Digital SLR's topics - tribe.net

JUST ANOTHER HAZY MORNING......OR WAS IT?

2008-07-11T12:39:00Z

I shoot tyipically with my Pentax set to manual mode with the exception of auto focus as my older eyeballs are fading fast. While shooting a friends canon (xti rebel) I found that it has a tendency to go to a faster f stop such as 3 or rather than drop shutter speed, I believe my pentax is like this. are all cameras like this and why would that be? to change this would you just go to a self program or user mode?

posted in Digital SLR - 3 replies

Meet the New Nikon D700

2008-07-03T17:16:28Z

In addition to a new flash (the SB-900) and a couple of fun tilt-and-shift lenses, Nikon's announced their answer to Canon's 5D: the D700. This full-frame 12-megapixel body sports pro details, such as sealed magnesium body, in a compact frame with a $3,000 price tag. And it's got a built-in pop-up flash!

DP Review's given it their in-depth hands-on preview treatment: http://www.dpreview.com/news/0807/08070103nikond700previewed.asp

Also on the Nikon front (they've been busy beavers), firmware updates for the D300 and D3. Check it out here: http://www.dpreview.com/news/0807/08070104nikonfirmware.asp

posted in Digital SLR - 3 replies

hot car

2008-06-27T01:05:13Z

i've heard it recommended not to leave a camera in the car on a hot day. has anyone ever had problems with this? what about putting it in a cooler with the plastic cooling packs?

posted in Digital SLR - 4 replies

Narrowed my first dSLR down to four possibilities.........

2008-06-25T02:29:44Z

ANY input from owners of these would be awesome.........

IDEALLY i'd like to get a body and everyday lens and a Tele or zoom, for about $12-1500. The rest i'd like to spend on some lighting equip- as portraiture and nude are what i want to explore next........

It's 'tween the Nikon D80 (or 300 if i'm feeling particularly rich...) , or the Cannon DigiRebel XSi... i have no previous lenses- so i'm not in either camp yet..... Is it 'true' that Cannon has the best glass overall.....??

ALTHO - the Pentax K200(or K20- if i'm feeling above...) is becoming a sentimental fave - as i first learned 35mm on a K100(1000...??)....... and i've heard EXCELLENT stuff about it...... Anybody got one....??

I have heard good about all.... and still collection opinions........... and personal experiences with any of them...

I have been back into photography for about 4 years now..... here is my site......http://stefographer.zenfolio.com/

Willing to pick the brains of anyone who will respond...... Thanks all............

posted in Digital SLR - 36 replies

New Canon XT w/28-90mm Just $426

2008-06-22T04:54:34Z

Just saw a great deal (I have no ties to seller) and wanted to share...

Sixth Avenue Electronics (8.13 out of 10 at Reseller Ratings http://www.resellerratings.com/store/Sixth_Avenue_Electronics_6th_Ave ) has the black Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT 8MP Digital SLR Camera With 28-90mm Lens for just $448.95. Add the 5% off code (AFL5... expires soon) at checkout and that brings the price down to some $426.50. Cheaper than some point-and-shoot Canons (6th Ave sells Canon's G7 for over a hundred dollars more at $547).

http://www.6ave.com/shop/Product.aspx?sku=CANXTBKKIT

posted in Digital SLR - 0 replies

Upgrade

2008-06-19T04:02:25Z

I have a Nikon D50 and was debating whether to upgrade it.......of course sticking with Nikon......

I've seen a used D200 and new D80 and D300......

Just wondering what you all thought would be a good sensible upgrade for someone who considers himself a slight step above a beginner......assuming I had the money for a D300.......

posted in Digital SLR - 17 replies

Compact Flash Memory Card Readers, is firewire worth it?

2008-06-14T07:12:56Z

With 8gb and 16gb Compact Flash memory cards becoming the new standards what are people using for faster card readers? What is the best bang for buck? I have been using a ThunderBolt USB2 reader for a while now and I am feeling like getting a new one. The ThunderBolt still works great but I want a new one. How much faster will data move from the card to my drive over firewire4/800 in comparison to USB2? Has anyone had a firewire reader stop working?

When traveling I bought a backup reader at a camera store (Digital Concepts) and those are terrible. They will work for about 3 transfers and then die.

Has anyone had errors/corruption with 16gb CF cards?

posted in Digital SLR - 3 replies

technical analysis of noise in DSLRs

2008-06-03T06:39:37Z

This is a really interesting and technically-engaging imaging science on sensor noise by Emil Martinec:
http://theory.uchicago.edu/~ejm/pix/20d/tests/noise/index.html

Blessings and Light,
Michael

posted in Digital SLR - 0 replies

O'lright then - wot's the deal with 3rd pah'ty lenes, then....??

2008-06-01T20:09:27Z

Will i be sacrificing any or ALOT of image quality by going with Sigma, Tamron, Tamron (or whatever that name is...)...??

I am seeing that across the board they are cheaper..., but is it a case of getting what u pay for....?
Do the big guys invalidate anything if u use 3rd party lenses in any way ( like repair or warranty of some such - some electronic biggies can be such sticklers for proprietary stuff at times....)?

Personal experiences anyone (hit me, Steve-O......mmmmmmm lol) ??

Also- what kinda lens do i want to get to do portraiture that leaves JUST the subject in sharp focus , and blurs everything else alot...... - that's shallow depth of field, yeh...??

posted in Digital SLR - 5 replies

Hey nice frame......

2008-05-30T03:47:34Z

A co worker bought a Rebel XTI and brought it into work to show me. I was rather disapointed in the quality of the feel alone. the digital readout was rather cheesy as well. It is a 10 meg sensor and the photos seem ok. No image stabilization with two lenses it seems exceedingly light (no metal frame?) all plastic feel sems to give it a cheap "feel" with a toss away when done appearance to me. Is this just me or was this an entry level piece? Entry level or not at $1000 for the package.

posted in Digital SLR - 2 replies

walmart???

2008-05-25T16:40:02Z

Nikon I see now is available at Walmart.....I did not think they would go there. Cannon I knew was there, but Nikon? 40D, 6 mega pix. not much for lenses though.

posted in Digital SLR - 12 replies

Does IS Matter?

2008-05-23T13:21:00Z

Since this came up in another discussion, but deserves its own topic...

Does Image Stabilization make a real difference in your photography? Would you pay more to have it? How much more? If it does matter, do you prefer it in the camera body proper or in the lens itself?

The world wants to know!

posted in Digital SLR - 12 replies

Eos 1Ds MkIV ??? Already?

2008-05-23T02:38:49Z

Have y'all have seen this...
http://www.flickr.com/photos/52964625@N00/2170695359/
?

posted in Digital SLR - 6 replies

Canon Rebel XS/1000D Rumored

2008-05-21T18:27:18Z

Photography Bay ( http://www.photographybay.com/2008/05/21/canon-rebel-xs-1000d-specs-surface/ ) has possible specs:

- 10.1-megapixel CMOS sensor
- Digic III
- 7-point AF
- 3 FPS
- 2.5-inch LCD w/Live View
- Simplified 450D-style menus
- Weight 540 grams

posted for Canon's next budget offering.

posted in Digital SLR - 0 replies

New Canon Rebates

2008-05-21T17:18:12Z

Canon's offering rebates on select camera bodies, flashes, and lenses for the next two months...

The cameras are:
EOS 5D - $300 rebate
EOS 40D - $200 rebate

The lenses are:
EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM - $125 rebate
EV 85mm f/1.2L II USM - $125 rebate
EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM - $100 rebate
EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM - $100 rebate
EF 50mm f/1.2L USM - $100 rebate
EF 35mm f/1.4L USM -$100 rebate
EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM - $75 rebate
EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM - $70 rebate
EF 17-40mm f/4L USM - $50 rebate
EF 70-200mm f/4L USM -$40 rebate
EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM - $35 rebate
EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM - $30 rebate
EF 28-90mm f/4-5.6 III - $15 rebate

The flashes are:
430EX - $15 rebate
Speedlite 580EX II - $30 rebate

Offer ends July 19, 2008

Details at: http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=PromotionsAct

posted in Digital SLR - 1 reply

Curious about Pentax.. - as a co. and their glass.......

2008-05-18T03:53:43Z

While it is somehwhat a long shot (at $1299. body only)- i am
considering the Pentax K20D as my first dSLR.....

14.6 Mp and the weather sealing are VERY enticing....

Anybody have a good idea about them as company- from PERSONAL
experience...?? Where they may be headed, if i'm gonna be stuck wit
'em... luv to see what people know...
.Any Pentax users in the house...? Or owners of their lenses...?

Thanks all.... StefanTonio (ST.) aka Stefographer

http://stefographer.zenfolio.com/

posted in Digital SLR - 1 reply

just the right package...?.....?.....

2008-05-17T03:23:40Z

I am thinking of getting a camera package together for my daughter. I see that olympus has a little set up with two lenses and a decent body. Any one have one of these? how is the package? would you recomend it to a starter? She will be taking a digital phtography class in the winter (Jan 2009). I would love to be prepared for her.

posted in Digital SLR - 7 replies

New to dSLR - what's your advice?

2008-05-13T19:02:46Z

New to dSLR and wondering what advise you'd give a newbie about .... well, anything really. Lenses, settings, filters, hints, etc.

As a convert from all-my-life-with-point-and-shoots, the appeture and shutter terminology is mind boggling. So any attempts to keep it "light" and "user friendly" would be greatly appreciated!

New Camera: Canon 400D/xti .... soon to be investing in the underwater set-up although the price tag for the housing is staggering!

posted in Digital SLR - 15 replies

New Tribe - Underwater Photography

2008-05-06T17:16:04Z

Thought some of you might be interested. I was surprised that there wasn't a tribe on this already, so here we go. http://tribes.tribe.net/underwaterphotography

Best wishes to all.

posted in Digital SLR - 0 replies

New Here, outa the gate with a question

2008-05-03T20:55:33Z

I'm thinking of buying my wife one of these - any advice? I'm looking for a stand-alone unit, so that a computer is not needed.

Thanks!

Roeb

posted in Digital SLR - 16 replies

HP Z3100

2008-05-01T14:46:39Z

If any of you have one of these I need some help. I am having a problem printing. I send a large job over, say 42 x 65, set the proper print sizes etc, but when the printer starts to print the image is reduce to an tiny 8.5 x 11. I created a custom paper size, etc and it still does not work.

If you arte able to talk to me about this, feel free to call me in Orlando, FL (407) 646-1513

posted in Digital SLR - 0 replies

budget wide angle lens?

2008-05-01T04:59:25Z

Hi there...I have the NikonD40X..and am wanting a wide angle lens for this..but they are soo expensive...well anything electronic here is 3x what you pay for it bcos of the $$$$....
Wondering what suggestions you have for basically increasing my range and something that gives reasonably good pics without costing the earth...thankyou...

posted in Digital SLR - 12 replies

Canon EOS 1D Mark III firmware update released today

2008-04-30T07:04:07Z

Notes from Rob Galbraith:
http://www.robgalbraith.com/bins/multi_page.asp?cid=7-8740-9068-9420
http://www.robgalbraith.com/bins/content_page.asp?cid=7-9309-9421

Another link, to Canon's page: (select link firmware.html):
http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=ModelInfoAct&tabact=DownloadDetailTabAct&fcategoryid=314&modelid=14999

Best,
M

posted in Digital SLR - 0 replies

Nikon's new camera takes on high-ISO / low-light

2008-04-19T04:18:27Z

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/nikond3/page18.asp

Nikon's D3 seems to dominates at 3200 but then goes above and beyond, producing images up to 25600 ISO... Stunning!

The high end's getting interesting.

posted in Digital SLR - 3 replies

Beater Lens on Ebay

2008-04-19T01:08:14Z

Want a Canon EF 24-70mm 2.8 lens that you won't have to baby?

http://cgi.ebay.com/Canon-EF-Lens-24-70mm-1-2-8-TI9461_W0QQitemZ140222525567QQihZ004QQcategoryZ152380QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

It's not my auction... I'm just curious how much folks will pay for a scratched-to-pieces lens.

posted in Digital SLR - 4 replies

New to Digital SLR

2008-04-14T17:41:21Z

Hi,
I just replaced my old Nikon digital with a Nikon D80, which I will receive next Wednesday. A professional photographer friend has been encouraging me more and more to keep a camera on me. However, I will have to learn how to use the SLR! I tend to do more hands on art than photography, but that may change as time goes by.

Thanks
Ani

posted in Digital SLR - 8 replies

Objectification – Closing!

2008-04-14T16:57:24Z

A photographic exhibit by Chris English in association with Citadel, (http://sfcitadel.org).

After being extended an extra four months there will be a Wrap Party for the exhibit on Thursday April 17th, 2008 from 7:00 PM- 10:00 PM at SF Citadel, 1277 Mission (near 9th) San Francisco, CA 94103

There is no admission fee for this event, however the venue is 18 and over only. The Wrap Party is the only event in the space from 7PM-10PM.

For more information please call 650-328-6941 or visit the artist website at http://teamnoir.name

This may be the last opportunity to see all of the pieces in this exhibit together. I encourage everyone to come join us, and please feel free to extend this invitation where you like.

If you've been looking for a chance to check out The Citadel, this is an excellent opportunity.

posted in Digital SLR - 0 replies

shrinking photo size

2008-04-12T08:55:30Z

I'm just learning how to use my camera. How do I shrink my photos so I can upload them on Tribe?

The tribe limit is 1 mb. My photos are all over the limit. How can I make the files smaller?

I have a Nikon D50.

Thanks!

posted in Digital SLR - 7 replies

CNet gives Sony A350 Middling Review

2008-04-11T21:19:45Z

Their bottom line? "Unless you're prepared to spend a disproportionate amount of money on a really good lens, the resolution bump offered by the Sony Alpha DSLR-A350 isn't worth the price."

http://reviews.cnet.com/digital-cameras/sony-alpha-dslr-a350/4505-6501_7-32824762.html

posted in Digital SLR - 0 replies

Santa Cruz Artist - Looking to Trade! (Modeling Time for Digital SLR)

2008-04-10T16:47:04Z

Hello folks, this seemed like the best place to begin putting my offer/request to the universe.

I've taken my little point-and-click camera pretty much as far as it can go. At only 4 mega-pix, it is quickly approaching dinosaur status, but back when I traded for it, twas quite the high tech gadget. I originally obtained this mainstay camera by trading four hours of tastefully nude modeling time (usually $100 per hour).

I am a photographer, model and performance artist currently living in Santa Cruz and I would love to trade modeling time with another artist local to the SF bay area in exchange for a basic digital SLR body, battery pack, etc.

Timing negotiable depending on quality of camera and style of photographs desired. I'm experienced with everything from candid and lifestyle photographs for catalogs, through high fashion, high fetish and nudes.

I have a HUGE collection of costumes, ranging from the obscure to the erotic, plus a vast collection of characters and backdrops.
Let's create something together that will help me further create in the world!

posted in Digital SLR - 2 replies

Sneak Pix of Sony a900 Posted

2008-04-01T13:24:11Z

Pix of Sony's impending 24.6mp monster camera have been posted at http://masterchong.com/v2/sony-alpha/pie02008-sony-showcased-sony-alpha-dslr-a900.html The camera is currently slated for a Fall release.

Enjoy!

posted in Digital SLR - 9 replies

Who knew lenses even had firmware?

2008-04-01T12:44:24Z

from Imaging Resource :

Today Olympus announced the release of a firmware update for two Olympus Digital Zuiko lenses. The lenses are the 14-42mm and 40-150mm. This firmware update will optimize the Live View autofocus function of these two lenses when used with the recently announced E-420 DSLR camera.

Details: This update allows full compatibility with the Zuiko 14-42mm and 40-150mm when using the Imager autofocus mode on the E-420 DSLR. Note: The recently announced Zuiko 25mm lens is also compatible with the Imager autofocus mode.

All Zuiko Digital Specific™ lenses work flawlessly in either the Hybrid or Sensor autofocus modes which are additional autofocus options offered on the E-420 DSLR.

The firmware can be updated through Olympus Master software.

The following link explains how to update the firmware:
http://www.olympus.co.jp/en/support/imsg/digicamera/qa/contents/03b/ssoftware10.cfm

Firmware updates for the Olympus E series DSLR bodies, lenses and flash units allow users to apply new technology to their system components, and are one of the advantages of a 100% digitally designed DSLR system.

posted in Digital SLR - 3 replies

A Formula for Lunar Photography via HDR

2008-04-01T03:30:00Z

Here's the techniques I've used to create Lunar photos, using High Dynamic Range (HDR) imaging.

An exemplary photo is here:
http://nocturnes.tribe.net/photos/898cea26-980f-403e-8d07-af7f7375d9c5

A higher resolution replica, one not subject to Tribe's picayune imaging limits is hosted here:
http://mabaxter.deviantart.com/art/Full-Lunar-Color-80608225

FORMULA

0. Knowing when and where the Moon is going to be on a given night (or day) is relatively useful information, so one can already be prepared to work. I check for this information here:
http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/RS_OneDay.php

1. The optical system used to capture the images was a DSLR and a telescope, with the camera mounted at the prime objective using a T-ring adaptor. The camera used is a Canon EOS 1D Mark III, which has a 1.3X cropping factor. The telescope used is an Orion Apex 127mm Maksutov-Cassegrain, which has a folded optical path to reduce length. The actual focal length is 1536mm at f/12.1. When combined with the 1D Mark III, a 1997mm f/12.1 optical system results. This is ideal, because the Moon fills the frame, However, it also moves rather fast in that view, because it's actually moving across the sky. A 0.5 degree wide object in the sky when magnified to a full camera frame will be moving out of the frame in much less than a minute. The camera+telescope was mounted on a heavy-duty Gitzo tripod, on a 3-axis Manfrotto head. Presumably, alternative camera systems and telescopes would work as well. However, a 1.6 x cropping factor camera like the Canon EOS 20D (or the 20Da astrophotography variant) is actually TOO large, the Moon is clipped with 1.6 x 1536mm = 2457mm focal length. For the 20D, 30D, 40D, Rebel XSi, etc., a smaller telescope is better for lunar work. Here's a convenient link to the telescope I used:
http://www.dealtime.com/xPO-Orion-Orion-Apex-127mm-Maksutov-Cassegrain-Telescope

2. Finding the Moon is actually some work with a tripod, because it's actually rather small. To assist in correctly orienting the telescope+camera system, I use a bright green laser pointer to get "close," eye-balling where the light beam is pointing. This works well enough that one will very often see Moon glare through the viewfinder, thus providing visual clues for moving the head adjustment knobs to bring the Moon into view. The telescope doesn't have aperture rings or a diaphragm, so that's fixed. However this is adjustable focus, and this needs to be tweaked for sharpest results. Fortunately, with the Liveview feature on the 1D Mark III, one can zoom 5x and 10x in the view, and see the Moon on the LCD screen. You definitely see the Moon moving fast in these views, but they are excellent for checking fine focus, as well what the atmospheric conditions are for that night. You can literally see the air moving, the thermals cause the Moon to appear mirage-like, wafting across the sky rather speedily in a 5x or 10x view on a ~2000mm focal length optical system. This is also a major conundrum for obtaining clean detail. In future experiments, a providential path to take might be to take several photos of exactly the same exposure, and combine them together as a composite for one rung of the HDR sequence, in order wring out detail obscured by atmospheric changes and effects.

3. The camera was programmed to take (7) exposures bracketed one stop (1EV) apart. This is nominally (3) exposures that are under, and (3) that are over, against "zero." However, I have found severely over-exposed photos of very bright objects are not that useful in HDR processing, so I reset the range to one photo only 2/3 to 1 stop "over," as metered in-camera. This allows readable, darker tones, with the highlights being more than sufficient. So, the "zero" or middle set-point photo was set for Tv=1/500, at ISO 800. I chose ISO 800, because it is fairly noiseless, and it allows fast shutter speeds, which mitigate against the Earth's rotation, and any ambient wind. With an actual calibrated RA or other clock-drive telescope mount, longer exposures and lower ISO would be possible, but I find the convenience of the tripod considerable over that of a telescope mount. For these kinds of photos, I have weighted the tripod down with a 25# sand-bag, but did not do that for the exemplary photos.

The full range of exposures taken at ISO 800 (with Av=12.1, it's unchangeable in this setup) was:
shot Tv
------ -------
0065: 1/4000
0066: 1/2000
0067: 1/1000
0068: 1/500
0069: 1/250
0070: 1/125
0071: 1/60

To help the automatic alignment algorithms to work well, one has to constantly readjust the telescope so that the Moon is in the center of the view. Once you determine how the Moon is traversing the sky, this is easy to to do. Say it's traveling upward, and to the right. You aim a little low, and to the left. You definitely want to use a cable release, any motion causes vibrations that spoil focus. So, enabling mirror lockup is indicated as well. The trick I learned was to engage the shutter just as the bottom of the Moon is slightly below the bottom of the frame, wait a few seconds, then take the picture. For the next picture, readjust, and do it again. Having all the Moon photos bullseyed near center enables very much cleaner automatic alignment.

Note this problem is more acute for the Quarter Moon, because as the Moon traverses the sky, the "wedge" actually appears to rotate slightly. Containing the amount of this is very helpful to automatic alignment, and to preserve image quality, so that little if any derotation is required to align align the various Quarter Moons. Another helpful trick here is, after practice, taking all of the photos cleanly, without bumping the telescope or tripod (or cars driving by in the neighborhood), but do so relatively quickly. That way, the Moon has traveled less distance in the sky, and there is less apparent rotation.

4. With "film in the can," it's time to work magic with the computer. For astrophotography, I don't even use JPEGs. They are IMHO basically useless. So, all processing steps begin with camera raw data. Now, HDR generator programs like Photomatix Pro, or Photoshop's combine feature can use camera raw directly, I have found this not very practical, because residual low-tone noise remains resident, and this spoils the ability to tonemap the HDR. So, the first step to take is convert all the camera raw photos to 16-bit TIFF. In doing this, one will be working with monster files. The dozen photos needed for the recent work were 57MB TIFF files, EACH. So, nearly a CD worth of data (684 MB in this case) is necessary to obtain good results. The reason to use 16-bit TIFF first is so that each photo can be pre-scrubbed, and then modified, BEFORE doing HDR generation. There are however, some pre-manipulations of the camera raw that have proven helpful to do first...

5. Really good astrophoto data can be viewed in terms of color and also luminance, which may be treated in separate, parallel signal processing chains, in order to provide the best of all results. This holds for the optical system performance limits, as well as best-possible image signal processing. So, in creating the 16-bit TIFF files, there will be in mind a plan to import the camera raw in TWO ways, not one. The first way is to literal use the data from camera raws for creating a HDR that be ultimately tonemaps to LESS color, because it's going to be turned into a monochrome replica. But it has very strong edge-detail, and some other properties that will also prove useful in later steps. The second way then is all the chrominance information, for obtaining as much color as possible, but without certain compromises.

In the following processing steps, there are hence two channels of information to manage, one that is primarily luminance oriented, and the other chrominance ...

5A. To import camera raw into 16-bit TIFF for luminance, the CR2 files for photos 0065-0071 (from above) are read with Adobe Camera Raw (ACR), and individually adjusted ONLY for color temperature. No other adjustment to color, exposure, or other adjustment is made. The color temperature that works best I have found is when the colors in the histogram all align together. For these lunar photos, I have found that this very consistently 4650 degrees Kelvin. Perhaps this is the "Color of the Night." As each photo is adjusted, you will see a sequence of histograms shifting across from left to right, for the darkest to the lightest photos ... this is the full spectrum of data that HDR generation uses.

5B. For the chroma processing, additional steps beyond color temperature are involved. The following ACR settings were done empirically, and there is likely much room for variations without losing information. So the following might be considered starting points, not necessarily goal or end points. It is instructive to understand what is being modified and why, and from there, alternative evolutions can follow at will. After first setting K=4650, the following changes will modify the histogram because colors are intentionally shifted. The Clarity control will provide some better color-selective sharpening, which does improve detail. The Vibrance control increases the color saturation of colors in the histogram not already saturated, and of course Saturation can make saturated colors as bright as possible. Crank everything up. However, there are limits. Too much clarity adds unwanted grainyness. Vibrance probably cannot really be overdone, but it's action works less harmoniously with Saturation if that control is overdone. Too much saturation change results in extreme color splotching, and it more directly reveals the limitations on cross-color boundaries of the Bayes tristimulus pattern in the camera's CMOS sensor. Better to push upward, but not too far, because all of the color to be obtained will come from all of the photos used to make the HDR, not only one of them.

6. With (7) 16-bit TIFFs adjusted per step 5A, and (7) 16-bit TIFFs adjusted per step 5B, proceed to run all (14) TIFF files through Noise Ninja. This is apparently the best place to do noise attenuation, e.g. as early as possible in the workflow. For the Canon EOS 1D Mark III, I don't even have a camera-specific noise model, I just let Noise Ninja work on a default sampling of each photo, and then let it work in batch mode. It works excellently well, just doing this. Generally, chroma noise is greatly attenuated, and any straggler pixels in the black area of photo go to deep black. This works so well, I never bother doing additional, in-depth work in Noise Ninja. However, it does have numerous additional controls that might well prove useful, or could eliminate or simplify some following steps. So, that's room for experimentation also.

7. After de-noising, the next set of steps is aimed to improve detail. All 14 photos were first run through LightZone to use it's "Crisp" look. After the non-destructive edit on the Noise Ninja 16-bit TIFFs, a new 16-bit TIFF is made via LightZone's convert option in the Edit mode. To keep all these files identified apart, I just keep adding simple filename suffixes to the root file name. The files intended for monochrome were suffixed _N, whereas the deep color saturation files were suffixed _S. Then all received _NN for Noise Ninja. Then a _Z for the Crisp step in LightZone. These photos look already very good, by this stage.

8. After repeated experiments, I have learned to use the best of each tool, to improve image quality. However, for the detail enhancement steps, this really is very arbitrary, Each tool is likely powerful enough that the entire set of detail enhance steps could be done with only one tool. One could most likely do everything in Photoshop, or in LightZone. Some additional experimentation in this area could be very providential.

So, these steps are not really normative, again they are just starting points. In any case, the next step I chose was to run Photoshop CS3's Smart Sharpen on the set of 14 photos, after the LightZone processing. So, a _P gets added, and 14 more 16-bit TIFFs are generated. Empirically, in each set of 7 photos, the brightest 4 photos worked best with a pixel radius of 9.1, but this was not as effective for the darkest 3 photos, were something like 3.3 prevented some ugly dark gray grain from emerging. After both "Crisping" in LightZone, and now the Smart Sharpen in Photoshop, each lunar photo REALLY pops, they are starting to already look dazzling.

9. Now it's time to finally generate HDR, and I use Photomatix Pro for that. There are other tools, including Photoshop, but I cannot directly comment as I have not used them. Another avenue for exploration, for sure.

In combining each set of photos with Photomatix Pro, I have come to learn that the very brightest photo (in this case, photo 0071, shot at Tv=1/60) always does not align well. I would guess this is because there is too much detail washed out for the alignment algorithm to work. So, I had to reject both versions of the photo 0071 signal processing chain. This left (6) alignable photos, and so (2) HDRs were made with Photomatix, the one intended as a monochrome and the other for bright color.

10. I always save the HDR files, because they form a reusable starting point for tone-mapping. Files saved in Radiance (*.HDR) format can be read later by both Photomatix and Photoshop, so there is yet-another avenue for experimentation.

Note that you cannot really "see" a HDR photo, except on an a very expensive laboratory prototype monitor ... the dynamic range is much too wide.

It's the transformation via tone-mapping that enables HDR to work for a representable photo for print or display on a conventional monitor. My humble opinion is that HDR is a spatial form of holography, because there is a very wide dynamic range with overlapping light intensity ranges, similar-but-different than the interferogrammatry and phase-change of light involved in a hologram. Like conventional holography, there are MANY views possible from the same HDR recording.

For tone-mapping, I use the tone compression operator, in order to create (2) new composite 16-bit TIFF files from the HDRs. In Photomatix Pro, the detail compression operator seems to not work as well with lunar HDR photos. What is most needed given the wide-ranging exposures is in fact compressing them down. These tone-mapped files already look very closely like the final results. In fact, the color and image-quality seen in tone-mapping the set of (6) photos intended for monochrome processing look very good. One could even stop here, but there are still some slight defects. It's important to become familiar with the controls of your particular tone-mapping tool, because there really are an enormous number of different looking photos possible with the HDR. For lunar photos, one can have radically different colors, the Moon could appear a lot darker, or a lighter. So, the tone-mapping steps are very much in the eye of the artist/photographer, they are truly aesthetic choices.

One very reasonable choice to make is to have a full histogram, and to ensure there is no clipping.

11. Again, at this point the photos really do not suck ... much. If you look closely at the color-oriented tone-mapped photo, you will tend to see a lot of chromatic aberration. Also, there will be tiny whispy red-colored "threads" splattered just outside the lunar disk. This is the residuals from the numerous layers of processing that emerge from tone-mapping very high dynamic range data down to a representable range ... some stuff is fluffy folder-overs, perhaps. The tone-mapped photo from HDR where the color was not tweaked has less of it, but when zooming in, it's still quite noticeable. I have found that things are significantly worse if one creates HDR directly from the camera raw ... previous lunar test photos had TONS of debris littering the black area of the photo. In one case, one brighter and slightly larger spot was actually a background star that was not visible to the eye ... welcome to the world of HDR! Anyone, IMHO, the Noise Ninja step is absolutely essential. Aggregating less-noisy digital photos into HDR is very much cleaner than using camera raw directly, essentially it's better to improve signal-to-noise individually, on each photo, rather than only Noise Ninja the aggregated photo after tone-mapping from HDR.

So the trick to deal with this effectively is to use the luminance photo. This photo is read into Photoshop CS3. Then the black and white image adjustment panel is brought up, which immediately turns the photo into monochrome. The special trick to do here is to use the color adjustment sliders on the panel to completely turn OFF both BLUE and YELLOW colors. If you look closely at the monochrome photo in higher zoom, the gnarly chromatic aberration area is now completely black. Additionally, the red stragglers outside the lunar disk in the color photo are automagically attenuated in the monochrome version. The monochromatic photo now forms a wonderfully crisp luminance mask that can be combined with the color tone-mapped photo to completely zero the aberrations in the color photo. One additional smaller trick is to compensate the edges of monochrome photo, because they tend to be too sharp, making the final photo somewhat look like a bad Photoshop cut-out job. I felt that was the case with my previous test photo here:
http://nocturnes.tribe.net/photos/4fc76378-c1d8-4fe3-a0f1-6364b884ccd9

So, the solution is to add a tiny bit of blur. For this, I chose a 1.0 pixel Gaussian Blur, which just changed the definition of the lunar disk of the monochrome photo to be slightly less harsh.

Save this monochrome photo to disk as another new 16-bit TIFF.

12. Open the color-oriented tone-mapped photo in Photoshop CS3. Add a new (blank layer). Go back to the monochrome photo, and select all of it for copying. Returning to the color photo, click on the blank layer, and paste in the monochrome photo. This photo now shows on top. Select the layer mode to be Darken, instead of Normal. This causes the monochrome photo to completely mask aberrations in the color photo, and a much cleaner, brightly colored and detailed lunar photograph results. This data can then be squashed down to make a final 16-bit TIFF, and from there into other content forms like JPEG replicas. Again, there is room for creativity here. The Multiply mode works somewhat well, but colors are attenuated when compared to Darken. Lighten will immediately expose the color aberration in the color version photo. Vivid Light makes a very high-contrast, yet still-colorful almost alien Moon. Difference and Exclusion yields Moons from elsewhere. Pin Light works very cleanly, similar to Darken. Experiment! There are many Moons to be had for the adventurous.

posted in Digital SLR - 1 reply

Manual Lens on a Digital Camera

2008-04-01T03:23:59Z

I've had my pentax for almost two years now (definitely love it) and am finally ready to break out my zoom lens and filters. I've been having too much fun up to now to bother. Theoretically, this is doable (at least according to my manual) but has anyone actually done it? Have you had any success with it?

posted in Digital SLR - 3 replies

Card readers Today, 8:46 PM

2008-03-28T09:14:52Z

Does anyone have problems with their older card readers on Canon 5D and Lexar 8GB 300x cards?, My USB 2.0 Dazzle card reader does not work with the newer card.

And who has problems with IMG_XXXX appearing as _MG_XXXX on their Canon 5D?

posted in Digital SLR - 3 replies

Let's play guess the lens

2008-03-26T21:36:50Z

As a result of a discussion on Flickr, I pulled out my old Rebel XT and staged a set of tests today with three different lenses: the 50mm f/1.8, the kit lens, and the 17-40 f/4L.

Here are three 100% crops, all shot at f/8 in aperture priority mode. The shots are all at slightly different focal lengths, and the camera was moved slightly between setups, so you can't use the relative size of the images as a clue.

Can you tell which glass is which?

http://flickr.com/photos/whipartist/2363150200/

posted in Digital SLR - 1 reply

XPOST: Full Moon, via HDR

2008-03-21T21:19:45Z

This tribe is having some trouble with visibility of photo postings, so I have posted my Full Moon from last night here, in Nocturnes, which apparantly isn;t as br0ken:
http://nocturnes.tribe.net/photos/898cea26-980f-403e-8d07-af7f7375d9c5

If anyone is interested in how this was done, I'd be delighted to explain.

Blessings and Light,
Michael

posted in Digital SLR - 2 replies

My Glass Eye......

2008-03-18T06:39:23Z

Now that I have your attention.......

What lens do you carry? which do you have on hand with your favorite? How many would you have? and of what? What is ideal for you?

Since I asked: typically 18-55mm with my 28-85mm ready. the 18-55mm pentax, 28-85mm Vivtar, 80-200mm tokina, 500mm, 1000mm, 2000mm last three phoenix combo lens (not the greatest but had to dot it). 2x vivtar doubler. I love to switch up regularly but have a bag deficiency for my stuff that needs a remedy.

posted in Digital SLR - 11 replies

Canon Mark III Recall #2

2008-03-14T03:02:07Z

That's right. As if one recall wasn't enough, here comes another.

http://www.robgalbraith.com/bins/multi_page.asp?cid=7-8740-9068-9264

If you're a VIP you might actually get your camera fixed for once and for all in the next month or two. For the rest of us who knows how long it might be.

Anyway, I am anxiously looking for a way out of Canon ASAP. Start looking at Nikon and Sony folks. I've been shooting Canon since 2002 and I am ending the tenure. This fiasco was embarassing and insulting.

posted in Digital SLR - 16 replies

Cleaning that Sensor

2008-03-11T21:52:48Z

So how many of you clean your own camera? Throw it into the washing machine for a cold water wash...
Or do you have a cleaning kit that you use?
Got any good cleaning tips?

How do you get that last piece of dust, or cleaning fluid off, what do you do to make sure it's clean.
Are you using your computer for the final check to see any last dirt?????

Art Brut

posted in Digital SLR - 12 replies

a lens is a lens is a lens......?..?....

2008-03-11T15:53:50Z

Any one have any experience with Pheonix lenses? yes you get what you pay for but the twohundred something dollar 2600mm lens is a tempting thought.........

posted in Digital SLR - 11 replies

worth a look

2008-03-11T12:30:54Z

you may want to check out prophoto.com. it's a nice informative photo site. Also pbase.com

posted in Digital SLR - 2 replies

1.0 TB of disk for $280!

2008-03-10T18:34:52Z

I made an impulse purchase today at a local Office Depot store: the 1.0 TB Western Digital My Book Premium Edition II was on sale for $119 off the normal SRP of $399. I quickly computed that this sale price was less than 2X the price of their 500MB My Book Essential Edition, which has only a USB 2.0 interface. The Premium Edition II drives come with USB 2.0 and both kinds of FireWire, and also can have RAID, so this was a sweet find in that dimension as well.

I was planning to upgrade to these eventually, though I'd envisioned waiting until the 1.0 TB My Book Office Edition became a little less expensive. Interestingly, that unit is still sort of reasonably priced, according to the Office Depot web site. But this sale price on the Premium Edition II was less expensive yet ... and I found the last one they had in stock, yikes. I think the sale was good through March though, so fellow photographers with large photo collections, you might go to your local stored and see (or grab a rain check). I originally discovered this drive at Circuit City earlier this year, and it was finally the magic of a full 1.0 TB. But I decided that the price would come down later, and two months later, it apparently has, albeit at a different store.

This all bodes well: mass storage is CHEAP! Finally, the 14 some USB/Firewire drives comprising my ~4.0 TB Belly Dance Photo Collection can start to be consolidated!

This is the answer to the long-term storage longevity problem of digital photography: multiple redundant high-capacity storage, with incremental upgrade over the life-cycle of the data. A particular advantage of the My Books (and likely other similar products) is that when you don't use them, they shutdown the drive, and use very little power. I presently keep a small fleet of 4 or so plugged in, and the other 10 on the shelf, just like books of negatives. More convenient than drawers, and significantly less space required than 0.5 million negatives would require. But more particularly, NOT running the drive until you really need to will dramatically increase the MTBF of the drives. These removable drives will last significantly longer than online storage in a hot server system, which was my original plan for the Belly Dance Photo Collection. But it doesn't make sense ... I don't need full access to a full 4-16 TB of photos, most of the time, I only need ready access to the most recent 120-500 GB or so, e.g. the most recent shoots. The rest is archival, long-term storage. It just needs to be conveniently accessible for obtaining old work, and reaching to a shelf to grab a labeled and (digitally) indexed drive is that level of convenience.

Hierarchical storage is a necessary part of the digital photographers life.

Blessings and Light,
Michael

posted in Digital SLR - 10 replies

Geek Wins Copyright Lawsuit Against Corporation (Photography Copyright)

2008-03-10T05:12:37Z

This is copied from: http://yro.slashdot.org/yro/08/02/25/0159250.shtml

I work as a stock photographer/web developer. I saw a photo of mine used in Vilana Financial's full-page phone book ad. They wouldn't pay the licensing fee, and I wrote about it online (mirror). They sued me for defamation, producing a sales agreement signed by one ' Michael Zubitskiy' (who they said took the photo and sold the rights to them). I sued them for copyright infringement, and they added claims against me for trademark infringement, deceptive trade practices, and tortuous interference. There was a trial I'll long remember on the 5th of November, and the judge recently issued her verdict (PDF; mirror). She ruled Vilana Financial forged the sales agreement and willfully infringed my photos, and awarded me $19,462. All claims against me were denied. I represented myself during the litigation."

I was surprised, and happy to read this...

posted in Digital SLR - 7 replies

Compact flash cards..which one do you use??/

2008-03-09T01:33:10Z

Im curious to which compact flash card that you use in your camera. Theres just so many out there its making my head spin on which one to get! LOL... as well as the price!

do you prefer a smaller gb to the larger gb? why?

posted in Digital SLR - 7 replies

pricing

2008-03-08T08:47:12Z

I rarely sell individual prints, but lately I've been getting more calls for them and it seems like easy money. Customers are folks who have seen their pics in newspapers and magazines I work for, and those bosses let me sell CDs and prints for my own profit.
What do you charge for 8x10 or 11x4 reprints?

posted in Digital SLR - 4 replies

Photobucket & Copyright question(s)

2008-03-08T02:38:04Z

Background:
I currently manage quite a few (Non-commercial*) websites, and I have gone out searching the web for photo's or images (Drawn art) for backgrounds, and have often found these on "Photobucket.com".

My dilemma:
If I find a photo / image on Photobucket, I can not see a way to contact the content owner to:
a. Find out if it is their artwork
b. Ask for permission to use it

My Solution:
If I use any of these photo's or images, I will post a link on the web site I am using it on linking to the site / page I got the image from. Therefor giving credit to whom I believe is the owner / creator.

Question(s):
1. Do any of you have any other suggestions on how to make sure I am giving appropriate credit, or things I might do so someone isn't saying I was not doing due diligence to find the creator?

2. Am I wrong for using these images on these non-commercial* sites?

*Non-commercial = Nothing is being sold, or it is a non-profit group (My definition for this thread.)

posted in Digital SLR - 9 replies

New to DSLR

2008-03-06T19:24:05Z

Well, I invested in a digital camera. I have shot film for many years I own a few Nikon bodies F and FX series with several lenses and a couple Pentax bodies and lenses including a K1000. I love shooting film but I no longer have darkroom access so I went digital. I went with the Nikon D40x and might invest in a Pentax K100D. I have found that depth of field and manual focus does not seam to yeald the results I am use to from film. The full auto features are great for general shooting but art shots are more dificult to compose. Has anyone else run into these problems?

Any advice or warnings on what to expect or not expect from shooting digital. Also, what post processing software do you prefer? I am currently using Gimp.

posted in Digital SLR - 18 replies

New HDR photos posted

2008-03-06T08:52:04Z

I've posted some new HDR (and combined photos having different EV) photos in the gallery. Some experimental work done on our 25th anniversary vacation to San Francisco with my wife. I was using a Canon EOS 1D Mark III DSLR, which has 42-bit color in camera raw.

I'm still learning technique here, so passing on everything I seem to discover. I hope useful information.

Blessings and Light,
Michael

posted in Digital SLR - 2 replies

Some small pimpage for Stop Shooting Auto

2008-03-06T07:52:57Z

I've been working on my photography tutorial site, Stop Shooting Auto!, for several months now. It's been fun watching the user base grow from nothing, and to see people actually learning from the site. I'm trying to make it a simple but not-dumbed-down resource for people who want to learn the basics of photography. My target audience is people who own dSLRs but don't know how to do anything beyond leaving the camera in green-box mode.

To help spread the word, I decided to give away a prize to someone who does their homework. It's easy homework-- just take one picture and submit it. I'll pick one entrant at random (and if I get enough submissions, a second one based on quality of submission) and give away a signed print of one of my photos. The contest is here: http://stopshootingauto.com/2008/02/28/homework-assignment-with-a-prize/ and the blog is at http://www.stopshootingauto.com/

posted in Digital SLR - 3 replies

Introductions

2008-02-22T21:03:26Z

Hello, I recently joined Tribe and look forward to seeing your art.

posted in Digital SLR - 6 replies

Nikon Speedlight

2008-02-21T20:23:34Z

I'm considering getting the Speedlight 600 or 800 for my D-50. I shoot mostly publicity type shots for a group I belong to (grip and grin and who nows where the prints/files go to).

Any suggested reasons to go for the 800 at a higher price?

Thanks in advance

posted in Digital SLR - 1 reply

Digital Camera Image Comparison page

2008-02-19T06:57:30Z

While doing some camera research, I stumbled into this really interesting digital camera comparison page on Imaging Resource:
http://www.imaging-resource.com/IMCOMP/COMPS01.HTM

Lets you line up two cameras side-by-side. They don't likely have absolutely every digital camera, but they have numerous ones discussed on this Tribe.

posted in Digital SLR - 0 replies

way tooo colorful

2008-02-13T07:56:05Z

Have you had a recent bout withe black and white zone? a time when black and white was just the thing? I am hitting that right now....

posted in Digital SLR - 2 replies

Sony announces Full Frame DSLR for later this year

2008-02-08T04:18:34Z

And it's 24 + MPIX too.

http://www.sony.net/SonyInfo/News/Press/200801/08-010E/index.html

And this after the Canon Mk III fiasco . . .

posted in Digital SLR - 6 replies

Great deal on new Canon 40Ds

2008-02-04T23:00:31Z

New Egg ( excellent 9.8 out of 10 rating http://www.resellerratings.com/store/Newegg ) has Canon's top-of-the-line prosumer 40D dSLR for just $1,099 (plus $8.44 3-day shipping)!

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?nm_mc=AFC-TechBargains&cm_mmc=AFC-TechBargains_-NA-_-NA-_-NA&Item=N82E16830120228

That's $200 less than the price offered by dependable sources such as B&H or Adorama.

posted in Digital SLR - 7 replies

new camera?

2008-02-03T02:40:10Z

New From Pentax......I still have lenses that will fit!

http://www.pentaxslr.com/bodies/k20

K20D..... 14.6 effective megapixels ....no price yet

posted in Digital SLR - 2 replies

flasher.......flasher.....

2008-01-25T03:23:24Z

I have had a recent strange event......when taking a day light photo of late I have found that when using the flash in conjunction with natural light the photo has been darker......Pentax K10D 18-55DA lens 200-400iso, auto aperture, auto shutter speed...What's up?? Any ideas?

posted in Digital SLR - 2 replies

Displaying

2008-01-24T06:20:47Z

I have an opportunity to exhibit my work in a gallery. I have been on the journalistic side of photography for a long time, this is a little new to me.
I considered printing photos, framing them, traditional style. Seems like that's gonna add up to a lot of money real fast.
What's the simples sort of equipment to run a slide show? Projector, screen? Do they draw a great deal of electricity? The gallery will be generous with space.
TIA

posted in Digital SLR - 12 replies

shutter lag

2008-01-17T07:44:45Z

I want to get my daughter a new camera since she complains about shutter lag after using my Nikon D-50 for a few weeks. Any suggestions on a mooodel that has very little lag, high optical zoom. I just don't want to spend the big bucks on a DSLR at this point.

posted in Digital SLR - 10 replies

If cost was the issue...

2008-01-14T14:24:21Z

Heard this on DealNews today...

If you've been waiting for prices to drop before to taking the dSLR plunge, wait no longer.

Beach camera (impressive 9.21 rating on Reseller Ratings) has a brand-new EOS 350D (black body) for only $379 (includes free shipping). While shiny cameras with more whistles and megapixels are shipping, the 350D is a incredibly capable tool with tons of room to grow into.

http://www.beachcamera.com/shop/product.aspx?omid=122&ref=pricegrabber&utm_source=PriceGrabber&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=CNDRXTB&sku=CNDRXTB

posted in Digital SLR - 14 replies

Bush Admin Plans to Require Fees for Photographing National Parks

2008-01-08T04:49:53Z

PHOTOGRAPHERS--STAND UP FOR YOUR RIGHTS!

READ THIS:
Fees proposed for photographing public lands:
www.seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/...3.html

AND THEN READ THIS:

Photographers did nothing while, local and state beaches, and cities, decided
to write new ordinances that made photographers cash-cows to the government.
I suggest photographers do something now, before it's too late.

PROBLEM:
Define "commercial". By letting local landmanagers be responsible for implementation and enforcement, there will
be mistakes, over-zelous rangers citing people when they probably shouldn’t–it happens. I liken this to what
happend at local state and city beaches, if the rangers or officers catch someone with a really nice camera they
will probably ask you to leave or cite you. They just can’t tell who is who when it comes to photography. With the
advent of cheap digital SLRs, just about everyone looks like a professional. What really sucks is the fees, they
will be straight across the board expensive, and have insurance requirements too. So wether you are a newbie
wanting to take a picture to sell a few postcards at the local gift shop or wanting to do stock photography (with
no guarantee of income), it will COST YOU…. Even if it’s personal, you will get hassled, because you look
“professional.”

The photo-journalist are worried about how it affects their news reporting of non-breaking news. I think that
freelance photographers and advanced hobbyists should be the ones really worrried–they are the biggest cash cow,
because there are more of them.

I would suggest everyone that has a camera voice out against permit requirements for photography. It simply does
not require the large crews that the film industry requires and all the strings attached to it. Photography permits
are just a cash cow to the government, and it’s time ALL photographers voice out against being victimized by our
government. We are NOT wallets to be tapped at whim. Some suggest we be taxed reasonably like fisherman or hunters.
But even that is soooo ridiculous, we are being taxed for photographing nature, without exhausting its resources.
It is a sad, sad day when we are nothing more than wallets to our government.

Voice out, you can write to the department of interior individually or as a group…
www.doi.gov/contact.html

DO SOMETHING…

Fact:
Anyone who enters a national park is already paying an entrance fee.

City beaches already have photography permit requirements in the tripple digits, as well as
insurace requirements in the million dollar category. The same thing can be expected to happen now at National
parks unless photographers unite and do something.

This basically walls out small and independent shooters from
even attempting anything entrepreneurial. (commentary: I guess only rich people can have their portraits taken at
the beach by rich photographers--so much for equality).

posted in Digital SLR - 3 replies

lighting and white balance

2008-01-03T05:14:42Z

I see so many fotos on tribe, hear so much talk about cameras
and lens, BUT never hear talk about lighting.

So
I start with a Lowell fixed lighting kit. Gold and/or/both/all white, silver reflectors
and umbrellas. I have other things like lighting tents.
I set-up my lighting for stage or film. It gives the still drama that I don't get with all flash,
I learned lighting for opera, as well as video. My main background is in painting.

The flash
Once my stage has light, model or still life object is in view. Comes the flash
SB-80 set on a frame high above the camera with a battery pack.
also I have two visatec 3200. They can light a run way or have a softer flash than the SB-80

I use a 3 or 4 point light, plus camera flash. Oh and I don't use all my lights on all shots.
Setting white balance is a trip with colored lighting and reflectors so I use over lens disks for that.

I see some real pro-artist here in this tribe who I am sure could take my lights and blow me away.
BUT they use there own system, so hey pros what are those systems. Share them here.

What about backdrops?
HIGH to low models and objects, color and lights
good lighting systems
TRICKS <<use a mirror to shot objects on the ground like mushrooms>>
how to find models.....
selling stock photos, to who, how...

With the talent here we can all learn. Like in art school.... it's not the teachers who teach, it's the students,
we are all students here....

Art Brut

posted in Digital SLR - 7 replies

Civility

2007-12-25T06:19:42Z

While I deeply encouage the free exchange of ideas in this forum, I'm not down with gratuitious language likely to offend a majority of our guests. I'm also not good with this becoming a place for personal attacks. Feel free to critique the work (with brutal honesty, even), but don't just name call... It's below us all.

I tend to be pretty lax (especially when it comes to pasionate debate) but there has to be a few guidelines so that everyone feels welcome to participate.

Thanks all!

posted in Digital SLR - 3 replies

jpeg or raw

2007-12-24T23:04:10Z

which do you shoot? I was taught to use raw but I heard that most people shoot jpeg anyway, like wedding photographers, etc..........
what's your preference, pros and cons..........

posted in Digital SLR - 65 replies

first purchase

2007-12-18T19:10:21Z

I'm planning to step up to a DSLR before the end of the year. My old camera (a Canon PowerShot A620) proved how weak it is last week when I tried to take some pictures and the shutter speed was too slow. :( So ... I've done some research, lurked here for a while (read a whole bunch of threads) and listened to what a lot of other people say. It seems that Canon or Nikon is the way to go. Beyond that is a matter of personal preference. I sorta had my heart set on a Nikon D80 (with the understanding that it's going to take me a while to really learn how to use it ... and that I will need to take a few classes along the way).

Does anyone have anything bad to say about the D80? Is there a better choice for someone just stepping out out of the point and shoot category?

posted in Digital SLR - 19 replies

Recommendations...

2007-12-13T22:18:56Z

HI everybody!

I'm new to digital photography, but have been shooting on film for years...
I find myself employed by a gentleman who would like to outfit his business with a quality digital camera/accessories, Macbook, and software.
He is interested in training me to use all of the equipment, and shoot product, mostly outdoors on location, and some portrait work to be used in print media. (promo calendars, some stock photography etc.)

Anybody wanna make some recommendations? SLR & lenses, tripod I'm thinking Lightroom and PS2, what else?
He said to me he'd rather spend a little more money and get better equipment and not have regrets later about not being able to print at the quality level he wants for calendars. this means 10 or 12 MP right?
I know I have a lot to learn, and have some teachers lined up, but I thought I'd like to hear some different opinions.

posted in Digital SLR - 8 replies

lens rentals

2007-12-10T17:22:24Z

does anyone know of a good/reliable dslr lens rental place or online store that you can recommend??

thanks you in advance!

posted in Digital SLR - 7 replies

yes....... size matters

2007-12-04T05:47:25Z

Ok, long distance.....track shots.......wild life......etc........teleconverter or BIGGER better lens? double my 200mm or go 50-500mm or 170-500mm??????

posted in Digital SLR - 7 replies

Photoshop Lightroom

2007-11-28T22:17:18Z

A few weeks ago I was on-line looking for a fast image processing software when I came across
Lightroom. My wife is on faculty so I received a school discount cost me $99.00

I must say I am impressed. Taking spots out adjusting color, white balance or making a slide show for the web is fast and easy.
From print to web fast. I also use photoshop, but this tops PS for me for image processing in it's direct use and real darkroom feel.

Art Brut

posted in Digital SLR - 7 replies

flash for rebel xt

2007-11-25T06:38:48Z

I want to get a flash for my rebel. There are so many, what do you use if you have an xt and can it work on other canon's if I want to upgrade?Are the flashes mounted to the top of the camara better than the ones that mount on the side. What is your view on that? thanks!

posted in Digital SLR - 6 replies

cold swimming pools and the like

2007-11-19T06:15:52Z

Ok, I have been begun playing around with creative studio 2 and have a small issue.......How do I obtain shrinkage of files so I may post photos online?

posted in Digital SLR - 4 replies

Digital Darkroom Essentials

2007-11-17T23:25:36Z

What equipment, lighting, monitors, caibration devices, computers, software, scanners and printers would you have if you had an unlimited budget and why would you choose those devices?

posted in Digital SLR - 13 replies

Canon Eos-1 Mark III recall

2007-11-14T16:13:18Z

http://writtenbythelight.blogspot.com/2007/10/canon-recall.html

fyi:

25th October, 2007
Dear Business Partner,
Re: EOS-1D Mark III – Quality Issue
We would like to make you aware that we have concluded that there is a quality issue with some EOS-1D
Mark III units in the market. The problem can be linked to the adjustment of the AF Sub Mirror, and we
believe that this affects only a minority of units in the market at this time.
The phenomenon resulting from this problem (especially in high temperature) is that the optimal focus
point is uncertain in AI servo mode, or that the tracking performance of AI Servo is not accurate.
Regarding the products that have been sold to consumers, we are currently preparing a resolution for this
issue and will inform you of further detailed information and required steps through our official website at
the end of October or the beginning of November. Canon will accept these units for repair, but we will not
be offering an exchange or return.
In order to ensure that the customer experience is not damaged, and as a responsible company, Canon has
decided to stop the shipment of all EOS-1D Mark III. We would therefore like to collect all unsold EOS-1D
Mark III units from your stock. Please kindly contact Customer Administration on 01737 220841 to
arrange a collection and a refund at your purchase price. We will inform you of the date that shipping will
recommence as soon as it is confirmed.
As of today we are taking end-user inquiries with the above information through our Technical Help Desk
on 08705 143 723. If you get an inquiry from an end-user, please advise them to contact this number until
such time that the official website announcement has been published.
Canon wishes to ensure a clear and concise message to the market and we ask for your understanding,
cooperation and support in this matter.
Please accept our apologies for any inconvenience resulting from this matter and please do not hesitate to
contact your account manager with any questions that you may have.
Thank you for your continued cooperation and support.
Yours sincerely,
Lee Bonniface
Channel Director, Special Retai

posted in Digital SLR - 1 reply

Trains

2007-11-12T21:37:36Z

What would i need to shoot a atrain and or people standing in front of a train?

posted in Digital SLR - 5 replies

Low light camera

2007-10-25T19:55:08Z

Been considering a new camera. One thing I was wondering about is if there's any good low light cameras. Occasionally, when I'm traveling I find myself in places where they don't allow flash photography or tripods. Anybody know of a good camera or a good solution to this problem?

posted in Digital SLR - 31 replies

Sony announces A-700

2007-10-22T06:04:57Z

Looks like they borrowed heavily from the Minolta Maxxum 7 (which is a good thing).

http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r19014985-Cam-The-Sony-A700-dslr-is-born

posted in Digital SLR - 27 replies

Which DSLR? (I know it's likely been asked before...)

2007-10-19T17:29:28Z

On a hike last night, I lost my nearly-new Pentax K10D down a cliff...

It was a good camera and will be missed. But, as is the nature of electronic gadgets, the death of one lends itself to an excuse to get a better one.

The Pentax was not the sharpest camera in the world, and I had read some reviews confirming that fact after I bought it, and had experienced said lack of sharpness first hand. So, I'm asking the world at large, which is generally considered the best camera, particularly for low-light shooting (low-lit indoor action/dancing shots, and astronomy). I guess this means a sensor which has a low noise-floor. Sharpness is also a factor of course, as is having something in the 10MP range.

I'm in the digital imaging business (my company makes the Chromira digital photo imager), so I know lots about digital imaging in general, but am only recently into photography, and not very familiar with the camera hardware.

posted in Digital SLR - 37 replies

In response... At what point does someone move from a photographer to a digital artist?

2007-10-18T06:09:01Z

Another post (http://digitalslr.tribe.net/thread/8541ffaf-ee1d-41ce-85e0-2110d02c5ffc) asked about photographs and digital art. OK - so I can create something on my computer completely original, have a negative created from that file, and then printed onto light sensative paper. Because of that last item, it is a photograph. But I did not take a picture. So...

At what point is someone a photographer and where do they become a digital artist? I see unmanipulated work from some photographers that is, at best, so-so. They shoot something (for instance urban landscape or a model) and suddenly it appears as if they manipulated light, zoomed during exposure, had a VERY short depth of field, or the ever popular, created unnatural lighting effects on a grand scale. I understand that much of what was done could have been done in a dark room, but again, that is using light, photographic printing techniques, and light sensative paper. The digital artist is using a mouse or other similar device.

When would YOU consider them to be a photographer and when would YOU consider them to be a digital artist?

posted in Digital SLR - 17 replies

Immediate gratification vs Presence, and other stuff

2007-10-15T02:02:50Z

decent article

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2007/07/17/DDGLNR0CDK1.DTL

~V~

posted in Digital SLR - 29 replies

Questions on using a Nikon D40

2007-10-11T19:09:42Z

Good afternoon all,
I have just gotten a new Nikon D40. So far I am liking the camera for general shots and hope to expand on the lenses it uses. I have 2 projects though that are stumping me . I need to photograph some framed comic book art for sale for a friend. I am not getting the shots as close or detailed as I would like. What would be the best settings to do this with. Also I was wondering if the stock lens that came w/the Nikon is any good for model portrait work? Before this I was shooting with a Olympus c-5060 so I am on a learning curve here and any and all help is greatly appreciated!

posted in Digital SLR - 5 replies

New Work Posted--Critiques Please!

2007-10-09T17:03:24Z

Just posted a bunch of my new work up my tribe blog. Check it out and let me know what you think.

http://people.tribe.net/be1cda61-4bfb-4c4e-83c7-ecbd7bbce01d

~Jeff

posted in Digital SLR - 9 replies

hello

2007-10-04T14:15:09Z

I am Sandy I have a Nikon D80 and am looking for a place to share and learn.

thanks

posted in Digital SLR - 0 replies

Canon batteries

2007-10-03T07:10:35Z

How long should a canon battery—BP-511A for my 20D— last? I've shot about 13,000 frames with the two batteries I bought with the camera in 1/06.

posted in Digital SLR - 12 replies

Canon 30D for sale

2007-09-27T18:44:54Z

Hi there,

I'm selling my trusty 30d camera on ebay. It's been a great camera, and is in great condition, but amazon's one-click go the better of me and I ended up with a 40d upgrade.

You can find it here -

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=110173933678&ssPageName=STRK:MESE:IT&ih=001

-mark

posted in Digital SLR - 7 replies

Canon 1D Mark III and Nikon D200 noise analysis

2007-09-20T00:42:25Z

I've been looking for more scientific information about the 1D Mark III noise performance, and I found this interesting article at Kamma Gamma.

They compare the Canon 1D Mark III with the Nikon D200, because the D200 was the first DSLR apparently to offer in-camera noise reduction, specifically to deal with chroma noise. If you have a 1D Mark III, you might wish to see what results you get with the High ISO noise reduction selected, C.Fn II-2 set to "on." This article is also interesting because in addition to RGB views with mouse-overs, they also offer a view of the test photos in Luminance and Chroma spaces as well. Some really nice imaging science on these two cameras.

http://kammagamma.com/articles/canon-eos-1d-mark-iii-image-quality-redefined.php

Blessings and Light,
Michael

posted in Digital SLR - 3 replies