A few questions

[Chris P Bacon]

Hi,

I'm a complete newb at photography but I've had my 300d for about a week and I'm loving it :D But I've noticed on this forum you sometimes talk of a software hack so can you please tell me,

1. What does it do?
2. Can it damage my camera?
3. Will it screw up my warranty
4. Where can I get it :)

and can you also recommend a lens for general wildlife photograhy (rabbits, ducks and stuff). And finally why is there a huge difference in tripod prices, should a go for a mid price one or spend a bit extra.

Thanks

[sGu]

I can't tell you anything on firmware hacks, but if you are looking for a nice, versatile, affordable wildlife lens, 100-400mm f4.5-5.6 IS L is the one to go, primes are way too expensive, unless money is no object, with 300D's 1.6x multiplier, you'll get as far as 640mm!!!

About tripod, the lighter and more steadier, the more expensive it'll get, if i were you, i'd throw couple of extra money on it, for a peace of mind.

[msvadi]

regarding the hack, what it does, and where to get, visit this web-page: http://www.bahneman.com/liem/photos/tricks/digital-rebel-tricks.html

regarding the warranty, I had to send my camera for service. Canon fixed the camera for free, despite the fact that I had a hack installed.


Hi,

I'm a complete newb at photography but I've had my 300d for about a week and I'm loving it :D But I've noticed on this forum you sometimes talk of a software hack so can you please tell me,

1. What does it do?
2. Can it damage my camera?
3. Will it screw up my warranty
4. Where can I get it :)

and can you also recommend a lens for general wildlife photograhy (rabbits, ducks and stuff). And finally why is there a huge difference in tripod prices, should a go for a mid price one or spend a bit extra.

Thanks

[robertwgross]

For the 300D, the kit lens ought to be a general purpose lens. As you start trying to go after wildlife, you will tend toward the longer lenses.

I think I am in the minority about tripods. Lots of folks here will invest in a very good tripod, then invest more in a very good ball head for the top. I'm sure the very good ones are ultra-stable.

However, I have different needs. I can use any good tripod to shoot a wedding, but when I head out on a nature trail, my tripod needs have changed. First of all, it must be lightweight enough that I can carry it either in my left hand or else on one side of my backpack. I must be able to erect it in no time flat. It must have a quick release mount. If a wrong tripod prevents me from getting a shot, then it is wrong all the way around for me. Some tripods will not extend up to your eye height, so they are wrong also.

Despite these requirements, I found one that does it all, and it is inexpensive. Then due to the quick release mounts, I bought a second one to use just for weddings. That way, all of my camera bodies and long lenses have the same system. The wedding tripod stays shiny, and the outdoor tripod gets beaten up a bit.

---Bob Gross---