Zoom lens for my Canon 350D?

Droogette

I bought the kit lens, it's good for portraits and all but I would like to buy a lens with better zoom for far away shots. Can someone recommend a good quality zoom lense from about $ 200 - 500 dollars?

Answer
Canon Lenses and Reviews

http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Canon-Lenses/ (See "Recommendations" on this page)
http://www.photo.net/canon/#lense
http://www.wlcastleman.com/equip/reviews/index.htm
http://www.photozone.de/active/news/index.jsp
http://www.bobatkins.com/photography/index.html
http://www.fredmiranda.com
http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/forum.asp?forum=1029

Your budget almost reaches the Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM (28-135 equiv.) (April 2007-$515) is a good "walk around" lens at a good price.
http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=ModelDetailAct&fcategoryid=149&modelid=10511
http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/Canon-EF-S-17-85mm-f-4-5.6-IS-USM-Lens-Review.aspx

Using a Sigma 55mm lens on a Canon 350D that has a 58mm lens fitted..?

matt

Is there some sort of adapter available to size up or down the fitting on a camera to allow a smaller lens to be fitted? I can't afford to buy another lens for my Canon and I love my Sigma on my other camera but would like to use it for digital rather than film photography.. so assumed if an adapter was available it would be considerably cheaper! I've no idea what i'm looking for, i've only found things for changing the size so you can attach a smaller / larger filter so far.
No not at all! I have a Canon camera with a Canon lens and a Minolta camera with a Sigma lens.. So I guess the terminology of what I'm after is the 'mount' part!
Minolta Dynax 2xi is the other camera

and as for the Sigma lens, it says on it Sigma Auto Focus, Aspherical 24-70mm 1:3.5-5.6
Nothing to do with filters! I was merely saying that is all I had found at the time!

So if my understanding is correct my Sigma lens that is currently fitted onto my Minolta camera can be fitted onto my Canon camera with something like this..? http://www.suntekstore.co.uk/Minolta-MD-MC-Lens-to-Canon-EOS-Camera-Body-Adapter-Ring-.html

Answer
Whoa!

Are you saying that you have a Sigma 55 mm lens with an EF Canon lens mount?
It is an older lens since the new Sigma lens in that focal range is the sigma 50mm F1.4 EX DG HSM. It uses 77 mm filters

If this is true, just remove your current lens and replace it with the Sigma lens.

The 58 mm filter thread is just that, the size thread you need when you buy filters for your existing lens.

NOTE: There was a Sigma XQ 55mm f2.8 macro lens was produced in the early 1970s, but that can only be used on Canon cameras made before the Canon EOS cameras were introduced in 1988, the old FD and FL lens types. That manual focus lens uses a 62mm filter

It is a little difficult to answer your question since you are not being very clear.

Are you talking about using different size lenses on your camera or are you asking about using filters of different sizes on your lenses?

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Camera doesn't have IS nor does lens (landscape photography)?

Q. The Canon 5D Mark II does not have IS nor does the Canon 17-40MM L Lens (the first two pieces of equipment I plan on buying for photography). Would a remote shutter and tripod be good enough? Would wind be to much for the camera?
I plan on getting a Manfrotto (055xprob) with a ball head for about 300 USD. Surely this will be good for now?

I have already added all the gear up and it till be close to 5,000 so I will have to stick with the 17-40mm lens for now.

Answer
A remote shutter release and tripod is the best, VR, IS or not.

We have been shooting landscape photography for over one hundred years ... no image stabilization.

If all you are shooting is landscapes, I would recommend the EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM. The silly little mm difference can sometimes make a difference and of course it is a stop faster

What is the best lens for landscape photography with the Nikon D 5200?

LEO

I am looking for an affordable lens for the Nikon d5200 that works great for landscape and city photography. Also, i am interested in night sky shooting any reccomandations for how to get some great results

Answer
On your DX camera- the Nikkor 10-24mm is a superb landscape lens for around $1200 dollars. Not that cheap, but an excellent lens for your needs (effectively 15-36mm). City photography means a lot of different thniings- carry around lenses with large zoom ranges are often popular due tot heir versatility but thye often do have to make compromises on quality at the extremes. The 18-200mm and 18-30omm lenses are both great walk around lenses but niether is cheap. Tokina does an 18-270mm lens which is cheaper. Alternatively look at the 18-105mm lens from Nikkor that comes as a kit lens on some of their cameras

For night sky shooting:
Use a tripod and remote release.
Put you camera in mirror up mode
Use small apertures and long exposure times
Try to do it in an area with very low incidental light so as to not have light from the sides overexposing the picture

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what kind of dslr should i get?

zodiac-sai

hi right now i am using a canon sx210 and i am 15 going into softmore year and i am taking photography and want to step up to a dslr... i like taking macro pictures animals cars and landscapes night and day... i have been looking at d3100 t3i t2i sony a33 sonny a35 sony a55... one thing that is also very important to me is the video quality which is why im leading towards the sony but idk how good there photo quality is compared to the others
under $800

Answer
The still-image quality of the Sonys are comparable to any D-SLR from Canon or Nikon at around the same price range for the individual camera. So, if you drop $800.00 on a Sony, you're going to get image quality practically equal to the image quality you'd get from a Canon or Nikon that also sells for around $800.00 - When it comes to image quality, the brand doesn't matter as long you stay within the same price range and stick to one of the reliable manufacturers: Nikon/Canon/Sony/Olympus/Pentax - one is just as good as another.

The sony AXX (A35, A55, for example) series, however, use a translucent mirror design - this is preferable for video. So, if video is really important to you, I'd say go with a Sony - it will offer you more control over your video work. For video quality and control out of a D-SLR, the other manufacturers can't yet compete with Sony's SLT series cameras. The trade off is the SLT design of the Sonys cause you to lose between one-third to a half a stop of light. So, when taking still images, the Sonys will perform just slightly less efficiently in low-light situations - you'll need to open up between 1/3 & 1/2 a stop to get the same exposure you would on non SLT camera. The SLT Sonys also use an electronic viewfinder - these have both advantages and disadvantages over optical viewfinders - so it's largely a matter of personal preference. But, if you're used to shooting though an optical viewfinder, they can take some getting used to - if you're used to shooting with live-view, it wont be a problem.

*** EDIT: To address George Washington below: (1) Canon and Nikon are no more or less "trustworthy" than Sony. And, Nikon and Canon users better hope that's true, as both Canon and Nikon USE SONY SENSORS in their cameras. (2) Everybody that knows anything about Cameras knows about Sony's full-frames - they were the first to introduce anti-shake on a full-frame sensor. Offered the highest resolution of any full-frame available when they were introduced. And, their full-frames still have the biggest and brightest viewfinder in the industry. Sony's full-frames rocked the D-SLR market when they were introduced. And, they're about to do it again, with a 36mp full-frame due for release in 2012. (3) The availability of relativley inexpensive, yet high-quality Sony lenses dwarfs both Nikon and Canon - AND EVERY SINGLE lens you put on a Sony is stabilized - EVERY SINGLE ONE. And, since every Minolta A-mount lens made by ANY manufacturer going as far back as 1986 will mount on a Sony - That's one HELL OF A LOT of stabilized glass available!!!! I'm sorry, no offense, but George Washington clearly has no idea what he's talking about.

And, regarding the claimed substandard performance of Sony's electronic viewfinders: From a review of the A77 @ Alphamount World: "I had my wife take a look through the viewfinder, she was unaware that the new cameras didnât have optical viewfinders. Sheâs owned her own KM7D for a few months now that has a very decent optical finder -so sheâs no stranger to using an optical finder. For the first minute or so, she just commented on how large the view was in the A77 and how much information was displayed. Then it hit her, and she asked me how the viewfinder auto dimmed and brightened on its own and how all that information was on the screen. It was then that I revealed to her that it was an electronic viewfinder, not an optical one.âWowâ she exclaimed. â.

Can you explain exposure time in photography to me?

Tommy

I've seen many night photos with a caption that says something like, 5 minutes exposure time, or 2 minutes, or 60 minutes, you get my point. My question is, what does that all mean? How do you set the exposure to a certain duration of time? Thanks in advance.

Answer
The longest night exposure I've made to date is 30 seconds. The exposure times you're mentioning are probably for star trails or perhaps a landscape lit by a full moon.

First and foremost you'll need a tripod and a locking remote release (we could suggest a remote IF we knew what camera you have). However, for exposures of 30 seconds or less you could use your camera's self-timer.

Second, for exposures longer than 30 seconds you'll have to place your shutter speed dial in the "B" (Bulb) position which will allow you to keep the shutter open as long as you want with the locking remote release.

Third, you'll need to turn the AF on lens and camera to "OFF" because the camera won't be able to focus on a dark scene.

Fourth, you'll need to check in the Owner's Manual for any precautions when making long exposures. Digital sensors heat up during long exposures. You'll also want to check for LNR - Long Exposure Noise Reduction.

Star Trails: http://www.danheller.com/star-trails

True astrophotography requires very expensive equipment but here are two methods for determining exposure time that (supposedly) prevent star trails.

"500 Rule" http://www.davidkinghamphotography.com/blog/2012/11/how-to-avoid-star-trails

This is just simple division. Divide 500 by the focal length of your lens and round that down and then divide it by the crop factor of your camera.

EX. 1: Sony, Pentax, Nikon with 1.5 crop factor. 500/18 = 27.7. Round down to 27. 27/1.5 = 18. So 18 seconds is your exposure time.

EX 2: Canon, 1.6 crop factor. 500/18 = 27.7, Round down to 27. 27/1.6 = 16.8. Round down to 16. So 16 seconds is your exposure time.

http://600rule.com Robert Howell Photography

Same principle except using 600.

EX 1: Sony, Pentax, Nikon. 600/18 = 33.3. Round down to 33. 33/1.5 = 22. So 22 seconds is your exposure time.

EX 2: Canon. 600/18 = 33.3. Round down to 33. 33/1.6 = 20.6. Round down to 20. 20/1.6 = 12.5. Round down to 12. So 12 seconds is your exposure time.

Here is where some experimentation is needed. I thoroughly read over both sites and didn't see any mention of ISO or Aperture to use. So if you're using the 18mm end of your zoom at f3.5 I'd say try ISO 800 and choose which "Rule" you prefer - 500 or 600. If your images are too dark at ISO 800 go to 1600. As I said, you'll have to experiment.

I also use and recommend this site for low-light exposures:
http://www.calculator.org/exposure.aspx I used ISO 200 and the Scene 'Distant view of city skyline or floodlit buildings' for these.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/drifter45h/4048051455/ 100mm @ f11, exposure of 30 seconds.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/drifter45h/4048796836/ 200mm @ f11, exposure of 30 seconds.

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Which Canon DSLR Lens to buy?

kaching113

I am going to purchase the Canon EOS 60D, and I'm not sure whether I should purchase the EF-S 18-55mm lens or the 50mm/1.8 lens. Primarily, I'm going to use the 60D for filmmaking and of course photography as well, I'm trying to decide on these two lenses as they are within my budget. Which lens has more range/which is more appropriate for filmmaking?

Advice from photographers and filmmakers are gladly appreciated.

Answer
First, lose the word "film" from your vocabulary. Digital cameras shoot video NOT film. You want to be a videographer.

Although the EF-S 18-55mm f3.5-5.6 zoom will offer you more versatility its not a good lens for use indoors. Its a slow, variable aperture zoom that does fine outdoors on a sunny day but indoors you'll have to use a very high ISO and a high ISO means increased digital noise - not good for your videos.
You'll need a lot of light to successfully take indoor videos with a lower ISO.

On the flip side, the EF 50mm f1.8 is more suitable for indoor use IF you're in a large space. The problem indoors is the narrow angle of view of the 50mm lens on your Canon 60D. The 50mm lens is great for portraits with your camera though.

Although more expensive a better alternative would be the Canon EF-S 17-55mm f2.8 zoom. Its a much better lens than the 18-55mm and more suitable for indoor videos. Since its a constant f2.8 from 17mm to 55mm the shutter speed stays the same - unlike the 18-55mm f3.5-5.6 which will cause a decrease in shutter speed as you zoom from 18mm to 55mm.

At B&H - http://www.bhphotovideo.com - you can buy the Canon 60D body for $799.99 after a $200.00 'Instant Savings' from B&H that ends 02/02/2013.

At B&H the Canon EF-S 17-55mm f2.8 zoom is $1.059.00 after a $120.00 'Instant Savings' from B&H that also ends 02/02/2013.

This site will show you the narrow angle of view of a 50mm lens on your 60D.
http://www.sweeting.org/mark/lenses/canon.php

What kind of camera should I buy?

Julia S

I wouldn't like to spend over $800
I need a camera that's good quality..better than your average digital camera and that can both take photos and record video (that's not as important but it would be nice)
I would like to be able to use it for motion photos, landscape, night life etc.
Basically the most important thing is picture quality :)
Any ideas. Thanks!

Answer
Having used several DSLRs and mirrorless cameras, I like Pentax K-01 as a great camera- one of the best image quality out then in below $1000 cameras. Pentax used to sell for around $900 but their gamble with the style backfired so they are clearing them out. They currently sell for around $400 with a nice 40mm 2.8 lens.

Read full details here:
http://photography-with-any-camera.blogspot.com/2013/06/which-is-great-dslr-buy-these-days.html

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the lens that comes with the canon rebel XTI is not really good?Could i just get the body with the 50 mm lens

doubleupri

do I need the standard lens?

Answer
Funny, somebody asked this 2 days ago about the 450D...
My answer then and my answer now is that the 50mm is terrible as a walk around lens on a cropped sensor. It´s nice for portraits, but not recommended as your only lens.
Get the 18-55mm zoom. It´s a consumer grade zoom that will do nicely unless/ until you can afford to jump to the $500 mark. In that case get the Canon 17-85mm zoom or the Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8. (Or if you want bling-a-ding pro results, save up for the +$1000 Canon 17-55mm f/2.8)
The 50mm f/1.8 does indeed have marginally better image quality than the 18-55mm zoom, but the 50mm will only be useful for 5% of your intended shots.

best lens for canon eos 7d to achieve great dof for film and portraits and also walk around?

David Torr

im looking for one good prime lens that will get the job done no matter what the job is !

Answer
There really isn't any such thing as a single lens - prime or zoom - that "... will get the job done no matter what the job is!" That's why Canon offers so many different lenses. For some, the
EF-S 18-200mm f3.5-5.6 IS is a good "walking around" lens when out on a day trip. Indoors its not so good a choice since its a slow, variable aperture lens. Someone else might prefer either the EF 24mm f1.4 II USM or the EF 35mm f1.4L USM for a "walking around" lens. Either of these fast lenses will prove useful indoors in low-light. The EF-S 17-55mm f2.8 IS USM might be someone else's choice.

Usually the idea when shooting portraits is to achieve a shallow DOF to create separation between your subject and the background. On a 35mm film camera or full-frame DSLR a focal length between 85mm to 105mm would be considered the ideal portrait lens. With the 1.6x "crop factor" of your 7D a 50mm lens would have an equivalent angle of view of an 80mm lens on 35mm of full-frame and would be a good choice for portraits.

When shooting landscapes the idea is to achieve maximum DOF and that's when a wide-angle lens is used. The EF-S 10-22mm f3.5-5.6 USM would be a good choice.

The idea is to choose a lens based on what and where you're shooting.

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what the differences between dslr camera and lens camera?

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.

what are the recommended specification for DSLR camera for bird shooting?

sugathan k

Answer
The camera doesn't really matter. Any of the Canon DSLR's from the entry level Rebel XS to the top pro level1Ds MKIII will do a nice job. What will matter is the lens. The longer and faster the lens is the better off you will be. On the cheaper side the 55-250mm $250 or 70-300mm IS $600 would be o.k. This lens will be fine if the birds are relatively close. Like in your back yard for example. For pictures of soaring eagles you will need a much larger lens. The 600mm F4 or the 800mm F5.6 would be good choices. You will of course have to sell your soul to pay for them as they cost thousands of dollars.

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Best DSLR Camera for Beginners?

Shadsha23

I'd really like to purchase a DSLR camera (preferably Nikon or Canon). I'd like one that would be usable for beginners, but will still be good for a long while when I'm experienced with it and more "professional". I don't have thousands of dollars to spend--I want something that is affordable (preferably under or around 500, because I know that's about as cheap as it gets with SLRs). I love macro photography, and would like to get into portrait photography, but I also want something that I can use for quick, random snapshots. I'm not experienced and don't know the first thing about what to look for, so any help you could give would be appreciated(:

Answer
ANY dSLR is good for beginners. They all work the same, you just need to learn how to balance the shutter speed, lens aperture and ISO to produce nearly perfect exposures ... that and producing well composed images What you pay for it is irrelevant

Budget entry level dSLR:

Nikon - D3100
Canon - 1100D/T3

Next step up:

Nikon - D5100
Canon - 600D/T3i

Which DSLR camera for beginners?

Jaylin

I want to buy a DSLR camera. I am a beginner photographer & I am interested in portrait, landscape, spontaneous and some macro photography.I would also want the camera to record. I don't want it to be too bulky since I like to travel and would like to take it with me. The maximum price it can be is $700 USD. I would preferably like it to be around $500 - $600 USD.

Thank You! :D

Answer
You are not going to get what you want for $500-$600, even $700

The cheapest DSLR's with a single 18-55mm kit lens is going to cost you $600. And that won't record video. You'd need to jump up to an entry level DSLR such as the Nikon D3100. This retails at $699. The kit lens you will get with it will be fine for landscape photography, but won't work very well for macro, or portrait phototography. You'll need two seperate lenses for that. For poraits you'd need something like a 50mm f/1.8 prime.... another $100. And for macro photography you are looking at something like the f/2.8mm 60mm macro lense... another $500. And every photographer needs a telephoto, so you'll need a 55-200mm minimum for a good zoom... another $250. Then you also need to look at other equpiment such as tripods, lens filters, and at least a hot shoe flash.

To get started with what you want to do, you are looking at having to stretch your budget to about $1,000 - $1,200

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What type of filter should I use on my lens for beach shots?

Andy Green

I own a Nikon D5000 DSLR camera with a standard 18-55 lens. My wife and I are going on vacation with her big family and I have been nominated to take family photos of everyone on the beach. Right now I just have a basic UV filter I use but is there another filter I should use for these photos like a Polarizing filter or something else? What about a lens hood? Please help!! I am getting nervous about these photos I am going to take. They were going to hire a professional but since I have a DSLR camera, they think I am a professional now!! Please help!

Answer
Why do people think that DSLR = professional?

Anyway, I would definitely use a lens hood, and a circular polarizer is a good idea too. If it's cloudy though, skip the polarizer for that day, its main purpose is to reduce glare.

SLR DIGITAL CAMERA HIRE/RENTAL?

Q. I'm wanting to hire or rent a digital camera SLR for my HSC body of work for visual arts, only for a week at max, or even one/two days ... i don't really care. I've tried looking on GOOGLE and it seems so expensive...

Does anyone know any cheap rental/hire places etc, in the Sydney area?

Answer
What you need to find is a good camera store in your area. I am in the US but I'm sure that you can find a couple of good camera stores in Sydney. Most good privately owned camera stores here rent out equipment at reasonable rates. You should be able to rent a good DSLR camera and lens for $50-$100 US dollars a day. A lot will depend on the value of the camera and lens. You will probably need to have a credit card that will cover the replacement cost of the equipment if you break it or don't bring it back though.

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Nikon variant of Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L? ?

Bulbasaur.

I am pulling my hair out over this decision! photography is a huge deal to me and I plan on doing it as my profession. Right now I shoot with an 350D (xti) and I'm selling it. Don't ask me why. Well, at first I was going to go with a 400D because my sister has one, but she's made some complaints to me about how it feels more like a plastic toy among other technical things. Then somebody pushed me towards the Nikon D80 and I loooove it. HOWEVER, the canon has a specific lens that I dearly want. The Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L. I've seen brilliant shots with it and it makes me lean more towards the canon- but that's the only reason I want to go Canon. So right now my decision relies on this question: is it worth going to one maker because of a particular lens? And also, are there any nikkor alternatives to the Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L? Please. I'm practically ready to blindly decide.

Answer
Not really ... and that lens is not that inexpensive ... at $1,100.00 a copy.

The Nikon and Canon 70-200 mm f/2.8 lenses ($1,500 to $1,700) are what most of the pros use. Nikon makes a similar lens, the 70-300 mm VR ($550) which is much more popular as an economy lens in that focal range.

Far and away the most useful lens for a pro is the 70-200 mm f/2.8 in the lens made for either camera system

Changing camera systems just so you can buy an economy lens in another, is false economy. The longer you have your camera system the more expensive it is to switch to another ... a lot like getting a divorce. I would cost me in excess of $50,000 to replace mine with a different one.

Stick with your D80 ... it is an exquisite camera and when you later update it in a few years, you will find that the sub-$1000 Nikon's will have many of the features the Nikon D3 has now, mainly very low noise at ISO over 6400 ... very important for shooting sports indoors and nature at dawn and dusk ... when the animals are out feeding.

Canon EF-s 55-250mm IS or Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 EX DG HSM II Macro Lens?

a_joemar

which one has the overall output image quality?
Does Sigma is worth buying for compared to canon regarding this kind of model?

pls advice. thanks

Answer
Although fhotoace makes some decent points a lot of his discussion is about the Nikon system. I note you are using the canon system.

Some of Sigmas early AF lenses will either lock up the body with an Err99 fault, or can be used with limited functionality, i.e. either the af or aperture (or both will not operate) so you have to focus manually or use the lens at max aperture.

To be fair to Sigma, in most cases this is their very early AF lenses, of these the majority can be rechipped at modest cost by Sigma.

To bring the discussion bang up to date, all of Sigmas current range will work on your Canon DSLR, the DG and DC suffix indicates this (DG will work full frame and APS-C, DC will work fine on APS-C cameras but vignette on full frame cameras)

If canon still have lens firmware secrets up their sleeves then Sigma have a good track record of updating their lenses to suit and rechipping existing lenses.

TO your specific question, if the two lenses are a similar cost then I would go with the 70-200 f2.8. Although it has a narrower range (the difference between 55 & 70 and 200 & 250 isn't anything to get concerned about) the resolution and focus speed that the f2.8 lens allows makes it in the pro bracket.

As good a lens as the 55-250 IS is it isn't a patch on the 70-200 for image quality, build quality (internal zoom and non-rotating filter thread for sigma), The Sigma is at least a stop faster for most of the zoom range, this opens up more low light oportunities and the f2.8 max aperture brings your centre spot AF come alive.

For the future, the EF mount Sigma will fit canon full frame and APS-C bodies, the EF-S mount lens will only fit APS-C bodies.

I use three sigma lenses, the 12-24 EX DG, 70mm Macro f2.8 DG and 50-500 EX DG alongside my L lenses (17-40, 24TSE and 200 f2.8) with no problems on my digital and film EOS bodies.

If the price is right go for the Sigma 70-200 f2.8.

The major companies have been overpricing cheaply made basic telezooms for years, Sigma can keep their costs down as they manufacture for all mounts and so have a bigger economies of scale when it comes to research & development costs etc.

At the very top end then I would stick to the manufacturers pro offerings, at the end of the market you are looking at buying third party can offer some great lenses for good prices.

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Best camera for wedding photography?

maria

I am interested in doing some of my friends wedding photos, what is the best digital slr camera and lens for this?

Answer
In any photography the most important thing is 3 inches behind the viewfinder.

Any camera that gives photos of high enough quality to meet the clients needs will do. For some clients a digital point and shoot is OK. For others, only a medium format film camera will do.

I use a Canon digital SLR with a 24-85 zoom and a 70-200 zoom for most of the weddings I shoot, and a medium format film camera for the rest. I shoot with my digital quality/resolution always set to RAW and Kodak Professional Portra for film.

Before you shoot a wedding be sure you have the skills, knowledge, and experience to feel comfortable in capturing a once-in-a-lifetime event. And be sure your friends agree you have all that...

LENS FOR WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY:PHOTOJOURNALISTIC?

Shelby

Hey photographers! It is Christmas time and parental units are asking me what lens I want this year! What is your favorite lens you use for wedding/engagement photography? Canon lenses please, however if you are a Nikon shooter go ahead and share, I can research the Canon equivalent. A general purpose lens would be nice, but share your favorite! Thanks!

Answer
You really should mention the camera you have, the budget and the lenses you already have.

For wedding photography the 24-70mm f2.8L is synomous with weddings.
That lens ended up being too heavy for my style. Now i use the 24mm f2.8@and 50mm f1.8 as my main lenses on my canon 500d.

The 28mm f1.8 is also nice but it is too soft wide open.

The 70-200mm f2.8L is a lens everyone should own at some point.

The 16-35mm f2.8L is also a great lens if you arent afraid of getting close to your subject.

You should really choose the lena that fills the gap in your equipment list. You dont need two wide angles or two fast primes.

On my primary camera body. A rangefinder, i love using a 40mm f1.4 and a 21mm f4. They are great for street, wedding and photojournalism

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Is the Canon 18-200mm EF lens considered versatile?

Stephen

I own a Nikon D3100, and two lens: the 18x55mm VR and the zoom 55-300mm VR both from Nikkor (Nikon). I use it almost daily, and I realize that for my uses, I find myself needing to switch from indoors (I use the 18-55mm for this one) to outdoors (55-300mm). I find it a hassle to keep switching out these lenses almost every time I use them, and I usually carry my DSLR and my 2 lens w/ me. These get heavy after a while, so I'm considering a compromise between the two of these lenses that A.) meets the ranges of the focal lengths between the two and B.) that I can use only one lens instead of bringing two. And also, I'm planning on getting a Canon 60D or Rebel T3i as my next DSLR purchase in the near future, so I'm buying lenses that will fit those (as per the Canon 18-200mm EF lens). I am aware that I need to get an additional mount adapter to use the Canon lens on the F-mount of my Nikon.

So what I'm asking is this: Can the Canon 18-200mm lens do everything (and more) than my Nikkor 18-55mm? I heard about the focus of the 18-200mm is considerably wide, although (b/c I'm new to photography) I'm not sure what that would mean.

And if I do get the Canon lens, I might consider selling my 18-55mm depending on how good the Canon lens is. Anyway, any input would be appreciated. Thanks!
I am thinking about upgrading to a Canon 60D or a 5D Mk II in the near future, but that's not until after 5 years.


I might buy this lens used (if I decide to buy them at all)

Answer
18-200mm lenses have nice versatility, but there is some sacrifice in image quality. You might be able to reduce your lens changing considerably by getting the 18-105, which is reputed to have more consistent image quality. If you do want 18-200mm then get the Nikon lens. It costs twice as much as the Canon, but it is better quality.

What is the most versatile lens for a DSLR?

XD

I am HOPEFULLY going to be getting a Canon DSLR. I am looking more towards the EOS 30D. What do you guys think of that camera, or do you recommend a different one? Plus, what lens would be most versatile for the camera? I do NOT do a specific type of photography. I do it all, and I really want to find one lens that could work for my versatile style. Also, I would like if the price was UNDER $200. I know I can find some really expensive lenses for really cheap, so really suggest anything. Thanks.

Answer
The most versatile lens at this time is the Nikon 18-200 mm VR lens.

Since you are buying a Canon you may want to look at something like the Canon 18-55 IS mm or 24-85 mm USM. As you can see they are not as long a lens as the Nikon and the 24-85 mm does not have Image Stabilization. However with good photographic skills that should not be a problem

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Looking for DSLR Camera Suggestions (Portraits)?

APBT's Rul

I am right now using a Canon bridge camera & like it but would really like to move up to something more professional and that will give me better control.

The number one use of the camera would be outdoor & indoor portraits w/ lighting equipment.

I am open to either Canon or Nikon, I have a pretty big list of camera options. Just need some advice so I can help narrow it down. If you use the camera your suggesting if you wouldn't mind adding your flickr account so I can check out your images that would be a plus.

Also advice on what brand has the better lens options at the best price would be AWESOME!

My price range would be around $1000, give or take for the camera, I also will be checking around to get a used one so if you have a slightly higher suggestion that is ok, I might be able to find it used in my price range.

All suggestions welcome, I will of course be doing lots of research & going to feel out the camera before buying to make sure I am comfortable with it.
Your answer didn't help me at all, that stuff I already know & really isn't what I am asking. I am not expecting cheap lenses & know this will be an expensive adventure. I am looking for actual camera suggestions, pros/cons of certain models...peoples opinions on the different models out right now.

And I do plan on going to the store & checking them out (LIKE I SAID) once I have narrowed my list down & for me what camera to by is 75% features to 25% how it feels to me, honestly I can learn to like the feel of camera but I can't learn to like features if there not there.

Answer
IMO...

1)Photography is roughly 70% photographer skill/experience, 20% lens quality, and 10% camera body.
2) I would rather have a $600 camera with a $1,500 lens than I would a $1,800 camera with a $300 lens.
3) Photography is NOT a cheap hobby or profession

The point is...with a DSLR, different lenses have different purposes. For portraits, I use a 50mm f/1.4, an 85mm f/1.8, and a 70-200mm f/2.8L (normally around 100-110mm). The lens I use is determined by my distance from the subject.

Both Canon and Nikon make good cameras and lenses. The best thing to do is visit an actual camera shop (not bestbuy/walmart) and try the different models within your budget to see which feels the best to you. I bought a Canon for its ergonomics/feel/menu and control layout and a fellow photog chose Nikon for the same reason....it is about personal preference.

The one thing to remember is to budget in extra money to cover an extra battery, memory cards, camera case, a USB memory card reader, and taxes (these can add another $200-$250 to the camera price).


EDIT: When I switched from film to digital, there were no "entry level" DSLR cameras. The DSLRs then did not have "features/options" like the newer ones do, they had the ability to change the ISO/aperture/ shutter speed and started around $2,500. Your given budget is the reason why I did not bother suggesting the cameras I am familiar with now (Canon 1D/ Nikon D3x)

I would suggest you use the camera comparison at http://www.dpreview.com/products/compare/cameras and the camera features search http://www.dpreview.com/products/search/cameras .

DSLR Camera Lens for hunting?

Joey

I'll soon be purchasing a Canon Rebel t3i and need a lens I can have a good video view of out to 80 yards. I will also be using this camera for some portraits, landscape, and cityscape. Any help?

Answer
For hunting get the EF 70-300mm f4-5.6 IS USM. About $650.00.

For portraits get the EF 50mm f1.4 prime lens. About $400.00.

For landscapes and cityscapes get the EF 17-40mm f4L USM. About $400.00.

Of course you could always sacrifice image quality and buy a Tamron 18-270mm zoom.

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What is the best camera and lens to use for weddings?

splefka

Looking to buy another Pro camera and I'd like to know what other wedding photographers are using.

Answer
I got the Nikon D60 camera for Christmas, and it beat my old camera by a long shot. I love this thing!
Technical Details

* Extraordinary 10.2-megapixel DX-format Nikon picture quality
* Includes 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S DX VR and 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED IF AF-S DX VR Zoom-Nikkor lenses
* 2.5-inch LCD screen; horizontal and vertical orientation are detected automatically
* Continuous shooting at 3 fps; Active Dust Reduction System with Airflow Control
* Capture images to SD/SDHC memory cards (not included)

If you want to buy the best camera, Nikon is the brand you want.
I evaluated the Sony, Canon and Nikon models, and in the end the 60 provide the right blend of megapixels, comfort while shooting, available Vibration Reduction lens combinations, and at a price point under $1000 for body and 2 lens, 18-70 VR and 55-200 VR. I have found these VR lens do indeed add an extra level of forgiveness in your shooting.

In last 30 days, we have taken shots of Vegas sites, the Grand Canyon and of many sites along the Nile in Egypt, daylight and night, and the results are very good even for an amateur such as myself.
Believe me it's the best choice for the money you got. BTW I used it on some weddings too because I'm a photographer

You can get it cheap on Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0013HOW6M?ie=UTF8&tag=wirelesscompu-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0013HOW6M

Grand Canyon Trip Photography Tips?

tammy w

Hello!

II and my husband are going to a few "photo opp" areas and would like to know the best way to take some pictures. I have a Nikon D40 with a telephoto and standard lens. I was reading that filters maybe useful. Would it be worth the money to get some, and which ones would be useful if they are recommended?

We are planning to go to a few parks; the Valley of Fire, Zion, Bryce and Grand Canyon. If there are recommendations on what to brush up on, or sites that maybe useful, it would be appreciated!! We are also staying in Las Vegas, so tips for fun pictures there would also be useful. Thank you!!

I'm not sure if we will have this opportunity again for some time, so it would be great to get some nice pictures! Thank you for your help!

Answer
The first item you need is a tripod. The Benro "Travel Angel" series should be sufficient. I found these two models at B&H - http://www.bhphotovideo.com

A-2690 which extends to 5'-2'' and weighs 4 pounds. $200.00

A-0691 which extends to 5'-0'' and weighs 3 pounds. $237.00

I consider a tripod as mandatory for good landscape pictures. I never leave home without my tripod. Never.

You will also need a circular polarizer which will darken a blue sky and enhance colors as well as remove/reduce glare/reflections from rock, water, sand, snow. Brands such as B+W, Tiffen and Hoya are worth the price. If you have the usual 18-55mm zoom lens you'll need 52mm diameter filters. You'll have to check your other lenses for the filter size. Its usually on the front of the lens. B&H is also a good place to buy your filters.

I'd also include a Skylight filter for each lens which should be left on the lens except when using your circular polarizer.

Here is why you'll want a circular polarizer:
http://www.dpfwiw.com/filters.htm#polarizers

Here is why you'll want a Skylight filter:
http://www.dpfwiw.com/filters.htm#uv

The hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset will be the best times to make your pictures at the Canyon or anywhere else.

For night pictures of Las Vegas your tripod will be mandatory. I use and recommend this site for low-light exposures: http://www.calculator.org/exposure.aspx I used the Scene 'Distant view of city skyline or floodlit buildings' and ISO 200 for these pictures of the Louisville, Kentucky skyline as seen from the Indiana shore of the Ohio River.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/drifter45h/4048051455/ 100mm lens @ f11, exposure of 30 seconds.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/drifter45h/4048796836/ 200mm lens @ f11, exposure of 30 seconds.

Additional tips:

1) Shoot at your camera's highest resolution.
2) Use ISO 100 for all your landscape pictures.
3) Shoot in NEF (RAW) + JPEG basic.
4) Use your tripod for all landscape pictures.
5) Use Aperture Priority when shooting landscapes. This allows you to have control over the aperture and Depth of Field (DOF).

If you aren't sure what shooting in RAW means these sites will help you:

http://www.luminous-landscape.com/tutorials/understanding-series/u-raw-files.shtml

http://www.lonestardigital.com/shooting_raw.htm

If you aren't familiar with what DOF is and how to control it this site will help you:

http://www.dofmaster.com/dofjs.html

There are only 3 factors that affect your DOF:
1) The focal length of the lens.
2) The f-stop (aka aperture) used.
3) The subject distance.

At the DOF Master site you can use the DOF Calculator to figure DOF for any combination of the 3 factors imaginable.

To maximize your DOF use the 18mm end of your 18-55mm zoom. Set the aperture to f16 and focus on a subject at 5'-0'' and your DOF will be from 2'-0'' in front of your camera to infinity - as far as you can see. Unfortunately, there is no Distance Scale on the lens so you'll have to improvise a bit. With your camera on the tripod measure a spot 5'-0'' in front of the camera and have your husband stand there. You can then either manually focus until he's sharp in the viewfinder or use the auto focus and then either turn the AF off or use the Focus Lock. Now you're ready to compose and make your picture. By using the camera's Self-Timer you and your husband can stand 3' in front of the camera and you'll be in focus as will everything behind you as far as you can see. Always try to include something of interest in the foreground when shooting landscapes. This adds depth to your pictures.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/drifter45h/3982233634/

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Best entry DSLR camera in Rs.20000 range in INDIA?

bhagat3211

Please help me out to find a entry level Digit SLR camera. I want to have a camera with all posible features that i can use with better lenses later.
The price is US $450 only

Answer
I recommend what I own and know.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/571144-REG/Canon_2762B003_EOS_Rebel_XS_SLR.html

I've had mine for over a year and it's an excellent camera.

price difference in dslr camera and its lens?

rishi

is there any knd of price difference in dslr cam and its lens
in other countries because am in india..
so people say tat dslr and its lens are very cheap in america,canada,and singapore

Answer
There is a difference in the price of DSLR bodies and lenses. These are still not manufactured in India yet and therefore need to be imported. In some cases, the camera is available only outside India - case in point Pentax.

Many people do end up buying the DSLR camera and lens from outside as a result. However, while doing so, please keep in mind that warranties may or may not work in India.

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Which of these cameras is best?

AnkA

I know nothing of cameras. I need a camera for high resolution, something that can record videos (with good sound), and it needs zoom that is decent. I have about $1500. I need the answer fast because Costco is having some rebates before this Saturday. Some of my friends have the Canon T3i and the pictures come out really high resolution. That's what I really want. Is there a huge difference between 24 and 18? Which of these is the best?

Canon:
http://www.costco.com/Canon-Rebel-T3i-DSLR-Camera-2-Lens-Bundle.product.11760020.html

http://www.costco.com/Canon-T4i-DSLR-Camera-2-Lens-Bundle.product.100025018.html

http://www.costco.com/Canon-EOS-60D-DSLR-Camera-with-18-200mm-Lens-Bundle.product.11680756.html

http://www.costco.com/Canon-EOS-7D-DSLR-Camera-with-28-135mm-Lens-Bundle.product.100014084.html

Nikon:
http://www.costco.com/Nikon-D600-Full-Frame-DSLR-Camera-2-Lens-Bundle.product.100012382.html

http://www.costco.com/Nikon-D3200-DSLR-Camera-2-Lens-Bundle.product.100007777.html

Answer
Best is subjective.
Check out the functions and features of each and buy the one that ticks the most boxes.

"Zoom" is a function of the lens(es) not the camera. Lenses are available for DSLRs from 6mm to 1200mm focal length giving a zoom of 200x - just not in the same lens!

Without wishing to be too condescending, because of the way you have asked the question I would recommend the Nikon D3200 or Canon T4i. Use the rest of your budget to buy additional lenses after you have had the camera for a month or 2 and worked out which extra lens(es) are best for your particular useage pattern.

Switching from Nikon to Canon. Should I get the kit lens?

Alex

I have a few questions to be answered, if you can help me, please do.

I own a Nikon D3000 and I feel really left out because it doesn't have any type of movie mode. I really like DSLR video and know a lot about film making and wish to put into play some of my knowledge. But I still want to use this camera for photography. Pretty much everyone prefers Canon for videos and Nikon for photos. I was thinking of getting a D7000 for video because I am already acquainted with Nikon's workflow/menus and such while still maintaining that nice Nikon photo quality.

Question 1: Should I get a Canon or Nikon?

I own an 18-55mm kit lens and a 55-200mm f/4-5.6 Nikon lenses, which obviously aren't too great. I am already moderately experienced and am not really at an 'entry level'.

Question 2: Should I get the camera body only and buy a nice prime or wide angle zoom or buy the camera bundled with the 18-55mm kit lens?

What I will be using the camera for -
-Short films
-Elaborate vacation videos (i.e. NOT just walking around "so here's the pizza place" kind of stuff. Full-blown, brilliant quality travel videos.)
-Shooting at night-time/at fairs and boardwalks at night and what-not.
-Travel photography

Question 3: What lens should I pick with my camera body (if suggested)?

I am on about a $700 budget for one camera body and 1 or 2 lenses. I already have about $600+ worth of gear collected throughout the past 3 years. I'm only 14, so I don't have all the money at my disposal. I work my butt off doing manual labor so I can get this camera bundle for as inexpensive as possible. I'm going on vacation in June, so I need to have it by then and have no birthdays or special occasions coming up besides my 8th grade graduation.

Any help or suggestions would be appreciated greatly. Have a nice day, everyone.

Answer
I NEVER suggest that someone with one camera system switch

Why?

Two things

* the cost of replacing the lenses you have already
* the time it will take to learn the new operation system of the new camera system

I am surprise you are not just updating to the very high quality D3200

Your only choice in your budget of $700 is the Canon T3i/600D

Here is how the Nikon D3200 and T3i/600D sensors compare

http://www.dxomark.com/index.php/Cameras/Compare-Camera-Sensors/Compare-cameras-side-by-side/(appareil1)/801%7C0/(brand)/Nikon/(appareil2)/692%7C0/(brand2)/Canon

My guess is that you are relying on anecdotal conversations on this and other sites, but have not done the independent research to see if upgrading your D3000 with a Nikon D3200 will give you what you want and you can use the lenses you have without spending the money necessary to buy similar Canon lenses

You do know that you are going against the tide moving from Nikon to Canon.

My colleagues who shoot professionally have been slowly moving from Canon to Nikon due to the better sensor performance and other things.

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What is a good cheap canon lens for wedding/portrait work?

Gigi

One of my friends is letting me photograph her wedding, and she can't afford to pay me more then $300 so I'm not going to go all out and buy a new body/ expensive lens ect..and I do plan on buying a flash.
I have a 50mm 1.8 for the close ups, but I need a good tele lens for under $300. I'm using a Canon Rebel xs. I would also like to be able to use it for portrait work. One of my friends uses the Sigma 70-300 for Canon, would that be a good one to look at?
Thanks!

Answer
I have a 28-100 that works really well for macro and for portrait. are you using more than one camera body or will you have to switch the lenses out during the ceremony.
the 70-300 wont be much use for the close up stuff - but it should work well as a telephoto.
What sort of flash are you buying - for only 300 it sounds like you are not going to break even if you buy a new lens and a new flash unit.

the link below has some photography equipment review sites in it - you should take a look around at some of those forums (you don't have to necessarily buy a canon lens for your canon camera)

What's a good canon lens for wedding portraits?

Katy

I have a Canon Rebel T2i and I'm looking for a good lens for a wedding that I will be attending in May. I'm not much of a portrait photographer, but I'm going to take pictures as a favor to the bride's family.

Since I don't have much expertise in the subject, I've turned to you guys for advice. I can't afford to spend a couple thousand dollars on a lens. I've been reading up on portrait lenses and I think I like the Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM, but that's mostly just a guess on my part. Like I said, I have no experience in this area.

I'm also kind of looking for a lens to capture the scenery. I don't have many lenses because I can't really afford them, so any recommendations for this particular location would be wonderful. I've included the facebook page for the venue.
https://www.facebook.com/FairgateInn

I really appreciate your help, guys. Thank you in advance.

Answer
Do they have a professional wedding photographer too? You may want to remind them that when everyone has forgotten the cool location, the pictures are all they will have to remember that day and no matter how good they think you are - the fact you say you aren't a portrait photographer should make them spend the money on a photographer who is actually qualified for this.

Anyway - as a very cheap but good portrait lens, the 50mm 1.8 is a good bet. However, for a wedding, you will need a lens with much wider variety so I would say 24-70 if you're only after 1 lens. It's not cheap though and the money they would have you spend on that can be spent on a wedding photographer. If they do already have a pro wedding photographer, and you're just doing extra shots, then the 50mm 1.8 will suffice.

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what is a DSLR camera?

Christy

also what does like a 500D camera mean or a 3100D

Answer
Hi,

Digital Single Lens Reflex.

It's a digital camera, with a mirror in it that moves the light around your body so you see it through the viewfinder. When you take a picture, the mirror goes down and lets the light go to the sensor and that is how a picture is taken. They are great cameras.

500D is from Canon, D3100 is from Nikon. Canon uses the D letter at the end of the model number, while Nikon uses it infront. Canon also calls their models a little bit differently in the USA and Japan - for example, the 500D is actually T1i in Japan.

Here's a DSLR Explanation - http://www.the-dslr-photographer.com/2009/11/digital-slr-camera/

Here's a DSLR Buying Guide - http://www.the-dslr-photographer.com/2009/11/which-dslr-to-buy/

Does the F number in an dslr camera lens mean it can focus the subject closer? ?

neddy

eg: a 50mm f4 lens would zoom in more than a 50mm f1.8 lens?

Answer
no, the f no. is the aperture value. smaller number means the aperture opens bigger and let more light in

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