What is that funny wobbling star beside the moon?

best camera lens to photograph the moon image

timetwitch

Tonight, just beside the moon, there is something really bright. The last time my dad pointed something like that out, it was Jupiter. But tonight my family agrees, so I know its not just my eyes - whatever that bright thing is beside the moon, its wobbling! It isn't staying in one spot, or moving along a path. I thought it might be a satellite but I can't tell... What is it? It sort of look like its wobbling in one spot near the moon, like a skier behind a boat is the best I can describe it. Is it a UFO?

Answer
I was just taking photographs of the moon an hour or so ago and saw what you are talking it is Jupiter... I've seen it quite a few times and it has never looked like it has been moving in any way... Even through the lens of my camera... It might be something going on in the atmosphere where you are... If you want more info about it you can google it as star next to moon and it will come up with a good list about it...

How do you photograph stars and the moon with a digital camera?

flyddw

Using ONLY an automatic digital camera, what's the best way of taking pictures of astrological stuff? No telescopes or zoom lens beyond 135mm. I can place the camera on a tripod and take long exposures (< 10 seconds). Current camera: Sony DSC-F828, but the question is really aimed at ANY digital camera.

Answer
Open it up for the full 10 seconds. For that short a time, you will not need to track the stars with a motor drive.

Note that the full moon is MUCH brighter than even the brightest star, so a 10-sec exposure of the full moon will be overexposed. (You'll have to experiment to determine the exact exposure for the Moon; it depends on the sensitivity of the CCD inside the camera).

For stars, you will probably not get much at 10 seconds, unless you are at a very dark-sky site (rural area). But it's worth a shot.

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What is the best digital SLR camera or Interchangeable lens camera?

best camera with interchangeable lens image

David

I'm a beginner looking into some cameras. I want a camera that has a lot of room to grow with and isn't necessarily the most expensive nor the cheapest on the market. I am also stuck in between getting a DSLR or Interchangeable lens camera. I'm looking at the Sony NEX 5N, NEX 7, Nikon V1, among some other Nikon and Canon DSLR cameras.

Answer
The "best"? Nikon D4 or Canon 1D X

The best entry level dSLR would be the Nikon D3200 or Canon 1100D

If you want a smaller camera with interchangeable lenses then the Nikon V1 would be better than the J1

What Is the best photography quality camera for the money?

Alejandro

I'm interested in purchasing a Photography quality camera with interchangeable lens's like the ones i used in photography class not the basic tiny digital camera. I can't recall the the camera names. I don't even know where to began. I just love how all pictures come out beautiful.
Also I know these cameras can get expensive...so what it the best quality in the lower price range.

Answer
The very top end are Hasselblad, but most people cannot justify a 60 megapixel camera that costs more than a new family car.

The most popular ones with a good user base are Canon and Nikon with the lower numbers e.g. D7 being more advanced than the higher numbers e.g. D70 or D700.

Pick a camera you are comfortable with and try to get to hold one in a real store.

The lenses are the expensive part but package offers before Christmas are usually good.

Sony has it's Alpha range of cameras, but these use MemorySticks and have more unusual mountings as Sony see best!

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What are some things to look for when buying a digital camera?

best overall camera lens image

Dani

I bought my first digital camera over a year ago. I didnt know anything about them so I just picked one because it had a rechargeable battery and that appealed to me. ....I hate that camera with a passion. It either takes really dark pictures or the flash is so blinding that unless you're a mile way from the thing you want to take a picture of, all you get is a washed out -white picture. I dont want to make this mistake twice.

What are some things I need to look for in order to get a good, high quality digital camera?

Answer
Forget about the pixels. The number of mega pixels has no bearing on the quality of the final picture, unless there are so few pixels for the print size that the printer/computer has to make the pixels bigger to 'spread out' and cover the area. If the largest size print you think you would ever make is an 8x10, then there isn't a camera on the market today that has 'too few pixels'. More megapixels simply means you can do more cropping and still have maximum quality at larger sizes. Pixels don't create the quality, they simply maintain it at larger sizes. Having 20 buckets of paint doesn't tell you anything else about the paint in the buckets. It simply tells you the amount, not the quality.

It's more important to look at overall quality. There are three major components that determine overall quality of a digital camera's pictures.
A) Lens
B) Sensor
C) Processor

These three parts of a camera are the most critical in maintaining the quality of an image from the time the light strikes the front lens element until it is safely stored as on your memory card.

We can go in depth if you'd like, but the easiest thing to do is look at brands that have good reputations; Nikon, Canon & Sony. These three manufacturers have the best overall ratings. To make any more specific of a recommendation, I would need to know more about what you want your camera to do. Your best bet for advice is a local specialty camera store. The largest chain of specialty camera stores is Ritz/Wolf Camera. They guarantee the lowest price for 30 days & you can speak to an associate who knows about cameras and who will take the time to help you decide which camera has the features you need. And their Performance Guarantee program is the best in the business. Where else can you bring in a camera that's been ruined by water damage, multiple times of five years, and get free repairs & replacements? Additionally, sometimes the picture problems you're describing are caused by the camera being in the wrong setting or mode when you take a picture. Ritz/Wolf gives you a free 9-week training course when you buy a camera from them. That will allow you to use your camera to its full function, and maybe eliminate many camera problems and get the most out of your equipment.

Speaking face to face with an expert is your best bet, but if you'd like to tell me more about what you want your camera to do, I can recommend a camera to look at first.

What is the best Sony camera with the nightshot feature in your opinion?

Indigohipp

I wanna know of all the Sony Handycam Camcorders with the nightshot feature, which one is overall the best in your experience? Which one has the best focus/image quality/performance? Right now I have a DCR-SR45 and it has good nightvision, but it has autofocus problems and the image quality is a little grainy so I'm thinking about upgrading. I only use it in the dark so I just need to know how they perform with Nightshot on.

Answer
Currently, the HVR-A1. It is the pro-grade sibling to the consumer grade HDR-HC1 (which I have).

Low light and auto-focus do not get along because when the light is not sufficient (which is why you are using the infrared emitter), the auto focus cannot decide what to focus on. The HC1/A1 has a ring on the lens barrel that can be used as a manual focus ring so you do not need to rely on the auto-focus mechanism.

As well, that graininess is all about low light video capture. You may get a little less graininess from the A1/HC1 because it has a larger lens and imaging chip than the SR45. If you want to eliminate that graininess, then you need to move to lenses that are 70mm lens filter diameter or larger which places you in the $3,000+ camcorder range - and most of them do not have a built-in infrared emitter (hence, no NightShot mode), have an IR filter installed inside the camcorder and adding an external IR device won't get what you want in zero light.

Yes, I know - the A1/HC1 camcorders are a lot more expensive than the entry level SR45... but you asked for "best".

The HDR-HC9, HDR-CX500 series, HDR-XR500 series all have NightShot. You can confirm this at the Sony.com website in the Camcorder section. In the camcorder's specs, look in the "convenience features" for S-NS or something similar - this is "Super NightShot". I think the feature has been dropped from the "standard definition only" camcorders.

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How do I convert a digital camera's zoom from x increments to mm?

dslr camera lenses zoom image

Kinsey6

I have two digital cameras, one with a 10X zoom and another with a 15X zoom. I want to get a DSLR camera but don't know how to compare the zooms I have on my current cameras to how they're measured in mm on DSLRs. So what I'm wondering is, what is a 15X zoom equal to in mm, and how do I convert a 55-140mm and 55-300mm zoom lens back to x increments?

Also, I see some camera bundles with 2.5X lenses. Do these make, e.g., a 140 or 300mm zoom lens 2.5 times longer, or only provide a simple 2.5X zoom on the camera's body?

Thanks

Answer
Actually, you don't bother unless you're just curious. Then its simple division - divide the long end of your DSLR zoom lens by the short end. An 18-55mm zoom thus has a 3.05x zoom ratio (55/18 = 3.05).
A 70-200mm zoom has a 2.85x zoom ratio.

AVOID all "bundles" you might find on Amazon or eBay. Other than the acual camera and lens about 90% of the items included in "bundles" is junk. Things labeled as "2.5x Tele Lens" or "0.43 Wide Angle Lens" are NOT lenses they are cheap screw-in attachments that will do more to degrade your images than they will to help it. Also, notice that nothing included in these "bundles" has a name brand or even a name - just vague descriptions such as "... high power digital flash ..." or "... 4 section tripod ..." or "... 3 pack of digital filters ...". Junk. Junk. Junk.

Buy from a local store or a reputable on-line dealer. Here are just three:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com
http://www.adorama.com
http://www.keh.com

What lenses do you think are ideal for all kinds of photography?

Susan Fern

I plan to buy a DSLR camera. I am a bit confused as to which lenses I should buy for covering almost all kinds of photography. If I buy 18-55, 35-100 and 100-400mm, can it be said that it is a good combination. I don't like big zoom lenses like 28-200 or 18-250. What are your opinions? I would like to hear from you.

Answer
Hello Susan. Your confusion is more than apparent. What I'm going to suggest is based on spending the last 39 years learning about and enjoying photography.

Buy the DSLR of your choice with the lens that comes with it. Now remove from your mind any idea of buying another lens. Spend the next 6 months learning how to use your new camera and learning the capabilities and limitations of the lens that came with your camera. During this time you'll also begin learning what type of photography you like doing the most.

Suppose you discover that exploring the close-focusing capability of the 18-55mm zoom is fascinating and you decide that you'd like to get into true macro photography. None of the lenses you listed is a macro lens so you'll have spent money needlessly and still won't have the lens you really need. A true macro lens will give you a 1:1 (life-sized) reproduction ratio. Take a picture of a 10mm long ant and it will be 10mm long on your sensor. A close-focusing (misleadingly labeled as "macro") zoom lens will seldom exceed a 1:4 (1/4 life-sized) reproduction ratio. Your 10mm long ant will be a mere 2.5mm long on your sensor.

Suppose you decide that shooting in low-light without the flash gets your creative juices flowing. You'll very quickly want a fast prime lens like a 50mm f1.4. A lens like this allows use of a lower ISO to achieve a faster shutter speed and a low ISO is always better for image quality.

You might find that wide sweeping landscapes are your passion and 18mm just isn't wide enough. Now you'll be wanting a lens as wide as 10mm to 12mm and those lenses you originally bought will be a further waste of money.

So, Susan, start with a camera and one lens. From July of 1971 to late 1972 all I had was a camera and a 50mm f1.7 lens. To zoom in I walked closer. To zoom out I backed up.

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Which Canon lens to use for shooting an outdoor music festival?

best canon lens for concerts image

I'm about to shoot my first concert - a major day/night outdoor music festival.

I will be using a friend's Canon EOS 20D with a 17-85mm lens, however I have been told that I might be better off using a different lens

Could you give any recommendations?

And perhaps any live concert photography tips in general?

I will have access to the photo pit, so distance from performers isn't a major issue

Many thanks

Answer
In the pit that lens will be ok for getting overall stage shots but not much good for closeup shots of the performers.
You will need a 200mm at least and it will need to be an f2.8 to get a decent speed.

a

What is considered a professional camera?

M

I am going to a concert and on the ticket is says "No professional cameras" I could be a professional photographer with a disposible camera...would that then be considred a professional camera? The camera I am bringing is a Canon Rebel XT with a Canon Zoom Telephoto lens. They will let me in with that....right?

Answer
the Xt is definitely not a "professional camera" in the technical sense, although many very good photographers use it and many pictures from the camera are published. Canon calls the xt a Pro-sumer camera, but if the concert people wanna be a pain in the a**, they could say it's a pro camera, especially if you've got one of those long white canon lenses.

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Which is a good semi professional camera and lens to buy?

best canon lens for portraits image

Deepu

I am teaching myself photography as a hobby and would like to make it my second profession eventually. I would like to go in for a DSLR camera (second hand (body only) costing around 400 dollars (300euros)) and a good lens for portrait and landscape.

I would prefer a Nikon or a Canon camera. Please advice.

Answer
You can find the lens best suited for portrait by visiting the canon web site. Also the Landscape lens (a wide angle) is NOT the same as a portrait lens.

Why don't you buy the cheapest camera with a short (range) zoom lens and go from their. Then you could have your scenic lens at one end and your portrait lens at the other end!

Can a 100mm macro lens be used for landscape and family portraits?

fiber

I'm thinking of buying a 100mm Canon macro lens. But I also need a lens to take some family photos of 50 or so people (either wide angle or from far away). Can I use the same 100mm macro lens for both? Any pros/cons?

Answer
A 100mm macro lens on any Canon dSLR with an APS-C format sensor (any non-professional Canon digital SLR let's say) will have a crop factor of 1.6x. That means that a 100mm lens on a Canon EOS 300D Digital Rebel (just a random example) would actually be equivalent to a 160mm lens. In general, that focal length isn't going to be very useful for wide landscape photography or photos of large groups, but it would likely take very nice portraits of 1-3 people. That focal length is often considered part of the nice ranges of portrait lenses (around 85mm-180mm).

In a word though - "Nah" - that's not a good lens for both applications that you're interested in. Even at a straight 100mm you probably won't find an experienced photographer who will bless anything over, say, 35mm on the high end (no crop factor) for landscape/large group photos. On an APC-S sensor that would be about 17mm-18mm, which is quite common on zoom lenses now.

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What is the difference between mirrorless and EVIL cameras?

dslr camera lens terminology image

Hannah

Does mirrorless just mean NOT an SLR? Are all compact cameras mirrorless cameras? Is an EVIL camera just a little Friday night point-and-shoot digicam that you can stick big lenses on? Am I even using any of this terminology correctly? *sigh* So much to learn!

Answer
All of these terms are a bit vague.

EVIL means Electronic Viewfinder Interchangeable Lens
MILC means Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera

And a newer term, Compact System Camera is also sometimes used.

Collectively these terms generally identify the cameras like the Sony NEX, Micro Four/Thirds cameras, and Nikon's 1 cameras. Generally anything between compact cameras and DSLRs.

I suppose that these cameras should be called bridge cameras, as that is in line with the original intent of the "bridge" idea. But the term bridge has been kidnapped by all of those low end run-of-the-mill compact cameras that have had huge zoom lenses slapped on the front of them.

There is some redundancy I suppose between the terms, as in the case of Nikon, the J1 does not have an electronic viewfinder, only a screen, so I suppose it would be a MILC. But then the Nikon V1 has an electronic viewfinder, so it could be a EVIL or a MILC.

And some micro Four/Thirds have an attachable electronic viewfinder, so are they MILC when the viewfinder is off, but a EVIL when the electronic viewfinder is attached?

And don't even get started with semi-transparent mirror cameras...

I suppose this is why the term "Compact System Cameras" is gaining popularity, as it is generic enough to be applicable to all of these cameras.

How do I work out the magnification of a zoom lens for a DSLR?

mouse_spin

I recently got a Canon EOS 400D digital SLR camera and I am looking to upgrade the lens for one with a more powerful zoom. However separate lenses are new to me so I am struggling to figure out which lenses are more powerful than others.

I was hoping someone would be able to tell me how you can either work out the strength of the optical zoom on Canon lenses, or give me suggestions of lenses to look at.

Any help is greatly appreciated.
Many thanks,
Martin.

Answer
You already have two excellent answers, but I have this one in the can at all times, so here you go. My answer adds a little visual aid.

There is not a lens-to-distance equation. If we are talking about a "35 mm equivalent," a 50 mm focal length is approximately "normal" view without any magnification. For most DSLR's, the lens factor of 1.5-1.6 means a "normal" focal length would be about 31-33 mm. If we go back to a 50 mm "normal" lens then, a 100 mm lens would be a "2 power" lens, 200 mm would be 4X, and so on.

Just divide the smaller number into the bigger number and you get the "X" power of the lens. For instance, a 35-80 mm lens is 2.3X zoom. Divide 80 by 35 and you'll get the result. 35-80 mm lens is 2.3X zoom. Divide 80 by 35 and you'll get the result.

It is usually better to know what the focal length of a lens in "35 mm equivalent" is and judge by that, rather than relying on the "X" power of the lens. For instance, most point and shoot cameras start at about 35 mm and have either a 3X or 4X zoom. This would make it a 35-105 or a 35-140. I've seen some that start at 28 mm, though. A 3X starting at 28 mm is 28-84 and a 4X is 28-112. Neither one is a particularly strong telephoto lens and the 4X is just about the same as the 3X that starts out at 35 mm.

It's also important to realize that tradition dictates that lens focal lengths are usually expressed in terms of "35 mm equivalent," where "35 mm" refers to a 35 mm film camera. This is because of the relation between the sensor size and the actual focal length of the lens and the resultant angle of view of the lens.

I have one point & shoot that is actually a 5.8-24 mm zoom. This is a 4X zoom. The 35 mm equivalent is 28-116 mm. The sensor is 7.2x5.3 mm. (1/1.8") (And I wish I knew someone who could explain how the heck they came up with sensor size terminology!)

I have another point & shoot that is actually a 5.7-17.1 mm zoom. This is a 3X zoom. The 35 mm equivalent is 34-102 mm. "How could a shorter focal length give a longer 35 mm equivalent?" you might ask. It's because the sensor is only about 5x4 mm. (1/2.5")

I have a few Nikon DSLR's and - thankfully - they all have the same size sensor. They all have a "lens factor" of 1.5. This means that you just multiply the actual focal length of the lens to get the 35 mm equivalent and then you can make comparisons accurately from camera-to-camera. Most Canon's, for instance, have a lens factor of 1.6. On a Nikon DSLR, a 28 mm lens is the "35 mm equivalent" of a 42 mm lens. On most Canon DSLR's, the same 28 mm lens is the equivalent of a 45 mm lens.

These example are just to show you how freaking confusing it can all become if you try to make sense of the "X" power of a zoom lens.

Bottom line...

Check the 35 mm equivalent specifications for the lens. This way, you will be leveling the field and comparing apples to apples. More or less.

Here is a mini-tutorial I made myself to compare focal lengths. This is NOT a lens test or a camera test! It is merely intended to show the difference between various focal lengths. The lens was the Nikon 18-200 VR lens, which is (by definition) an 11X lens, but that 11X does not tell you what the final image will look like. I added one more frame taken with a 300 mm lens. The camera was a Nikon D200 so there is a 1.5X "crop factor," "lens factor," or "focal length multiplier." There is further explanation on the image itself. It would help if you click on "All Sizes" above the image.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/7189769@N04/476181737/

This was done with two different lenses: the Nikon 17-55 and 70-300:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/samfeinstein/1245831147/

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What is the best Canon lens to use for portraits?

best canon is lens for portrait image

Meghan

I have heard a 50mm 1.2 lens is the best for engagements, seniors, newborns, and things like that, but i'm really not sure what to buy right now!
Opinions?!

Answer
Unless you have $1600 extra, the f/1.2 is kind of overkill. I prefer the 50mm f/1.4, 85mm f/1.8, and the 70-200 f/2.8L for doing portraits.

Here is the current Canon lens lineup http://www.usa.canon.com/cusa/consumer/products/cameras/ef_lens_lineup

What lens should I purchase for portraits?

Ariel

I have a Canon Rebel T3i and I want a great lens for taking portraits, any ideas?

Answer
Pick your focal, they're all good for portrait.

24-70mm f/2,8L usm or 24-70mm f/2,8L usm II
50mm f/1,8 or f/1,4
85mm f/1,8 or f/1,2L
105mm f/2,8 usm or f/2,8L
135mm f/2L
70-200mm f/4L or f/4L IS or f/2,8L or f/2,8L IS II

For low budget:

Tamorn 28-75mm f/2,8

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Do I set my camera to macro when using macro lenes?

dslr camera macro lens image

David

I have a 15.1 megapixel camera, and a 60 mm macro lens (which im waiting to arrive)

im a newbie at photography, so do i have to set my camera to macro settings (the flower icon) when im using the macro lens?

Answer
Nope! DSLRs don't have focus modes like "flower", "mountain", etc. You just attach a lens and use it like normal.

What kind of Cameras can you put a Macro Lens on?

Noah-Sempa

I have a Camera,and its nice with a really good view, but I was wondering if I could put a Macro Lens on it. I really would like to take close up pictures,and I don't know weather I would need a new Camera, or I can just add a Lens onto it.

Answer
If would help just a tad if you mentioned the make and model of the camera you have.

A Dslr or medium format camera with interchangeable lenses is what you need.

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What is a good Canon wide angle lens?

best canon lens t3i image

Steven

I'm getting a Canon EOS Rebel T3i for Christmas, and I want to get a wide angle lens. I'm new to the world of DSLRs so I was wondering what a good, basic and standard wide angle lens would be to get. Obviously, the cheaper, the better, but I still want a quality lens. Should I get a Canon lens? Should I get a different brand? What size? Any personal experience with the lens you recommend? Thanks for your help and Merry Christmas everyone!

Answer
Congratulations on your new camera. My first recommendation for a lens would be the 17-40mm F/4L. It is around $750 so it is likely out of your price range. You could also check out the tamron or sigma wide angle lens. They are cheaper and have a larger aperture, but not quite as good image quality. The cheapest canon lens I'd recommend is the 18-135mm lens. If you meant super wide angle, you would want to look at sigma. They make some quality ultra wide angles. I have the 17-40mm F/4L and love it.

How do you change the focus on a Canon Rebel T3i?

Iloveme

Well, I recently bought a Canon Rebel T3i and every time I take a picture the focus is horrible it focuses on the background rather than the person. I've realized you have to it manually. So, all I'm trying to say is how do you change the focus. Thank you!

Answer
Rule # 1 - Read the Owners Manual

Rule # 2 - Read the Owners Manual

Rule # 3 - Read the Owners Manual

Rule # 4 - Start Back at Rule # 1 - Read the Owners Manual

This type of problem is actually actually covered in the Owners Manual.
Check the side of the lens where the AF/MF Toggle is sitting at.

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I have a Nikon D80 DSLR camera, what are 2 lenses I should start with?

dslr camera lens repair image

Cincy G

What are 2 lenses I should start out with for my camera? I would like something for everyday use and something for zooming in long distance. Under $500 would be nice.
What is difference between 70-300mm and 75-300mm?
Is a VR a must have?

Answer
Hi Cincy. Great Questions!! There is no real need to have more than one lens if you are not a professional photographer who has reasons for using a variety of focal length lenses. For people who come in our store asking the same question, I recommend them buying an 18-200mm or 28-200mm zoom lens. For one thing, it allows for relatively wide angle shots. Also, you have the advantage of being able to zoom to standard focal length (50mm), portrait lengths (85mm to 100mm), and all the way out to long telephoto (200mm).... all in one lens. The second advantage is that you only have one lens that you keep on the camera... meaning not having to switch lenses on and off, which absolutely introduces tiny particles to the sensor of the camera. Particles on the sensor = spots on your images/pictures = extra work in photoshop or a trip to the camera repair for a sensor cleaning = at least an $89.00 cleaning fee each time you have to take it in. You can literally have 100's of spots on the sensor.... I know, I just had mine cleaned. :( There is not much difference in the 70-300mm and 75-300mm focal length wise. VR is an advantage... it reduces the effects of camera shake which helps with clearer, in focus pictures. Hope that gives you something to consider.

PSS. I am adding the links to the lenses I recommended just so you can see and read about them.

Where can I get my camera lens cleaned?

Matt

I have a canon dslr and I noticed there is some dust on the inside of the lens. I bought the camera from bestbuy. Do I take the lens to bestbuy to get cleaned?

Answer
Hi Matt
Best Buy will do nothing for you or your camera. Try calling Canon's 1800 number. They will provide the name of an authorized Canon repair tech in your city. If the equipment is under warranty... you just might get a discount. Worth the try. Thanks for reading.

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I am trying to decide between two cameras?

best compact digital camera interchangeable lens image

blahdrt

I am trying to decide between two cameras?

The Sony NEX-3NL/W Compact Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera Kit and the Nikon 1 J3 14.2 MP HD Digital Camera with 10-30mm VR 1 NIKKOR Lens. 

I want a step up from my point and shoot, thats small with good quality photos for traveling and all. I don't know which one of these is better and I don't want to be blinded by something flashy and end up getting the lesser product.

Answer
NEX.

I am trying to decide between two cameras?

blahdrt

The Sony NEX-3NL/W Compact Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera Kit and the Nikon 1 J3 14.2 MP HD Digital Camera with 10-30mm VR 1 NIKKOR Lens. 

I want a step up from my point and shoot, thats small with good quality photos for traveling and all. I don't know which one of these is better and I don't want to be blinded by something flashy and end up getting the lesser product.

Answer
The NEX is probably the better choice. The micro 4/3 system has more lenses available and down the road, you can upgrade the body into a higher NEX body.

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what the differences between dslr camera and lens camera?

dslr camera and lens image

AHMAD M

i am amateur in photography but i'm like to take photos. To satisfy my hobby i'm going to camera shop to buy more quality camera then i see dslr and lens camera. I know dslr camera but lens camera quite interesting with it specification and price, the problem is i'm zero in lens camera. which one would you suggest to me?

Answer
What is a lens camera?? All cameras have a lens. DSLR stands for digital single lens reflex.

Where can I find an online tutorial or instructions for the AF NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8D camera lens?

mich

Does anyone know where I can find some "how to's" for my new 50mm DSLR camera lens?
I'd like to know how to use the lens aperture ring. So far, the camera will only let me take a picture if it's locked at the minimum aperature.

Answer
You're probably using a digital SLR. When you lock the aperture ring at the minimum aperture (as you've already done) you can set the aperture with the scroll wheel on the camera body in both Aperture priority mode and Manual mode.

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What is the best DSLR for me to fit my old OM lenses on ?

dslr camera old lenses image

Chappering

I am considering buying a DSLR and have some old OM lenses lying about and wondered what the best DSLR under £400 would be for using the old lenses with an adapter.

Any help is appreciated
Oh and i don't mind buying second hand.

Answer
An E-520.

Body only...
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Olympus-E-520-D-SLR-Camera-10MP/dp/B0019JKOT8/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1270552471&sr=1-8


Though there is one (second hand) with both kit lenses offered by another seller through Amazon. The autofocus kit lenses are good and significantly lighter then the old OM lenses. (My choice would be this.)

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/offer-listing/B0019JNMJC/ref=dp_olp_used?ie=UTF8&qid=1270552210&sr=1-2&condition=used

And this adapter for your OM lenses...

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Replacement-MF-1focus-stop-screw-connection-diaphragm/dp/B0036ZJDAE/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1270552584&sr=1-3

What is a fair price for a used camera and lenses?

Mouse

A friend is offering me a Cannon A-1 35mm camera(about 20 years old)+ several lenses. These include a macro zoom lens and a wide angle lens, as well as a 28-50mm zoom lens and a few others that are just basic lenses. All together about 7 lenses. Also an auto winder attachment, a couple of cable releases, about 12 filters, several lens adapters, a light meter and a bellows. I need to figure out what to offer her, but I don't know what is a fair price. I don't want to cheat either one of us. Does anybody have any idea what would be a fair price to offer for these items. I must have the camera and at least a couple of lenses, along with the cable releases, and at least a couple of filters. So an idea of what to offer for the smaller number of items would also be helpful. Thank you.

Answer
Since Canon developed the EOS camera system, the A-1 vintage cameras became obsolete ... sort of. While they are still great cameras and can shoot amazing images. What you will not get is auto-focus and the ability to use the new Canon EOS and DSLR's cameras.

A fair price could be as low as $200 for the whole kit. You will not be cheating anyone by knowing the limitations of the camera and lenses.

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Best Nikon DSLR camera for shooting scenery and animal shots?

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Hi Folks,

After using compact cameras for decades, I decide to update to DSLR camera.

If budget isn't an issue, which DSLR camera is suitable for scenery and animal shots?
I'm a outdoor lover so I frequently take outdoor scenery shots which my compact camera's quality is not up to standard.

What about low end budget DSLR camera but with good lens/software support which I might be upgrade in near future?

Appreciate your kind response before I hit the shop =D

Thank you.

Answer
It is not so much the camera as it is the lens.

Entry level DSLRs almost universally come with a consumer-grade 18-55mm lens. This is just a starter lens, and is not meant to be the only lens you have; otherwise the lens would not be made removable.

There are two types of DSLRs, consumer-grade (which includes entry level and advanced amateur) and professional. Professional DSLRs have full frame sensors, and consumer-grade DSLRs have cropped sensors; at least for purposes of this explanation.

The type of DSLR you chose will also dictate a bit which lenses you need. And since you are asking this question, I am assuming you are in the market for a non-professional (cropped APS sensor) DSLR, so my answer is according to this assumption.

Landscape lenses: look for a "superwide" angle lens. Something in the 10 to 24mm range. This lens is good for scenery and indoor shots. However, for indoor shots, you will want a fast lens. My recommendation is a Tokina 11-16mm f/2.8 Dx2. It is available in Nikon, Canon, and Sony mounts.

Animal shots: For animals close to you, your kit 18-55mm lens will do. However, if you want to upgrade to one that will work in low light/indoors, look at a Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8, or your camera manufacturer's lens (for example; Canon 17-55mm f/2.8 or Nikon 17-55mm f/2.8). These lenses are very similar to your kit lens except that they will let more light in and are better in low-light situations.

Animal shots for distant animals, you will need a telephoto lens. A good choice is a 70-300mm telephoto for most wildlife, or for birding, something like a Sigma (nicknamed "Bigma") 50-500mm.

For sports, you want a faster telephoto lens (one that lets in more light/can be used at faster shutter speeds). The king of sports telephotos is the 70-200mm f/2.8. And good thing you said budget is not an issue, as these lenses cost up to $2,500.

Thing is, lenses are vastly more important than the camera. All too often, first-time buyers will buy the most expensive DSLR they can afford, then buy a lens almost as an afterthought.

But the opposite is true; buy the best lens you can afford (which will be the most expensive) and buy the camera almost as an afterthought.

A good set of lenses will be 80% of your DSLR investment, with the camera being around 20%. So if you buy a $1,000 camera, you should be expecting to spend $4,000 minimum on lenses to get the most performance out of your camera.

And also realize there is consumer-grade lenses and professional-grade. My recommendation is to buy professional-grade whenever you can, even if you have a consumer-grade camera. Professional grade means lenses with apertures of f/2.8 or wider.

Here are my recommendations for a good starter set of lenses:

For APS (cropped consumer-grade cameras):

Tokina 11-16mm f/2.8 for your brand camera.
Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 for your brand camera (or your camera's brand 17-55mm f/2.8)
Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 for your brand camera (or your camera's brand 70-200mm f/2.8)

And you may want to supplement these lenses with a longer telephoto; 70-300mm or 400~500mm if and when you can afford it. This lens can be slower than f/2.8 though, as you will usually be using a tripod anyway. You can get a 70-300mm f/4.5~5.6 for around $600, or a 500mm lens in the $1,200 range (for example, the Sigma 150-500mm f/5.6~6.3 for birding).

But if you need a f/2.8 and money is no object - you can buy a Sigma 200-500mm f/2.8 if you want for $32,000. Most of us don't need one, and do not want to carry around a bazooka (literally):

http://cache.gawkerassets.com/assets/images/gizmodo/2009/04/009475l_01.jpg

Really... that lens exists.

Also, for superior low-light, a 50mm f/1.8 or f/1.4 can be purchased for $200 to $400, so it is not a huge investment for a great lens.

Thing is, due to the high cost of good lenses, you can spend a fortune on them, and if you buy the wrong lens for your needs, you can waste a fortune on them. Before plunking $5,000 down on lenses and a camera, you might want to find someone in your area that is knowledgeable and have them teach you a bit.

Most photographers will be happy to do so, but they might inject their own bias as to brands as this is a very brand-oriented and brand-loyal hobby and profession.

How to chose the best dslr camera?

Ryan

I am looking for a nikon dslr but I don't know which camera is best for me.

I am new to photography and I like to shoot stuff close (autofocus) and shoot objects with low shutter speeds

Is a dslr camera with an autofocus motor better? If so which one is the best?

Answer
Any of the entry level DSLR's would be fine. Canon or Nikon are both good - it depends on your preferences, or perhaps if someone you know owns the same brand.

The lenses are much more important, because they will stay with you even when you upgrade to a new camera body, so make sure to buy the best you possibly can when it comes to lens shopping - you WILL regret buying slow lenses.

Canon tends to be a little cheaper and have a bit more choice, including on the second hand market.

Pick a favorite few cameras, compare them on www.dpreview.com, then play with them in a store...... handling them might help you decide which one to get.

The very best thing you can do for your photography, is to attend a class and read a few books and tutorials. Having some knowledge will make a huge difference to your images.
I hope I have expressed this idea clearly enough: YOU need to learn about photography because even the world's best camera will take lousy shots in the hands of someone who has no clue how to use it.

It sounds like you need to start that learning process BEFORE you even go shopping. Don't spend money until you understand all the terms and concepts properly - you'll just end up disappointed with your choices later.

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What is a good camera that takes great quality action shots?

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Doug H

My old camera is a little outdated and when I take action shots the pictures come out blurry. I want a new camera with great technology that will give me great action shots.

Answer
Any DSLR with a longer lens will do what you want, but you will also need certain skills to get great action shots. Like panning with the action, shooting at the peak of action, knowing the sport you are attempting to shoot and depending more on your skills than the technology of the camera.

Many of the people here are using Canon and Nikon entry level DSLR's with the 70-300 mm lens and are being quite successful with their action and sports shots.

What to do when taking an action shot in low lighting with canon ae-1?

Lindsay Ga

I'm getting the basics down for the canon ae-1 i've got. I would just like to know some specifics on how to get a good action shot of something when the lighting is low, without it coming out all blurry. I'm just not sure if theres certain things i need to know about what to do with shutter speed etc. anything helps. thanks!

Answer
Use fast film - ISO800 at least
Use wide aperture lens - F/1.8 if you can
Put the camera on a tripod.
Increase the lighting level any way you can - spotlights? or flash (not much use for distant action though!)

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Camera / Lens Rental?

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Sam

As per a suggestion via a previous question, does anyone know of an affordable DSLR camera/ lens rental website? I don't find $200 a day for a Nikon D3 affordable...Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Answer
Don't know! Better do a lot of quick high quality photos in the time you rent, ha, ha, lol. I know it's not funny but just had to throw that in.

5 guidelines in buying a digital cameras,cannon and sony brand only ,nikon is optional.?

grammo

what are the 5 basics steps in buying a digital cameras,i prefer ,cannon and sony brand only ,nikon is optional.

Answer
Are you talking about P&S cameras? If so remember that Sony P&S cameras use proprietary memory cards. Canon and Nikon use the same SD / SDHC cards.

In the choice of buying a DSLR is exactly the same as when buying a 35 mm camera system decades ago.

* Does the system have all the features you will need as an advanced amateur or pro?
* What limitations are there when it comes to the availability of bodies and lenses?
* Which camera system is mature enough to support your photographic career now and in the foreseeable future?
* Which DSLR system offers the best availability of specialized equipment rental?
* Can you use the lenses you have now with future professional level cameras made by the camera company I am considering?

From Ken Rockwell's website.
"Nikon often includes secret features in cameras and in lenses to make them compatible with the next five years or so of secretly planned technology.

For instance, the 1988 F4 is completely compatible with AF-I and AF-S lenses which didn't appear until 1992 and 1998.

Nikon AI lenses in 1977 already had secret lugs on the back which couple lens information to cameras for Matrix metering, not introduced until the FA of 1983.

Zoom AF lenses, ever since they were introduced in 1986, have always had focal length encoders which insert data into today's digital cameras' EXIF data.

AF lenses of today ... still have mechanical lugs for backwards compatibility with the matrix meter of the 1983 FA, and manual focus lenses still have prongs for coupling to the 1959 F."

When I ask those questions as a pro, the order is thus:

1. Nikon ... it has the most lenses, new and used since 1959 that can be used within the system ... Perhaps the most important, all the DX lenses can be used on the FX (full frame) digital cameras and if you don't mind vignetting the 35 mm cameras can use them as well.
2. Canon ... all lenses made since 1988 can be used by current Canon cameras except EF-S lenses ... they cannot be used on Canon 35 mm or full frame digital cameras.
3. Sony ... New kid on the block with no background in professional still cameras. The Sony system can use selected Minolta AF lenses made since the late 1980's

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