"Do"s and "don't"s of gear comparison threads

cosworth wrote in post #4504217
I say this often. My main spin is that sitting in side taking horribly white balanced shots of boxes doesn't get you far.

I also say it to many who are misinformed or haven't learned a few things yet and to encourage them to think more about the photography.

TeamSpeed wrote in post #4504502
These rules or cliches must be put out there to teach, guide, and sometimes admonish those that don't know these things. I know two years ago, these very replies drove me to learn more and I am glad for that. I also am learning every day, and will try to do better, and in alot of cases, will never be able to still even come close to the skills found here.

I absolutely agree...

Besides, the sayings are usually no more tiresome and redundant than the equipment gear discussion threads, so it all balances out…

Ultimately, say what you want….

"Besides, the sayings are usually no more tiresome and redundant than the equipment gear discussion threads, so it all balances out"

That may be true

But the redundant threads are often to help a new member.

A member who is thrilled that someone is interested enough to give them personal assistance.

And possibly save them from the same mistakes we made.

My 2 cents--and off the soapbox

[QUOTE=dave kadolph;4506172]

sjones wrote in post #4505952
Besides, the sayings are usually no more tiresome and redundant than the equipment gear discussion threads, so it all balances out…quote]

That may be true

But the redundant threads are often to help a new member.

A member who is thrilled that someone is interested enough to give them personal assistance.

And possibly save them from the same mistakes we made.

My 2 cents--and off the soapbox

I agree with you…and that's the same argument as to why the "tiresome sayings" are relevant as well…like I said, it balances out…

now this is a meaningful thread.

CelticRavenVA wrote in post #4504805
....I took a long time off the board here...

You just joined in July. Huh?

I think people post to interact freely.

How they do that is beyond logic.

One good don't:

When a poster is mulling a couple modest lenses don't just tell them that they should buy the best or give up. Everyone has a budget of some kind and it is helpful to find the best solutions for each budget.

The OP's comments were probably something no one wanted to be told - probably because we needed it.

I've seen more usable information on this forum than any of the other I've seen in the last few years. I have no complaints, only appreciation. I have noticed some redundancy but I'm pretty impressed with the patience at people answering questions to new members for what must be the nth time. I'm spending a couple hours a day reading through the threads and picking up excellent tips and techniques.

"Quit the analysis and shoot" is something I should probably tack up on my fridge.

Well said. I just joined this week after 'lurkin' for a while, and the advice I have been able to attempt has certainly helped me.

This reminds me....which is better? The 24-70 or 24-105? Also, what macro should I get?

It can be tough to see the same questions hashed over and over.....but it was a good reminder that these questions are not always old hat to everyone.

The search function does seem to be a little unused sometimes....but that's life.

Do allow anyone to ask or say anything they like.
That's what message boards are for.

Don't forget. We all were beginners at one time. Something can be gained from reading just about any post here. No matter how it's worded.

Do have a nice day!

I understand your point, I also understand the need for the comments you bulleted. I left another board where nearly everyone is rude....So, if there's a few abrasive people here, it's life man. This is my favorite board and have learned much from the minds here. I, like some others, need to hear these comments from time to time. Sometimes, right after I read a "get out and shoot" comment....I do just that.
It's like being able to change the channel on the TV, freedom of choice here on the net is the rule.....
Thanks to everyone here for teaching me so much and to those who are blunt enough to say the things I might not or may not want to hear. Happy whatever guys and gals

JeffreyG wrote in post #4506985
This reminds me....which is better? The 24-70 or 24-105? Also, what macro should I get?

It can be tough to see the same questions hashed over and over.....but it was a good reminder that these questions are not always old hat to everyone.

The search function does seem to be a little unused sometimes....but that's life.

If I may be so bold; I've tried to use the search function quite a few times, but often had not too much success. If I recalled the poster's name, then the success rate went up.

I suspect that many people do try the Search route, but can't find what they want and give up and ask the question - that is very often been covered very thoroughly.

I think I've posted the links to the DOF tables/calculators ten times, and it kepts getting asked. Just try to see how many hits you get on this topic.

No picking it apart here, just loved the post, and loved some of the replies too!

I guess the only thing I would add would be,

Don't post anything that may be misconstrued as humor,... or misconstrued as serious! because invariably you will have to come to terms with many kinds of replies!