Red-Ringed Tupperware Party with (ineffective) Tin Foil Hats

[Woolburr]

Just because "they" said it couldn't be done..."what makes the difference between a snapshot and a photograph?"

[Permagrin]

Just because "they" said it couldn't be done..."what makes the difference between a snapshot and a photograph?"

good question. Thought & planning? When I snapshot, I see something and "capture" it before it's gone. When I photograph something, I plan for lighting and composition, look for the "ugly" in the shot...

that was the all I could think of, that I do different (but I'm not a pro so I'm sure there's a lot more)

[Woolburr]

I guess for me it boils down to this...All snapshots are photographs, but not all photographs are snapshots. The problem is really just one of semantics. Snapshot implies hurried or without a lot of thought put into it. Photograph really just implies any image captured with a camera. Looks like we need a new term for those carefully thought out, well crafted and properly created images. Oh wait...maybe that is what a masterpiece is!

[wu_wei0]

Firemen are your friends. :cool:
I kinda always thought they could be. ;)
Better than Dr. Dangle It.;)
Hmmmmm . . . what is his specialty?
I guess for me it boils down to this...All snapshots are photographs, but not all photographs are snapshots. The problem is really just one of semantics. Snapshot implies hurried or without a lot of thought put into it. Photograph really just implies any image captured with a camera. Looks like we need a new term for those carefully thought out, well crafted and properly created images. Oh wait...maybe that is what a masterpiece is!

Gotta agree with you here. Photograph refers to the tool with which an image was created. Snapshots= ~wu's stuff. :lol:

[Mike]

An interesting time to visit this thread...Dr. Dangle it and the fireman's pole???

[Woolburr]

Never know what you might read or learn here.

[Woolburr]

I kinda always thought they could be. ;)

Hmmmmm . . . what is his specialty?


Gotta agree with you here. Photograph refers to the tool with which an image was created. Snapshots= ~wu's stuff. :lol:

Oh stop....sheeeeeeeeeeeeesh....:rolleyes:

[wu_wei0]

Oh stop....sheeeeeeeeeeeeesh....:rolleyes:

THere was a laughy face there!! :rolleyes::cool: no need to sheeeeeeeeesh!:lol::p
I like my stuff- when I take time to shoot.:)

[wu_wei0]

So ---what is Dr Dangle It's specialty?

[Claire]

Whassup folks?

[wu_wei0]

Not much, it seems. I am in dire need of chocolate!

[tommykjensen]

Whassup folks?

I posted a couple photos here of a friend I bumped into today when I was photographing "fastelavn" in Copenhagen.

[Claire]

Not much, it seems. I am in dire need of chocolate!

I have a bar of Marabou chocolate by my bed now... ;) Not eating though.

I posted a couple photos here of a friend I bumped into today when I was photographing "fastelavn" in Copenhagen.

What is "fastelavn"?

[tommykjensen]

I have a bar of Marabou chocolate by my bed now... ;) Not eating though.



What is "fastelavn"?

Its a little like halloween just without the scary part of it. Kids dress up and hit on barrels with a bat. The photos are here: http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=278029

[Claire]

I've never heard of it before Tommy. Cool!

[Maureen Souza]

I am home from the Dr.'s. No big surprises...bronchitis and a roaring ear infection. Took some Vicodin elixir and am now loopy...going to take a nap.

[Lightstream]

moooooooooorning all.


I don't know if any of you mentally go thru your shoot and try and extract the lessons learned, even while the files are downloading or the RAW is cooking. (no RAW today though). For me, that's what I do.. and it has helped me all the way from the day I first unpacked my 350D.

I'm sharing these with RRTP in the hope that someone may find them useful. Of course if you folks would prefer that I can it (as in, the Permagrin automatic trashcan), that's ok too - just let me know :)

Not everybody will agree with these conclusions. They're my experiences.. just one person's experiences.

I went to a night event and took just a 28/1.8 and 85/1.8. Nothing else. I sincerely wish I could say that the primes made the shoot possible, but I can't. They did well, but at the end of the day, they're still primes. There are really only two primes I ever fell in love with - my 300/4 ISL and 60 macro.

Events like these are usually chaotic and unscripted. Weddings are organized chaos (Al Jacobs ;) ), events here are more akin to a stampede when the PJ either gets out of the way and gets the shot or gets stomped on (occasionally all of the above) ;) Events are just PURE chaos. :D

I've found being able to react to the situation is important. You cannot always be guaranteed a ringside seat or priviledged access - so sometimes you will need to shoot from extremely disadvantaged positions. A zoom to zoom past the heads of the crowd is extremely useful. Then at times the subject will pop up in your face and you need to be able to zoom back in an instant.

Lighting was fairly extreme. 1/60 sec at f/1.8 wide open ISO 3200 - this is my rig backed all the way up against the absolute last stops. Interestingly I had someone next to me shooting the 24-70, so after it was all over I stopped him and we had a wonderful conversation about the 24-70. Turned out he was shooting my exact rig down to the 5D. The 24-70 was tremendously useful in grabbing the over-the-head-of-the-crowd shots including being able to precisely adjust framing. I know you can crop in post, but an 85/1.8 can't zoom BACK and there is a limit to how far you can 'digital zoom' a 28/1.8.

A zoom is a compromise in terms of weight and max aperture. Absolutely top notch zooms like the 24-70 have narrowed the optical quality gap to the point where it is a hard fight for the consumer (non-L) primes. But after tonight I'm deciding that these are the compromises I am willing to live with. There is a 1 and 1/3rd stop difference and for MY intents and purposes it really is a 1 stop difference.

I asked him about his metering and shutter speeds and he was experiencing pretty much that - 1 stop different from mine shooting side by side with the same rig. Both of us had overridden the built-in meters so much that we were practically shooting manual metering using eye judgement, so I think it was a fair comparison. (technically the cameras were in Av but we were doing the driving!)

I've come to the conclusion, after backing my rig up against the absolute limits, that there are some situations that simply cannot be tackled with the flash. As someone once said about the Leica Noctilux f/1.0 (one point ZERO.. ), that is the only lens that could seemingly 'make light where there was none'. I'm not going that far. I could probably press a 50/1.2L into service or lose my mind completely and hunt down a classic 50/1.0L - but I really don't think I will. ;)

Day shoot: http://www.photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?p=2723833

Night shoot coming along shortly.

Now it's a decision - 24-70 on 5D vs 17-55 on 30D (again, note they'll both be attached to their respective platforms)

Canon just needs to come out with the no compromise 24-85 f/2.8 ISL and then we'll all be set - I can have cake and eat it :P

[gjl711]

I have a bar of Marabou chocolate by my bed now... ;) Not eating though.



What is "fastelavn"? I love Marabou chocolate. Do you have the plain or the one with Hazelnuts?

[Woolburr]

Wiki tells us that fastelavn is:

Fastelavn is a Danish holiday that is celebrated seven weeks before Easter Sunday. It originates in the Catholic tradition of Carnival, and the name derives from German Fastelabend ("night before fast"). It used be a large feast to celebrate the beginning of Lent. Today, however, it might be described as a Danish Halloween with children dressing up in costumes and trick-or-treating or gatherings treats for the Fastelavn feast.

Other traditional aspects include slå katten af tønden ("hit the cat out of the barrel"), which is somewhat similar to a piñata, except that there is a wooden barrel, which is full of candy and has the image of a cat on it. Historically there was a real black cat in the barrel, and beating it was superstitiously considered a safeguard against evil. After the candy pours out, the game continues until the entire barrel is broken. The one who knocks down the last piece of the barrel become kattekonge ("king of cats") or kattedronning ("queen of cats").

A popular baked good associated with the day is Fastelavnsbolle (lit. "Fastelavns bun", also known in English as "shrovetide bun" or "lenten bun"), a round sweet roll usually covered with icing and filled with cream. Similar buns are eaten in other northern European countries, for example the Swedish Semla.

Clobbering cats with a stick sounds interesting...almost as much fun as cross-threading them!

OK Tommy...Where are the cat whacking shots?

[Belmondo]

Wiki tells us that fastelavn is:



Clobbering cats with a stick sounds interesting...almost as much fun as cross-threading them!Devious..sinister...PETA wants your phone number

[Lightstream]

Wool....I'm getting the night shoot PP'ed and ready to upload for ya.

[Woolburr]

Devious..sinister...PETA wants your phone number

I suspect your name is on their list as well Chief...:D

[Lightstream]

http://www.photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?p=2726442#post2726442

[Woolburr]

http://www.photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?p=2726442#post2726442

Noted and quoted!;)

[JSolie]

I've always wanted a desk made from the wood of another thing. You know, like a desk made from the deck of a ship, or made from the remains of some old house. Reused old lumber.

I have a work bench made out of bowling alley...

[Woolburr]

I had a work bench made out of ladder rails in my house in NY. The previous owner worked in a ladder factory...

[JSolie]

Its a little like halloween just without the scary part of it. Kids dress up and hit on barrels with a bat. The photos are here: http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=278029

Are there any goodies for the kids in the barrels?

[Lightstream]

A few more Chinese New Year lion dance shots - I shot another performance (there were quite a few) after changing up to the 85/1.8.

http://www.photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?p=2726554#post2726554

I had much better light for this one and was able to work ISO 1600, 1/100 to 1/200 f/1.8. A 24-70 would have been fine.. I am looking over the shoulder of the bloke with the 24-70 in some of them ;) (which also gave me a good look at his metering panel as he held it up at shoulder height.)

[Maureen Souza]

Better than Dr. Dangle It.;)
Now that would be interesting........Hmmmmmm;)

I suspect your name is on their list as well Chief...:D
Skip is near the top of that list as well. Oh boy. Don't get him started.

[T.D.]

No headache though, but not surprisingly I have very little memory of last night :lol: :lol:

I'd stick with that story if I were you. :rolleyes:


Greetings everyone!

Just got back form my class "Digital Photography is for the Birds."

It was alright. The instructor shoots with a 10D (which he called a D10 throughout :rolleyes:)

Perm, for what it's worth, he uses his CP 99% of time for birds and BIF. I'm not sure we have enough light for that much use. But I know you had gotten some other advice, so I thought I'd share his perspective with you.

I started my day off at the NWR. This place socked in with Pea Soup Fog! Bird Shooters' nightmare!! I found a ton of eagles and got some shots, but they are ALL foggy. Haven't uploaded them yet, but will. Found 1 tree with 4 birds sitting in it. Pretty cool.

Of course the fog lifted just as I had to leave for class....

[puddlepirate44]

I'd stick with that story if I were you. :rolleyes:


Greetings everyone!

Just got back form my class "Digital Photography is for the Birds."

It was alright. The instructor shoots with a 10D (which he called a D10 throughout :rolleyes:)

Perm, for what it's worth, he uses his CP 99% of time for birds and BIF. I'm not sure we have enough light for that much use. But I know you had gotten some other advice, so I thought I'd share his perspective with you.

I started my day off at the NWR. This place socked in with Pea Soup Fog! Bird Shooters' nightmare!! I found a ton of eagles and got some shots, but they are ALL foggy. Haven't uploaded them yet, but will. Found 1 tree with 4 birds sitting in it. Pretty cool.

Of course the fog lifted just as I had to leave for class....

Sounds great, TD. Can't wait to see the shots. Any interesting new things learned at class? Outside of the CPL idea (which, I agree, seems counter to what I've been told to date, especially here in the generally overcast NW).

[T.D.]

Sounds great, TD. Can't wait to see the shots. Any interesting new things learned at class? Outside of the CPL idea (which, I agree, seems counter to what I've been told to date, especially here in the generally overcast NW).

Nothing earthshattering.

He shared a lot of opinions and made a lot of recommendations (ie use spot metering only for birds, use AI Servo for BIF, always use CP, get down low, don't be in a hurry, etc).

A couple of things that left me scratching my head is he encouraged everyone to use ISO 400 and then adjust from there. He said he routinely uses 800. I don't know about you guys, but I get way too much noise for birds at that ISO. 400 is okay if you don't have any choice, but I still don't like it.


He also said he's heard about a lot of people having dust on their sensor, but he's never had a problem. I questioned him on that as I didn't buy it. He assured me he hasn't had a problem. I suspect he never changes his lens. That's the other kind of strange part, he used a lens I had never heard of (was it 35-350 L?)

He's a professional photographer and not necessarily an instructor. He had a lot of knowledge in his head but had a little bit of a difficult time communicating it. One guy asked him about using "Auto" mode (a noink shooter). The instructor said, oh yes, you want to use auto all the time, you'll get way more keepers, etc. He went on and on. I knew he didn't mean what it sounded like (using the green box setting). I "helped" him understand the question and as soon as he realized what the guy was asking he went wild! He assumed that everyone there was using M or Av already (the beginners' class was earlier in the day). This had 2 hours in the classroom and 1 hour at a local park shooting seagulls...the only BIF close enough! :rolleyes:

Anyway, overall it was worthwhile, but not earthshattering. Tomorrow should be better. It's mostly a field shoot with different photographers.

[Woolburr]

The 35-350L was replaced by the 28-300L. It is really a niche lens...for mostly PJ types....you often see them at red carpet affairs. A lot of small town type newspapers use them as well...1 body, 1 lens...does it all.

As for using ISO 400...as long as you hit the exposure...there should be little or no noise. I use it all the time and most people wouldn't know what ISO it was without reading the exif. The big plus to using 400 is the big bump you get in shutter speed. That can make or break the shot.

[T.D.]

The 35-350L was replaced by the 28-300L. It is really a niche lens...for mostly PJ types....you often see them at red carpet affairs. A lot of small town type newspapers use them as well...1 body, 1 lens...does it all.

As for using ISO 400...as long as you hit the exposure...there should be little or no noise. I use it all the time and most people wouldn't know what ISO it was without reading the exif. The big plus to using 400 is the big bump you get in shutter speed. That can make or break the shot.

Thanks for the info Wool. Interesing about the lens.

So as to the ISO 400, are you saying I stink as a photographer? ;)

[thomascanty]

Now Lonnie, what would you have done with your computer and camera gear in the 1850's?!?!

That's the only thing that keeps me coming back. I have to process the RAW files. Otherwise, I'd just destroy the time machine after going back there (then?).

Sorry to hear you're feeling crummy. I hope you're feeling better real soon.

He also said he's heard about a lot of people having dust on their sensor, but he's never had a problem. I questioned him on that as I didn't buy it. He assured me he hasn't had a problem. I suspect he never changes his lens. That's the other kind of strange part, he used a lens I had never heard of (was it 35-350 L?)

I never had a sensor dust problem with my 10D, either. I think I used a rocket on that camera only once or twice, and never actually had to clean the sensor. I also used a rented 35-350 on that camera a few times. That's one seriously heavy lens!

[Woolburr]

Nope...but I do wonder why you are getting noise at 400 with a 30D....I get very little noise at 3200 with my 20D...provided I hit the exposure. The 30D should be equally as good if not better.

[T.D.]

I never had a sensor dust problem with my 10D, either. I think I used a rocket on that camera only once or twice, and never actually had to clean the sensor. I also used a rented 35-350 on that camera a few times. That's one seriously heavy lens!

Interesting.

Nope...but I do wonder why you are getting noise at 400 with a 30D....I get very little noise at 3200 with my 20D...provided I hit the exposure. The 30D should be equally as good if not better.


Hmmm, maybe I do stink! Seriously, I was surprised with the noise on the 30D at the higher ISO. Maybe I'm not getting them exposed properly?

[theflyingkiwi]

Nope...but I do wonder why you are getting noise at 400 with a 30D....I get very little noise at 3200 with my 20D...provided I hit the exposure. The 30D should be equally as good if not better.

You know I was thinking the same thing, but I wasn't going to say anything. :cool:

[T.D.]

Nope...but I do wonder why you are getting noise at 400 with a 30D....I get very little noise at 3200 with my 20D...provided I hit the exposure. The 30D should be equally as good if not better.

You know I was thinking the same thing, but I wasn't going to say anything. :cool:

I've got it!

Clearly I got a bad copy of the 30D. Thus, I have absolutely no responsibility in the noisy shots. It's got nothing to do with my skill level whatsoever!

I don't stink afterall!

Whew, that was close.


;););)

[theflyingkiwi]

I've got it!

Clearly I got a bad copy of the 30D. Thus, I have absolutely no responsibility in the noisy shots. It's got nothing to do with my skill level whatsoever!

I don't stink afterall!

Whew, that was close.


;););)

:D :D I think you should sell the 30D and get a 1 series? that always helps those who can't take photos, oops I mean those who have defective equipment :p

[puddlepirate44]

A couple of things that left me scratching my head is he encouraged everyone to use ISO 400 and then adjust from there. He said he routinely uses 800. I don't know about you guys, but I get way too much noise for birds at that ISO. 400 is okay if you don't have any choice, but I still don't like it.

Wow. I don't like to go to 800 either. ISO 640 is about as high as I like to go on the 30D. Lisa's 5D can go to ISO gazillion without much noise, but not my 30D.

[T.D.]

Wow. I don't like to go to 800 either. ISO 640 is about as high as I like to go on the 30D. Lisa's 5D can go to ISO gazillion without much noise, but not my 30D.

We both got bad copies?!

What are the odds? :rolleyes:


Either that or we both stink....


;)

[puddlepirate44]

Interesting.




Hmmm, maybe I do stink! Seriously, I was surprised with the noise on the 30D at the higher ISO. Maybe I'm not getting them exposed properly?

Do you change your exposure setting? +/- a third or more? That factors in, too, I think.

[T.D.]

From my class today, SIF (seagull in flight) otherwise known as a FR shot (flying rat).

http://hoyboy.smugmug.com/photos/130292059-L.jpg

[puddlepirate44]

We both got bad copies?!

What are the odds? :rolleyes:


Either that or we both stink....


;)

Oh, I stink, no doubt about that. The 30D is a good camera. I have no shame in admitting complete and terminal operator error.

[T.D.]

Do you change your exposure setting? +/- a third or more? That factors in, too, I think.

Sometimes...

When I think it needs it. I'm starting to rethink this. The instructor talked a lot about using the gray card. I've never done that, but think I might start.

He also suggested spot metering for birds. I never had much success with that. I think I might give it another shot.

[puddlepirate44]

Sometimes...

When I think it needs it. I'm starting to rethink this. The instructor talked a lot about using the gray card. I've never done that, but think I might start.

He also suggested spot metering for birds. I never had much success with that. I think I might give it another shot.

I've heard the spot metering thing for months, but I'm no good at that... yet. There's so much more to learn. Geez, I've only been doing this photog thing for a little over one year, and it's like I haven't scratched the surface... :shock: gets overwhelming! Sometimes I think that it takes about four or five hours to get all the gear and all the settings "just so" before you can shoot... Then some guy comes up with a 4mp P&S and scores a perfect shot.... Grrr.

[T.D.]

Here's an example of what I would call a noisy ISO 400 shot from today. This probably isn't the best example as it was EXTREMELY foggy and I had to pump up the contrast.

I thought it was funny. And, no Perm, this is not a Red Tail. :rolleyes: It's a Rough Legged Hawk.

http://hoyboy.smugmug.com/photos/130305232-L.jpg

[puddlepirate44]

Here's an example of what I would call a noisy ISO 400 shot from today. This probably isn't the best example as it was EXTREMELY foggy and I had to pump up the contrast.

I thought it was funny. And, no Perm, this is not a Red Tail. :rolleyes: It's a Sharp-Shinned Hawk.



Oh, that is a funny shot! Oh geez, I'm crackin' up over here!

[puddlepirate44]

Man, that is foggy.

ISO 400? What was your exp comp?

[T.D.]

Man, that is foggy.

ISO 400? What was your exp comp?

Exp Comp = Zero.

I was shooting BIF so I was trying to get the highest shutter speed possible. In this case it was 1/2500. Obviously didn't need that for a bird on a pole....

[Woolburr]

You might want to try +1/3 on the exposure comp. it does make a difference. A touch over-exposed will show way less noise. Spot metering makes good sense especially if you are doing center point focus. I don't know why you are getting that much noise at 400....even bumping the contrast...that is horrible.

On a good note...the picture is hysterical...I wonder if he has a pheasant hunting permit.

[puddlepirate44]

I'm trying to remember, and not having much success, if it's neg exp comp that can create more noise, or positive. I think it's negative. What would happen if you boosted the exp comp to +2/3 tomorrow to see what would happen? Or, better yet, jockey it around to see what it does.... I mean, if you want, and you can spare the shutter speed....

[T.D.]

You might want to try +1/3 on the exposure comp. it does make a difference. A touch over-exposed will show way less noise. Spot metering makes good sense especially if you are doing center point focus.

Thanks. I'll give that a try. Yes, I do primarily center point focus.

The instructor today suggested turning them all back on for BIF. Never thought of it, but it makes sense. If you miss it in the center, you still might catch it.

I got in the habit of Center Point Focus when I started shooting birds in trees, etc. I was always catching a branch instead of the bird.

[puddlepirate44]

You might want to try +1/3 on the exposure comp. it does make a difference. A touch over-exposed will show way less noise. Spot metering makes good sense especially if you are doing center point focus. I don't know why you are getting that much noise at 400....even bumping the contrast...that is horrible.

CONFIRMED!! I'm not nearly as dumb as I thought I was!

[Woolburr]

Yes...slight over-exposure is good...under-exposure brings the noise up quickly.

[T.D.]

Here's one more (in keeping up with last night's theme) ;)

I call it

Rough Legged #2

http://hoyboy.smugmug.com/photos/130311192-L.jpg

[T.D.]

Yes...slight over-exposure is good...under-exposure brings the noise up quickly.

The instructor today mentioned the same thing. I'm always afraid of blowing the whites.

I asked him about properly exposing birds like Bald Eagles. He said to expose for the dark area and fix the highlights in PS.

[Belmondo]

Thought you'd like to know that I just had a typical Belmondo brain fart. I suppose I should be heartened by the fact that I actually figured it out myself instead of starting a HELP thread in the PP forum.

I was trying to crop an image to 3456 pixels by 2304 pixels. Every time I did it, I got a memory the the scratch disk was full. Huh? I changed the memory allocation settings, and put scratch disks on all four of the internal drives. It still froze while trying to crop. I re-booted, spit on the floor, walked around the chair three times, and did every other trick I've used in the past when encountering Photoshop mysteries.

Finally, I thought maybe was something was funny with my crop settings. Sure enough.....I was trying to crop 3456 INCHES by 2304 Inches at 300 dpi.

The poor computer is still trying to catch its breath.

[Woolburr]

Wow....the printer probably would never recover. Those 288' x 192' prints get kind of heavy to lug around in your portfolio.

[T.D.]

Thought you'd like to know that I just had a typical Belmondo brain fart. I suppose I should be heartened by the fact that I actually figured it out myself instead of starting a HELP thread in the PP forum.

I was trying to crop an image to 3456 pixels by 2304 pixels. Every time I did it, I got a memory the the scratch disk was full. Huh? I changed the memory allocation settings, and put scratch disks on all four of the internal drives. It still froze while trying to crop. I re-booted, spit on the floor, walked around the chair three times, and did every other trick I've used in the past when encountering Photoshop mysteries.

Finally, I thought maybe was something was funny with my crop settings. Sure enough.....I was trying to crop 3456 INCHES by 2304 Inches at 300 dpi.

The poor computer is still trying to catch its breath.

A genuine "Belmondo Moment!"

Hey, you'll be heartened to know that the instructor today told us how he's left his tripod several times while shooting! I thought of you.

;)

[puddlepirate44]

Thought you'd like to know that I just had a typical Belmondo brain fart. I suppose I should be heartened by the fact that I actually figured it out myself instead of starting a HELP thread in the PP forum.

I was trying to crop an image to 3456 pixels by 2304 pixels. Every time I did it, I got a memory the the scratch disk was full. Huh? I changed the memory allocation settings, and put scratch disks on all four of the internal drives. It still froze while trying to crop. I re-booted, spit on the floor, walked around the chair three times, and did every other trick I've used in the past when encountering Photoshop mysteries.

Finally, I thought maybe was something was funny with my crop settings. Sure enough.....I was trying to crop 3456 INCHES by 2304 Inches at 300 dpi.

The poor computer is still trying to catch its breath.

Were you going to print that up on Kodak paper?

[T.D.]

Where's everybody else at tonight?

Perm still hung over? Mo's ill. Where's Yoda? Wu? Sari? Everyone else....?

[Belmondo]

A genuine "Belmondo Moment!"

Hey, you'll be heartened to know that the instructor today told us how he's left his tripod several times while shooting! I thought of you.

;);)I suppose I can find some consolation in that.

[Lightstream]

Got back from shoot #3 - CNY Continued.. think I have a few good shots in the bag now.

I also wasted some time at the camera shop. REALLY wasted.

There are two camera shops in town - one is outrageously overpriced but very good. Other one is decently priced but clueless. Actually maybe not even decently priced. And I got the 'you have got to be nuts' look. That REALLY sucked.

[T.D.]

;)I suppose I can find some consolation in that.

Did I mention that he's 80?! :oops:

Says he's been shooting for 70 years. Impressive! I'm hoping to learn a bit more by the time I've been shooting for 70 years...but I'm not sure if that will happen.:rolleyes:

[Belmondo]

Gung Hay Fat Choy. (or however you would write in in English)

[Lightstream]

Gung Hay Fat Choy. (or however you would write in in English)


Thanks Chief.. that's exactly how you'd write it. :)

A variation (based on a different pronounciation) is Gong Xi Fa Cai. Both are acceptable and both mean the same thing. With a billion Chinese and a million different dialects (well, almost ;) ) some variation is almost going to be certain.

BTW Chief - whatcha think of your 24-70? And do you have the 24-105 as well?

I am still ticked that I got insulted at the camera shop... these people aren't getting *MY* business.

I need a bumper sticker...... "I LOVE B&H"

Speaking of good bumper stickers I saw two:

"DRIVER CARRIES NO CASH He owns a race car"

And "Confucious say, son who eat photo of father be spitting image of dad very soon"

[T.D.]

Gung Hay Fat Choy. (or however you would write in in English)

???

Per google search:

Gung Hay Fat Choy means "Best wishes and Congratulations. Have a prosperous and good year."

BTW...do you know what my last name is? If you did, you'd see the irony in your post!

[T.D.]

???

Per google search:

Gung Hay Fat Choy means "Best wishes and Congratulations. Have a prosperous and good year."

BTW...do you know what my last name is? If you did, you'd see the irony in your post!

OH DUH, It's the Chinese New Year. I am dense tonight!

[Woolburr]

Chris...did you get the second train message?

[T.D.]

Chris...did you get the second train message?

Yes, thanks. I thought I responded....

Thanks again for your help. I took another train shot and tried your technique on it and another I've taken in the past. It worked! Thanks!

[Woolburr]

Cool....the major railroads usually have that info on their sites...UP, CSX and Norfolk Southern are pretty easy to find....the little guys can be somewhat of a challenge.

[timbernet]

Mooo all!! This morning I drove up to Mount Hood Meadows and tried out some snowshoes for the first time... they are that bad... Fellow Boring-POTN member Aussieskier was up there and I grabbed some shots of him playing with the snow... The color looked better in Photoshop... I need to check my settings somewhere... Image #3 is from Seaside - I thought the weather was so great at Hood today that the coast would have good weather... WRONG!!! Oh well - pretty drive...

Aussieskier is camping in the snow overnight - but he said to tell everyone hello and moo..

http://www2.sandynet.org/potn/IMG_4374.jpg
http://www2.sandynet.org/potn/IMG_4377.jpg
http://www2.sandynet.org/potn/IMG_4418.jpg

[Lightstream]

Enjoy the snow, it's a 100F day out here today - what wouldn't I give for some snow.

If there is such a thing as global warming, AU is taking the brunt of it.

[T.D.]

Mooo all!! This morning I drove up to Mount Hood Meadows and tried out some snowshoes for the first time... they are that bad... Fellow Boring-POTN member Aussieskier was up there and I grabbed some shots of him playing with the snow... The color looked better in Photoshop... I need to check my settings somewhere... Image #3 is from Seaside - I thought the weather was so great at Hood today that the coast would have good weather... WRONG!!! Oh well - pretty drive...

Aussieskier is camping in the snow overnight - but he said to tell everyone hello and moo..




Nice shots Boring Scott!

Sorry to hear the coast wasn't so nice. I grew up just down the coast from that shot.

What's that fool doing spending the night in the snow?! That's crazy!! ;)

[Belmondo]

BTW Chief - whatcha think of your 24-70? And do you have the 24-105 as well?

I really love the 24-105. The last time I used the 24-70 was when I sent the 24-105 in for the recall. It's a great lens, and I suppose I'll keep it, but at the present rate, it will go into its old age as a lightly used speciment.

I am still ticked that I got insulted at the camera shop... these people aren't getting *MY* business.

I need a bumper sticker...... "I LOVE B&H"
Don't we all. They're a great company. The occasional complaint is usually pretty minor, and extremely isolated.

[Lightstream]

I really love the 24-105. The last time I used the 24-70 was when I sent the 24-105 in for the recall. It's a great lens, and I suppose I'll keep it, but at the present rate, it will go into its old age as a lightly used speciment.

Don't we all. They're a great company. The occasional complaint is usually pretty minor, and extremely isolated.

B&H owns me.. ten purchases and each of them flawless. The c#$kups involved the shipping company.

If anybody wants to let their 24-70 go to a new home, I'm interested. I'm thinking of adopting this lens to go alongside my 24-105. Executive decision's been made, I want the 24-70.

[T.D.]

Question for you guys:

Do you use the Spyder to calibrate your monitor?

If not, what do you use?

[Permagrin]

Sometimes...

When I think it needs it. I'm starting to rethink this. The instructor talked a lot about using the gray card. I've never done that, but think I might start.

He also suggested spot metering for birds. I never had much success with that. I think I might give it another shot.

Cat always spot meters his BIF shots and says he most of the time shoots at +2/3 exposure comp. and at minimum 400 ISO...that's what he said he starts at...and goes from there. Dan's 30D seriously shows noise at 600 and above if he doesn't get exposure right...if he does get it right, 800 works for him...but he has a lot harder time with noise on the 30 than I've seen with any of the other cam's we've owned.

Nice red tail sharp shinned ;)

[Lightstream]

grin returns!

Nice hat in the avatar.

You on IRC?

[Permagrin]

grin returns!

Nice hat in the avatar.

You on IRC?

Thanks, and no, I'm sort of watching a movie...

[Woolburr]

This is a 20D at ISO 3200 no PP other than sized for web. I don't see anywhere near as much noise as was in that shot at 400.
http://www.pbase.com/woolburr/image/68126423.jpg
Canon EOS 20D ,Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM
1/500s f/2.8 at 200.0mm iso3200

[Lightstream]

No worries.

I'm looking thru today's shots....some very interesting ones. Another Chinese New Year lion dance with a twist. The 'lion' costume is typically worn by two performers, and is sometimes presented with a challenge during its performance.

Today's challenge was that instead of just presenting the traditional lettuce to the lion to 'eat' (and spit out all over the place really - the two guys shred the lettuce), they presented this lion with a LIVE CRAB.

Holy cow.... now I'm thinking - how are the guys supposed to tackle that?!

To their credit they actually managed to dismember the crab and toss it around.. damn.. that was good!!

[T.D.]

This is a 20D at ISO 3200 no PP other than sized for web. I don't see anywhere near as much noise as was in that shot at 400.
http://www.pbase.com/woolburr/image/68126423.jpg
Canon EOS 20D ,Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM
1/500s f/2.8 at 200.0mm iso3200

Wow, that's an amazing difference.

What gives?

Seriously, is it poor technique? Equipment? Both?

[Permagrin]

Wool you get great shots with that 20. I don't know why Dan has such a hard time with the 30D but when I owned one, I noticed that I had a much harder time with mine than with the 5D...

[Permagrin]

it was a boring day at Akeny today...nothing came close...but it was pretty

http://LC-images.smugmug.com/photos/130322014-L.jpg

[Woolburr]

I had this set at +1/3 EC....but honestly...I don't know why you are showing that much noise...my 20D has been great since day one...Now we are hearing reports of Cap'n Crunch having noise issues with his as well...very strange.

[T.D.]

it was a boring day at Akeny today...nothing came close...but it was pretty

http://LC-images.smugmug.com/photos/130322014-L.jpg

Nice one, Perm! Almost makes me homesick! Almost....

[thomascanty]

I too have cranked my 20D up to 3200 many times with no real noise to complain of.

[Permagrin]

Nice one, Perm! Almost makes me homesick! Almost....

well then how about this one :D
http://LC-images.smugmug.com/photos/130321673-L.jpg

[Permagrin]

there were only geese close today...not even nutria (bleah)...everything else was WAY out in the distance...

[Lightstream]

Nice landscape! Better without the tree though. JMHO.

[T.D.]

well then how about this one :D
http://LC-images.smugmug.com/photos/130321673-L.jpg

Nice! Were you standing on the road?

Just down from there (where there's a Y in the Road), if you look up in the Huge Oak Trees you will often see Acorn Woodpeckers. You can park in the gravel area in the middle of the Y.

[Woolburr]

Nice one Permie...I wonder how that would do with some tone mapping?

[Permagrin]

Nice landscape! Better without the tree though. JMHO.

Yeah, I agree...I had the 300/420 on and would have probably had to lay down to not get the tree...I'll just crop it out.

[Belmondo]

Question for you guys:

Do you use the Spyder to calibrate your monitor?

If not, what do you use?
I use the Eye-One by Gretag Macbeth.

I'm not sure it really helps, but it does keep all three monitors pretty close to each other.

[Permagrin]

Nice one Permie...I wonder how that would do with some tone mapping?

I don't know what tone mapping is...

[thomascanty]

Nice one, Permie! I have to disagree with Yoda, though. I like the tree. I compose shots like that quite often, myself.

[T.D.]

Nice one Permie...I wonder how that would do with some tone mapping?



What does that mean, Wool? I'm not familiar with Tone Mapping.

[Woolburr]

Tone mapping is a way of playing with the dynamic range of an image. Tone mapping is what a lot of people mistakenly call HDR. Basically it is a software interpolation of the image...corrects exposures beyond the range of the camera.

[Permagrin]

Nice! Were you standing on the road?

Just down from there (where there's a Y in the Road), if you look up in the Huge Oak Trees you will often see Acorn Woodpeckers. You can park in the gravel area in the middle of the Y.

I heard about the woodpeckers but didn't see any. I saw the trees though...they are very picturesque on there own :)

[T.D.]

I heard about the woodpeckers but didn't see any. I saw the trees though...they are very picturesque on there own :)

This is my favorite tree at Ankeny. This is taken from the Overlook, just up the hill from your shot.

http://hoyboy.smugmug.com/photos/63530842-L.jpg

[T.D.]

Tone mapping is a way of playing with the dynamic range of an image. Tone mapping is what a lot of people mistakenly call HDR. Basically it is a software interpolation of the image...corrects exposures beyond the range of the camera.


Interesting. Do you do that with PS or is there a specialized product for it?

Got any examples?

[timbernet]

This is my favorite tree at Ankeny. This is taken from the Overlook, just up the hill from your shot.




Where is this "Ankeny" you speak of?

[saravrose]

I like Perma and TD's shots!! kind of agree about the tree on Lisa's though... but, love the green!! I miss green... When is springtime again?..

sari

[Woolburr]

Interesting. Do you do that with PS or is there a specialized product for it?

Got any examples?

OK...this was done with photomatix.

Before...cropped a bit more to kill the blown sky.
http://www.pbase.com/woolburr/image/66169257.jpg

and this is the image after tone mapping.
http://www.pbase.com/woolburr/image/67341956.jpg

This is one of those effects you either really like or you really hate...I think the second shot reminds me of an old time postcard shot.

[T.D.]

Where is this "Ankeny" you speak of?

It's a National Wildlife Refuge between Salem and Albany, just off of I-5.

It's a great place. You can check out some shots here (http://hoyboy.smugmug.com/gallery/1269193).

[Woolburr]

Reality is probably about a 40/60 split between those two images.

[Lightstream]

Looks very computer-generated artificial but definitely an improvement over the first one, which just looks....bland ;)

[T.D.]

OK...this was done with photomatix.

Before...cropped a bit more to kill the blown sky.


and this is the image after tone mapping.


This is one of those effects you either really like or you really hate...I think the second shot reminds me of an old time postcard shot.



I like it! Very cool.

[saravrose]

Looks very computer-generated artificial but definitely an improvement over the first one, which just looks....bland ;)

computer generated or not I LIKE it!!.. :D :D :D

[puddlepirate44]

When I have the 30D up to ISO 800, or higher, whenever I press the shutter button, there's this loud *chunk chuck* sound. And for a brief second, I can't see through the view finder. That's noisy, too.

Actually, I haven't had much need to go above 800... yet. but it is frustrating to have that as a limit. 800 isn't too bad, as Lisa said, if I bump the exp comp a bit. But it's still a little annoying.

[wu_wei0]

I picked up the Photomatix pro trial, but haven't played with it yet.

[Maureen Souza]

I am still hanging around but definitely not very active. This ear pain is remarkable...almost time for a re-drugging. Then I am good for nuthin'.

Now, no starting in that I am good for nothing most of the time;)

[Woolburr]

We were actually hoping your ear might be feeling a bit better.

[T.D.]

I am still hanging around but definitely not very active. This ear pain is remarkable...almost time for a re-drugging. Then I am good for nuthin'.

Now, no starting in that I am good for nothing most of the time;)

I'm so sorry Mo! I had earraches all the time as a kid. They are really debilitating.

Here's wishing you speedy recovery and healing.

[saravrose]

Chris or Puddle how do you suppose the drive up to Seattle will be the end of next month?... Would it be wiser to fly out? Oh, and more importantly is it going to be a photogenic drive?..

sari

[timbernet]

It's a National Wildlife Refuge between Salem and Albany, just off of I-5.

It's a great place. You can check out some shots here (http://hoyboy.smugmug.com/gallery/1269193).

On the way back from the coast I saw an "Eagle Sanctuary" off of Highway 30 10-15 miles out of Astoria... I want to check that out in the better weather... So many Wildlife areas - so little time... And so little glass :-)

[timbernet]

Chris or Puddle how do you suppose the drive up to Seattle will be the end of next month?... Would it be wiser to fly out? Oh, and more importantly is it going to be a photogenic drive?..

sari

It will be no problem - end of March will be very warm (compared to now) and it will be easy to drive...

Heck - I would be willing to drive out to Idaho in this weather, so end of March is okay.

[Woolburr]

I picked up the Photomatix pro trial, but haven't played with it yet.

I can see where you can have some fun with it...some of the shots get a little carried away...the computer just does what it wants...you don't always have great control. Like Kevin said...it does end up with a strange look to it sometimes. I liked this image because we used to often see postcards like this at the tourist traps. Reminded me of my youth.;)

[wu_wei0]

Feel better, Mo! I hate the rare occasion I have an earache. a sock of heated salt to rest on the offending ear makes a nice comfort.

[T.D.]

On the way back from the coast I saw an "Eagle Sanctuary" off of Highway 30 10-15 miles out of Astoria... I want to check that out in the better weather... So many Wildlife areas - so little time... And so little glass :-)

Good to know! I've been wanting to get up to Jewel/Mist to see the elk. I haven't been up there since High School. Doing both would be a nice day trip.

[puddlepirate44]

Chris or Puddle how do you suppose the drive up to Seattle will be the end of next month?... Would it be wiser to fly out? Oh, and more importantly is it going to be a photogenic drive?..

sari

I think it would be fine from Boise to Seattle via car. As for photgenic, I would say yes. Landscape heaven throughout the trip.

[wu_wei0]

I can see where you can have some fun with it...some of the shots get a little carried away...the computer just does what it wants...you don't always have great control. Like Kevin said...it does end up with a strange look to it sometimes. I liked this image because we used to often see postcards like this at the tourist traps. Reminded me of my youth.;)
I see what you mean. It does have that feel to it. I think with the trial if you do HDR that isn't auto you get a watermark. I just haven't ppd any pics much, other than the portraits of Karen and Angie

[Maureen Souza]

We were actually hoping your ear might be feeling a bit better.
I think the Doc said by Monday.:evil:

I'm so sorry Mo! I had earraches all the time as a kid. They are really debilitating.

Here's wishing you speedy recovery and healing.
Thanks you guys. I haven't had an earache since I was a kid. Now I can really sympathize with the tykes. This thing sears up into my head and down into my throat. The Dr. thought about popping my eardrum with a needle:eek: but I talked him out of it.

I am enjoying all your photos, guys. We had planned on driving up to the lake today but that didn't work out. Maybe next week......

[saravrose]

I have to go home tomorrow.. How bad is it to say that I really don't want to... It would be easier to stay up here until the funeral was over.. and I feel guilty for even thinking it..

[Maureen Souza]

Feel better, Mo! I hate the rare occasion I have an earache. a sock of heated salt to rest on the offending ear makes a nice comfort.
I'll have to try that, wu. Thanks for the suggestion!! All home remedies are accepted when one is suffering;)

[T.D.]

Chris or Puddle how do you suppose the drive up to Seattle will be the end of next month?... Would it be wiser to fly out? Oh, and more importantly is it going to be a photogenic drive?..

sari

Like the Boring Dude said, shouldn't be a problem.

However, photogenic? HELL NO! At least not if we go to Seattle. That drive across Washington is ugly IMHO! Not that the drive down the eastern part of the gorge is much better....

[saravrose]

I think it would be fine from Boise to Seattle via car. As for photgenic, I would say yes. Landscape heaven throughout the trip.

thanks. So a full day there and back and a day or two for shooting... Gotta call my cousin.. maybe leave out the part of going on a meet with internet photogrpahy friends... Boy was she not impressed with my Africa vacation.. :oops: :confused: ..

[T.D.]

I think it would be fine from Boise to Seattle via car. As for photgenic, I would say yes. Landscape heaven throughout the trip.

Like the Boring Dude said, shouldn't be a problem.

However, photogenic? HELL NO! At least not if we go to Seattle. That drive across Washington is ugly IMHO! Not that the drive down the eastern part of the gorge is much better....

LOL!!

What does a darn pirate know about landscapes anyway? I mean really!

[saravrose]

Like the Boring Dude said, shouldn't be a problem.

However, photogenic? HELL NO! At least not if we go to Seattle. That drive across Washington is ugly IMHO! Not that the drive down the eastern part of the gorge is much better....

now how do I decide?.. the last time I drove to Seattle we left Boise at nine and drove through the night.. I'm not much impressed with the drive to Portland is it similar?.. maybe it would be easier just to grab a plane but, then I don't have a car while i'm there... :confused: :confused:

sari

[wu_wei0]

I'll have to try that, wu. Thanks for the suggestion!! All home remedies are accepted when one is suffering;) I hear a heated sack of rice might do well, too. My mom used to with me and I with my kids. Used it on self the last few times I had earache or wisdom tooth eruption. I found it soothing and the ache lessened considerably. Drugs re nice, though:) and sleep that might come with them.

[puddlepirate44]

I have to go home tomorrow.. How bad is it to say that I really don't want to... It would be easier to stay up here until the funeral was over.. and I feel guilty for even thinking it..

I hate funerals. I really, really hate them. It's not bad to say at all. It's honest, and I appreciate it.

[Woolburr]

Driving may take a bit longer...but you can see so many interesting things.

[Lightstream]

I hate funerals. I really, really hate them. It's not bad to say at all. It's honest, and I appreciate it.


Same. Add weddings to the list for me.

[T.D.]

now how do I decide?.. the last time I drove to Seattle we left Boise at nine and drove through the night.. I'm not much impressed with the drive to Portland is it similar?.. maybe it would be easier just to grab a plane but, then I don't have a car while i'm there... :confused: :confused:

sari

The drive to Portland is 100 times more interesting than the drive to Seattle (from the east side of the state). At least you have the Columbia to look at down the gorge.

[puddlepirate44]

LOL!!

What does a darn pirate know about landscapes anyway? I mean really!

I took a picture of a tree once. Then there was that shot of a mountain... somewhere. The horizon was reasonably straight. Reasonably. :o :o

[theflyingkiwi]

OK...this was done with photomatix.


This is one of those effects you either really like or you really hate...I think the second shot reminds me of an old time postcard shot.

hi everyone.

umm I don't like the first shot and I hate the 2nd shot even more. On a note for the 2nd shot you have blown the highlights at the bottom of the waterfall.

getting back to setting the exposure up 1/3+ (if my memory is correct as I can't be bothered to look back) wouldn't that over expose some parts of the photo? and is that a no no?

[puddlepirate44]

The drive to Portland is 100 times more interesting than the drive to Seattle (from the east side of the state). At least you have the Columbia to look at down the gorge.

Ooo, good point!

[saravrose]

I hate funerals. I really, really hate them. It's not bad to say at all. It's honest, and I appreciate it.

I have done really well this whole weekend. Ofcourse didn't tell anyone about it, and stayed stupid busy to avoid thinking.. But, now i'm glaring at the clock which says I leave here in twelve hours for the viewing and the funeral on Monday.. the gaps in Generations say that I'll bury my family.. Common sense I've buried my grandparent, great-aunts and uncles and will someday bury my parents and their siblings... But, I just think about the last ten years and i'm tired. It's become this really weird routine for me.. I know exactly what to expect and how i'll respond and how those around me are going to act and I just don't wan to.. Okay. i'm done. I do have twelve more hours.. and i'm using them on other stuff...

Now, about driving to seattle.. I could stop off in Tacoma and go to the chihuly museum.. (I really liked that place).. Maybe take five days or so and call it my vacation...

sari

[Woolburr]

I hear a heated sack of rice might do well, too. My mom used to with me and I with my kids. Used it on self the last few times I had earache or wisdom tooth eruption. I found it soothing and the ache lessened considerably. Drugs re nice, though:) and sleep that might come with them.

A sock full of rice works very well...toss it in the nuker for a minute or so...gives warm for quite a while.

[saravrose]

Driving may take a bit longer...but you can see so many interesting things.

I genuinely prefer driving.. Really not a plane person.. and I usually stop along the way.. But, I may have more time and spend the same amount of money if I just grab a plane.. and shooting in Seattle (or there-abouts) is more interesting than shooting on the way to Seattle.. decisions.... decisions....

sari

[Lightstream]

A sock full of rice works very well...toss it in the nuker for a minute or so...gives warm for quite a while.


Do you wet the rice first?

[T.D.]

Do you wet the rice first?

No. You can also use Flax. It works great.

[Maureen Souza]

Same. Add weddings to the list for me.
You should come to one of my family weddings. they are truly remarkable and famous too. We have soooo much fun!

[thomascanty]

A sock full of chicken works very well...toss it in the nuker for a minute or so...gives warm for quite a while.

Huh... Who woulda thunk it?

[Maureen Souza]

A sock full of rice works very well...toss it in the nuker for a minute or so...gives warm for quite a while.
I have a sack of small beans that I warm up for my cold feet. I think the key element is the heat and not really what you put in the sack.

A heating pad works too.

[puddlepirate44]

Now, about driving to seattle.. I could stop off in Tacoma and go to the chihuly museum.. (I really liked that place).. Maybe take five days or so and call it my vacation...

sari

Whenever we go North to the Seattle area, we set up shop in Tacoma. We know where all the Starbucks are....

[Woolburr]

hi everyone.

umm I don't like the first shot and I hate the 2nd shot even more. On a note for the 2nd shot you have blown the highlights at the bottom of the waterfall.

getting back to setting the exposure up 1/3+ (if my memory is correct as I can't be bothered to look back) wouldn't that over expose some parts of the photo? and is that a no no?

1/3 of a stop isn't that radical of an exposure shift to really blow out the highlights. We are talking about opening your lens up from f/2 to f/1.8 ....or a similar 1/3 stop adjustment. Then you bring things back to normal in PP.