MLU and self-timer

[msvadi]

Sorry for a naive question. I never had a DSLR and I'm considering to purchase a DRebel. My question is as follows. The DRebel does not have the mirror lock up function, but it has a self-timer. So, I wonder if a self-timer can be a solution to the mirror vibration problem. Thanks.

[defordphoto]

No. The mirror-slap will still be an issue just as if you pressed the shutter button yourself.

[Scottes]

The mirror slap will be the same, but hand-shake will be gone. Mirror slap supposedly only affects a particular shutter speed range (1/8-1/30?), whereas handshake generally affects just about everything (well, at least up to 1/focal_length).

[msvadi]

Thanks for the comments guys.

Did I understand you correctly that the mirror slap affects only some range of shutter speeds? and with, for example, 1 sec exposure it's not a problem? I wonder how it's possible.

Thanks

[Scottes]

I remember that it's range, and I should be clearer saying that it's WORST in that range. It can affect just about anything.

Hmmm... Found on the web:
"With regard to mirror slap vibration, studies have shown that
shutter speeds in the 1/8 - 1/15 second range are the absolute worst, since
that is very close to the time it takes the mirror to damp out its
vibration. Shorter or longer is better."

For me, it doesn't really matter what the speed is - if I'm taking a stable* tripod shot, I set MLU on and use a remote release or Timer, which is 2 sec if MLU is enabled. (Unless I'm really lazy, or at extreme shutter speeds in either direction.)


*Like landscapes or macro, but not when I'm chasing ducks and geese.

[msvadi]

Thanks!
now I have to decide if MLU is worth extra $500 ...

[Scottes]

Thanks!
now I have to decide if MLU is worth extra $500 ...

I wouldn't say the MLU is worth it alone, since there are much cheaper ways to get around it.

1) Set your aperture different in order to change the shutter speed to get away from the "slap range"
2) Change your ISO up or down a stop to get away from the "slap range"
3) Get a set of Neutral Density filters to simply lower the shutter speed, allowing you to keep the same image and DoF that you desired in the first place.
4) These won't cover *all* situations...

But there are other things in the 10D which might be worth the extra cash. If none of those convince you, then you'll have cash left over towards L lenses. :)

[msvadi]

Thanks, Scottes :)