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geekhack Community => Other Geeky Stuff => Topic started by: tipo33 on Mon, 22 October 2012, 15:33:58

Title: DSLR's
Post by: tipo33 on Mon, 22 October 2012, 15:33:58
I've seen the quality photos sometimes posted in the forum.  And can't hep but wonder -  I use a point and shoot, but have been considering getting a second-hand Nikon D90 for taking good pictures for forums I frequent.  Especially for some of the macro shots I see here of keycaps, printing processes, etc...  What kind of cameras do you guys use?  And who here owns a DSLR?
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: thegunner100 on Mon, 22 October 2012, 15:35:42
I have a Nikon D40 w/ the 35mm f/1.8G lens. Cheap, lightweight, and great in low-light situations.
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: Computer-Lab in Basement on Mon, 22 October 2012, 15:38:34
I have a Canon EOS Rebel T3 with the kit lens (18-55mm).  It's a nice solid camera, and it takes great pics.  Might get another lens for it someday...
Title: DSLR's
Post by: Halverson on Mon, 22 October 2012, 15:43:14
I have an old Nikon D-80? It's bad when I can't even remember my model! Have the stock lens, internal focusing macro and a telephoto lens. Also a bunch of cokin filters. Love being able to turn any picture to sunset without photoshop.
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: boost on Mon, 22 October 2012, 15:59:38
Got a t2i with 18-55mm and 50-250mm lense. Going to pick up a 50mm 1.8 lens soon
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: vun on Mon, 22 October 2012, 17:44:04
I have a Nikon D90, it is an amazing camera at a reasonable price. I have tried a D700 and a D3s, both incredibly awesome cameras, but just a bit too expensive for my needs.

If you can get your hands on a second hand D90 in good condition you should be golden as long as you have a macro lens, you can get decent macro lenses very cheap as well, even brand new ones.

Although you might want to consider a slightly cheaper model than the D90 if all you're planning to use it for is pictures of keycaps etc., I think a D40 would suit your needs fine. If you want to do some other photography as well, you can't go wrong with a D90.
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: jeroplane on Mon, 22 October 2012, 18:59:38
I have a Nikon D5000 with the 18-55mm and 55-200mm kit lenses (these lenses are underrated!) and a 35mm f/1.8. I pair that setup with two remote speedlights (Nikon SB600, Vivitar 285HV) mounted on light stands with umbrellas. I didn't get all this stuff just for photographing keyboards, though. :p

In terms of buying a DSLR, vun is right - the D90 is probably the best bang-for-your-buck in the Nikon range. And they go for pretty good prices these days. I don't really know much about the Canon range, but there are some rivals there too if you want to look into it.
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: tipo33 on Mon, 22 October 2012, 20:34:40
I will definetly be photographing more than keyboards.  I looked at the D70 for a while,  but I wanted liveview - especially for macro photography.  I am trying to stay away from Canon, because they changed lens mounts, and the whole system confuses the **** out of me.  I know that any Nikon F mount lens will work on the D90.  I am surprised how many DSLR's are on the forum!  I hope to join you soon :)
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: squarebox on Mon, 22 October 2012, 21:32:37
Using a Nikon D5100 with 18-55 and a 55-200. They are good enough for travel and hobby photography.
I'm still think whether to invest it a 35mm 1.8G and 50mm 1.8G as it might be pointless as D5100 is using a cropped sensor.

Having a good camera and taking good photos are two very different things. From my experience, a pro-sumer camera would more than sufficient for 90% of the general population. Using a DSLR Auto setting 99% of the time is a plain waste of money which most DSLR-owners do.
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: DarkShot on Mon, 22 October 2012, 21:36:51
I've had an EOS 450D for just over 3 years. Got a Sigma 18-50mm f2.8 and a Canon nifty-fifty.

Oh how I would love to have a 5D mkII and a 35 f1.4 L
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: jeroplane on Mon, 22 October 2012, 21:47:19
Using a Nikon D5100 with 18-55 and a 55-200. They are good enough for travel and hobby photography.
I'm still think whether to invest it a 35mm 1.8G and 50mm 1.8G as it might be pointless as D5100 is using a cropped sensor.

Having a good camera and taking good photos are two very different things. From my experience, a pro-sumer camera would more than sufficient for 90% of the general population. Using a DSLR Auto setting 99% of the time is a plain waste of money which most DSLR-owners do.

You won't be disappointed with either of those lenses. They're a great investment. The shooting experience with a f/1.8 prime is completely different to what you'll get out of the kit lenses. If you have the D5100, the 35mm will be a much cheaper option and it basically acts like a 50mm because of the cropped sensor.
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: squarebox on Mon, 22 October 2012, 22:30:13
You won't be disappointed with either of those lenses. They're a great investment. The shooting experience with a f/1.8 prime is completely different to what you'll get out of the kit lenses. If you have the D5100, the 35mm will be a much cheaper option and it basically acts like a 50mm because of the cropped sensor.

I've to agree that prime lenses are far superior but I'm not sure to if I should wait till I upgrade to a full-frame before I invest on prime lenses.
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: Abolfazl on Mon, 22 October 2012, 23:12:22
I have a Nikon D5100 with the 18-55 kit lens, 55-200 zoom lens, and 40mm f/2.8 macro lens.
Here is a picture of my favorite shot.
(http://i.imgur.com/RUlny.jpg)
 And here is my favorite shot taken with my zoom lens
(https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc7/458641_4152296839049_866317781_o.jpg)


From what I have seen, Nikon lenses are much more inexpensive and smaller than Canon lenses. I recommend using http://snapsort.com/ (http://snapsort.com/) to look at camera specs and compare cameras and then use http://www.dpreview.com/ (http://www.dpreview.com/) to compare lenses
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: Larken on Mon, 22 October 2012, 23:24:47
I'm a hobbyist, using mainly one of those newfangled advanced compacts (fujifilm x100) and something pretty old school (an epson rd1). As far as cameras are concerned, micro four thirds have came a long way for hobby shooting - cropped sensors aren't really an issue if you're not looking to change systems often, as along as the enclosed system had all the required focal lengths you need. I'd pick up a secondhand oly/pana m43 for simple shots - the quality is generally there in okay light, and affordable, not to mention that you'd be able to bring it around with you most of the time due to the small size.

You'd only need really good cameras when the camera is the limiting factor - and that happens when you know what you want to shoot specifically, and your current camera doesn't allow you to do that.

Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: DarkShot on Tue, 23 October 2012, 13:50:21
You won't be disappointed with either of those lenses. They're a great investment. The shooting experience with a f/1.8 prime is completely different to what you'll get out of the kit lenses. If you have the D5100, the 35mm will be a much cheaper option and it basically acts like a 50mm because of the cropped sensor.

I've to agree that prime lenses are far superior but I'm not sure to if I should wait till I upgrade to a full-frame before I invest on prime lenses.

Always invest in lenses before a new body. A new lens is guaranteed to improve image quality and in some cases performance as well. Of course, this is speaking if you invest in FF capable lenses such as the professional grade Nikkor lenses or L series lenses for those of us who shoot Canon.
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: Malphas on Tue, 23 October 2012, 14:12:27
Mirrorless systems are the future.
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: vun on Tue, 23 October 2012, 17:22:42
Mirrorless systems are the future.
Never! The click from the mirror is so satisfying.
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: mztriz on Fri, 02 November 2012, 10:25:28
It's nice to see a lot of people with DSLRs!

I have a Nikon D90 (it has the a very similar sensor to the more expensive D300). I'm hoping to go full frame eventually.
The lenses I have right now are Sigma EX 12-24/4.5-5.6 (Sigma's lens quality is hit or miss IMHO; depends on the lens), Tamron 24-70 f/2.8, and Nikkor 85mm f/1.8 AF-S. I used to own a nice old Nikkor 50mm f/1.2 even though it was manual focus, I miss it dearly. I may get it again in the future or go for the 1.4 AF-S version.
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: TheProfosist on Mon, 17 December 2012, 13:08:02
Hey guys im looking for a DSLR (http://tinyurl.com/b2zy5yt) anyone care to help?
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: vkulla on Sun, 13 January 2013, 19:23:38
my precious, 7D + Sigma 30/1.4 & Canon 50/1.8
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: okooko on Sun, 13 January 2013, 19:32:45
5DII + 70-200L II + 24-105L + 50 1.8.
next on the list would be 85 1.2 or 50 1.2
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: litster on Sun, 13 January 2013, 19:50:13
I have a Canon 5D Mark II.  I use mostly 24-105mm F4L for full keyboard shots.  I use 100mm F2.8 Macro for macro shots.  often times, bounce flash gives you good indoor lighting.  Sometimes I use natural light, usually in the summer. 

If you want more of the keyboard in focus, use smaller aperture (larger f-stop number).  You will need a tripod as shutter speed will slow down as aperture gets smaller.  For macro shots, minimize mirror slap is key for sharp pictures, even if you tripod.
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: TheProfosist on Mon, 14 January 2013, 01:14:31
right now i have my 600D with Canon 40mm STM pancake lens
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: Bassknight on Mon, 14 January 2013, 09:05:37
40D + 17-40L + 100L (Macro) + Sigma 120-400 DG OS HSM
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: Rhinofeed on Mon, 14 January 2013, 22:32:51
I have a Canon T4i with 18-135mm stm + 50mm f1.4. I do tech Youtube videos and mostly product photography lately, sometimes landscapes or still art. I'm not a in-your-face kinda photographer, I prefer to not take portraits so much. Only if I have to.
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: FabsSpeed on Wed, 16 January 2013, 03:14:50
I love my Leica !!!
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: okooko on Wed, 16 January 2013, 03:44:32
I love my Leica !!!

m9p?
summicron/summilux/noctilux?
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: ComradeSniper on Wed, 16 January 2013, 20:04:45
I've got a Nikon D5000. Pretty simple, does what I need it to do though. Only have the kit lenses right now (well, I have a macro extension tube, but that doesn't really count), but I'm working toward a 35mm f/1.8. I mostly take pics of stuff I own, working on taking a wider variety though.
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: dohboi on Thu, 17 January 2013, 07:33:47
I will definetly be photographing more than keyboards.  I looked at the D70 for a while,  but I wanted liveview - especially for macro photography.  I am trying to stay away from Canon, because they changed lens mounts, and the whole system confuses the **** out of me.  I know that any Nikon F mount lens will work on the D90.  I am surprised how many DSLR's are on the forum!  I hope to join you soon :)

What's confusing about it if you don't mind me asking? Don't want a lens mount to stop you from getting what I think is a quality camera. :p And as far I as can remember, its only been EF mounts for me. Most of my friends who photograph cars and make short videos use the 60D, and 7D. I'm personally using a T2i with a 50mm f/1.4 and stock kit lens. I'd like to purchase a better f/ 18-55mm sometime in the future as well as a 70-200mm. Don't need much for videos and car pics!

Either way you go, you're going to get an awesome product from hitting that shutter so go for it!
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: TheProfosist on Thu, 17 January 2013, 16:26:30
A 6D or its replacement would be my body upgrade which is what all the lenses im buying will also fit full frame.
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: okooko on Thu, 17 January 2013, 17:20:27
A 6D or its replacement would be my body upgrade which is what all the lenses im buying will also fit full frame.

It depends what type of photography you are into. I've got 2 zooms and a cheap 50 prime which covers 24-200, and as a casual hobby its plenty sufficient for me. Although trying to get a shot of caps from a 70-200L II is a royal pain due to its MFD of about 1.2-1.5m.

I am disappointed though how the 6D does not ultilize a full metal construction similar to its older counterpart the 5DII. I've played with the 5DII, 6D, 7D and 60Ds and plastic bits does make it feel cheapish.

If you are after video then the 650D is a good starting point. There won't be a 7DII as the firmware update came out a few months back.

Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: TheProfosist on Thu, 17 January 2013, 17:29:53
7D is still crop frame though :(
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: jeroplane on Thu, 17 January 2013, 18:21:50
Seriously unless you're a professional or a hardcore hobbyist, you don't need full frame. But hey if you have the money to blow, go for it.
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: TheProfosist on Thu, 17 January 2013, 18:31:13
Seriously unless you're a professional or a hardcore hobbyist, you don't need full frame. But hey if you have the money to blow, go for it.
I dont currently and i just bought my 600D that upgrade isnt coming anytime soon and hopefully by then theyll upgrade the 6D
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: Lastpilot on Fri, 18 January 2013, 14:35:41
(http://img688.imageshack.us/img688/2886/photols.jpg)

Awwww yissss. My Pentax K-X with a SMC Pentax-M 50mm F1.7
Title: Re: DSLR's
Post by: darksakul on Wed, 23 January 2013, 22:51:40
I got a Nikon D200 with a older Nikon Nikkor AF 50mm 1.1:8 lens from 1986 and a newer Nikon AF-S VR 18-55mm 1:3.5-5.6 G.
Both are terrific lenses, the 50mm is a a faster lens (does better at low ISO speeds and low light) but the Older style AF lenses make a bit of noise when autofocusing.
The 18-55mm is quieter and smoother auto-focus and can be more flexible when I want wider angle shots, but it does not perform as well in low light.

I prefer Nikon over Cannon because Nikon keeps alot of there cameras and lenses forwards and Backwards compatible as much as possible.
Here is a chart for Nikon Lense Comaptibility
http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/compatibility-lens.htm

You can keep your cost down by going after a older used lens over a newer lens. a Nikon e-series (manual only) 50mm Lens from 1977 goes as cheap as $50.

I say go for a cheaper Camera and a Good Lense if you are under a budget.
You can always upgrade the body later on but a good piece of glass will always benefit you.

Here is a video that explain it better than I can
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=hk5IMmEDWH4