Why a big camera?

[Choderboy]

I was taking some pics in the city with my 20D. Approached by somebody who asked "why do you guys carry around those big camers? I've got a little camera that takes perfectly good pictures.."

I wasn't sure how to take him , but I joked that I must have wasted all my money and that I better go trade it in. I suspect he was not after an honest answer , I'll bore people to tears talking about photography if I think they're interested :lol:

Just thought it might be fun to see what comebacks people could suggest.

[mbze430]

no one really comes up to me about that... But if someone did. My reply is. "You might want good pictures, I want exceptional pictures".

[Titus213]

If they don't know they will probably not understand anything you tell them.

But I'm with you Dave. Anyone shows any interest at all and I'll bore them to tears.:lol:

One way that has worked is to hold the shutter button down on your DSLR for a second and then ask them if thier P&S will do that.

[Rob612]

"Because I can".

That's all I have to say to such a stupid question. I hate when that happens.

[sjd70]

Perhaps a line about "you know how they size of a mans nose is related to ......"

or maybe not....

No offence intended to our super female photographers.

[Tee Why]

I'd just tell him b/c it'm more fun

[cyber_m0nkey]

Tell him the truth, that if he needs to ask that question then he wouldn't understand anyway. If he persists, enlighten him until his ears bleed - he will never ask again :confused:

[dpastern]

Tell them the truth - that the SLR gives you more options with photography than a smaller compact digital camera can, quote a few examples (interchangeable lenses etc). Keep it relatively simple, but don't denigrate them. If you do it right, you might just get someone more into photography!

Dave

[jbkalla]

One way that has worked is to hold the shutter button down on your DSLR for a second and then ask them if thier P&S will do that.

Yah, but then they'd probably show you how their p&s takes 30fps 640x480 movies!

I'm horrible with the quick comebacks! I usually wake up at 2am with a real zinger that would have been great 12hrs ago when the incident actually happened... :cry:

[Choderboy]

Yah, but then they'd probably show you how their p&s takes 30fps 640x480 movies!

I'm horrible with the quick comebacks! I usually wake up at 2am with a real zinger that would have been great 12hrs ago when the incident actually happened... :cry:

YEP on both points - he did mention " and it does movies too! "

I'm usually a bit quicker , the clever comeback occurrs to me about 2 hours later :lol: But if you miss , you miss.

[ssim]

My experience with these types of people are two fold. The first being that it is sometimes very much camera envy. People that would love to have a DSLR but can't afford or justify it. I too will try to give them as much information as possible to let them know just how much fun this photography thing is. I try not to do the sarcastic remarks or actions with them as I know from some other hobbies that this has been done to me and how much I didn't like it. The other type is those that truly do feel that they can do just as well for their requirements with what they have in a point and shoot camera. I've found that you will never change their minds. Best to just move on and let them be.

[Moppie]

I once had someone ask me why I drove such a big car, I quickly replied its because I have small c.................................amera. :p

Then I got a small and it dosn't sound as effective.

[lancea]

Yah, but then they'd probably show you how their p&s takes 30fps 640x480 movies!
That's the truth. Several times the very first question I've been asked is "does it take movies?".

I don't think my 20D looks particularly impressive, but it has proved to be a conversation piece. When visiting downtown Dallas last year strangers asked me about my camera. I found Texans particularly friendly but it was interesting that the camera caught their attention. So maybe that's good enough reason to have a "big" camera?

[dpastern]

I've had the usual reaction from time to time (of "my what a big/cool camera" when I'm out with my 1n and 300f4 and personally, I'd rather just be able to disappear and be left alone. I usually just say "thanks" and walk on, minding my own business. Sometimes, you do get someone genuinely interested in photography, and as I said in my previous post, I try to answer them and encourage them to get more into photography. Sometimes you meet another serious photographer, and you sit down and have a bit of a chin wag.

I actually remember being out in Sydney's Darling Harbour back in 2000 pre olympics, and I was taking photos of the cityscape and buildings with my 1n and 70-200 f2.8, and these 3 very attractive young ladies came up to me, demanding that I take their photos, I point blank refused, and told them that I don't "shoot" people. They harassed me for 5 minutes before giving up.

Sometimes it's best to run ;)

Cheers,

Dave

[Choderboy]

Yeah , I'm happy to talk to someone who wants to hear what I have to say.
I'm still appreciating all the advantages of digital photography and it's great to be able to point out to people who are interested what they are.
Pretty sure this bloke did not want to listen though. I suspect he has tried this on numerous times and is in no doubt all us "big camera " people have no idea what we are doing :lol:

I have heard people stating those disposeable cameras take as good a pic as any camera! I wish I could be saitisfied with them, it would be so much cheaper.

[PIXI_666]

That annoys me, even more so now than it ever has...it's never really happened to me, but i have to think "They just don't know" so i can't get too crabby lol

I would have said something like

"I just have a big camera because i enjoy people liek you asking me these type of questions" hehehe my sarcastic approach to people bugs them...but at the same time at least i can laugh about it later with my friends :)

You had a good comeback lol

Del

[::John::]

and these 3 very attractive young ladies came up to me, demanding that I take their photos

That does it!

I am going to take my camera gear and go live on a park bench by Darling Harbour until that happens to me!

:)
__________________________________________________ ______
On a more serious note - I have often been all set up - camera on tripod, long lens attached when someone with a P&S comes and stands beside me and says "My pictures won't be as good as yours."

I usually reply "Don't believe it - your photographic memories are special to you."
__________________________________________________ ______
On another occassion I was shooting a sunset when a woman with a 20D showed up. "Wow, a 20D," I said. "Cool"

"It's not the camera, it's the person using it," was her reply.

[zirkonium]

This question always comes with a pinch of jealousy in my experience....

[shiato storm]

Why a big camera?
cause I use it to thwack people over the head when I get asked stupid questions...

[Lotto]

"Because this big boy has a 100X zoom! Now run five blocks away I will take a pic of you."

[Choderboy]

cause I use it to thwack people over the head when I get asked stupid questions...

I have been known to respond like that :)
If I had your 1D I could have let rip with the "machine gun" effect of the 8.5 fps.

Lotto's suggestion of the running 5 blocks away sounds good too.

[dpastern]

That does it!

I am going to take my camera gear and go live on a park bench by Darling Harbour until that happens to me!

:)

hahaha!!! You can have my share then. Those 3 girls were vain as, not my type ;)

Dave

[cdifoto]

Play dumb and say something like "Oh...this thing is a camera? That makes things a lot clearer!"

[FretNoMore]

A small camera is perfectly OK for a lot of non-demanding photography, like travel photos and party snaps... I just yesterday bought a Fuji F11 to always have in my pocket or laptop bag just in case. It even has a decent ISO 800 and a quite nice "slow flash" function that makes for quite OK mixed lighting photos.

Bird photography or indoor sports photography aren't really fun with a P&S though - if the person asking why my camera is so big stands still long enough I'll bore him to death with a lecture on low light photography and long lenses. :)

[Ray.Petri]

Hi everyone
The most common comment that used to come in earlier days was "My old Brownie Box has always taken good pictures - what do I need an expensive camera like that for?"
Well - if the person asking the question didn't know I usually felt that it would take too long to explain - and of course - one senses the question was posed as a wind-up anyway.
Has anyone had the old Brownie Box comment lately I wonder? Or maybe its just a sign of age.

By way of an amusing incident - during one of my Digi Photography/Photoshop classes one lad unzipped his overladen backpack and plonked his 20D complete with 100-400mm IS zoom on the desk - as some of the class gazed in awe and wonderment - the young lady sitting next to him fumbled in her handbag and pulled out a nice little 6mpix P&S and said "This is mine". needless to say it taken by the class with great amusement.

Regards
Ray

[Andy_T]

I have been known to respond like that :)
If I had your 1D I could have let rip with the "machine gun" effect of the 8.5 fps.


The 20D 5 fps "submachine gun" effect should nicely do :wink:

Best regards,
Andy

[Steve Parr]

I gotta' be honest; I see a lot of responses here which could be construed as, dare I say, "snooty".

Entertain, just for a moment, the possibility that a person honestly doesn't know the benefits of a DSLR over a P&S. We know them because we use them. When I was using my Olympus P&S five years ago, it was the greatest thing since white toothpaste.

My answer to such a question, and I've had it before, is a simple one: "Versatility" It doesn't take long to explain it. There's no reason to get annoyed (that's one I can't even begin to figure out), no need to dismiss the question, and no need to bore the person with the intricacies of a DSLR.

Just tell 'em like it is...

[cdifoto]

Telling it like it is doesn't always work. As has been said already...eyes glaze over and they don't understand anyway so you're just wasting your breath. It's happened time and time again...and I find it annoying. I find it annoying because they ask...even though they KNOW they would have no idea what you're talking about even if you did provide them with an honest straightforward lesson. More often than not, these people that ask are the ones being snooty in the first place. It's rarely genuine interest.

[fWord]

I'd say, "Actually, I can change lenses for my camera, which is a nifty feature. I could shoot wide landscapes at one moment, and then photograph a pretty young thing through a faraway window at the next with a change of a lens."

[FretNoMore]

I'd say, "Actually, I can change lenses for my camera, which is a nifty feature. I could shoot wide landscapes at one moment, and then photograph a pretty young thing through a faraway window at the next with a change of a lens."

I can see the reply coming though...

"You have to change lenses for that??? I just push this here zoom button..."

[photographysound]

I was taking some pics in the city with my 20D. Approached by somebody who asked "why do you guys carry around those big camers? I've got a little camera that takes perfectly good pictures.."

I wasn't sure how to take him , but I joked that I must have wasted all my money and that I better go trade it in. I suspect he was not after an honest answer , I'll bore people to tears talking about photography if I think they're interested :lol:

Just thought it might be fun to see what comebacks people could suggest.

I would have said, "It's an extension of my Penis."

[vjack]

If they are happy with the images they produce with their cameras, that is great. I think most of us would agree that there is a difference between taking quick snapshots and making photographs. Some people who have no interest in photography still want a camera, and the fully automatic P&S cameras are perfect for them.

I have only been asked the "why the big camera?" question a few times. I've had a greater number of people approach me to say that they are interested in photography and have been thinking about getting a dSLR.

[fWord]

I can see the reply coming though...

"You have to change lenses for that??? I just push this here zoom button..."

Ahh...and I'd explain to them that I have to face one more difficulty. While they press a button to zoom, I'd need to turn a ring to zoom.

But with the exception of a superzoom camera with an accessory TC, not much will be able to shoot as far as a 400mm lens on a 1.6X crop camera.

If I'm not mistaken, if a compatible TC is used on a superzoom such as an S2 IS, it'll probably give focal length equivalent to over 900mm.

[sageone]

i think the answer is fairly simple...creativity. P&S cameras are great, but they limit what you can do and you can only push them so far. With DSLRs, you can push them far with the type of lense your using, faster/slower shutter speeds, etc., etc. Try covering a lacrosse game with a p&s...then cover it with a DSLR. Better yet, shoot a wedding with both. THEN they'll see the difference.

Most people that don't "big cameras" usually don't have the patience to learn what "big cameras" can do nor really care about the quality of the pic they are taking. They are just trying to capture a moment. We on the other hand, are capturing moments in very creative ways - creative ways that make the capture even more precious to us.

[greg20d]

I was asked by someone if I got a better camera to take better pictures ....I looked at them and said my picture quality wasnt an issue ....I want to take more

[Double Negative]

Kind of reminds me of a circa 1984 Apple Macintosh ad.

"The power to crush the other kids." :D

[RTMiller]

I don't think there is any reason to be rude assuming they asked the question in an inquiring manner.

"Why do you guys carry around those big cameras?"

"Well, I like to shoot sports and this baby shoots 5 frames per second [hold down shutter button]. It has nine focus points laid out in a diamond pattern so it can achieve focus much faster than the Point&Shoot you're holding plus it has a better low light working range."

"It supports interchangable lens so I can capture this entire landscape or I can switch my lens and zoom in to see what squirrel has in his mouth. No not that squirrel, the one behind him. Yeah that one."

"I can control my Depth of Field better and when I switch the ISO to 3200 I can take pictures in very low light without the use of a flash."

"But if it's really dark, I can attach my Speedlite and that gives me a flash range of up to about 190 feet as opposed to a Point&Shoot's range of about 15 feet."

"And when I'm in the studio, this camera has a PC sync connection that allows me to trigger my... Come back! There's more..."

[fstop212]

no one really comes up to me about that... But if someone did. My reply is. "You might want good pictures, I want exceptional pictures".
Grreat comeback - hope you don't mind if I use that one:D

[jimtfoto]

My wife and I have both been recipients of the "Gee, that's a big camera!" ... she usually has the Canon 100-400 mounted and I have a Bigma (we both have 20Ds with battery grips). My usual response is a polite, "Actually, it's the lenses that are big."

cheers,
jim

[Radtech1]

Approached by somebody who asked "why do you guys carry around those big camers? I've got a little camera that takes perfectly good pictures.."

The big ones are cheaper. It costs a lot of money to squeeze all those electronic thingies into such a little camera.

Rad

[GSH]

Simple response..

I started off with a little camera like that. Then on my 10th birthday i was declared to be a grown-up and allowed a real camera.

:D

[MinisterStanley]

A small camera is perfectly OK for a lot of non-demanding photography, like travel photos and party snaps... I just yesterday bought a Fuji F11 to always have in my pocket or laptop bag just in case. It even has a decent ISO 800 and a quite nice "slow flash" function that makes for quite OK mixed lighting photos.

Bird photography or indoor sports photography aren't really fun with a P&S though - if the person asking why my camera is so big stands still long enough I'll bore him to death with a lecture on low light photography and long lenses. :)

I use my camera for vacation and family shots, and still want more control over the pic than a P&S can offer.

[MrChad]

I've had folks with CF card type PS shoots ask me that same question.

I simply ask them to take a picture of something and then hand me their card. I'll shoot the same thing for them with my Drebel.

Then I tell them to go home and look at both JPEG's on the card, sometimes my one shot will fill the remainder of the card, ha ha :)

[jbkalla]

I've had folks with CF card type PS shoots ask me that same question.

I simply ask them to take a picture of something and then hand me their card. I'll shoot the same thing for them with my Drebel.

Then I tell them to go home and look at both JPEG's on the card, sometimes my one shot will fill the remainder of the card, ha ha :)

Yah, except my SD550 is 7MP, which takes up almost as much space as my XT in JPG format, though most people seem to be happy with their 4MP cameras...

[Togra4]

I don't think there is any reason to be rude assuming they asked the question in an inquiring manner.

"Why do you guys carry around those big cameras?"

"Well, I like to shoot sports and this baby shoots 5 frames per second [hold down shutter button]. It has nine focus points laid out in a diamond pattern so it can achieve focus much faster than the Point&Shoot you're holding plus it has a better low light working range."

"It supports interchangable lens so I can capture this entire landscape or I can switch my lens and zoom in to see what squirrel has in his mouth. No not that squirrel, the one behind him. Yeah that one."

"I can control my Depth of Field better and when I switch the ISO to 3200 I can take pictures in very low light without the use of a flash."

"But if it's really dark, I can attach my Speedlite and that gives me a flash range of up to about 190 feet as opposed to a Point&Shoot's range of about 15 feet."

"And when I'm in the studio, this camera has a PC sync connection that allows me to trigger my... Come back! There's more..."

Well put.....:)

[tweatherred]

This thread reminds me of a comment Ansel Adams made (I think it was in the documentary "Ansel Adams, Photographer") when asked what kind of camera he took into the field: "The biggest one I can carry".

[cfcRebel]

Just thought it might be fun to see what comebacks people could suggest.
I'll tell him, "Damn! That salesman in the camera store told me bigger camera takes better picture. What a rip off!"
Then i pretend i'm interested in his tiny winny P&S and ask him where i can find one.:p

[Michaelmjc]

So I can crush little cameras, kinda like the one you have.

[karusel]

That doesn't happen to me very often; maybe 5 times so far and none of them were negative except maybe one: the guy said something like: um, 10D? oh so that's the entry level camera? I just smiled and said, depends on your skill. ;) 100-400L extended does tend to draw attraction (you can literally feel heads turning), sometimes unwanted but this one time, and elderly man was curious about it so I gave him a peek through the viewfinder. I don't think people would talk to you about your gear with an intent to mock or diminish so whatever stupid question they ask try taking them seriously and answer plainly and shortly.

these 3 very attractive young ladies came up to me, demanding that I take their photos, I point blank refused, and told them that I don't "shoot" people. They harassed me for 5 minutes before giving up.

Sometimes it's best to run ;)

That must've been awful, gosh! :D

How could you refuse a pretty girl, oh wait, THREE pretty girls who wanted their photo taken, did you have fever? Skyscrapers and concrete aren't going anywhere but people are. 8 out of 10 photos I make have people on them.

[Choderboy]

I don't think there is any reason to be rude assuming they asked the question in an inquiring manner.

"Why do you guys carry around those big cameras?"

"Well, I like to shoot sports and this baby shoots 5 frames per second [hold down shutter button]. It has nine focus points laid out in a diamond pattern so it can achieve focus much faster than the Point&Shoot you're holding plus it has a better low light working range."

"It supports interchangable lens so I can capture this entire landscape or I can switch my lens and zoom in to see what squirrel has in his mouth. No not that squirrel, the one behind him. Yeah that one."

"I can control my Depth of Field better and when I switch the ISO to 3200 I can take pictures in very low light without the use of a flash."

"But if it's really dark, I can attach my Speedlite and that gives me a flash range of up to about 190 feet as opposed to a Point&Shoot's range of about 15 feet."

"And when I'm in the studio, this camera has a PC sync connection that allows me to trigger my... Come back! There's more..."

I have allready stated I am more than willing , in fact enthusiastic, to answer any genuine enquiry. I want to be clear about that :) I made the judgement that this was not a genuine enquiry though, more of a statement.

Some good comebacks in this thread. Too many good ones to single out any in particular. Maybe I could print all the responses out and carry a copy so I can just say "read this"

[and1145]

I was taking a few shots in the garden last summer, We had some friends round and their kids were playing with ours etc. Anyway one of the friends kids shouts "look dad he's got one of those old fashioned cameras !!!"

Kids are great !!!!!!!!!!1

[Steve Parr]

I find it annoying because they ask...

Well, then there's no way to address that, given that I'm not a psychiatrist. Honestly, and I mean no disrespect, getting pissed off because someone asks you a simple question is probably a hint that you shouldn't be amongst the general public.

Just an observation, and not intended as condemnation, so please don't take it that way.

Frankly, there's no reason to be rude or annoyed. It's an easy enough "situation" (and I hesitate to even call it a "situation") to handle. You can find out exactly where you stand by saying "Oh, are you interested in moving up to a DSLR?"

Their response will tell you if you're about to be helpful or not...

Steve

[jothefish]

I have had that question a couple of times and usually answer that I am obviously not as good a photographer as they are so I need all the help I can get!
Then I smile sweetly and walk away...

[Brownie]

I just tell them the truth: That I bought the 20D because my 10D felt a little lonely...

[Lord_Malone]

I don't think there is any reason to be rude assuming they asked the question in an inquiring manner.

"Why do you guys carry around those big cameras?"

"Well, I like to shoot sports and this baby shoots 5 frames per second [hold down shutter button]. It has nine focus points laid out in a diamond pattern so it can achieve focus much faster than the Point&Shoot you're holding plus it has a better low light working range."

"It supports interchangable lens so I can capture this entire landscape or I can switch my lens and zoom in to see what squirrel has in his mouth. No not that squirrel, the one behind him. Yeah that one."

"I can control my Depth of Field better and when I switch the ISO to 3200 I can take pictures in very low light without the use of a flash."

"But if it's really dark, I can attach my Speedlite and that gives me a flash range of up to about 190 feet as opposed to a Point&Shoot's range of about 15 feet."

"And when I'm in the studio, this camera has a PC sync connection that allows me to trigger my... Come back! There's more..."

LOL that's awesome.

[dgcorner]

That's the truth. Several times the very first question I've been asked is "does it take movies?".

I don't think my 20D looks particularly impressive, but it has proved to be a conversation piece. When visiting downtown Dallas last year strangers asked me about my camera. I found Texans particularly friendly but it was interesting that the camera caught their attention. So maybe that's good enough reason to have a "big" camera?

Everything is big in Texas -- have you tried their steaks?

Whereabouts in NZ are you?

[RTMiller]

True story (not G rated)... My friend and I were at the zoo last summer. I had my 20D and the 100-400L. I'm snapping away and she overhears a group of people talking under their breathe about "the guy with the big camera". One of them said, "I bet he has a small penis".

THAT'S why I carry a big camera (not)!:D

[cdifoto]

Well, then there's no way to address that, given that I'm not a psychiatrist. Honestly, and I mean no disrespect, getting pissed off because someone asks you a simple question is probably a hint that you shouldn't be amongst the general public.

Just an observation, and not intended as condemnation, so please don't take it that way.

Frankly, there's no reason to be rude or annoyed. It's an easy enough "situation" (and I hesitate to even call it a "situation") to handle. You can find out exactly where you stand by saying "Oh, are you interested in moving up to a DSLR?"

Their response will tell you if you're about to be helpful or not...

Steve

You pull a fraction of a sentence from my post, analyze it out of context, misinterpret it, and then have the audacity to say you think I don't belong around the general public?

Wow...

[ACDCROCKS]

The problem I have is that I get the stupid comment (really!) " I can get a camera for a dollar at the dollar store, why would you spent $3,000+ on a stupid camera?" any quick comment on this when people say this? I hate it when people critisize me when they say it. It's like asking Why would a race car drive put in a v8 when he could get a v6, it's totally dumb, does anyone agree?

[symes]

Steve,

I think you might be slightly missing the point...I think we all know the polite thing is to answer genuine questions...the ranting that is taking place here is directed at the condescending remarks, which suggests their camera is just as good as the big piece of equipement we all carry around...The ranting is also very similar to the ranting you would do among friends when you are frustrated...its like the "That camera takes nice pictures" comment...In the end I highly doubt many would say what they are suggesting...this is little more than a rant session with some buddies over a beer, only its taking place over a keyboards with even more anonymity, which allows people to be bolder...

Cheers,

[SuzyView]

I just found this thread and I am laughing myself silly. Great come backs, everyone! :)

I just bought my 20D with 24-70L and I haven't gone into public with it yet, but I know I will get comments because that lens with hood on is really something. People who see me coming with my bright blue sling bag and great stuff are genuinely happy for me. I have never gotten any questions like "Why a big camera?" I think because (and I am only assuming because I am a woman) most men who see women with great stuff aren't threatened by us. I feel absolutely fantastic when I have my gear with me and people just assume I know what I'm doing.

[Jon]

Steve,

I think you might be slightly missing the point...I think we all know the polite thing is to answer genuine questions...the ranting that is taking place here is directed at the condescending remarks, which suggests their camera is just as good as the big piece of equipement we all carry around...The ranting is also very similar to the ranting you would do among friends when you are frustrated...its like the "That camera takes nice pictures" comment...In the end I highly doubt many would say what they are suggesting...this is little more than a rant session with some buddies over a beer, only its taking place over a keyboards with even more anonymity, which allows people to be bolder...

Cheers,And with that said, I think this thread really belongs in "General Chat"

[queenbee288]

Steve,

I think you might be slightly missing the point...I think we all know the polite thing is to answer genuine questions...the ranting that is taking place here is directed at the condescending remarks, which suggests their camera is just as good as the big piece of equipement we all carry around...The ranting is also very similar to the ranting you would do among friends when you are frustrated...its like the "That camera takes nice pictures" comment...In the end I highly doubt many would say what they are suggesting...this is little more than a rant session with some buddies over a beer, only its taking place over a keyboards with even more anonymity, which allows people to be bolder...

Cheers,

Very well put.

[saravrose]

True story. My cousin recently sold some honda or hyundai car for roughly the same amount of money as my camera. He thought it was absolutely ridiculous that I would spend the same amount of money on a camera that he would a car. He then pulled out his 35mm from the back of his pick-up truck and said that his camera will take just as great photos. the next day he asked me to get him half a dozen 8x10 prints that I had taken of his daughter. Funny that he wanted mine.. considering that he was taking his own pictures :confused: :confused:
I don't argue with him, there's no point and in the end he appreciates what I do. But as for the not soo nice people that I encounter who say, "that's a 'big camera' for such a 'little girl'" I simply say... "this old thing? this is like the baby bear. so it suits me very well. You should see what the REAL cameras look like ;) ."

sari

[sqjaw]

Well when your in TEXAS everything has to be
BIG:D :D


That's the truth. Several times the very first question I've been asked is "does it take movies?".

I don't think my 20D looks particularly impressive, but it has proved to be a conversation piece. When visiting downtown Dallas last year strangers asked me about my camera. I found Texans particularly friendly but it was interesting that the camera caught their attention. So maybe that's good enough reason to have a "big" camera?

[cjm]

My response would be...

"Look at my hands! Big hands need a big camera!"

Its actually true. My hands are so large that I actually needed to buy the grip for my cameras because my hand is bigger then the camera itself. And don't get me started about the size of cell phones :evil:

[Choderboy]

Steve,

I think you might be slightly missing the point...I think we all know the polite thing is to answer genuine questions...the ranting that is taking place here is directed at the condescending remarks, which suggests their camera is just as good as the big piece of equipement we all carry around...The ranting is also very similar to the ranting you would do among friends when you are frustrated...its like the "That camera takes nice pictures" comment...In the end I highly doubt many would say what they are suggesting...this is little more than a rant session with some buddies over a beer, only its taking place over a keyboards with even more anonymity, which allows people to be bolder...

Cheers,

Thanks Symes

People do keep missing my comments such as:
"I'll bore people to tears talking about photography if I think they're interested"
"I am more than willing , in fact enthusiastic, to answer any genuine enquiry"

The thread was intended for people with a sense of humour which has been understood by most :)

cdi-ink.com got a free psychoanalysis for his light hearted input :lol:

[Steve Parr]

Steve, I think you might be slightly missing the point...I think we all know the polite thing is to answer genuine questions...the ranting that is taking place here is directed at the condescending remarks, which suggests their camera is just as good as the big piece of equipement we all carry around...The ranting is also very similar to the ranting you would do among friends when you are frustrated...its like the "That camera takes nice pictures" comment...In the end I highly doubt many would say what they are suggesting...this is little more than a rant session with some buddies over a beer, only its taking place over a keyboards with even more anonymity, which allows people to be bolder...

Cheers,

I don't think I'm missing the point at all.

What level of productivity evolves from getting annoyed at someone who asks that question? What positive outcome results in being angered or put off by being asked that question?

The simple fact of the matter is that some people simply don't know the difference between a P&S and a 1MK2 DS7 MOD-8 with a laser-rocket grip; they just don't.

So, there are two choices when asked about the 1MK2 DS7 MOD-8 with a laser-rocket grip: Get pissed off and annoyed and be condescending, or take a chance on the possibility that the person asking just simply doesn't know.

The point I'm making is simple: Nothing is lost by being polite, and nothing is gained by being rude...

[Steve Parr]

You pull a fraction of a sentence from my post, analyze it out of context, misinterpret it, and then have the audacity to say you think I don't belong around the general public?

Wow...

Damn impressive, ain't it?

[Steve Parr]

The thread was intended for people with a sense of humour which has been understood by most

Well, the fact of the matter is that I, as someone who walks around with a 300D or a 20D, grip, nice white lens, have been derided by others who have other more "professional" cameras. It happens. The comments made here were nothing more than that which I've actually experienced so.

Yeah, some of the responses were certainly posted as funny "one-liners" if you will. Others seemed to be from people who have little time for someone who doesn't have a fancy camera.

I'm not judgin', I'm just sayin'...

[Belmondo]

Just thought it might be fun to see what comebacks people could suggest.

The above is a direct quote from the OP's original post in this thread. I don't think there's any question that he intended this to be light-hearted. I see the debating society has decided to drag this down to some sort of a really silly serious discussion over what?

C'mon guys. Lighten up!!:lol::lol::lol::lol:

[dmp-potn]

Hello,

... But as for the not soo nice people that I encounter who say, "that's a 'big camera' for such a 'little girl'" I simply say... "this old thing? this is like the baby bear. so it suits me very well. You should see what the REAL cameras look like ;) ."

sari That's me as well. I mostly shoot with our Digital Rebel, while my wife shoots mostly with the 1D Mark II n. Of course, Phase One makes some nice digital backs. There's always something bigger/better in any hobby or job.

That said, most folks who ask about our cameras seem to be genuinely interested in knowing more instead of criticizing. They are always amazed to learn that the LCD display on the back can not be used to preview the shot before taking it, but when I explain that there's a mirror in the way, they walk away feeling like they've learned a handy bit of trivia.

O.k., so I'm in the "I'll bore you to tears with photography stuff if you don't stop me" camp as well. Cheers.

[elTwitcho]

That's funny, I've never had that question. I've had an attractive young woman tell me "hey that's a nice camera" as if she truly cared about the camera or knew the difference between it and a camcorder, but more often I have people ask "what are you taking pictures of". I HATE that question, not because it's being rude, or because I'm not glad to take some time out from what I'm doing to indulge somebody, but because the finer points of WHY someone would take a shot of a back alley, or a seat on a street corner or something like this (http://www.pbase.com/eltwitcho/image/57078592) just doesn't translate well to verbalizing. I usually end up looking completely daft when I say "well, I take pictures of stuff in the city, because it's neat, and all sorts of stuff not just this brick wall... well I try to make a... I usually..." and no bullcrap, I actually shouted at someone walking away from me "I take good photos! Honestly, I get 100 hits a day to my gallery!!!".

THAT I hate, I'll take having to explain the technical aspects of a DSLR over THAT any day of the week :D

[Steve Parr]

The above is a direct quote from the OP's original post in this thread. I don't think there's any question that he intended this to be light-hearted. I see the debating society has decided to drag this down to some sort of a really silly serious discussion over what?

C'mon guys. Lighten up!!:lol::lol::lol::lol:

Telling it like it is doesn't always work. As has been said already...eyes glaze over and they don't understand anyway so you're just wasting your breath. It's happened time and time again...and I find it annoying. I find it annoying because they ask...even though they KNOW they would have no idea what you're talking about even if you did provide them with an honest straightforward lesson. More often than not, these people that ask are the ones being snooty in the first place. It's rarely genuine interest.

Maybe it's just me, but I'm having a hard time finding the light-hearted silly part in there...

[Ronald S. Jr.]

My response would be...

"Look at my hands! Big hands need a big camera!"

Its actually true. My hands are so large that I actually needed to buy the grip for my cameras because my hand is bigger then the camera itself. And don't get me started about the size of cell phones :evil:

I'm the same way. I also wouldn't want to handle even the 20D without a grip. My last two fingers just hang below it. As for cell phones, I'm the same way. That's why I went with the treo 650. However, the darn buttons are just too small. I have to use the touchscreen to dial.

Worst part is, I'm a gadget freak. However, the gadgets I want are getting smaller and smaller. This would be good, but again...huge hands.

I just fumble and drop point and shoot cameras. Even if I weren't a working photographer, I'd have gotten a dslr. They're just...comfortable. :-)

[Belmondo]

I see two likely types of people asking the question:
1. People who are really interested,
2. People asking rehtorical questions while trying to make conversation. (My neighbors tend to do that when I take my camera on my walks.)

To the former, a serious answer is probably called for.
To the latter, I'd be tempted just to say, "I really can't afford those really expensive miniaturized cameras." They're probably not listening anyway.

[Citizensmith]

"Yeah nice point and shoot, very cute, like the one I got my son on his 6th birthday."

"Perfectly good photos you say (smirk), did you read the reviews on that model (sniker), but don't worry mate, it takes movies too." - Walks away laughing loudly.

[Ray.Petri]

Hi Everyone
Some amusing/interesting comments on this thread - although nothing really offensive..

Well I do not object to anyone stopping for a chat about my camera or photography, generally speaking people may really be interested and they may be interesting people - but I do try to keep my photography as inconspicuous as is possible, although, with a 20D up to the eye and a 100-400 hanging on the end of it it is not always very possible.

What I do most strongly object to, and it has only happened on two ocassions in slightly different ways - in the first instance I was asked in a large open country park what I was taking pictures of - it wasn't the question that annoyed me, but the way it was asked - I bit my tongue rather than answer "Taking pictures of the dogs fouling a public place and their owners letting them do it without clearing up"
Secondly, I was in a large wooded country park with my wife - and of course all the gear that was necessary to grab any wildlife shots hanging round my neck and was stalked by a couple of guys who seemed to think they had more right to be there than me (They were not park rangers). There are times when I would like to be 6'6" and built like a brick outhouse - as the saying goes.

Regards

[Rob612]

I've had folks with CF card type PS shoots ask me that same question.

I simply ask them to take a picture of something and then hand me their card. I'll shoot the same thing for them with my Drebel.

Then I tell them to go home and look at both JPEG's on the card, sometimes my one shot will fill the remainder of the card, ha ha :)

That's something I should try with the 5D in RAW+Jpeg mode :)

[dpastern]

Ray, I'm surprised at your problems. That's rather worrying, and borders on harassment. The last time I checked, Photography was still legally free in the open! Although - in Australia, if you want to take images in any of our national parks (and sell them), you MUST have a licence (which can be anywhere from $200/day to $4000/day, up front). Sadly, our professional photographers in Australia have rolled over and let our national parks introduce such legislation. It's very sad. It's solely an attempt to make money, nothing more, and nothing less. It's funny, no matter how man tries, he doesn't own nature.

Cheers,

Dave

edited: You don't have to be big to be efficient in a fight - some martial arts like Wing Chung Kung Fu or Hapkido are great for small people. In Muay Thai, the deadly fighters are the lightweights and bantam weights, with the bigger heavy weights far less mobile and agile. Size isn't everything. I could quite easily hold a big guy in a arm lock and break his elbow if I really had to, without much effort I might add, and the right nerve points when hit will mean that person can't move for a period of time.

[Ray.Petri]

Dave, are you really saying you have to obtain a licence to take take a few snaps in a national park or is it only if you sell the shots? Bloody hell; I thought people emigrated from this 'Thought Policed' country to Australia to get away from it all.
Part of problem I believe is that every amateur photographer is now regarded as some sort of pervert intent only on photgraphing children. I also hasten to add that in some situations - such as where there might children playing in the vicinity - I only feel comfortable when I have my grandchildren with me - its ok for the kids as it ensures they get quite a few extra outings. Most amateur photo magazines record cases as I'm sure you are aware.

Regards

[Belmondo]

You don't have to be big to be efficient in a fight - some martial arts like Wing Chung Kung Fu or Hapkido are great for small people. In Muay Thai, the deadly fighters are the lightweights and bantam weights, with the bigger heavy weights far less mobile and agile. Size isn't everything. I could quite easily hold a big guy in a arm lock and break his elbow if I really had to, without much effort I might add, and the right nerve points when hit will mean that person can't move for a period of time.
Charming. :rolleyes: ??? :eek: :shock: ;)

[condyk]

Bloody hell; I thought people emigrated from this 'Thought Policed' country to Australia to get away from it all.

That is a problem world-wide for the feeble minded.

[Ray.Petri]

Hi Condyk, I'm not sure of the implication of your reply. could you give a more explanatory note on it for me to realise your meaning - I think I left some of my IQ at the school I attended a long time ago when my first camera used glass plates for film and Queen Victoria was not such a distant memory - particularly in my grandfathers house.

[kampphoto]

Its reall fun to walk around in Winnipeg... now you must realize that Winnipeg isn't huge like maybe 700,000 people... maybe... anyways people see you with the 20D/Grip/70-200mm and automatically assume you work for a news paper... it gets you closer to the action because people move out because they assume you should be there =) hehehe.

[cdifoto]

You think 700,000 is "not huge"? My town is only ~5,500.

[lancea]

You think 700,000 is "not huge"? My town is only ~5,500. And you don't have any problem with people coming up to you and asking why your town is so small? ;) On the rare occasions when I travel overseas, the places I stay invariably have a population larger than my country.

Back on the subject in hand ... I never envy someone with a bigger camera+lens than I have and am surprised that anyone has experienced scornfull remarks. I envy people who quickly pull out a pocket camera at times when I haven't got one. For that reason, I take a little HP P&S into work with me every day, just in case something happens.

[Mr. E]

...to club people like you over the head...:evil:

Or, less violently...

I'm a clutz; it won't break as easily when I drop it:lol:

[cdifoto]

"I have a big camera so I don't confuse it with my credit card."

[dpastern]

You think 700,000 is "not huge"? My town is only ~5,500.

hahaha, tiny! Mate, the smallest place I've been in is (from memory) called Yancannia, 3 people - mum/dad and baby. Back of Bourke, really inhospitable territory. What us aussies call "outback" is a pretty good term to define it. :)

Most of the area is a national park as well, massive one at that (Sturt National Park from memory). I wish I'd had my camera gear when I went out there last (20 odd years ago as a young lad), because the skies at sunset are beautiful, and there is so much wildlife. One day I'll visit there again :-)

Dave

[GSH]

Charming. :rolleyes: ??? :eek: :shock: ;)


Indeed.

I thought this was one of those rare sites where people didn't feel the need to brag about their percieved fighting prowess, looks like i was wrong.

I carry a big camera in case i need to beat someone up with it. I do so HATE broken knuckles :rolleyes:

</sarcasm> ;)

[dpastern]

Ray,

In Australia, if you have ANY intention of selling your work (and I mean intention), then, YES, you are meant to purchase a license to allow you to shoot. Even if you haven't sold anything. Money up front please is the motto of the various parks and association management team/state governments. Disgusting eh? What makes it worse is that there's no standard fee, it changes from national park to national park, state to state, it's a "we can make any rule we like" syndrome I'm afraid. It's disgusting, and our professional photographers association of Australia has taken this without a fight. Myself, I'll break the law when it comes to idiocy like this - I'm a firm believe in civil disobedience is sometimes required for idiotic, money grabbing laws like this. You don't own the land, no one does. It was here before us, and it'll be here long after us (sorry, that's my Aboriginal ancestry coming out). Imagine if the US government started charging for photographical permission of Yellowstone National Park? What an uproar there'd be! Of course, our National Parks are trying to justify the charges by arguing that:

1. You're making a profit from the nation park, why can't we get a % of it?

2. We need the money to help run the national park etc

What the hell do I pay taxes for then? And entry fees to [some] National Parks? It really disgusts me. Talk about double dipping!!!

Oh, and it gets worse Ray. Much worse. Local councils have cottoned onto the idea now, so now it's illegal to take photographs in your local council with intent to sell for a fee, without a permit. Again, costs are all over the place, and change from council to council. If you buy a permit in one council, it doesn't cover you for ANY other council. What gives!!!

Oh, and it gets worse. You MUST have indemnification insurance covering you up to ten million dollars (not cheap, upwards of a grand in Australia per year). Wah?

I don't get it.

Cheers,

Dave

edited: I forgot to mention, that with the national parks, the permit only covers you for one national park, other ones aren't covered. NSW (the state that I live in), does offer a license for all national parks I believe, but other states don't, it's done by national park to national park, so, in theory, say in WA, you'd have 20 different national parks, and you've have to pay a fee for each and *every* one of them if you wanted to shoot in all of them. Places like Uluru (Ayers Rock to some, I prefer the Aboriginal name for obvious reasons) are treated specially, with a day shooting permit costing you a cool 4 grand! And dig this - the government has the right to use your image, free of charge, as much as it likes, whether you like it or not!!!

Dave, are you really saying you have to obtain a licence to take take a few snaps in a national park or is it only if you sell the shots? Bloody hell; I thought people emigrated from this 'Thought Policed' country to Australia to get away from it all.
Part of problem I believe is that every amateur photographer is now regarded as some sort of pervert intent only on photgraphing children. I also hasten to add that in some situations - such as where there might children playing in the vicinity - I only feel comfortable when I have my grandchildren with me - its ok for the kids as it ensures they get quite a few extra outings. Most amateur photo magazines record cases as I'm sure you are aware.

Regards

[Steve Parr]

edited: You don't have to be big to be efficient in a fight - some martial arts like Wing Chung Kung Fu or Hapkido are great for small people. In Muay Thai, the deadly fighters are the lightweights and bantam weights, with the bigger heavy weights far less mobile and agile. Size isn't everything. I could quite easily hold a big guy in a arm lock and break his elbow if I really had to, without much effort I might add, and the right nerve points when hit will mean that person can't move for a period of time.

I carry a gun. That way my hair won't get mussed up...

[lancea]

You MUST have indemnification insurance covering you up to ten million dollars Strewth! I'll be visiting the Sydney Opera House during the week and apart from at the concert (where I assume photography is not permitted) I expect my 20D will accompany me. I'm preparing for the worst because I have not filled out this form (http://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/sections/media_room/media_visits_filming/onsitefilm.asp?sm=5&ss=24)! :rolleyes: I'm assuming it applies to still photography as well because magazines generally don't print movies ... I do like the bit about a $AU10M policy. I don't think I look like a pro but I have been mistaken for one several times before thanks to my BIG camera. :grin: Anyway, I've heard NSW policeman are really nice so I'm not expecting any trouble :mrgreen:

It brings back memories of the Dallas Art Gallery where I was just about to leave and pointed my camera down a long passage to take a strictly architectural shot. A voice came from behind me "Whad are ya shootin'?" I explained how I was just taking a long shot of the building. "You can't shoot that, that statue's on loan". Way down the end was a statue. I explained it was a wide-angle lens and that I'd confirmed that I could take general photos when I bought my ticket. "Ask again" he said, "Ya can't shoot that". Mumbling to myself I left, but I'm pretty darn sure if I hadn't had such a prominent lens (the 17-40) he would have believed I was just taking a general shot. Instead it probably looked like I was zooming-in on the distant statue.

[Ray.Petri]

Dave/Iancea, Truly unbelievable the attitudes of governments and local authorities. Dave, what happens to a tourist, like I might be, for instance, if take a few snaps and sell them in the UK, would the Australlian Embassy be hot on my tail or would I be extradited to face charges in your country? What the hell are they achieving except ailienating the general public. The rule makers are usully 'insignificant-in-real-life' little no-bodies with bugger-all to do except sit around their tables claiming all the expenses going - and making more rules and regulations to be complied with. I wouldn't put it past our govt or local authorities to make similar laws - freedom is being erroded daily by stealth.
What is the indemnity for? Are the parks covered against claims in case one of their poisonous creepy-crawlies get you or an ostrich takes a peck at your lens?

Regarding photographing in buildings such as museums etc: surely any people taking pictures for magazines etc would seek permission so that they were admitted to areas for the best shots. Amateur photography can only bring good publicity surely as it makes people more aware of the venue when the pictures are shown around.

I recently took my grandson to visit HMS Victory (of 1805 fame), a no photography rule was in force - Why? The local official said he was sorry, but, rules are rules. The admission fee was not cheap either and there was no top level technology there that I could sell photos of as we are not at war with France anymore - so I am told. I am sure a few flashes would have made little impact on the wooden walls that withstood so many battles in the past.

Cheers indeed!

[PhotosGuy]

The rule makers are usully 'insignificant-in-real-life' little no-bodies with bugger-all to do except sit around their tables claiming all the expenses going - and making more rules and regulations to be complied with. I think they multiply like cell division. 1=2=4=8=16...
Why a big camera? Because, with the 28-70 f/2.8 & hood on it people just get out of my way? :D

I once was told by a Mavica owner that she got great 8X10" pictures from it. They were all stored in a 1.44MB disk if you remember that camera.

[sinister]

I find if you have a pink Mohican, people tend to leave you alone*

*(except very little old ladies who seem to have a point to prove);)

[Jaymz]

What is a "pink Mohican"?

[Citizensmith]

I once was told by a Mavica owner that she got great 8X10" pictures from it. They were all stored in a 1.44MB disk if you remember that camera.

I remember those cameras. I used to have one at work and boy did it suck to have to use discs. It would fit 3 to 5 shots on a disc as they were always heavily compressed. It almost always seemed to end up with file number reset on it as well so after a days shooting you would have a ton of the same file numbers. Eventually we bought a Sony memory stick and a floppy adapter that made life a lot easier. Of course very shortly after that I persuaded the boss to let me start buying powershots instead.

[Wilt]

>>Approached by somebody who asked "why do you guys carry around those big camers? I've got a little camera that takes perfectly good pictures.."<<

Reply: Ask yourself what are all the reasons why pros shoot with cameras like this, and not with Point-and-shoots like yours, and when you find out you will understand.

[Wilt]

>>I recently took my grandson to visit HMS Victory (of 1805 fame), a no photography rule was in force - Why? The local official said he was sorry, but, rules are rules.<<

Possible reasons for no-photo rule besides the 'light fade from thousands of flashed'

1. The place is a 'shrine' and no-photo rul is in reverence of the shrine
2. No-flash rule would congest flow of traffic as photographers set up tripods, and possible cause accidents as people trip over others' tripods (ergo the no-tripod rule!)
3. They want to boost the sales of photos in the museum store

[jlacoy82]

>>I recently took my grandson to visit HMS Victory (of 1805 fame), a no photography rule was in force - Why? The local official said he was sorry, but, rules are rules.<<

Possible reasons for no-photo rule besides the 'light fade from thousands of flashed'

1. The place is a 'shrine' and no-photo rul is in reverence of the shrine
2. No-flash rule would congest flow of traffic as photographers set up tripods, and possible cause accidents as people trip over others' tripods (ergo the no-tripod rule!)
3. They want to boost the sales of photos in the museum store

I'm gonna go with #3. :D

"I need a big camera because it makes me feel important." :lol:

[JaertX]

This summer I was fortunate enough to get to work in a little nook of BFE Nebraska. :rolleyes:

My wife and daughter were there for the most part of it, but I was up there for a month alone, so I built an 8x10 pinhole camera out of foam core and duct tape. :lol:

I went up to Lincoln (which is a really nice town) and hauled it around for a few Saturdays...I got a LOT of interested people. It was pretty funny to see what some people had to say...everything from thinking it was an old "real" camera to other photographers that had never built one but always wanted and others that had built pinhole cameras in school as science experiments. It really was fun. I still have it up in my attic...I think the dimensions of it were 18" x 12" x 16". Too bad I didn't get many worthwhile images out of it...it did get a lot of unwanted attention.

[lancea]

What is a "pink Mohican"? See this (http://www.alamy.com/stock_photography/4/1/Gianni+Muratore/AY7TAE.html). Times have changed. Many many years ago when I was at high school, our principal had what we termed a "moho", but I think it was natural baldness and not a social statement.

[Tdragone]

While following the Tour of California; I rode up San Marcos pass outside Santa Barbara. After climbing miles of hills to get to a spot I chose the day before; people stared at me when out of my camelback I took out my 20D and 100-400 lens; then my 70-200. Thet started making comments about overcompensation and some more stupid comments. Other cyclists brought their p/s cameras and thought they were good. They harassed me all afternoon; then the action started as the lead group came by. I shot away and got some sweet shots; while they stood there in frustration while their camera tried to focus while the PRO cyclists climbed at ~ 20mph up the grade.

After the peloton came through some asked to see my pix. After ~ 10 minutes of chimping; I gave a few of them my email address and have shared some of my pix. I don't think they will harass anyone again with a big camera/lens

[Jaymz]

See this (http://www.alamy.com/stock_photography/4/1/Gianni+Muratore/AY7TAE.html). Times have changed. Many many years ago when I was at high school, our principal had what we termed a "moho", but I think it was natural baldness and not a social statement.

Ahh I see, that was called a Mohawk around here, I did have a feeling thats what it meant, but just wanted to make sure. Thanks :)

[dpastern]

hehehe, that's a brilliant way of encouraging other photographers to consider using SLRs. The quality of the images proves to them that the better gear will usually make it easier to take a better shot, with a better hit/miss ratio than a PS (as a general rule). I bet some of them are out there now, considering buying a nice lil 350D etc ;)

Cheers,

Dave

While following the Tour of California; I rode up San Marcos pass outside Santa Barbara. After climbing miles of hills to get to a spot I chose the day before; people stared at me when out of my camelback I took out my 20D and 100-400 lens; then my 70-200. Thet started making comments about overcompensation and some more stupid comments. Other cyclists brought their p/s cameras and thought they were good. They harassed me all afternoon; then the action started as the lead group came by. I shot away and got some sweet shots; while they stood there in frustration while their camera tried to focus while the PRO cyclists climbed at ~ 20mph up the grade.

After the peloton came through some asked to see my pix. After ~ 10 minutes of chimping; I gave a few of them my email address and have shared some of my pix. I don't think they will harass anyone again with a big camera/lens

[dpastern]

I'm not sure what would happen to a tourist or not, technically, you'd still be breaking the law, but I doubt that they'd hunt you down, the costs are just not worth it. Unfortunately, us Aussies get stuffed around by it. What really makes me angry is that our professional photographers just took it all and lied down. They might be making enough money to pay for it all, but someone who's starting out, certainly doesn't. It's another "big boys club" I'm afraid. Why should I pay the government for something in advance that might not even happen? I mean, just cos I take an image with the intent to sell, doesn't mean that I will. Anything else in life, you don't pay for it unless you get something back out of it. The bit where the government can use your shots, free of charge, as much as they like (and you can't do anything about it), is against ALL copyright laws. It makes me very angry, but sadly, the bastards that do this type of thing are a law unto their own. Give me ten minutes with them alone and I'm sure I can "persuade" them of the error of their ways *grins*.

As to the HMS Victory exhibition, I can understand flash (if you let one do it, they've all gotta be allowed to do it, it's only fair). The repetitive flash will damage the wood over time. Why they can't have a photography dedicated section, so you can set up a tripod, out of the way of general public, and take a shot like that, is annoying. Of course, #3, they want money is the culprit. A public monument, and you can't take images of it. Disgraceful.

Dave

Dave/Iancea, Truly unbelievable the attitudes of governments and local authorities. Dave, what happens to a tourist, like I might be, for instance, if take a few snaps and sell them in the UK, would the Australlian Embassy be hot on my tail or would I be extradited to face charges in your country? What the hell are they achieving except ailienating the general public. The rule makers are usully 'insignificant-in-real-life' little no-bodies with bugger-all to do except sit around their tables claiming all the expenses going - and making more rules and regulations to be complied with. I wouldn't put it past our govt or local authorities to make similar laws - freedom is being erroded daily by stealth.
What is the indemnity for? Are the parks covered against claims in case one of their poisonous creepy-crawlies get you or an ostrich takes a peck at your lens?

Regarding photographing in buildings such as museums etc: surely any people taking pictures for magazines etc would seek permission so that they were admitted to areas for the best shots. Amateur photography can only bring good publicity surely as it makes people more aware of the venue when the pictures are shown around.

I recently took my grandson to visit HMS Victory (of 1805 fame), a no photography rule was in force - Why? The local official said he was sorry, but, rules are rules. The admission fee was not cheap either and there was no top level technology there that I could sell photos of as we are not at war with France anymore - so I am told. I am sure a few flashes would have made little impact on the wooden walls that withstood so many battles in the past.

Cheers indeed!

[lancea]

Ahh I see, that was called a Mohawk around here You're absolutely correct, and I think that's what we called it too. I had no idea till looking it up that punks refer to their hairstyle by the same name. It seems the "Mohican" is the British term. Someone went to all this trouble to put such vital info on Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mohawk_hairstyle)!

[Choderboy]

.... Then started making comments about overcompensation and some more stupid comments.

The overcompensating comment is just too easy...it's my most common response to a "big" comment as I suspect that's what they are thinking anyway :)

[simatbirch]

"Actually, it's the lenses that are big."

lol - nice.

[Oliver Dugayo]

dOES IT MATTER IN CARRYING those big cameras in town>??

well, if the guy with big cameras wanted to shoot a great and exceptional one...he should carry though it's more heavier compared with those smaller digital cameras...LOL...

How I wish I could have those big cameras...in my dream..LOL

[kampphoto]

You think 700,000 is "not huge"? My town is only ~5,500.

I grew up in a town of 1,200... just the 700,000 is small in comparison to many American cities of easily 1 million plus.

[StarFinder]

I get stared at a lot when I'm out and about, and back when I was in school, due to the fact that I would walk around sporting a 350D with a grip, 420EX flash, and 70-200mm f/2.8L USM lens, and an Elan 7NE with either my Tamron 70-300mm f/4-5.6 or my 50mm f/1.8. People for the most part aren't rude about it, they usually just ask me if I'm a professional. I usually just smile and say that nope, I'm more of a photography student than anything else. The kids in school on the other hand have made all sorts of stupid/rude comments like "Why do you need such a big camera? My point and shoot does the same stuff and it's way smaller!" and "Does it make movies too? It doesn't? What a pile of crap!" and "You're stupid/crazy for spending so much on that camera when my point and shoot does the same thing"

In most cases I try to explain the benefits of an SLR camera but most of them don't get it, so I just snap a photo of them and show them a preview on the LCD. That usually shuts them up. If that doesn't work, I show them my portfolio of photo prints. Then they usually won't leave me alone until I take photos of them. Bleh.

Out and about in the city, folks don't bug me much, infact they seem pretty impressed by my gear. In school, they annoy me and drive me up the walls, either with stupid questions/comments, or bug me for photos.

When people actually are genuinely interested in my gear, I take the time to explain it to them. When folks ask stupid questions, I still take the time to explain it to them. Usually it just confuses them or bores them to death, but either way they learn to leave me alone ;)

[entrefoto]

I don't think i've ever received the "Why such a big camera" question, however, i always get people commenting on how nice of equipment it is. (especailly at my age of only 21). Just today i was shooting a performing arts event at a local high school and the guy sitting next to me said "i bet you get mad when that thing falls and hits the ground" i was like...yeah, thank god it hasn't happened yet! a few minutes later he said "well if your camera stops working, i'll let you borrow mine" (referring to his nikon 5600 P&S). I just laughed, said ok and gave him the thumbs up and proceeded to fire away at 5fps.

[Double Negative]

Hey, I used to have a Mohawk (Mohican) - for several years. :D

[fomoz]

its all about depth of field

[cjm]

I'm the same way. I also wouldn't want to handle even the 20D without a grip. My last two fingers just hang below it. As for cell phones, I'm the same way. That's why I went with the treo 650. However, the darn buttons are just too small. I have to use the touchscreen to dial.

Worst part is, I'm a gadget freak. However, the gadgets I want are getting smaller and smaller. This would be good, but again...huge hands.

I just fumble and drop point and shoot cameras. Even if I weren't a working photographer, I'd have gotten a dslr. They're just...comfortable. :-)

Just to respond to this old response...

I know exactly what you mean about a gripless 20D. When I first got it after using a 10D with Grip I hated how my last two fingers "fell" off. And when I put my 300mm IS lens on it, forget about it! I could barely grip it steady.

I do use "those small tiny cameras" all the time, in fact the A85 is my ideal size for a cell phone then again I can hold those camers with my giant hands because they are light. My hands are one reason I went with a Olympus C7070 instead of a G6 because it is a little taller.

Ok back to the come backs..

[Ronald S. Jr.]

Yeah, you know, the treo 650 is huge, as far as current model cell phones go, but I wish it was a bit thicker. Still seems to fumble around in my hand.

Also, I wish the grip on my 20D was deeper where your fingers curl around to the front. It's still not big enough to be truly comfortable. Anyone know if the 1-series grips are any deeper on that "bump" on the right end? My fingers are just too long for the 20D grip.

[APG-Angus]

I read somewhere that even the cheap digital compacts have better optics than Ansel Adams ever dreamed of, this could just be a load of crap, I have no idea. But I think the best answer is "because I can". As an amateur astronomer I know I have a better telescope than Galileo, am I as good an astronomer, yeah right! I mean why do some people surf the web with 3.5 GHz processors and Geforce 6800 Ultra's? Because sometimes we just want the best we can afford and have just enough know-how to make it worth it. We like what we do and we do what we want. If that doesn't work, then make their ears bleed. Personally, I do not like to let others see my BIG camera and LONG lens, I try to keep them covered up, but then again, I don't walk around naked either.

[Steve Parr]

Yeah, you know, the treo 650 is huge, as far as current model cell phones go, but I wish it was a bit thicker. Still seems to fumble around in my hand.

I hate the Treo.

The size is fine. I can shoot video, take pictures, send e-mail, and surf the web.

All I wanna' do is make a freakin' phone call.

My company gave the Treo to all of the Regional Managers, but I'm going to look into getting rid of it. All the nifty functions of e-mail and web-surfing don't work in Canada, which is where I spend the majority of my time these days.

Just gimme' a phone; that's all I need...

[Choderboy]

its all about depth of field

That's what I usually start with for "sincere" big camera questions.

[karusel]

My camera is so big because it ate the one I had before.

[PhotosGuy]

even the cheap digital compacts have better optics than Ansel Adams ever dreamed of, this could just be a load of crap, I have no idea. Possibly true. I have no idea how good the lenses on "cheap digital compacts" are. Thing is, Adams' 8X10" cam did have lousy(?!) lenses compared to ones for 35mm since pics didn't have to be blown up as much. Medium format cams fell somewhere in between. OTOH, those lenses covered a larger area film than the 35mm ones did, so a lens for 35 would be lousy on an 8X10 cam. ;)

[Double Negative]

I would say lenses usually scale well across 35mm, 120/220 and view cameras. They have more room to work with than any P&S for one thing, and don't have to be cheap. Of course there's good and bad lenses in any format though...

It's all in the size of the negative - the less you have to blow it up, the sharper it'll be and the less grain you'll have. You can also resolve an awful lot more with huge negatives for the oposite reason - you've got a bigger image circle (think larger CMOS).

[johnnybfan]

It's testosterone, baby! :):):)

[saravrose]

It's testosterone, baby! :):):)


now, that makes sense for all you musclebound men.... but what about us girls?? :D :D :D :D ....



wait I know.. because ladies should always get what makes them happy... some ladies like diamonds and fancy clothes... but us POTN ladies like DSLR's...

sari.