When to upgrade?

[Strattos]

First of all, let me say I'm an absolute beginner and know the 18-200mm kit lens that came with my 50D is well and truly better than my abilities with a camera.

However, looking down the track, how do you know when you've reached the point where you will benefit from better glass?

These are some of my latest.

[DC Fan]

Upgrading technique counts more than upgrading equipment. Upgrading technique takes time, experience and practice. If you're really a beginner, work on technique first. After a couple of years, you'll know where to improve the shortcomings in your abilities. Only after than will you be ready to get different equipment.

Note the use of the word "different," not "better." Some equipment has minor differences at the margins of performance, and some can make big differences in getting images - longer focal lengths, for example. But new equipment won't make for better pictures unless you have the experience to get the best out of that equipment. Work and learn first, then buy stuff much later.

[Strattos]

DC Fan, thanks for the advice. This forum is a godsend for newbie's like myself. In terms of improving technique, is practice the best way of doing this? Or are there specific things to look out for? One of my biggest problems is the fact that my pics never seem sharp/clear enough.

I'll have a better look through some of the stickies.

Thanks.

[DC Fan]

In terms of improving technique, is practice the best way of doing this?

Yes. You'll never know what works until you've worked in many circumstances and know how to adjust to those situations.

One of my biggest problems is the fact that my pics never seem sharp/clear enough.

That will come with time. Work on capturing action first, then worry about sharpness.

[MMX]

When to upgrade? Every geek knows that there is only one correct answer: as soon as you have money :D
You are right that your photos are not very sharp, but I can´t say if the exposure was too long, if it was out of focus or if the quality of the lens is insufficient. If you can, borrow something better (70-200 L or 100-400 L) and compare the results. The other option is to shoot something from tripod and compare the sharpness.

[DC Fan]

As a point of reference: there's nothing wrong with an 18-200mm lens.

http://www.kevinlillard.com/racing/20090918a0168.jpg

http://www.kevinlillard.com/racing/20100424a0055.jpg

http://www.kevinlillard.com/racing/20090809a1645.jpg

These images came from a non-stabilized Tamron 18-200mm (http://www.tamron.com/lenses/prod/18200_diII.asp) at 200mm. The lens is a good choice for those who want to concentrate on getting images and don't want to bother with swapping lenses.

[Strattos]

When to upgrade? Every geek knows that there is only one correct answer: as soon as you have money :D
You are right that your photos are not very sharp, but I can´t say if the exposure was too long, if it was out of focus or if the quality of the lens is insufficient.

I shot these at 1/400. Based on what i've read in these forums, I wanted shutter speed fast enough to capture the image, but not so fast that I lose the sense of movement.

Maybe I should concentrate on capturing the image sharply and then worry about other things?

Used AI Servo and high speed continuous with IS turned off, as I also read in this forum that turning IS on can slow down the autofocus.

Thanks for the advice guys. I'll keep practising!

[MMX]

If you want to capture the movement, you must do it with panning, otherwise it will always be blurred (unless you use something like 1/4000 s exposure but then there will be no movement). On the other hand when you use panning, many photos will be blurred because the camera will move slower or faster than the object.

[Strattos]

As a point of reference: there's nothing wrong with an 18-200mm lens.

The lens is a good choice for those who want to concentrate on getting images and don't want to bother with swapping lenses.

Thanks DC Fan. Yep, as I said at the beginning of this thread I totally understand where my abilities are at. I've seen heaps better pics than what i've produced with far cheaper cameras and lenses.

I only purchased what I've got based on what I've read in this forums. ie the 50d being more durable for what I've got planned (motocross/enduro/speedway - in dust/rain all the time), and the higher continuous shooting rate which I'm going to need at present given my low keeper rate!

Also the versatility of the 18-200mm. Don't like the idea of swapping lenses while out in a dust bowl. Thanks for all the advice.

[328somewhere]

Practice, practice, practice. Test shots, walk around. If you can't shoot motocross, walk out to a highway and shoot cars at different times of the day. Its an easy way to start learning how to pan. Find small fast objects like stray cats or squirrels or something to practice your focus tracking. Find something to shoot everyday until you are comfortable. Upgrade when you feel you need it.

[Strattos]

Thanks 328somewhere. I'll get snapping. I think I might get a bit too excited as well sometimes, as a rider myself, seeing big fluffy berms and knowing what's about to happen, might make me tense up a bit!

[Chisholm]

If i'd spent however much on a 50D with that kit lens, I would either be prepared to see great shots straight away, or, depending on the ability level, good shots that will progress into great shots..... You have clearly shown us where your level is just now, and upgrading my friend is the last thing you need to worry about at the minute....... get out there and get snapping.......

Tom
canonnn

[Strattos]

Fair enough. One thing's for sure, racing bikes was a heap easier than taking good pics of them.

[wjm]

Fair enough. One thing's for sure, racing bikes was a heap easier than taking good pics of them.


and not much difference in cost!!

[Strattos]

No, you're right there!

Bought my gear second hand so I haven't spent a heap yet (Chisholm must be relieved I haven't spent too much money, as he seemed concerned over my finances). But I can see my next purchase in a few years time is going to be fairly hefty!!!

Hoping resale is better than used MX bikes through.

[chainbreakr]

Focal length is big, but you would benefit greatly from "better" glass in your line of photography. Bigger apertures (f2.8 or lower) means a shallower depth of field and higher shutter speeds-both a big bonus.

[sweeney208]

love the berm shot. that flagger got completely sprayed hahaha