Ask Gumhead, Photo thread!

[Gumhead]

If you have any questions about photography or cameras post them here and I will try my best to answer them.

[Lourdes]

how can I make my atinic pics not look so blue gray sony cybershot5.0

[Gumhead]

how can I make my atinic pics not look so blue gray sony cybershot5.0
cybershot5.0 ? Can you give me the model number?
If the camera has a manual white balance setting try setting it to the blue lighting. Most cameras with manual white balance (not sure what model you have) you set the balance to something white in the tank (white PVC, clean sand). Please refer to your owners manual on how to set your white balance. In some cameras the blue is out of range and it is not possible to set the white balance with the extreme blue of the actinics. I have done this many times and it is a very cool effect!

[DanStL]

I've narrowed my Camera choices to a coolpix 4300 and the s7000. I know this seems a bit odd as they are very different cameras, but they both appeal to me with what they can do.

The only thing holding me back buying the s7000 is reading about the sensor not being great. Yes it is 6mp, but people complain of "noise" and such. Also, could you tell me which camera is capable of taking the better macro shots?

With the price difference being ~$100, I want to buy the s7000. If you could tell me that it is capable of taking better pictures than the 4300 that would help :D. Comparing the reviews for the two cameras is difficult, because they were at much different price points.

[Gumhead]

I've narrowed my Camera choices to a coolpix 4300 and the s7000. I know this seems a bit odd as they are very different cameras, but they both appeal to me with what they can do.

The only thing holding me back buying the s7000 is reading about the sensor not being great. Yes it is 6mp, but people complain of "noise" and such. Also, could you tell me which camera is capable of taking the better macro shots?

With the price difference being ~$100, I want to buy the s7000. If you could tell me that it is capable of taking better pictures than the 4300 that would help :D. Comparing the reviews for the two cameras is difficult, because they were at much different price points.


My vote is the Fujifilm FinePix S7000z over the Nikon Coolpix 4300, if not just for the lens....

Zoom wide (W)... Fujifilm FinePix S7000z = 35 mm / Nikon Coolpix 4300 = 38 mm
Zoom tele (T)... Fujifilm FinePix S7000z = 210 mm (6 x) / Nikon Coolpix 4300 = 114 mm (3 x)
Macro focus range... Fujifilm FinePix S7000z = 1 cm / Nikon Coolpix 4300 = 4 cm
Aperture range... Fujifilm FinePix S7000z = F2.8 - F3.1 / Nikon Coolpix 4300 = F2.8 - F4.9

As for the CCD noise I haven't heard to much bad talk about it, DP Review gives the Fuji 4 1/2 stars!

I have a FujiFilm S602z which the S7000z took its place. It's pretty much the same camera with more MP. As for macros it is outstanding as long as you can get close enough....

[DanStL]

Gumhead, thanks for taking the time to post those specs side by side. :)

As for the noise etc sensor issues, this first review here seems to summarize the good and bad that I have read of the s7000: http://www.epinions.com/pr-Fuji_Finepix_S7000_Digital_Camera/display_~reviews

[KAS]

... As for macros it is outstanding as long as you can get close enough....

I have the Nikon Coolpix 4300, and this is my only complaint. For anything within about 3 inches of the tank glass, the macro feature works great because there's little need to zoom in. I just have to deal with the narrow depth of field and the low resolution screen by taking lots of shots with varying manual focus. This guarantees at least one of the shots will have the subject in excellent focus.
For anything in the middle or back of the tank, I want to zoom in but I can't focus unless zoomed out. I suppose the only answer is to get a camera with interchangeable lenses that cost 10x as much. So I live with it.

-Rich

[Gumhead]

Gumhead, thanks for taking the time to post those specs side by side. :)

As for the noise etc sensor issues, this first review here seems to summarize the good and bad that I have read of the s7000: http://www.epinions.com/pr-Fuji_Finepix_S7000_Digital_Camera/display_~reviews
Right most people are saying there is noise at the 12 MP setting. The camera is really only 6 MP, the 12 MP comes from interpolation of the 6 MP image. At 6 MP the camera gets good marks. Also note the link you posted is all consumer reviews and not from reputable testing sources or labs.

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/fujifilms7000/

[DanStL]

Well the first reviewer at that site might not have a scientific methodology, but I sense his subjective opinions are to be respected. Regardless, I hear what you are saying. Since I have zero experience using digicams, I just want to make sure the s7000 is worth the ~$100 over the 4300. I think it is, I just don't want to end up having to process all the good tank pics. I already ordered the 4300, but I am considering cancelling tomorrow and getting the fuji.

KAS- the 4300 will accept add-on 37mm lenses - I think you need a $15 dollar adapter. Here is a link to an example: http://www2.butterflyphoto.com/shop/product.aspx?ref=cnet&sku=CP-4300#

[Scuba_Dave]

Thanx for those specs Dave!!

[heavydc2]

Ya know Dave that really helps, I have been taking all of my pictures at the highest setting, but I think I am going to try to take them at the 6, I am getting a new memory card soon, so I might just keep them at raw.

Ok well I will shoot you a question. I have been trying to take a nice sunset picture with a stone church in the forground, but its so dark really only the silouette of the church shows up. Is there anyway to get a brighter picture without making the sky too bright. Here is the best of the pictures I took so far.
http://www.chandev.com/goodpics/06-03-04-panoramic-640.jpg

Also how about some tips on taking pictures of waterfalls, I really want to get better at that.

Thanks

[Gumhead]

Ya know Dave that really helps, I have been taking all of my pictures at the highest setting, but I think I am going to try to take them at the 6, I am getting a new memory card soon, so I might just keep them at raw.
If your camera has a RAW setting use it. This is as close to a "digital negative" as you can get!


Ok well I will shoot you a question. I have been trying to take a nice sunset picture with a stone church in the forground, but its so dark really only the silouette of the church shows up. Is there anyway to get a brighter picture without making the sky too bright. Here is the best of the pictures I took so far.
http://www.chandev.com/goodpics/06-03-04-panoramic-640.jpg
Hummm. Well considering that the exposer deferents between the sky and church looks to be more then 3 stops there isn't much you can do without digital manipulation. I would use a tripod and take two pictures with different exposures and mask and combined them in Photo Shop.

That church is beautiful at sunrise too :) Use a tripod and a long exposure at first light...


Also how about some tips on taking pictures of waterfalls, I really want to get better at that.
Again a tripod is the trick. Try different long exposures for a nice smooth effect.

Try taking pictures of the same subject at different times of the day and different weather conditions.

[heavydc2]

First light... thats way to early. Once I get my new card I will be going to Raw for sure, That is very strange that there would be more noise with the higher setting, I have been noticing more noise lately... I must have finally been able to pick it up... lol.
Yeah I got to get the tripod for teh waterfalls, I had it for the church, but not the falls.

Thanks for the tips. Good thread you started here.

[Scuba_Dave]

Ok, I like the Fuji s7000, but I've seen some great shots with the Nikon D70, and I have lenses for my Nikon 6006 that should fit...I think Tamaray 100-300mm, and I think the other one is 70 to 200mm
What do you think about the D70? I've seen a price of $829 body only
Rebate expires June 30th for the Fuji s7000 so I'm running out of time...sort of :)

I guess I'll need to buy a lens, the 70mm has given me "problems", need something like the 17-70 you talked about in the other thread.
I had the wife "sold" on a $400 camera, not sure how she'll like the idea of over $1000. Then of course I'd need to buy memory cards...

[Scuba_Dave]

Nikon has rebates, but not on the D70 (of course). But the rebates end June 30th, so maybe they will come out with a new rebate that includes the D70. D70 only came out in Jan(?), so demand is still up, & price....

D70 or Digital Rebel?....After having a 35mm lens for so long, I'm really looking for 17/18 wide angle as "low" side

Rebel is about $300 less w/lense, but I wouldn't be able to use my existing lenses

[Scuba_Dave]

D70 only goes down to ISO 200...

Would I need a different lense for macro shots?

[mikrok]

Hey David,
I think i lost my canon g3 :( and I guess it's time for me to look into dslr...

do you have any experience with the sigma sd9? I'm impressed by it's sensors. but it seems to lack in other places...
do you know any good photography forums where others might be selling their used cameras/other equipment?

[Deafasa]

I'll chime in here as well. Tripods are an essential part of landscape and nature photography, especially low light situations of dawn and dusk. You need to keep the camera still. If you can get a remote shutter release for the camera, that is a big plus as well.
I'm not sure how to take that shot with a digicam, but with an slr I would meter the light off the church to set the aperature\shutter speed and then use either a graduated or split neutral density filter (If I really liked the shot I would use both to increase my odds of getting the shot).
The two shots would work as well. Meter off the sky for the first shot, and then meter off of the church for second shot. If the camera lets you set a manual aperature and shutter speed, you are better off doing that so the camera doesn't switch to metering the general scene. Sorry if that was a bit too technical for you.
So, is this scene taken somewhere in Ma? Care to share the spot?
Jeff
http://www.natureseyephoto.com/Vermont/Quechee/images/aprilfalls_jpg.jpg

http://www.natureseyephoto.com/Vermont/Killington%20Area/images/thunderingbrook2_jpg.jpg

Ya know Dave that really helps, I have been taking all of my pictures at the highest setting, but I think I am going to try to take them at the 6, I am getting a new memory card soon, so I might just keep them at raw.

Ok well I will shoot you a question. I have been trying to take a nice sunset picture with a stone church in the forground, but its so dark really only the silouette of the church shows up. Is there anyway to get a brighter picture without making the sky too bright. Here is the best of the pictures I took so far.
http://www.chandev.com/goodpics/06-03-04-panoramic-640.jpg

Also how about some tips on taking pictures of waterfalls, I really want to get better at that.

Thanks

[Gumhead]

Ok, I like the Fuji s7000, but I've seen some great shots with the Nikon D70, and I have lenses for my Nikon 6006 that should fit...
Yes they will.


What do you think about the D70?
Its really nice! It got some great reviews from DPReview and Pop photo...


I guess I'll need to buy a lens, the 70mm has given me "problems", need something like the 17-70 you talked about in the other thread.
It sounds like you got some lenses to get by right now...


Then of course I'd need to buy memory cards...
It will cost you $50 for a 256MB CF card. That's a good start....

[Gumhead]

do you have any experience with the sigma sd9? I'm impressed by it's sensors. but it seems to lack in other places...
For the price its a good little camera. Sigma make some descent lenses too. The camera is only 3MB though. 3MB X3 layers but still only a 3MB image. It got really good reviews from all the online review sites. Sigma has been making lenses for a long time. I bought a Sigma wide angle lens back in the late 70's! They have only been making cameras for the last 5 years or so but I haven't heard any negative talk...


do you know any good photography forums where others might be selling their used cameras/other equipment?
I know some Nikon sites :D Ebay is a great place to buy used equipment

[Scuba_Dave]

Thanx, ever heard of Express Cameras?

http://www.expresscameras.com/cart/prodetails.asp?prodid=102123&start=1

[Gumhead]

use either a graduated or split neutral density filter (If I really liked the shot I would use both to increase my odds of getting the shot).
Great tip!

here's an example...
http://www.adorama.com/CKP120.html

[Gumhead]

Thanx, ever heard of Express Cameras?

http://www.expresscameras.com/cart/prodetails.asp?prodid=102123&start=1

Dave I have only bought online from www.bhphotovideo.com and www.adorama.com I have just heard to many horror stories of some of the smaller dealers. B&H and Adorama have been around for decades and are very well respected. I would rather pay a little more and feel safe.

You can do some searches at nikonians (http://www.nikonians.org/cgi-bin/dcforum/dcboard.cgi?conf=DCConfID3), DP Review (http://www.dpreview.com/forums/) and Photo.net (http://www.photo.net/) to see if there is any bad press about Express Cameras...

[One Eye]

I got this pic on the ferry crosing Lake Champlain on Memorial Day weekend

[Clutchcargo]

Thanx, ever heard of Express Cameras?

http://www.expresscameras.com/cart/prodetails.asp?prodid=102123&start=1
Check out Reseller Ratings (http://www.resellerratings.com/seller1805.html). It will give you a good idea what people think of the store.

[Scuba_Dave]

Thanx, I guess they are out. Not many places list these as in stock

[Gumhead]

D70 or Digital Rebel
Nikon has better glass then Canon

Not many places list these as in stock
Yeah its a pretty hot camera...

[Deafasa]

[QUOTE=Gumhead]Dave I have only bought online from www.bhphotovideo.com and www.adorama.com I have just heard to many horror stories of some of the smaller dealers. B&H and Adorama have been around for decades and are very well respected. I would rather pay a little more and feel safe.
QUOTE]

I'll second that and add another dealer. www.keh.com I have bought from all three with good results. They also don't have excessive shipping and "handling" charges and they don't try and sell you overpriced accessories that if you don't buy, that camera they have the lowest price on is suddenly out of stock. I should mention I have not bought new gear from KEH, but I have bought used camera gear (usually lenses) from them.

Keep in mind a $1500 digital SLR won't make you a better photographer then the $1000 one. Most SLRs, digital or otherwise, have more features then the average photographer needs. If the sensor is the same, then the differences are usually build quality and features. The 1500 Nikon and Cannon DSLRs have bigger buffers so you can shoot more frames per second for a longer period of time. If your looking to get a shot of your little leaguer the moment the bat connects with the ball, then you may need to look beyond the entry level of SLRs. As to what brand, everyone has their preference, and to be honest the differences are not all that great. If you already have lenses that you like from one manufacturer, stick with that brand.

That said, alot of the Digital Zoom Lens Reflex, DZLR, cameras are great. They offer a zoom lens and an array of features (usually including manual shutter, aperature, and iso settings) that are more then most people ever need. The best part is they tend to get cheaper, especially with sub $1000 DSLRs hitting the market. The bad side is the sensor is usually (hopefully David can correct me if I am wrong) smaller then that found in the DSLRs. Is the smaller sensor a bad thing? No, it all depends on how you are going to use the image. If you are planning on making a 16x24 print, then the bigger the sensor the better. If the largest size is 8x10, I wouldn't worry about sensor size.

Hope this helped. I'm not trying to pee in David's pond, but just offering some some of my experiences and opinions.

[wrassefan]

Dear Abby...uhh I mean
Dear Dave,
Can you post a pic directly in this forum or do I need a website to host the pic first?? Trying to learn how to do this all over again.

[Moe_K]

I'm not Dave, but I do have an answer for you....
You can attach pics to your posts. If you just attach one pic per post, it'll display in the thread.
The size limit for attached files is 100K for now. So you might need to shrink and compress your picture to make it under 100K.

[wrassefan]

Okay Moe, I'm still stupid....when I click on the insert image button, it is looking for a website. What am I doing wrong?

[Moe_K]

Hmm, you hit the "Post Reply" button, right?

Scroll down 'til you see the Manage Attachments button, and click on it.
That'll bring up a pop-up dialog box, and you'll want to Browse your computer to locate the image.

Once you've got the proper image selected, hit the Upload button.

Then post your reply.

[wrassefan]

Thanks Moe, I'll give it a go.

Figured out the problem was I never went down enough to see the attach file button. Thanks again!!

[Jim Tansey]

Looking at some of the pictures posted it's not uncommon to see file sizes at 125K or more. What is the limit?

Thanks,

Jim

[Scuba_Dave]

If they host the picture on another server it can be bigger. If hosted here it is supposed to be 100k

The picture Dave posted 122k is hosted on another site

[Jim Tansey]

Dave,

I just got the 24-85mm f2.8 AF Zoom-Nikkor for my D-100. I did not do my usual research before making a major purchase, I hope it was a good choice. Any input?

Regards,

Jim

[Scuba_Dave]

Nikon D-1 Camera setup for $2500 for anyone w/the bucks. Inlcudes lenses plus extras. I don't know the seller. Body usually sells for about $3400??

http://boston.craigslist.org/ele/33207450.html

[Gumhead]

Nikon D-1 Camera setup for $2500 for anyone w/the bucks. Inlcudes lenses plus extras.
Dave this is a D1 which is only 2.7 megapixel. This camera came out 5 years ago. The lenses and the flash are nothing special. Not worth $2500 IMO.

I don't know the seller. Body usually sells for about $3400??
I believe you are thinking of D1X

[Scuba_Dave]

Ah, good catch...

[Gumhead]

I just got the 24-85mm f2.8 AF Zoom-Nikkor for my D-100. I did not do my usual research before making a major purchase, I hope it was a good choice. Any input?
Nice! Is it a AF 24-85mm f3.5-4.5 G IF-ED or a AF 24-85mm f/2.8-4.0 D?
New or used?
Where did ya buy it?

[Gumhead]

I'll second that and add another dealer. www.keh.com
Ah! another great dealer! I got some camera parts off of them back when I was selling used camera equipment. They are a very high rated dealer.

The bad side is the sensor is usually (hopefully David can correct me if I am wrong) smaller then that found in the DSLRs. Is the smaller sensor a bad thing? No, it all depends on how you are going to use the image. If you are planning on making a 16x24 print, then the bigger the sensor the better. If the largest size is 8x10, I wouldn't worry about sensor size.
Most CCD or CMOS's are the same physical size, what matters is the megapixel resolution of the sensor. A lot of the newer "DZLR" have more megapixels then DSLR's! The new Sony Cybershot DSC-F828, Nikon Coolpix 8700 and the Canon PowerShot Pro1 all have an 8 MP sensors, just to name a few.

Footnote...
A 3.1 megapixel image can be printed up to 12" x 18"

[Jim Tansey]

It's the AF 24-85 f/2.8-4.0 D, got it new at Scorby's Camera in Needham same place I got the D-100 this spring. When I purchased the camera I got the 105 f/2.8 macro for tank shots but I needed this for general use.

Regards,

Jim

[Gumhead]

It's the AF 24-85 f/2.8-4.0 D, got it new at Scorby's Camera in Needham same place I got the D-100 this spring. When I purchased the camera I got the 105 f/2.8 macro for tank shots but I needed this for general use.
Nice lens! I will have to check out Scorby's I haven't ever been there.

I recently bought a Nikon 24 - 120 mm AF-S VR lens (http://www.dpreview.com/news/0302/03021801nikon24120afsvr.asp), the vibration reduction technology is really cool!

[skatezen]

Scuba...I'm in the same boat as you, I am looking at getting either the Canon Digital Rebel or the Nikon D70. I've heard, that the D70 blows the Digital Rebel out of the water. Although the cost is a bit more than what I want to spend.

Gumhead...I'm looking to get a decent quality Digital Camera as I do freelance Graphic design on the side. I just graduated college and my price range is around $1,000 preferably under. I am not opposed to buying used equipment if it is in good shape. Any recomendations on good cameras? As previously mentioned I'm currently comparing the Canon Digital Rebel and the Nikon D70 I would like at least a 6 mega pixel. Any other older, better cameras than these?

Jeff

[Jim Tansey]

Dave,

How do you like that new VR lense?

Jim

[mikrok]

looks like the D70 or digital rebel for me too

[Gumhead]

Gumhead...I'm looking to get a decent quality Digital Camera as I do freelance Graphic design on the side. I just graduated college and my price range is around $1,000 preferably under. I am not opposed to buying used equipment if it is in good shape. Any recomendations on good cameras? As previously mentioned I'm currently comparing the Canon Digital Rebel and the Nikon D70 I would like at least a 6 mega pixel.
A grand might get you into a DSLR but you will find your self needing more lenses, more lenses = more then $1000. Maybe you should look into a high end point and shoot (Digital Zoom Lens Reflex) like the Nikon Coolpix 8700 (http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/nikoncp8700/) or the less expensive Fujifilm FinePix S7000 Zoom (http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/fujifilms7000/). Both are fine camera!

Any other older, better cameras than these?
No. The digital camera industry is moving by leaps and bounds right now, the cameras that are out now are far superior then cameras just a year and a half ago...

HTH

[Gumhead]

How do you like that new VR lense?
Very cool! I can shoot at 4 stops slower then I normally could!

I like the lens so much I am seriously thinking about picking up a Nikkor 70-200 mm F2.8 VR (http://www.dpreview.com/news/0202/02022103nikonlenses.asp)!

[Gumhead]

looks like the D70 or digital rebel for me too
Both Nikon and Canon have nice lenses and system accessories. Great cameras to start with and plenty of room to grow...

[Scuba_Dave]

I'm waiting for the price to come down or a nice rebate on the D-70 (and the wife to have one too many drinks). I'm in no hurry, fall vacation has been cancelled. Summer vacation (4th of July week) will be spent dormering the back of my cape. 9 days to rip 1/2 the roof off & build new walls & put a new roof on. I'm going to have such a nice 4th!!

[mikrok]

group buy on d-70's? :)

my cousin has a D10 and eos-3? & MANY lenses...I think I may just buy a package type deal with a cheap lens and if i find myself looking for a certain shot I can always ask him to spread the wealth

[Jim Tansey]

Photoshop Elements

I would like to start a library of objects extracted from images that can be inserted into other images (flowers, bugs, etc.). How should I save the extracted object to make it easy to insert into others?

Also could you recommend a good book for someone that has not used Photoshop before, the manual assumes a lot.

[skatezen]

Coming from a graphic designer...I'd recommend "Photoshop 7 WOW" for a book there is also this really kickass web site http://psworkshop.net/psworkshop/ it is loaded with all kinds of tricks and tips. The best way to extract images is in Photoshop (I'm not too familiar with elements) with the masking tool. The key is to use a really small brush and zoom way in for precision. There is also a program out there I'm not sure the they updated for PS 7 or not, but it is called Corel Knockout (http://www.corel.com/servlet/Satellite?pagename=Corel2/Products/Home&pid=1047022702205)
When you first open the image in PS copy and paste it into a new document with a transparent background then just use the eraser and mask tool to delete anything you want/don't want. Then all you will have to do is take the new image you just created and drop it into where ever you want to paste it. I know its kinda confusing but once you get the hang of it it's pretty simple, you just need to learn the basics. Let me know if you have any Q's and I will try to help.

Jeff

[mikrok]

Hey Jim...HOPEFULLY i'll be visiting my friend in falmouth heights this next week...

if so, i'd be happy to lend you a photoshop book "Photoshop 7 Artistry (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0735712409/qid=1088107890/sr=8-1/ref=pd_ka_1/104-9184362-8203135?v=glance&s=books&n=507846)"
it was a required text of my professor last year - a respected artist and RISD teacher.

[Jim Tansey]

Mike,

I would love to take a look at that if your down this way.

Jeff,

Thanks for that site it's just what I need - tutorials.

Thanks Again,

Jim

[Gumhead]

Also could you recommend a good book for someone that has not used Photoshop before, the manual assumes a lot.

Photoshop 7 Tips and Techniques (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0072224460/qid=1088172495/sr=1-6/ref=sr_1_6/103-2464106-8374210?v=glance&s=books) is also great book.

[dad300]

We are looking at getting a new digiital camera. Budget is not that high.. no 1000 dollar cameras for us right now. We are looking at the following cameras

Kodak easy share Dx6490
Minolta Dimage Z1
Canon Powershot A80
and the Real cheapo Hp Photosmart 733
The first three are running around 350-400
the last one is running 170-200

We are looking for a decent camera to take with us on vacations and allow us to take pictures for Ebay and macros of the tank.

Your thoughts?

[Scuba_Dave]

The Fuji s7000 has a $100 rebate until June 30th. Brings the price down to $450 or so. I don't know how it compares to the other cameras you listed. Maybe the real Dave can help you out more.
I was all set to buy the s7000 until I saw/read about the Nikon D70

[skatezen]

I was looking at the D70 and Digital Rebel, but oppted for the S7000 due to its affordability. I think I am going to wait for the price of digital SLRs to come down. I got the S700 off of Photo Butterfly (http://www2.butterflyphoto.com/shop/product.aspx?ref=dealtime&sku=S7000) for $506 with fedex 3 day and there is a $100 rebate on top of that. Looks like more than enough camera for what I need right now.

[Gumhead]

We are looking at getting a new digiital camera. Budget is not that high.. no 1000 dollar cameras for us right now. We are looking at the following cameras

Kodak easy share Dx6490
Minolta Dimage Z1
Canon Powershot A80
and the Real cheapo Hp Photosmart 733
The first three are running around 350-400
the last one is running 170-200

We are looking for a decent camera to take with us on vacations and allow us to take pictures for Ebay and macros of the tank.

Your thoughts?


Well I'm not a big Kodak or Konica/Minolta fan. As for the HP I have no clue. The Canon PowerShot A80 is a decent little camera tho. Another camera you might want to look into is the Fujifilm FinePix S5000z. You can pick up a S5000z for a little over $300 at B&H photo.

[dad300]

OK So where is B&H Photo?

[Gumhead]

OK So where is B&H Photo?
B&H is a store in New York city, it has been around for over 30 years. They are a very reputable and well respected dealer. I use them almost exclusively for all my photo needs.

I have my items shipped "UPS 3-Day" and it usually ends up at my door in 1-2 days.

B&H Photo-Video (http://www.bhphotovideo.com)

Here's the link to the S5000. If you click add to cart it will drop the price to $ 319.95 (it will cost around 9 bucks for shipping).
Fujifilm FinePix S5000 (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=290140&is=REG)

[Gumhead]

*Drool*
Here's one of Nikon's new lenses...
Nikkor 200 mm F2.0 AF-S VR (http://www.dpreview.com/news/0405/04052801nikkor200.asp)

A super fast prime telephoto lens with vibration reduction!!!
This lens would be great for indoor sports, candid shots or any low light situation and when you need speed. One catch though... rumors are that the lens will sell for $3000-$5000 :eek:


More info from Nikon...
200mm f/2G IF-ED AF-S VR Nikkor (http://www.nikonusa.com/template.php?cat=1&grp=5&productNr=AFSVR200)

.

[Scuba_Dave]

I just don't see how one shop can sell the D70 for $800, and another for $1000

[Gumhead]

I just don't see how one shop can sell the D70 for $800, and another for $1000
Be carefully that it's not a "grey market" camera. Grey market or imported cameras do not have the US warranty on them.

[dad300]

Ordered the finepix today. We'll see if it gets here before the holiday.

[Gumhead]

Ordered the finepix today. We'll see if it gets here before the holiday.
If you ordered it from B&H it should be.
I ordered a few things from them this morning and it has already been shipped, I should get it tomorrow :D

Oh and congrats!

[dad300]

Ordered it around 3:30 this afternoon. Can't wait. Checked out the accessories and found stuff monstrously cheaper at B&H than local. didn't order any yet.....
Example is the 128mb card for the camera $46 and change at B&H, $59 on sale at the local k-mart. I think I found a new site to add to my favorites.:)

[Scuba_Dave]

I was thinking I bought my Sony Mavica CD300 at B&H, but I bought it at Broadway Photo. We've had it 3+ years I think, no problems. It was grey market, price was about $2-300 less trhen anyone else at the time.
Not sure I would buy grey market again, they didn't advertise it as such. And I specifically asked & was told it wasn't, & had the full American warranty

[stang8s]

Fuji is still offering the $100 rebate on the s7000 as far as I know. So there are plenty of places you can get the S7000 for $360-$380 after rebate. That is what I did.

One word of warning on these Fuji's. They are not very tough. I bumped the lens on mine against something last week and it broke something inside that made it sit slanted in its housing and wouldnt go in or out. The camera would not take any pictures and just gave a "zoom error" warning. I took it apart and managed to get the camera working again but was unable to put the final lens ring back on as it would make it jam again.

So overall I like the camera but I would not buy another one due to its delicate nature. A typical 35mm nikon camera and lens you could roll down the stairs with no ill effects. I have a nikon FTN from the 60s and I swear you could beat that thing with a hammer.

[Scuba_Dave]

The Fuji s7000 rebate is supposed to be only thru the end of today, June 30th

[Gumhead]

A typical 35mm nikon camera and lens you could roll down the stairs with no ill effects. I have a nikon FTN from the 60s and I swear you could beat that thing with a hammer.
Not now a days. The Nikon lenses from the 60-70 were built like tanks, not true today.

The Fuji is built better then most point-n-shoot cameras on the market today.

[Gumhead]

Great service again from those guys at B&H photo in NY. I placed my order on there website yesterday morning and it arrived at 12 noon today at my work :) I even had it shipped UPS ground.

dad300 did they ship your new camera yet?

I ordered the latest and greatest Compact Flash card. It's a Lexar Professional 80X WA 512MB CF card. Its the fastest CF card yet, 12MB per second write speed! I also bought a Hakuba metal CF card case to hold my cards. The case is really nice! It is made from aluminum with a plastic hing and a thick rubber insert to hold the cards. I picked up a new eyecup for my Nikon N80 too...


http://www.littlereef.com/junk/CF.jpg

http://www.littlereef.com/junk/CF_case_1.jpg

http://www.littlereef.com/junk/CF_case_2.jpg

[dad300]

Dave shipped out this evening. I figure it will be here on Friday. It would suprise me if it was here tomorrow. But It sure would be nice. the ups guy is going to know us very well. I think we have at least 3 packages being shipped to us this week and next.

[Jim Tansey]

dad 300,

Which coolpix did you get?

Jim

[Jim Tansey]

Dave,

I would like a 2nd memory card for my D-100, I was looking at the one you purchased thinking it must be good, they say its compatible with the D-100 with "Camera Firmware Upgrade". My D-100 was new in March do you know anything about this?

Jim

[dad300]

JIm,
I bought the fujifilm finepix s5000. Dave has a link 5 or 6 posts above this one. ordered it from B&H photo.

[Gumhead]

I would like a 2nd memory card for my D-100, I was looking at the one you purchased thinking it must be good, they say its compatible with the D-100 with "Camera Firmware Upgrade". My D-100 was new in March do you know anything about this?

Check the EXIF data on any of the pictures you have taken with you D100, it will tell you the firmware version. If it is ver 2.0 your all set. You can access the EXIF data from the review LCD on the back of the camera (press the right arrow on the touch pad while reviewing a picture).

[Jim Tansey]

Dave,

If I open an image in the Photoshop Browser and look at the image data I see "EXIFVERSION 0220", I guess I should be OK.

Thanks,

Jim

[Gumhead]

If I open an image in the Photoshop Browser and look at the image data I see "EXIFVERSION 0220", I guess I should be OK.

Jim you want the Firmware version not the PS EXIF version. Check on the camera...

[Jim Tansey]

Dave,

Thank you, I thought I was looking at the same info. I checked the camera I have 2.0. I need to spend more time with the menu and learn it better, I tend to use the camera controls in place of the menu when available.

Thanks,

Jim

[mikrok]

Dave, my aunt is is the Seven Hills photo club i think, she mentioned some convention going on at Umass Amherst in a few weeks, supposedly Hunt video is going to be there with some specials...

she mentioned her friend was selling his toy coolpix 5400...do you think it's worth it unless he wants to get rid of it for considerably less than the newer 5700? Im not sure if i'll have the $$ for a d-slr just yet, so i figure shoot high for a consumer camera. I've found a RAW firmware update for the 5400 so it kind of puts it in range of the 5700(the 5400 has 5megapixel TIFF). The 5400, i read, has a nice 28mm wide angle with a max of 116(4x?), while the 5700's min. is 35mm and has a max. of something like 280(8x optical)

any opinions/suggestions?

[Gumhead]

Mike the 5400 is a nice little camera. It has a lot of nice features and is pretty rugged. I have heard that the 5400 has some low light focus issues tho. The lens does not have a huge zoom factor but it is a very sharp lens. I guess if the price is right I would say go for it.

[Jim Tansey]

Dave,

Have you much experience with ring flashes for macro use? Do you think it's worth having, I do enjoy macro photography?

Regards,

Jim

[dad300]

Well my camera came today!!!! :) I really like the feel of it. I've been playing with it a little. When I get a little more confident I'll post some pictures.
Dave thanks for the heads up on the camera. I really appreciate it.

[Jim Tansey]

Dave,

As a followup question on ring flashes, will I get a lot of reflection back on tank shots?

Jim

[Gumhead]

Well my camera came today!!!! :) I really like the feel of it. I've been playing with it a little. When I get a little more confident I'll post some pictures.
Dave thanks for the heads up on the camera. I really appreciate it.
Congrats! Hope to see some pics soon!



Have you much experience with ring flashes for macro use? Do you think it's worth having, I do enjoy macro photography?

As a followup question on ring flashes, will I get a lot of reflection back on tank shots?
Jim ring flashes are great for macro shots, but there not so good for tank shots. If you don't have the lens/flash directly against the glass you will get a reflection.

[stang8s]

Dave-
If you ever want to experiment with some super close ups, I have a pair of nikon bellows you can borrow. They are from my FTN. Your auto lenses will mount to them but you will have to manually focus and use a hand held light meter and the camera set to manual.

It has been years since i used them but depending on what lens you put on them, I can remember being able to fill an entire 35mm frame with the date on a dime.
Jeff

[Gumhead]

I used to deal and trade camera equiptment years ago and I have had a few bellows, very cool stuff...

[starrfish]

Hi everyone - I am so glad I found this thread! I am in the market for a new camera. My budget is $300-$400. I want to be able to take good macros of my tank, but also take the camera on vacation and zoom into things. I know with this budget I won't be able to get the macro shots that Jim Tansey does (wow, that blenny photo is unbelievable!). I've been looking at two cameras: the Canon A80 and the Nikon Coolpix 4300. I like these cameras because you can add on wide and telephoto lenses. One thing I don't like about the Nikon is that there is no audio with the video (why would they do that???). Then I saw dad300's picture from his new Finepix s5000 which came out awesome. Now I'm totally confused. I'm not a real techy when it comes to cameras so I want something easy to use, but takes nice pics. I probably don't need to go over 4 MP since I don't blow pics up beyond 8x10. Any ideas??

Thanks,
starrfish

[3mrhythm]

Thoughts.... Gumhead?

http://gallery79137.fotopic.net/p5767926.html

[3mrhythm]

keep in mind that is with a nikon 2100 coolpix

[Gumhead]

Thoughts.... Gumhead?

http://gallery79137.fotopic.net/p5767926.html


I like it :)
I would crop it a little tighter tho...

[Gumhead]

Hi everyone - I am so glad I found this thread! I am in the market for a new camera. My budget is $300-$400. I want to be able to take good macros of my tank, but also take the camera on vacation and zoom into things. I know with this budget I won't be able to get the macro shots that Jim Tansey does (wow, that blenny photo is unbelievable!). I've been looking at two cameras: the Canon A80 and the Nikon Coolpix 4300. I like these cameras because you can add on wide and telephoto lenses. One thing I don't like about the Nikon is that there is no audio with the video (why would they do that???). Then I saw dad300's picture from his new Finepix s5000 which came out awesome. Now I'm totally confused. I'm not a real techy when it comes to cameras so I want something easy to use, but takes nice pics. I probably don't need to go over 4 MP since I don't blow pics up beyond 8x10. Any ideas??

Thanks,
starrfish

The two cameras you mentioned are all most identical in a side by side comparison, beside the Nikon not having sound on its clips.

The fuji has a much better zoom ratio....
Canon A80 = 38mm - 114mm (3 x)
Nikon 430 = 38mm - 114mm (3 x)
FujiFilm S5000z = 37mm - 370mm (10 x)


There all fine cameras and are Ez to use. You can find more info on digital cameras on www.dpreview.com


HTH....

[starrfish]

Thanks - one more question. Is it better to go for higher MP with less zoom (canon 4 MP with 3x zoom), then crop them in Photoshop or is it better to go for smaller MP with a larger zoom (3.1 MP and 10x on fuji)? It seems that I can never find everything I want in the price change that I can afford (story of everyone's life, huh??). I've ruled the nikon out because of the lack of audio.

Thanks again,
starrfish

[Gumhead]

Thanks - one more question. Is it better to go for higher MP with less zoom (canon 4 MP with 3x zoom), then crop them in Photoshop or is it better to go for smaller MP with a larger zoom (3.1 MP and 10x on fuji)? It seems that I can never find everything I want in the price change that I can afford (story of everyone's life, huh??). I've ruled the nikon out because of the lack of audio.


Its better not to use cropping as a zoom, more noise and image quality break down. 3 mp is more then enough to enlarge to 8x10... even 11x14!

The Canon actually has 3.9 Effective mega pixels. The differences between 3.9 mp and 3.1 mp is not the much...

3.1 mega pixel image = 2048 x 1536 image size
3.9 mega pixel image = 2272 x 1704 image size

[starrfish]

Thanks David and everyone for your advice. I still haven't made my final decision, but I will this week because I'm heading to Maine next weekend and want a nice camera to take along. As soon as I get my new one, I'll post some pics of my tank.

Thanks again,
starrfish

[skatezen]

Any Idea how I can adjust the white balance on my fuji S7000 so that when I take picts of my tank under 20Ks it doesn't look like a blue mess. I tried what the manual said how to calibrate it but it didnt do much good? Any thoughts?

[Gumhead]

I tried what the manual said how to calibrate it but it didnt do much good?
How did you set the manual white balance? Did you use something white under the lights to set the WB?