though one would need to revert to the 20D firmware 2.02 (not that it probably matters)

Not sure how good value they are, the whole time I had it, despite knowing they are nearly as tough as a solid state (no operating state) I still felt I had to be extra careful with it, fine if it was left in the camera, but I became a bit paranoid. The fact it was not mine didn't help that much either :rolleyes:

[dgcorner]

For those of you looking for a Sigma 70-200EX APO here (http://www.trademe.co.nz/Electronics-photography/Camera-accessories/Lenses/Canon/auction-73319701.htm)

[tim]

I'm moving house tomorrow, not really looking forward to it. The new place isn't a nice as where I am now, it's a bit smaller, and packing's a pain in the butt. At least the weather's better today!

[weka2000]

For those of you looking for a Sigma 70-200EX APO here (http://www.trademe.co.nz/Electronics-photography/Camera-accessories/Lenses/Canon/auction-73319701.htm)

Funny you should say that as Im looking a new lens. I kind of miss my 24-70 for portraits at full length. So 35mm F1.4 L or 24-70 2.8 L or 24-105 F4 L.
Hum I have gotten used to sharp glass so the 35mm F1.4 is looking good if you get a good copy.

[scotttnz]

Funny you should say that as Im looking a new lens. I kind of miss my 24-70 for portraits at full length. So 35mm F1.4 L or 24-70 2.8 L or 24-105 F4 L.
Hum I have gotten used to sharp glass so the 35mm F1.4 is looking good if you get a good copy.

Hmmmmm.......sorry, that doesn't make any sense....

You miss the 24-70 at full length, do you mean the 70 end? So you you are going to get a 35? Surely the 50 and 85 you already have are closer to the 24-70 at full length? Or the 70-200 at the short end?

:evil: Sounds like you just want another lens to me:oops: