March 20, 2024
Fundraising 2024 & more
We are revamping our donor ribbons while preparing for the 2024 Fundraising Campaign.
Nikonians that have participated in our past fundraising campaigns have had a "donor ribbon" awarded when contributing above a certain level.
Design of ribbons
We are updating the Donor ribbon designs, with a new ribbon for each fundraising we have ran in the past. As you may know, the Donor ribbons awarded to members so far did not change in appearance for the different fundraising campaigns, only the assignment text did (the text shown when you are hoovering over a ribbon).
The color scheme for the new ribbons is work in progress, so there will be some changes until finally set. Enjoy!
Assignment schedule
The donor ribbons were awarded manually in the past by the team. We are now in the process of automating this, mainly to
a) Be up-to-date on this, with less lagging between a donation and the award of the ribbon.
b) Ensure that there is total fairness for each member that is awarded a ribbon with an exact threshold when a ribbon is awarded. The threshold has been set at 50 US Dollars (which it was back in 2014 when we started with the ribbons), at which level a ribbon is awarded to the member.
Once we are done with this change, which probably will take a week plus, some members (should be a few only) that have not received a ribbon awarded for past contributions may now find themselves with a donor ribbon awarded.
Higher contributions warrant a different text when the member is awarded the ribbon, with several discrete steps. The second step after 50 USD is 100 USD.
Fundraising Campaign 2024
We are currently working on: Improving our learning content, enhancing existing features and new tools incl. photo critique & feedback possibilities.
Contributions above $50 USD receive a unique, 2024 Donor Ribbon as a small thank you - Make sure you are logged in before paying. With $150 USD and above you are eligible for the new, limited black edition of our Nikonians Supporter Baseball Cap, which will be produced in two batches this year, first production in July 2024.
The campaign is open for contributions - see the donation page to contribute.
Thank you very much! Bo, JRP and the whole team at Nikonians
Posted by bgs at 10:12 AM
April 8, 2023
Best of Nikonians 2022
Get to know the winners of The Best of Nikonians Annual Photo Contest 2022.
In our 25th webinar held 28-MAR-2023 07:00 PM EDT, We got to know the winners, their photography and had the chance to ask questions.
Here at Nikonians we have monthly and themed contests. The winners of these contests are then eligible for the Annual Best of Nikonians Photo Contest which Nikonians has hosted each year since 2004 to showcase some of our members best work.
Posted by bgs at 12:21 PM
October 31, 2022
Gold Upgrade - Last chance
Last chance to use this seasons Gold Membership Upgrade opportunity, coming at nice 40% off, a $30 USD value.
There are a few days left on this seasons special on a Gold Membership Upgrade in the community.
As a Gold Member you have access to the Premium Critique forum with NEF upload, your own portfolio, your own Nikonians email address, private albums plus more, such as your custom made Photographer's Card.
Use the voucher "inspiration22" to take advantage of this 40% value. Make sure you are logged in before you access the upgrade page.
Jekyll Island Sunrise by Preston Moochnek (massulo)
Thank you for reading and for your support making our ad-free, independent community an even better place to be for Nikon photographers.
Enjoy the community!
Posted by bgs at 6:24 PM
October 13, 2022
Autumn inspiration?
With a lot of things happening around the world right now, it is important to stay inspired, to find joy in our daily undertakings.
To participate in a photo contest, or to work on an assignment is a way to stay in touch with your creative side, to improve your skills while experiencing joy with other photographers.
We have a constant, good flow of contests and assignments at Nikonians. Our director of this section is Dave Summers (dm1dave) and he has a list of the current contests in the community. More info
If you haven't seen the virtual gallery with the 2021 Best of Nikonians finalists and winners, we strongly recommend that you take a stroll in the gallery, and that you look at the webinar with the winners.
Autumn is the time to go for Gold
There is a special on signing up for Gold membership throughout this month of October. Just make sure you are logged in and then use the voucher code "inspiration22" when you are upgrading. By doing so, you will get 40% off on a Gold membership. You can use this code if you are on Basic or on Silver level (from Silver level to Gold: whatever value is on your account will be converted to additional days on the Gold level). As a Gold member you can post images for critique, you get your own portfolio, your own Nikonians email address and more. See this for all the goodies. You can take advantage of the voucher by using this link
Nikonians Photographer's Card
We are producing a new batch of our popular Photographer's Card this autumn. If you are on Gold or Platinum, please make sure you apply for yours. Already have one, but it is getting a bit old and shabby? No problem, you can re-order a new card once a year. Gold and Platinum members: Access your Photographer's Card form under My Profile and Membership tab.
All webinars
In case you have missed one or the other of our webinars with team member Eric Bowles (ericbowles), don't fret. We have them all listed on our webinars index page where you fill find (nearly) all of the recordings. Enjoy!Posted by bgs at 12:06 PM
April 28, 2021
Discover Art by Nikonians
Join us on a virtual gallery tour where you discover the photography artwork of fellow Nikonians in a new way, using this 3D-styled exhibition on your regular PC/Mac.
We have started a new "three dimensional" format to let you discover photography made by Nikonians and in the current exhibition over 70 artworks are on display.
In the 3D-styled exhibition rooms, you can "walk around" using your keyboard and/or mouse and some of the photographs contain additional information on a small plaquette located beside the artwork.
The round icon in the top right corner of the exhibition room is the menu. In the menu you can select "Enter full screen" mode, which allows the images to show even better. There is also a menu item to "Start a tour" to run an automatic show and a "List of works" showing a catalog of all the artists and their work in this exhibition.
Our plan, based upon that this format is enjoyed by many of us, is to expand upon it and to launch new exhibitions throughout the year. We on the team would love to get your feedback on this format and hope you take the time to give us your input, both what you like and what you think could be improved.
Please do use the comment possibility on the exhibition page to let us know your thoughts once you have visited the exhibition.
Scheduled Maintenance Downtime
We have a scheduled maintenance downtime 15-MAY-2021 05:00h UTC+0 - 12:00h UTC+0 (01:00 AM EDT - 08:00 AM EDT) where the community site will not be available. We are keeping our twitter feed (@nikonians) up-to-date on the progress of the maintenance.
Nikon Studio NX webinar fully booked
There is a strong interest in the May 4th webinar with Vincent Versace where he will discuss his workflow using Nikon Studio NX and all of our available webinar seats (500 seats) are occupied.
Even if you have registered for the webinar, you may not be able to join the live session due to this. We recommend that you join the Zoom webinar earlier than the 7:00 PM EDT session starting time since Zoom has a "first come first serve" policy on the access.
Should you not be able to get into the webinar live session, remember that we will provide a video recording of the webinar some days after the live event.
More webinars coming
We have a series of great photographers and digital artists lined up for our upcoming webinars, available to all members on Silver membership and higher.
Adobe expert Julianne Kost joins us 18-MAY-2021 07:00 PM EDT, bird photographer Arthur Morris will be with us 15-JUN-2021 04:00 PM EDT and Nikon Ambassador Ami Vitale is online with us 14-DEC-2021 07:00 PM EST.
Dave Black, Kristi Odom and Pascal Baetens are being scheduled and more great photographers and digital artists are to come.
We are keeping an up-to-date list of all current and future webinars at Nikonians. Make sure you bookmark the page.
Friends of Nikonians
We have started a new feature, Friends of Nikonians, where skilled photographers, formerly or currently on the Nikonians team, are running workshops and online courses in their own capacity. More information in the blog
Posted by bgs at 9:35 AM
April 23, 2021
Learn Nikon Studio NX
Learn Nikon Studio NX with Vincent Versace in our upcoming webinar, 04-MAY-2021 7PM EDT. The webinar will be recorded and provided some days after the live event.
Vincent Versace has graciously agreed to come back for a return presentation on 04-MAY-2021 talk about Nikon Studio NX. The program will begin at 7:00 PM EDT.
Vincent Versace has used Nikon software since the early days of Nikon Capture. He has written books on photo editing - including editing with Nikon software. It is the front end and the RAW converter for all of his images. Before the start of our recent webinar with him, Vincent was talking about the capabilities in Nikon Studio NX, and how he incorporates it into his workflow. He also has some workflow suggestions that may help streamline your work and facilitate work in other programs when appropriate.
Nikon Studio NX is a free editing program from Nikon. It's strengths include excellent colors, matching settings with the camera, and the ability to use Control Points.
You need to register in advance for this webinar. It is available to all Nikonians, also on the basic, free level.
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
Posted by bgs at 8:03 AM
April 16, 2021
Friends of Nikonians
We are starting today with a new feature, Friends of Nikonians, highlighting interesting workshops, courses and webinars provided by talented professionals, both in North America and internationally. These photographers are considered by the Nikonians team to be true friends and supporters of our organization.
We are planning to regularly highlight upcoming, interesting events held by the Friends of Nikonians.
The photographers we list do not pay us for doing this, nor is there any commission, kick-back, exchange of services or of goods. We are listing their offering at no cost as a benefit to the members of the Nikonians community.
The photographers including in this blog have all been team members at Nikonians at one point in time.
Should you have a good, or less good experience with any of the mentioned workshops, webinars or courses, please say so in the Workshops forum. As always, remember to follow our Terms of Use when you do, e.g. no bashing allowed.
If you have a suggestion for something we might have missed, please do get in touch with us and let us know.
The Image Doctors Rick Walker and Jason Odell have a series of workshops:
Oregon Waterfalls & Coastal Landscapes May 9 - May 13, 2021
Digital Infrared Photography, Portland, OR May 13, May 14 , 2021
Colorado Wildflowers with The Image Doctors, Jul 18 - Jul 21, 2021
Rick Hulbert, Fine Art Photography
Rick is running a series of virtual Fine Art Photography workshops and the latest one for April-May is already sold out. Make sure you sign up to his newsletter to stay up-to-date on upcoming courses and workshops.
Steve Simon, The Passionate Photographer
Steve has kicked-off several new courses and is going to run a workshop in Japan again, Nov 7 - 13, 2021. More on that in an upcoming Friends of Nikonians. He has started a new virtual course: The Passionate Personal Project - A transformative 5-week online workshop. The first course runs Apr 14 - May 12, 2021 and the second chance is Jun 23 - Jul 21, 2021
Posted by bgs at 9:19 AM
Video w Vincent Versace & Virtual Exhibition
We have our brand new 3D Virtual Exhibition online and the latest video from our webinar series is now available, this time with Nikon Ambassador and Nikon Legend Behind the Lens, Vincent Versace.
If you are not a Gold member yet, this is your chance. Between now and April 20th, you can use the voucher GoldenSight and you'll get 50% off on a Gold Membership.
Vincent Versace discussed photography and a wide array of topics of being a photographer.
The webinar with Vincent Versace was very interesting and he covered a variety of topics. You will find the video on the webinar page. If you are interested in our earlier webinars, you'll find them all on our webinar overview
Nikonians Virtual Exhibition opens its doors with The Best of Nikonians 2020 Annual Photo Contest, displaying over 70 great artworks from the finalists and winners.
Thanks to the team members Tom Jacob (sevendayimages) and David Summer (dm1dave), our new Virtual Exhibition, featuring all of the finalists and the winners of the Best of Nikonians 2020 Annual Photo Contest is now available for you to enjoy.
Make sure you use the full screen mode in the virtual exhibition (menu is top right icon in the exhibition).
Posted by bgs at 7:30 AM
February 12, 2021
Webinar with Tony Sweet, Feb 16th 07:00 PM EST
Our third webinar with photographer and Nikon Legend Behind the Lens Tony Sweet will be held February 16th, 7:00 PM EST. A video recording will be available after the live event.
Tony's program will be Compelling Composition: Isolate and Simplify.
Many Nikonians will probably recall Tony from the interview in our very first podcast held back in June of 2005. Nikonians have also participated in his photography workshops throughout the years and read his books, and we are thrilled to have him back with us.
To access the webinar, please see the specific webinar page. The webinar is available to all members on Silver membership and higher.
Image by Tony Sweet
The program: Compelling Composition: Isolate and Simplify
The program will be a "tour de force" of compositional techniques and creative applications for greatest visual impact. The overriding concept is to learn to isolate and simplify the subject.
Among the topics discussed will be
- The power of perspectives
- The power of line in visual design
- Creating visual drama
- Using strong graphics to enhance visual interest and drama
It is the hope that this presentation increases the attendees' attention to detail in creating clean, direct and compelling compositions. Questions are encouraged throughout the presentation and at the end.
For more information on Tony and how to see the live event, or to access the webinar video recording, please see the webinar page.
Not on Silver yet? No problem, just upgrade to access our webinars series.
Posted by bgs at 9:36 AM
September 11, 2018
25 USD/EUR off on a Gold Membership
Membership opportunity
From now until September 25th you'll save a third ($25 USD) on an annual Gold Membership using the voucher "indiansummer18" on the upgrade page.
As a Gold Member you have access to our premium articles, you can participate in our contests, get your own portfolio, access the Premium Critique forum with NEF upload, your own Nikonians email address plus more, such as your custom made photographer's ID.
Cadillac Mountain by jrp.
Take advantage of this special Go Gold and Be Proud: You are helping our ad-free and independent community.
Posted by bgs at 1:58 PM
May 2, 2018
Limited time upgrade offer
Between now and 12th of May 2018 you get $25 USD (25 EUR) off on an annual Gold Membership ($50 instead of $75) at Nikonians using the voucher "goldenmay18"
As a Gold member you have your own portfolio showcased at the Nikonians homepage plus under your unique address nikonians.org/portfolio/YourUserName
There is more information on how to get started with your portfolio right here.
You further have access to the Premium Critique forum with NEF and large JPG uploads, where you get advice and critique to bring your photography to new heights, plus you get your unique @nikonians.org email address.
The voucher for upgrading from Basic or Silver membership to Gold is: goldenmay18
If you are on a Silver membership now, the value left will be converted and added to your gold membership, plus you get one additional month as a bonus. We are looking forward seeing you :-)
J. Ramón Palacios (jrp) & Bo Stahlbrandt (bgs)
Founders of Nikonians
Please note: The voucher cannot be used for renewing existing Gold memberships.
Posted by bgs at 11:40 AM
December 15, 2017
Early-bird discount on 18th ANPAT Spring
Now is a good idea to include the 18th ANPAT in the Spring on your shopping list, taking advantage of the early bird discount. More information (login required)
Posted by bgs at 2:09 PM
October 16, 2017
European trip autumn 2018
Are you interested in going for a week of shooting in Europe in the autumn of 2018?
Maybe combined with the largest imaging and photography exhibition there is, Photokina in Cologne, Germany which is taking place 26th-29th of September?
Before starting the planning on this, it would be great to get your feedback on this and your ideas of what you would like to see.
We could include the alps region of Switzerland/Austria/Germany to get some great shooting opportunities at castles, medieval towns, birds, wildlife in general and then to end the week at the Photokina for a day or two of tons of industry updates, photography arts and everything else around imaging.
The overall design of the trip would be in line with our regular "ANPAT" trips, but it would potentially include one additional leg of flying (e.g. from the alps to Cologne).
Please do chime in on the post to discuss this in the Café
Posted by bgs at 10:57 AM
October 1, 2017
Inspiration and mastering the art - We are back to weekly
Inspiration, mastering the art of photography, professional tips and industrial news: The publishing of our weekly newsletter stopped mid July after we'd experienced some unplanned changes on the team. We are now getting back on track again and expect to be publishing weekly starting coming week.
The main items from this weeks newsletter are included in this blog below. The upcoming newsletter will be structured a bit differently, but we are working very hard trying to make it an easy to read, not too long & wordy.
bgs and jrp, the two founders of the Nikonians Community, doing a podcast at the Crazy Horse Memorial.
If you are not subscribed to the newsletter and want to get inspiration, mastering the art of photography, professional tips and industrial news, sign-up for it today.
1. We are now advertising free.
The reason? The value of the advertising, for you as a member and for the community over all, is diminishing. Many of us are using ad blockers and if we do not, we hardly interact with the ads or view them. Let us know what you think In the About Nikonians forum (login required)
2. We now support (really) large file uploads in the forums
Starting right now, all of our forums allow for upload of files larger than the recommended 1200 pixel width for landscapes and max 900 pixels height for portraits. If the file is larger than 3MB in file size, it will automatically be resized as well. Motivation for this is to make it easier for you to upload files without having to bother about exact size of the original file, just because you wanted to share something. More in our blog
3. Our fundraising is up
We have already raised over $5,000 since we started early September. Our fundraising page has more info
4. Last days for the 50% discount on upgrading to a Gold membership
Last days to take advantage of a heavy discount on our popular membership level. Go head :-)
5. New, inspirational photography from members
We have some new articles up on inspirational photography and the members behind it
Kathy Cavallaro and Lawrence Treadwell
6. New functionality: Ask for critique on images directly from the galleries
We are running an open beta of a new functionality, making it possible to include images from your gallery for advice & critique. The new functionality is available to all members on Gold and Platinum. More info in the blog
7. Some more buttons, forums time-zone aware, comments on your images & more info on your membership
In case you've missed it, we now have a "Post a reply" button top right corner in the forums.
We further introduced a "Cancel" button in the post message window.
You can now set your timezone in your profile and you will see all posts with your correct time.
If someone posts a comment on an image of yours in the galleries, it now shows under the
"Heart" menu as well.
More details on your membership now showing under your profile, "Membership" tab.
Posted by bgs at 1:23 PM
September 27, 2017
Upload, share and enjoy - Now bigger than ever
Starting today, you can upload large files in the forums and share with others. And we mean LARGE. The old limits on width, height and file size are no more.
From today onwards, all of our forums allow for upload of files larger than the recommended max 1200 pixel width for landscapes and max 1800 pixels height for portraits. The reason for this, is to make it easier for you to upload files without having to bother about exact size of the original file, just because you wanted to share something.
In addition to testing for width and height of the image and eventually resize it if larger, files larger than 3MB (former max limit 1MB) can be uploaded. Files larger than that will though be slimmed down in file size, even if they might be within the 1200 pixel width, 1800 pixel height range.
Cargo trains in Indiana
In case the file is reduced in width or height, we apply a gentle sharpening. We do not apply any sharpening, if the width or height is not reduced, even if potentially the filesize was slimmed down.
If you do not want the system to reduce the width or height of the image, you can simply stay within the values mentioned and no alterations are done.
In case we are resizing the file in width or height, or slimming it down in file size, we show, a small warning "!" indication before the filename in the upload dialog window after you have uploaded it. If you click on the warning indication, you will see a short info that we have resized the file.
Some forums allow for large JPGs and sometimes NEFs to be uploaded. These individual forums are not affected by the resizing above.
To discuss this feature and to give us feedback, please use this thread.
Posted by bgs at 12:33 PM
September 25, 2017
We are advertising free
We are going advertising free today. This means: No more advertising on the top or bottom of pages, in the articles or on our homepage.
The reason? The value of the advertising, for you as a member and for the Nikonians Community over all, is diminishing. Many of us are using ad blockers and if we do not, we hardly interact with the ads or view them.
We hope this change will further lead to a cleaner design and less clutter, making the Nikonians Community an even more enjoyable place to visit.
Lake Norman Sunrise. Nikon D800, 24-70mm f/2.8 @ f/22, 20s, ISO 100, ND filter.
Lawrence Treadwell (treadwl). You can see more of his work here.
If you want to give us feedback on this, feel free to do that right in this thread.
Enjoy!
Bo & Ramón
Posted by bgs at 11:26 AM
September 13, 2017
Preferential treatment for Nikonians ordering Nikon D850
If you are looking into ordering your very own Nikon D850, our preferred camera supplier Berger Bros Camera got you covered.
Nikonians members have priority in shipping out first, plus free shipping. Brad Berger, the owner of Berger Bros Camera, will personally handle your order and you can call or text him 7 days a week on his cell: 516-816-4921 or email at BradBerger@mac.com
Posted by bgs at 6:02 PM
July 11, 2017
Nikon announces newest 70-300mm zoom
Here are some of the topics and news items we're tracking for our community this week. --- Members react to new Nikkor 70-300 - Wide angle choices for DX on a trip - Airline camera carry-on bans easing up--- PLUS more....
1 - Nikon unveils newest 70-300mm zoom
Nikon has announced the newest version of their popular 70-300mm telephoto zoom, this time adding Stepping Motor Technology, making it "Nikon's first full-frame AF-P lens."
This AF-P technology brings a promise of very quiet and fast autofocus but also takes a step back on the backward compatibility scale.
Our members are already reacting, with some seeking clearer explanations on the compatibility issue:
• The recent trend has been to introduce new lenses that are not fully compatible with recent bodies, e.g. D7100 and many FX bodies.
• This new lens is not compatible with any camera that I currently own. I understand that Nikon needs to innovate, but I hope this is not an indication that all (or most) new lenses will not be usable with my cameras.
• Perhaps the silver lining is that the "old" 70-300 AFS-VR will become a bargain in the near future.
Follow the discussion to see how this lens is doing on the "announcement of release" speculation. We are already getting responses indicating added compatibility for certain cameras once a firmware upgrade is applied.
The AF-P NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6E ED VR lens will have a suggested retail price (SRP) of $699.95 USD and availability will be announced at a later date.
2 - Step by step to perfection
It took a small horse to help solve a big problem for Candi Foltz (CandisCamera) from Florida, USA. While trying to nail some good images of a pony, she was running into exposure extremes. Our members have responded by giving her some valuable advice that could be of help to many others.
The discussion has touched on Auto ISO, center-weighted metering and exposure compensation.
Here's a sample:
• The matrix meter will "think" that a subject in shadow is not really the main subject. This has nothing to do with Auto ISO - if you had been using a fixed ISO, you'd have gotten the same results, as long as you were using matrix meter.
• It's not that the camera can't change ISO fast enough. Auto ISO does not correct the exposure. Any of the automated modes - Aperture, Shutter, or Auto ISO - would produce the same result.
• If the horse is in the shade and you expose it properly the background will be overexposed. But I have a feeling you don't want that.
So, if you don't have a strong flash or other lights I guess, it would be best, to just position yourself in such a way, that the horse will be on the light (and not in the shade) when you shoot it.
Take a look at the advice she has received so far, and if you have experience capturing images of fast moving animals under harsh lighting conditions, add your opinions.
3 - Celebrate Nikon's 100th with Berger Bros.
Berger Bros. is now taking orders on all 100th Anniversary Nikon gear and will give Nikonians priority and free shipping (continental USA).
The gear includes:
• Nikon D500 and D5 flagship DSLR camera commemorative editions.
• 100th Anniversary AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR telephoto zoom lens
• Triple lens set of the wide-angle AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED, the normal 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR, and the telephoto 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR.
• Commemorative editions of three Nikon binoculars.
These may be a good investment for future appreciation. To take advantage of this special Nikonians offer, contact Brad Berger 516-816-4921 or Brad@Berger-Bros.com.
4 - Profiled: Tom Jacob (sevendayimages)
Moderating Team member Marsha Edmunds (meadowlark2) has posted her latest chapter in the Nikonians member profile "I am Nikonians" series of articles.
Her subject in this installment is Moderating Team member Tom Jacob (sevendayimages).
Marsha tells us:
Tom rejoined Nikonians after several years with a busy family and professional commitments. He remembers receiving his first camera from his parents when he was about 12 years old, a Praktica MTL50 with 50 and 135mm Pentacon lenses, and Tom reports, "I was hooked from that moment on."
Tom lives in Spain five minutes from a big Nature Reserve which gives him plenty of shooting opportunities.
Check out the full article, and make sure you have a look at his gallery. It includes some of the best of his street photography and macro work.
4 -- This CheatSheet makes editing RAW files easy!
You know you should be shooting RAW files. But, you've always thought they were too hard to edit.
Well, this PhotoBert CheatSheet for Adobe Camera RAW (ACR) makes it easy.
Our extremely popular Adobe Camera Raw CheatSheet has been updated for V9+.
It walks you thru each option in ACR and contains everything you need to know to edit your RAW files like a pro.
We also have CheatSheets for Nikon and Canon DSLRs and most Speedlights, along with some great accessories.
Save 20% on our legendary CheatSheets; 10% on Helicon Photo Software and 5% on accessories.
Get the discount with this link.
5 - Wide angle choices for D500
Gold member James Baker (Jamed600) from Illinois, USA considers himself primarily an FX-format shooter, but he's got a trip coming up and he's planning on using his D500 (DX-format) camera plus a carefully decided selection of lenses. That decision-making process has narrowed down to a choice of some wide-angle glass.
Here's a small portion of his question:
With a D500 now and an upcoming family vacation to Williamsburg ... I am thinking about a lightweight kit- D500, Wide Angle DX zoom, 16-80 (pleased with this lens; possibly better than 24-120 f4 for FX) and Tamron 150-600 G2 or Nikon 300 PF + TC14 (it would be nice to have a backpack weighing less than 35 pounds).
...I've ruled out the new Nikon 8-15. I am not aware of a Tamron or Sigma DX lens that would be competitive but open to suggestions.
Can you match his needs with a lens you've been happy with under the same circumstances? If so, share your advice.
6 -- Care of Acrylic Filters - Avoid Ammonia
Nikonians Academy Director Eric Bowles has a timely warning for our members who are cleaning their lenses and filters during the summer months. In short: Avoid ammonia.
Here's Eric's tip:
We've had several posts about filter quality recently. In addition to glass filters, there are some companies that provide acrylic filters. In some cases, lenses are made with polycarbonate elements to lower cost and save weight.
If you have plastic or acrylic filters, be sure to stay away from any ammonia based cleaners - Windex or other glass cleaners, household ammonia, etc. Ammonia reacts with some types of acrylic and plastic causing fogging. It can't be reversed. So, avoid using Windex or any ammonia type cleaner on any acrylic surface.
If you are using rectangular filters - such as Cokin, Singh Ray, or Hi-Tech - it's important to use either water or alcohol based cleaners.
I can't speak to the impact of ammonia on coatings, but suspect some coatings may be fogged or develop a white film from ammonia. I'd use care. Also keep in mind that most filters do not have sealed edges - there is a small filter ring holding the element in place, and it might be possible for a liquid to work its way under this ring and into the coating if there is too much liquid used.
The damage from ammonia is not immediate. Normally it shows up after several cleanings - when it's too late.
Have you ruined a lens or filter with the wrong cleaning product? Tell us your story.
7 -- Shameful confession: he bought "that" camera
Gold member Jim Tubman (Tubman) from Alberta, Canada was not alarmed by some of the negative criticisms shared by our members of the Nikon D7500. In fact, he purchased one, and -- so far -- he's happy with his new camera.
Here's the introduction to his review:
I have a shameful confession to make: I bought the much-maligned new Nikon D7500. (Gasps of horror! Men faint. Women scream.)
Yes, that one. The one with no AI index pin. The one that won't accept a grip. And most appalling of all, the one that does not have two card slots. I will bare my soul before all the world (or at least, the people who read this forum in Nikonians) and plead for your mercy and pity.
With the levity out of the way, I thought it might be of some interest as to why someone might actually find that model to be a good fit to their needs.
Jim goes on to describe (in detail) why this camera may not be popular with some existing D7xxx users, but a good option for many others looking to upgrade. Check it out.
8 -- Airline camera carry-on bans easing up
Moderating Team member Ned S. Levi (Ned_L) has an update on the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) ban on electronic devices larger than a cellphone regarding airline flights from certain countries. Bottom-line: the restrictions are easing.
Ned tells us:
By next Wednesday, July 19, the ban will have been lifted at 8 of the 10 airports on which it was imposed. As of July 19, based on announcements made as of today, the ban will only stand at Saudi Arabia's two international airports with direct flights to the US. (Saudi Arabia has seven international airports.)
So far it appears that the UK electronics ban remains in place. From what I can tell it still is affecting direct flights to the UK from: Turkey, Lebanon, Jordan, Egypt, Tunisia and Saudi Arabia.
Read Ned's full post for more details and if you have information that expands, or contradicts his research, let us know.
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That's it for this week. Make sure you grab your favorite camera and capture some images to share with family and friends (especially us at Nikonians). -- Tom Boné (flashdeadline)
Posted by flashdeadline at 11:48 PM
July 4, 2017
Summer release of New Nikon DSLR expected
Here are some of the topics and news items we're tracking for our community this week. ---
Members react to new Nikon D820 rumors- May contest congrats- $25K lens reviews a hoot--- PLUS more....
1 - Summer release of New Nikon DSLR expected
Our members have been discussing recent bargain prices on the Nikon D810, and the logical conclusion seems to point towards the next camera in the D8XX series. Now, the internet is buzzing with rumors of a D820 unveiling later this month.
This discussion, started last month, starts to unravel the possibilities.
A few sample comments:
• I think it's time for an updated "800" series body and that is likely to be significantly better than the D800/D810. It should incorporate some of the improved focus and processing systems in the D5 and D500 and could be close to 50 MPX (if that is of interest).
• I will be getting a D820 or whatever the next high-resolution camera is around that price point. Skipping a generation tends to work well and produce more significant updates.
• But I'm not going to jump to a 40+ mp D820 - I'll wait for the 40+ mp D830!
Have you been holding off for a generation jump in the D8XX series? If so, what features are you holding out for?
One more thing--that image we're using of a "D820" - it's a Photoshop fake.
2 - May Contest Congrats
Nikonians Contest Coordinator David Summers (dm1dave) has posted the results of the May contests.
Congratulations to our winners!
Special congratulations go to Kathy Cavallero (Cavy2) for taking first place honors in two categories.
Check our winning images legend below and scroll down for the names of the winners. Each photo title serves as a link, which will lead you to explanations behind some of the photographs and an overall look at the competition.
Here are the winners of the May Contests:
1. -- Wildlife - "Interaction between animal species" theme winner Isaac Vaisman (ivaisman), from Florida, USA with his image titled Not this time.
2. -- Landscape - "Coastal Views" theme winner Darryl Hodson (skibreeze7) from Oregon, USA with his image titled Ecola Point at Sunset.
3. -- Macro - "Green" theme winner Roberta Davidson (birdied) from Louisiana, USA with her image titled My What Big Eyes You Have.
4. -- Travel - "Room with a View" theme winner Kathy Cavallero (Cavy2) from Pennsylvania, USA with her image titled Chillon Castle-Switzerland.
5. -- Digital Artistry - "Lines" theme winner Kathy Cavallero (Cavy2) from Pennsylvania, USA with her image titled Heuchera.
6. -- Assignment - "Street Photography" theme winner Dan Mitchell (danmitch) from England, The United Kingdom with an image from a series, capturing moments of quiet in busy places. .
Interested in submitting your photos?
If you want to participate, please be sure to enter one of the monthly competitions listed in David Summers' contest guide.
The Online Photo Assignments category is coordinated by Rob Migliaccio (rmigliaccio) from Rhode Island, USA. You can check his recap of past assignments here.
The current (July) assignment is "The Color White."
Here is Rob's description:
It would follow of course that since last month's assignment was the color black, this month's assignment would be the color white. Like last month, my suggestion is to Google "the color white" to get a sense of this month's assignment. You will come up with a ton of ideas that are associated with this color - what it means, what it evokes, how it affects us, etc. Your job is to convert what the color means to you into a photograph. The assignment is easy, yet it will be hard.
3 - 100 more millimeters - worth it?
Silver member David Powell (DaveP142) from England, The United Kingdom is wondering if he should invest in a lens that hits the 300mm mark.
He already has a lens reaching 200mm and is looking to find out if that extra 100mm is worthwhile.
Here's the question:
My "long" lens at the moment is the Nikkor 55 - 200mm. I've been feeling that a little more reach could be handy and looking at 70 - 300mm lenses.
It seems there are three contenders. According to online reviews:
The Nikon VR - Well built, popular, but, apparently, tragically soft at 300mm.
The Tamron SP Di VC USD. Cheaper, not quite so well made but a bit better optically - but I have come across reports that this too is less than satisfactory at 300mm
The Nikon AF-P DX. Thom Hogan reckons it's the best match for a 24MP camera although he apparently hasn't given it a full lab session. I wouldn't challenge his evaluation, but I personally think that f/6.3 at 300mm could be a problem for me.
I'm starting to think that just wanting an extra 100mm isn't such a good idea in practice as the whole point of the exercise would be to use the lens at 300mm.
I understand that I might see an improvement in image quality at 200mm and below but I'm not sure how much and by the sound of things I would end up "paying" for any improvement by having to take constant care to avoid using the dodgy focal lengths.
This is all based on stuff I found on line, and much of that was four or five years old. I'd appreciate some more up to date thoughts on the subject.
Should have said: Intended use would be nature / landscape - no sports!
We've already had some enlightening responses, including positive comments on a 300mm prime option (instead of zoom). Join the discussion if you have wrestled with the same problem as you added new gear.
4 - $25,999 lens? Why not?
Scrolling through the many news sources regarding our favorite camera gear, we sometimes run into unusual (and sometimes funny) tidbits.
This is one of those tidbits.
It's an expensive lens that has drawn very interesting reviews. In fact, the reviews are getting funnier with time.
We're currently discussing the lens and those reviews which are gathering on a famous online shopping site.
Here's a sample:
• I decided to try it out at a nature park near me to look at Saturn. I got some pretty good pics (seen in images) but I accidentally set off the built-in mini nuke launcher and destroyed the entire planet of Saturn!
• This lens is great as others have already mentioned so I won't get into that detail, but there is one major flaw with this listing. The lens cap is not included!
• I got this for the camera in my iPhone, works great. I took it with me to Vegas and was using it in the casino (I know, not supposed to use cameras in the casino, but I was discreet) I was actually able to read guys security code at an ATM in Detroit.
And that's just a small sample-- wait till you read the one about the guy who uses this lens for a certain medical procedure. The links can be found here.
5 - Upgrade decisions - ready for new computer?
Silver member Neal Nurmi (Wingman) from British Columbia, Canada is researching his next computer, and his question to our members has resulted in a number of insightful appraisals. If you are also considering a computer upgrade, this is a must read.
Here's a small portion of his question:
I'm planning a new computer to replace my aging machine. I know questions like this one get posted here a lot, but I would like some advice on this. It will be a Windows 7 machine.
I've been emailing with a builder who has a good reputation. He himself is a gamer and gaming is what he knows best, but he has worked with photographers and graphic artists as well and is well spoken of by photographers in his area. When I explained my needs to him (high megapixel cameras, HDR, image stacking and panoramas etc. but no gaming and no interest in video) he came up with this possible build: ----
Neal goes on to give specs, and our members are already weighing in with further advice.
Check it out, and feel free to share your opinion Neal's perfect upgrade.
6 - Bye-bye Lexar?
Our thanks to Silver member Colin H Frydrych (colin1957) from England, The United Kingdom for his heads up on some sad news for Lexar memory card fans.
It seems the entire line of Lexar cards and accessories may be headed for extinction. Our members quickly reacted to the news.
A clarification post by Nikonians Academy Director Eric Bowles sheds more light on the topic:
Micron - the parent - is doing well but Lexar and other consumer products are holding them back. Camera sales are down and most smart devices are shifting to cloud storage rather than SD cards.
Micron's new CEO was a co-founder of SandDisk and left SanDisk in 2016. He was named CEO of Micron in April 2017.
It's pretty obvious that the storage business is a concern. Toshiba announced they were getting rid of memory cards last year but just sold the unit to a group including Bain Capital in June. They - like Micron - reported financial results showing the weak unit was a "discontinued operation" - and that presentation boosts operating results and stock price of the parent. So, the timing is partly for accounting presentation. They will likely sell the brand and it will likely continue in some form. There is a big difference between closing the unit and announcing it is being discontinued with plans for sale.
Do you agree with Eric's assessment? Let us know.
7 - D5 time lapse - Pool table install
Silver member Linwood Ferguson (Ferguson) from Florida, USA shares an interesting time-lapse project condensing the steps involved in the assembly of a pool table.
Linwood shares the final product as well as some tech-specs:
I tried something completely different. We were getting a pool table installed, and I set the D5 up with the Intervalometer running at 10 second intervals, and got 1632 images. Put them together in Resolve to a video, and got about a minute worth of the install.
Maybe this should go under video, but I didn't use the video feature.
Just for your amusement.
I limited it to HD (1080p) but you get really high resolution when you take stills and then make it into a video. -- Linwood
If you have a similar project in mind and you want to gather some preparation notes, feel free to ask Linwood.
8 - D7500 memory card performance review
Nikonians Academy Director Eric Bowles (ericbowles) has posted a link to memory card performance specs from cameramemoryspeed.com, along with his own assessment of the results.
Here's a brief sample of Eric's thoughts on the published performance specs:
The bottom line is this confirms that the camera has a UHS-I SD card slot and gets no benefit from using newer, faster, and more expensive UHS-II cards. The SanDisk Extreme Pro 95 MB/s UHS-I cards are identified as the best value with write speed of around 80 MB/s. The fast UHS-II cards are no better in terms of write speed, but can be much faster using a USB 3.0 UHS-II card reader for downloads.
The buffer on the D7500 is quite large, so the camera can shoot 14 bit RAW lossless compressed files at 6.5 fps and zip off the limit of 100 frames before stopping. It takes a while to clear the buffer if it fills - around 12-15 seconds with the fastest cards.
Check Eric's full post for details and the link to the performance test.
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That's it for this week. Make sure you grab your favorite camera and capture some images to share with family and friends (especially us at Nikonians). -- Tom Boné (flashdeadline)
Posted by flashdeadline at 1:10 PM
June 28, 2017
Countdown to the Solar Eclipse
Here are some of the topics and news items we're tracking for our community this week. ---
USA Solar Eclipse less than two months away - What's your lemon test - Two cards a must? --- PLUS more....
1 -- Solar Eclipse creating gear and lodging shortages
Moderating Team member and Nikonians Academy Director Eric Bowles (ericbowles) has an update on filter availability for the upcoming Solar Eclipse event. In short, with less than two months to go, supply is having a hard time keeping up with demand.
Eric tells us: Thousand Oaks Optical is backordered on some of their solar filters. I just ordered a 77mm threaded filter, an 8-inch filter for use on my 600 f/4, and am backordered 4-6 weeks on a filter for my Tak FS-60.
Eric's post is one of many eclipse-oriented discussions currently featured in our Astrophotography Forum.
You can also check:
• Nikon guide on how to photograph a solar eclipse
• More Solar Eclipse Questions
• Lodging for total eclipse viewing...get it fast!
2 -- What's your lemon test?
When you get your brand new camera, what do you do to quickly test it? Do you have a ritual series of actions that help assure you this particular model is not a lemon?
New member Brian Rose (kbobb) asks us what we prefer to use as our "new gear test" routines. He asks about a specific model, but this topic applies equally to most of our purchases:
Hi All, Is there any special process you go through to check that all functions work properly on a new camera and images are appropriate both in camera and on the computer? Anything particular to Nikon, specifically the D750? I'd like to run through all functions before the return period expires.
Silver member Neal Nurmi (Wingman) responds with:
This is actually an interesting question. All my cameras over the years have functioned as advertised, but these things have gotten so capable and so complex that a more systematic approach does make sense. It'll be interesting to see what sorts of replies you get to this.
Do you have a testing routine or do you just start shooting and wait for something weird to happen?
3 -- This CheatSheet makes editing RAW files easy!
You know you should be shooting RAW files. But, you've always thought they were too hard to edit.
Well, this PhotoBert CheatSheet for Adobe Camera RAW (ACR) makes it easy.
Our extremely popular Adobe Camera Raw CheatSheet has been updated for V9+.
It walks you thru each option in ACR and contains everything you need to know to edit your RAW files like a pro. We also have CheatSheets for Nikons and Canon DSLRs and most Speedlights, along with some great accessories. Save 20% on our legendary CheatSheets; 10% on Helicon Photo Software and 5% on accessories.
Get the discount with this link.
4 -- Can two cards save your day?
Gold member Jim Tubman (Tubman) from Alberta, Canada wonders whether any of our members have ever had a shooting session saved by dual card slots. When the chips are down -- Is two really better than one?
Here's the question:
One of the biggest and most repeated criticisms of the new D7500 is that, unlike the preceding models in that series, it does not have two card slots. So, who among you with a two-card camera has actually had one card fail and the other saved the day?
Hear me well: I am not passively-aggressively asserting that this has never happened. I had a card go wonky in my D5300 after I had shot my daughter's high school graduation (I could not write new pictures, but I could read all the ones I had taken). I just wonder if it is freakishly rare, or uncomfortably common.
Have you had your day saved by that extra card slot? - Tell us what happened.
5 -- Great Deals on new NIKKOR's
Berger Bros. is now taking orders for the three new lenses that were announced May 31st. Nikonians will get early allocation preference and free shipping (continental USA).
The lenses are:
• AF-P DX NIKKOR 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR -- Manufacturer Suggest Retail price (MSRP) of $309.95 USD with availability in late June.
• AF-S Fisheye NIKKOR 8-15mm f/3.5-4.5E ED -- Manufacturer Suggest Retail price (MSRP) of $1249.95 USD.
• AF-S NIKKOR 28mm f/1.4E ED -- Manufacturer Suggest Retail price (MSRP) of $1999.95 USD with availability in late June.
To take advantage of this special Nikonians offer, contact Brad Berger 516-816-4921 or Brad@Berger-Bros.com. - BradBerger@mac.com.
6 -- Fix my sky
Moderating team member Gary Worrall (glxman) from South Australia pointed his camera up at a scenic image, but his result was the dreaded "blown sky."
Gary shows he's always ready to learn something new as he asks our members what they would do to fix the photo.
Here's the question:
Hi Guys,
For the first time, I tried to get one of those "looking up to the canopy of the forest" shots. Whatever I did in LR with the blown-out sky, just went grey. Then had a play with HDR toning, (no Idea what I'm doing,) But I feel if I tone back the green and somehow squeeze some light blue in the sky, it will look OK?
Any way of fixing the sky? - Gary
If this looks like a problem you have solved in the past, feel free to show us how you made your corrections.
7 -- Gearing up for Alaska
Silver member M. Lange has a great trip coming up and he's asking for gear advice based on the location and his current inventory.
The cool part of this discussion is the number of our members who have posted images from the same destination.
Here's his situation:
I'm heading to Alaska (both cruise and inland tour), and planning to bring two bodies: a D5500 (which I like for its size) and my new D7500. I'll bring my 10-24 for landscape. I'll also want a telephoto for animals. My options are (a) carry both an 18-140 and a 70-300, and switch off as necessary; or (b) carry a 28-300. It would be great to not have to switch lenses, but if the image quality from the 18-140/70-300 combination is markedly better than that from the 28-300, I'm willing to. Would appreciate any thoughts.
Do you have advice (and Alaska pics) to share? Join the discussion.
8 -- The case of the missing images-Solved?
Silver member Jon Etkins (jetkins) from Texas, USA was trying to figure out what happened to some photos missing in his Lightroom.
It didn't take long before our members started leading him to a solid answer.
Jon described the problem: I've been using Lightroom for a couple of years now, and I just noticed that it appears to be hiding some of my images from me! With All Photographs selected and filters disabled, it's only showing me 56,092 of my 56,178 photos. Any idea why it's decided to withhold 86 pictures, and how I can go about convincing it to cough them up again?
If this has happened to you, check the discussion for more tips on how to find those files.
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That's it for this week. Make sure you grab your favorite camera and capture some images to share with family and friends (especially us at Nikonians). -- Tom Boné (flashdeadline)
Posted by flashdeadline at 1:05 AM
June 20, 2017
Fireworks - Tips, Tricks and more
Here are some of the topics and news items we're tracking for our community this week. ---
Time to share your favorite fireworks images, tips, techniques and tricks - Seven deadly photography sins - 32-bit bites dust--- PLUS more....
1 -- Fireworks - One of the Hottest Topics we share
We are fast approaching a significant increase in fireworks oriented photography, and this means we need to re-visit one of the most comprehensive posts on the topic. Our Café now has a link to the original post, along with an open invitation for our members to share their best images from last year, along with your descriptions of equipment used, techniques, tips and tricks that made them one of your favorites.
Here are just a few of the great tips we have already gathered:
• My tip is that when you are taking fireworks photos where the scene includes buildings that are important to the image, the exposure and focus must be coordinated to get the lighting on the buildings as well as the fireworks.
• Fireworks are bright, almost as intense as an afternoon sun, so your aperture should be set as if shooting during the day. The exception will be what you do with your shutter speed.
• Don't forget to photograph the amusing people and things that happen around you. If your children are with you, have them stand still while spinning some light sticks for some great effects.
There's plenty more advice available--Check it Out.
2 -- Think Tank Teams with SKB
Our friends at Think Tank Photo have just announced an exciting new partnership with hard-case manufacturer SKB. Think Tank's designers have created internal divider sets, organizers, and a backpack designed specifically to fit within 10 SKB hard cases.
There are times when you simply must use the airline gate-check procedure with your most precious photography equipment. At moments like these, nothing will do a better job of protection than a hard case.
But, one of the downsides of hard cases is that they are basically hard shells with not a lot of other features built into them.
Think Tank's partnership with SKB solves this problem.
The result is a perfect combination matching the best of a hard case with the best of internal organization. Don't forget that with our special partnership with Think Tank that you receive free gear and free shipping when you order using our special link.
3 -- Sounds easier than it looks
Silver member Robert Metheney (bobpilot) from Utah, USA has what seems to be a simple problem. He wants to change the background on an image from a dull white to pure white.
Bob quickly tells us he's not a Photoshop expert, and he's wondering if anyone has an easy to understand step-by-step guide that will help him solve the problem.
Here's Bob's situation:
I made a photograph of sunglasses for an acquaintance. He is trying to sell them and he wants a white a white background. Nothing artistic. The photo I made has an off-white background. I made the photo with the glasses on top of translum paper with a light above and below.
We've already had a few members taking the original and transforming to the desired effect.
Check them out and see if you agree with the procedure. If not, show us your solution. Don't forget to explain how it was done.
4 -- The Seven Deadly Sins in Photography - Part 1
Nikonians co-founder J. Ramón Palacios (jrp) has over 50 years of photography experience, nevertheless, he makes a review of the typical errors that he has committed and shares with us the solutions to improve our photography. His newest article is therefore a confession, an act of contrition and a fast mix of easy tips.
The author tells us:
There are seven days of the week, seven colors of the rainbow, seven notes on a musical scale, seven seas and seven continents in the world; seven branches for seven candles in the Menorah. On the lighter side, seven were the dwarfs chosen by Walt Disney's for Snow White. And just as there are seven deadly or cardinal sins that may prevent us to get to the seventh heaven, there are seven sins to avoid for good photography. I know because I have committed them all and even today I may occasionally forget to avoid.
His article comes in multiple parts, and this edition explores the topic of subject centering. Here's a hint: Centering your subject in a frame tends to work against you.
5 -- 32-Bit bites dust?
Nikonians Moderating team member Jonathan Kandel (JonK) sees a technological progression that spells doom for 32-bit apps.
He looked carefully at the preliminary results of a recent Apple Worldwide Developers Conference and noticed a trend.
Jon tells us:
The next operating system for the Mac, announced at the Apple Worldwide Developers Conference ten days ago but given more prominence next consumer play over the past two days is interesting -- and ominous.
The new system, called High Sierra, will be a complete 64-bit system with a new file system (faster and more secure), better graphics and VR, and enhancements to Safari and Mail. The troubling item in that last sentence is the 64-bit system.
Recent operating systems have supported 64-bit apps and 32-bit apps. High Sierra will do the same when released this coming October. But starting in January 2018 it will be no longer support 32-bit apps. Here's what I think that means (so far, more thought and research is required):
• That's the end of Nik.
• Many other plug-in and standalone enhancement apps are 32-bit -- and some are from small companies or solo practitioners who may not have the resources to rewrite code to 64-bit.
• While the major Adobe apps are currently 64-bit, some of the support software -- the desktop app and the loader app -- are not. They will obviously be rewritten to 64-bit, but I wonder if Adobe will take this "opportunity" to have the new loader not handle the standalone CS6 suite and move all Adobe software to the subscription model.
• The Microsoft Office Suite -- Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook -- has not been updated since 2011. Given the Mac's place in the marketplace (7% or so) I wonder if Microsoft will invest the resources necessary to rewrite four major apps (and related support software).
There are a myriad of other apps that many of us use -- i.e., the Pocketwizard loader, Camranger, device drivers, etc. -- for which we need to be mindful.
Do you agree with Jon's analysis? Join the conversation.
6 -- 17th ANPAT (Fall) bookings gather
Bookings are moving along for our 17th ANPAT in the Fall to Acadia and Coastal Maine.
This area is a photography paradise, with rugged coastlines, iconic lighthouses, and warm tones of the northern light.
The ANPAT is scheduled for October 7, 2017 (arrival) to October 14, 2017 (departure).
October is the best time to be there; exquisite colors abound, not just on the trees, but also on the ground, thanks to the berry plants characteristic of the northern areas.
Your early booking is highly appreciated as it helps to make early deposits to keep arrangements and negotiated rates.
Practically everything you want to know about lodgings, itineraries, special arrangements and clothing suggestions are contained in our 17th ANPAT in the Fall FAQ's.
7 -- Best choices - Matrix, Spot, Manual?
Silver member Gary Pack (GaryPk) is wondering what are using us as your favorite metering mode when shooting landscapes.
He's looking at a specific style of photo:
If I am shooting two of the same landscape with one exposed for the sky and the other for the foreground due to high dynamic range, should I be using Spot Metering Mode? Thanks, Gary
Here are two suggestions pointing in different directions:
• I'll let the landscape masters give you the best answer, but for me, I would use matrix. If you have a mix of clouds in the sky, your metering will depend on where you put the spot. With matrix, you would get a better "average" of the exposure value (in my thinking). I would also move the meter around the sky to see how much it varies. You can also check your histogram to get an idea of what the meter is telling you.
• Since you are probably going to be shooting from a tripod with the head locked (to ensure the two images will correctly register) Spot should work well. You could focus on the foreground and use spot metering (which is normally slaved to the focus point) for the first exposure. Then move the focus point to the sky (without re-focusing) and take the second exposure.
What metering mode would you suggest?
8 -- Your vote matters
Moderating Team member Dan Wiedbrauk (domer2760) is looking to add more votes to the month of May Digital Artistry contest results.
The theme was "Lines."
The instruction for those competing were simple:
Show us your digitally manipulated images of lines and objects in lines. Any photographic subject is acceptable so long as it meets the Nikonians terms of use. We want to see wall-worthy line abstracts, objects/people in lines, clothes lines, blurred movement lines, architectural lines, or any liney thing that tickles your fancy. Let your inner artist lead the way.
For the longest time, we had a three-way tie, but now one image has picked up steam. It's still a close call, so Dan would appreciate your vote to help make the final decision.
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That's it for this week. Make sure you grab your favorite camera and capture some images to share with family and friends (especially us at Nikonians). -- Tom Boné (flashdeadline)
Posted by flashdeadline at 10:40 PM
June 13, 2017
D7500 Pro and Cons gather as camera ships
Here are some of the topics and news items we're tracking for our community this week. ---
D7500 cameras shipping as members share pros and cons, difficulties in photographing dogs, children and birds in flight, unintentional double exposure with a D810, travel camera decision may exclude Nikon --- PLUS more....
1 -- D7500 Pro and Cons gather as camera ships
Members are reporting the arrival of their brand new Nikon D7500 cameras.
Silver member Scott Ashley (scottashley) from Colorado, USA has been notified that his order is shipping, and our own Nikonians author Darrell Young (DigitalDarrell) already received his D7500 from Berger Bros. Meanwhile, our member still "on the fence" are deliberating.
Darrell has started work on his new book on this camera and he has taken the extraordinary step of soliciting member input on the pros and cons.
If you are interested in seeing sample image gathered by Darrell check here.
If you are getting the new camera, keep in mind Darrell Young's Mastering the Nikon D7500 has already gone to the next stage of inviting our members to provide examples of photographs taken with the new camera for inclusion in the book.
This tradition of using Nikonian member images in these NikoniansPress books has been going on for many years. Your benefit is the chance to be published. All members who have a vertical image included in the book will receive a free copy of the book and be listed in a special Credits for Chapter Opening Images section with information on the tech specs (ISO, lens, aperture, shutter speed, shooting conditions, and a paragraph telling about the picture).
Details on the invitation can be found here.
2 -- Dog shooting is harder than ever?
Platinum member Iain Duncan (IainD) from Victoria, Australia has been dealing with two elusive subjects: children and dogs. He's looking for advice on equipment that would make his successful capture of these images easier.
Here's his description of the challenge:
Hello,
I shoot events at our local dog club. Each event has an indoor session for puppies, often with child handlers. There is not much space and the lighting is poor.
Flash is necessary here. The dogs move fast and it is very difficult to get good shots, but sometimes I get some! I have a Nikon SB900, which tended to overheat and shut down sometimes after just a few shots, so I got a 910. Yesterday, at a fairly slow pace of shooting, about 1/3 of my shots had little or no flash. And that was the 910.
I use Eneloop batteries, and I thought I gave plenty of recycling time.
My question is: Is there a better flash for this type of event?
I have read mixed reviews of the Quantum flashes
They are expensive and some people find them poorly made.
What do you good strobists use for this type of situation? I would be grateful to hear!
Many thanks,
Iain
Have you dealt with similar challenges? What would you recommend?
3 -- Upgrade your Shutter!
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4 -- Nikon D810 unintentional double exposure
Moderating Team member Brian Wong (blw) has run into what looks like a double exposure recorded by his Nikon D810. Can you get a double exposure without planning for one with a digital camera?
Brian posted his image and give us the background:
I had my D810 doing interval shooting over the weekend, and I found this frame right in the middle of 460 other perfectly normal shots:
There was nothing unusual going on. The frames were a minute apart, and the parameters as seen in the EXIF are hardly anything too unusual.
This file, like all the rest, was recorded on a SanDisk Extreme 32GB CF card. It's not new, having served for several years in my D3x.
Initial thoughts leaned towards card read error, but Brian is not convinced.
Have you ever had this happen to you? Did you figure out a solution? Tell us your story--Better yet--If you still have it--share the image.
5 -- Great Deals on new NIKKOR's
Berger Bros. is now taking orders for the three new lenses that were announced May 31st. Nikonians will get early allocation preference and free shipping (continental USA).
The lenses are:
• AF-P DX NIKKOR 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR -- Manufacturer Suggest Retail price (MSRP) of $309.95 USD with availability in late June.
• AF-S Fisheye NIKKOR 8-15mm f/3.5-4.5E ED -- Manufacturer Suggest Retail price (MSRP) of $1249.95 USD.
• AF-S NIKKOR 28mm f/1.4E ED -- Manufacturer Suggest Retail price (MSRP) of $1999.95 USD with availability in late June.
To take advantage of this special Nikonians offer, contact Brad Berger 516-816-4921 or Brad@Berger-Bros.com. - BradBerger@mac.com.
6 -- Off to Europe with or without Nikon D810?
Silver member Scott Arden (sparden) from New York, USA has a trip to Europe planned and he's wondering if he should entertain the possibility of leaving his Nikon D810 home. He's leaning towards a well-known brand with a ZEISS 24-70mm f/1.8-2.8 lens. Good idea?
Here's the question:
Greetings all!
I have a D810, 50mm 1.4, 24-70, 2.8 and 70-200mm 2.8. I am traveling to Europe shortly with my family (London, Paris, Amsterdam) for 10 days. I am beyond excited to take photographs, however lugging my equipment around has me less than. I have no intention of bringing the 70-200mm, but I would bring the two smaller lenses, a flash and a tripod. My shoulder/back hurts just thinking about it.
I also own a Sony RX 100 III which I do not use all that much. I am considering leaving my much beloved (though much bulkier) D810 at home and just bringing the small Sony. It has received very strong reviews but I feel on such a trip I should try to optimize the photos I take (not a professional, though if I get a great one I would consider blowing it up).
Any thoughts/suggestions here? I suppose I am looking for someone to convince me one way or the other.
Thanks all!
7 -- BIF equations - do they work?
Platinum member Richard J. Kish (Dickk) from England, The United Kingdom, has started a complex discussion on a difficult photography subject. He's trying to use sound math to solve difficulties of capturing images of an erratic bird in flight (BIF).
Here's the problem:
Hello...
What are your opinions about a D5 being able to accurately track an object coming towards the camera at approx. 80ft/sec. With a shutter speed of 1/1600, my calculations show the subject moving 0.6inches during the open shutter. So, assuming the focus is spot-on when the shutter opens, I might expect a bit of blur because of the 0.6inch movement. But can I expect the focus to be spot-on when I hit the shutter release?
My subjects are flying puffins. (Incredibly exciting to attempt to capture in flight...but also incredibly frustrating). They're very erratic fliers, and difficult to keep focused, especially with a heavy wind blowing them/you/the camera around.
Are you a successful puffin BIF shooter? How do you handle it?
8 -- Lumens and lux - Research guide?
Silver member Marlin Collier (MS Photog) from Mississippi, USA is also having technical difficulties. He's looking for members who have experience with the topic of lumens and lux measurements.
Here's his dilemma:
I need help understanding how these items relate to each other. I have done some studio portrait work for years and always used a Honeywell strobe with modeling light I bought in the 1970's. This worked great for me in film days. I had so much trouble trying to use this with my D7000 because of no pc outlet. I bought an LED continuous light specified at 1000 watts equivalent. This works pretty well for portraits but is not quite powerful enough for the way I want to use it. I have been shopping for an improvement but have never done much research into how lumens and lux equate to exposure; therefore, when I get on B & H and Amazon I can't figure out what is what and what I need.
Can anyone recommend a good article on these lighting measurements? I have tried searching Nikonians but maybe I don't know what to write in the search box to find what I need.
We've had excellent suggestion so far, including one piece of hardware called Wein Safe-Sync. Check the discussion and feel free to add your own suggestion.
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That's it for this week. Make sure you grab your favorite camera and capture some images to share with family and friends (especially us at Nikonians). -- Tom Boné (flashdeadline)
Posted by flashdeadline at 11:33 PM
May 30, 2017
Are you a darkroom "cheater?"
Here are some of the topics and news items we're tracking for our community this week. ---
Members share views on digital darkroom enhancements, Black and White competition winners announced, landscape photography on a budget, rain gear comparisons --- PLUS more....
1 -- Are you a darkroom cheater?
Silver member Dale Williams (Tropidale) from Florida, USA wants to know where our members stand on post processing techniques that may be stretching the "truth" of an image.
The modern digital darkroom allows for endless variations on an original photo, but Dale is thinking there may be a bit of "misrepresentation" involved.
Here's a very short excerpt from his opening remarks:
Today I researched tutorials on how to get those magnificent milky way shots I have been drooling over for years. Imagine my disappointment to find that the "before" shots appear to be nothing like the edited version, just a fairly starry sky with a slightly lighter area. I was certainly expecting some adjustment, and I am sure that the video didn't do the actual original justice, but the extreme enhancements seemed a lot like 'bait and switch".
I get that photography is art, and you have a right to create whatever you like based on your skill, imagination, and tools. But it kind of bothers me when we, as photographers, misrepresent reality to such a degree that those who choose to visit a place or shoot the same subject based on what they think are representative images, end up feeling cheated when they arrive and see that they do not represent reality for viewing or photographing.
Check his full post for more points before you join this discussion. Plenty of great responses have already been added.
2 -- Best B&W contest winners
Nikonians Photo Contest Director Dave Summer (dm1dave) has announced the winner of the Best of Nikonians Segment 1 with the theme "Black and White."
Taking top honors in this round is a powerful image by Gold member Isaac Vaisman (ivaisman) from Florida, USA. His shot of a boxer, captured with his Nikon D4, is titled "Boxer's Corner."
Isaac used a Nikkor 24-70 f/2.8 lens maxed at 70mm with a 1/500 second exposure and f/4 aperture taking advantage of his ISO setting of 2000 (with +1 Exposure Compensation).
The B&W conversion was handled with Silver Effex 2.
In addition to our overall winner, we have four members earning an honorable mention. All images will advance to the final rounds of the Best of Nikonians 2017 at the end of the year.
Honorable mentions go to:
• San Juan River New Mexico #2 by Adam Perez (Adamgp) from New Mexico, USA
• Ghosts in the Ice by Russell Whittemore (rosewood_ltd) from Ohio, USA
• Morning Exercise on Exmoor by Geoff Baylis (GBaylis) from England, The United Kingdom
• Stairway to Darkness by Jeff Atchley (Graceland) from Tennessee, USA
All five images have been automatically uploaded to the Best of Nikonians 2017 Gallery.
This contest, along with the monthly forum contests, are the preliminary rounds for the Annual Best of Nikonians Photo Contest where you have the opportunity to win prizes and have your images highlighted in the Winners Galleries and published in the eZine.
3 -- Upgrade your Shutter!
This is the most inexpensive upgrade you can make to your camera. It is incredibly simple and useful. You'll be amazed nobody thought of this before!
Each package contains 2 shutter upgrades (choose RED or BLACK). Fits all Nikon DSLRs. Click here to save 5% now.
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Get infinite Depth of Field with Helicon Software (discounted 10%). Save 20% on our legendary CheatSheets; 10% on Helicon Photo Software and 5% on accessories.
Get the discount with this link.
4 -- Landscape Photography on a budget
Gold member Wayne Lorimer (wjlorimer) from New Zealand has posted an inspirational article for those of us who do not have a massive assortment of specialized gear designed to help capture landscapes.
His premise is simple: Make use of what you already own.
In his article, Wayne contends:
Before you go off and buy that $5000 camera body, or $2000 wide angle lens, let's think about this. What I'm about to say may shock you, it may upset you (sorry about that), or it may even delight you. But it's the truth. And the truth is, a $2000 lens will NOT make you a better landscape photographer. And a $5000 camera will NOT make you a better photographer - period.
The photographers you admire may very well use the latest full frame bodies, and the most expensive ultra-wide lenses that money can buy. But that's not what makes them great photographers either. Trust me, you can take wonderful, amazing, stunning, incredible landscape pictures with an entry level or mid-range camera body and the humble kit lens. Seriously. When it comes to beautiful landscape images, it is most definitely not about the gear.
Can he prove his point? - by the looks of his sample images, it sure seems so. Check it out.
5 -- Canon kudos anyone?
Silver member Alex Rosen (klrbee25) from Florida, USA is contemplating Canon as a source for his printing needs. Now is the time for all our Canon Printer users to chime in and let him know if he is on the right track.
Here's his wish-list:
I've been shooting for many years and have amassed a collection of digital photos. However, I drifted away from printing my work, mostly due to cost concerns at the time. I'm now drawn to the high-end Canon wide-format printers to renew my enjoyment of past and future work. I've also found that I'm quite reluctant to use print-shops for my work due to the inconvenience of uploading work, waiting for the prints, and then having to repeat the cycle if I want to adjust the results and receive more prints.
I've been considering the Canon Prograf Pro-1000 to print up to 17"x24" and get excellent quality. The missing roll paper support is bummer. I'm drawn to the improvement in print-head technology to minimize clogs which were a real downer when I was using Epson products many years ago.
My thought is I could use the Canon for all my smaller print needs and to make proofs for larger prints that are beyond the printer's capabilities. Considering really large prints need some special mounting for proper presentation, I expect to use a quality print shop for those works regardless. But I'm hoping the Canon will get me back into high quality printing, fill my small print needs and serve as a stepping stone to proofing which prints go for the big presentation with professional production.
Does this make any sense? I'm not making a living with photography and the prints are for me, my family and for display in our home.
If you have experience with Canon printers like the one Alex is asking about--we encourage you to join the discussion.
6 -- Last chance for Nikon D500, D750 & D810 plus free Nikon Battery Pack Grips
Our friends at Berger Bros. Camera tell us they have never seen Nikon offer bigger Instant Savings.
If you're on the fence, these low prices should push you off! This offer expires on June 3rd.
• D5500
Two lens kit - save $550
• D500
Body Only - Save $200
w/ kit lens - Save $670
Plus Free MB-D17 Battery Pack
• D750
Body Only - Save $500
w/ kit lens - Save $1100
Plus Free MB-D16 Battery Pack
• D810 Body Only - Save $500
D810 w/ kit lens - Save $1100
Plus Free MB-D12 Battery Pack
You can now pre-order the new D7500 Body at $1,249.99 or the D7500 w/kit lens at $1,749.99. Great Personal service: Brad Berger 516-816-4921 or Brad@Berger-Bros.com. or mailto:BradBerger@mac.com.
7 -- Rain Gear anyone?
We have a very detailed discussion on rain gear going on in our Camera Carry & Apparel forum. The depth of responses shows many of our more experienced members take water damage seriously. Specific brand names are discussed in-depth.
This is a must read if you have a trip to wet climates and regions in mind. Here are a few examples:
• It really depends on how much rain and how long. For many photographers, pouring rain is beyond the scope of decent photos so it's really light rain or showers for 15-30 minutes that is the problem. If you must get the shot and are a sports photographer, you need something more. If rather than a shower, you just have nuisance water such as heavy mist, there is still a different solution.
• I would also take a lightweight poncho. A poncho will cover you and your bag and provide temporary shelter for your camera and lens. I have a large size one that becomes a portable shelter and I have it over the tripod and shoot through the hood.
• There's a point at which you have to distinguish rain gear aimed at protecting the camera while shooting, and just protecting the camera (a big garbage bag can do the latter).
How do you protect your valuable investment in great gear? Let us know.
8 -- Think Tank Photo announces upgraded favorites
Our friends at Think Tank Photo have released a new version of their popular TurnStyle sling bags with an emphasis on stability.
The TurnStyle 5 fits a mirrorless body plus two to four lenses, and an eight-inch tablet. The TurnStyle 10 fits a standard size DSLR plus one to two lenses, and an eight-inch tablet.
The TurnStyle 20 fits a standard size DSLR plus one to three lenses, and a 10" tablet. These new version releases come in the traditional Charcoal and in a new color, Indigo Blue.
Doug Murdoch, Think Tank Photo's CEO and lead designer tells us:
This new version of our popular TurnStyle sling bags reinforces their reputation as the ideal "grab and go" camera bag. One thing we've learned from serving professional photographers for so long is that they always need one, pre-conformed gear kit that gives them access to their core gear. The TurnStyle is that bag.
If a combination backpack/roller is you favorite Think Tank product, they have you covered with their new version of the StreetWalker® series-- one of the most sought-after products in the photographic world.
The new StreetWalker Rolling Backpack V2.0, featuring the ability to switch from a backpack to a roller. Also released are upgraded versions of all three classic StreetWalker backpacks.
Photographers get the same comfort and quality as the original series but with new features such as increased depth for modern DSLR systems, and dedicated pockets for both tablets and smartphones.
Editor's note: if you are interested in these bags, make sure you use our links (above)-- our friends at Think Tank have arranged for the links to lead our members to free gear and free shipping with their orders.
9 -- Real Estate photographers share tips
New member Maris Lubbock (Enidan) from Ontario, Canada took a picture of a home. A realtor liked her work and now she's on the verge of entering the world of real estate photography. It's not as easy as one might think, and she's asking for advice. What would you suggest?
Here's her story:
On a whim, I send some photos of a house - interior & exterior to a real estate agent who is an acquaintance. He loved them. In a note with the photos, I asked if he could would be interested in having me photo a couple of listings. Since I am very new to all this I said I would do it for free for one or two places. They loved my photos &' I'm meeting agents tomorrow afternoon at a large older home. The agent also insists he will pay me. He & some other agents loved my photos.
If things work out, I'm not worried about the business side. I have advice from our insurance agent & accountant. What I need advice on is lighting & everything else. The photos I sent were taken with my crop sensor & my Sigma 10-20. The late afternoon was sunny and the house was beautifully lit with natural light. I know nothing about supplementary lighting, so hoping at this point I don't have to use it. I will be there in the afternoon tomorrow. Hoping it's sunny.
I would love to be able to make some money to support my expensive hobby. I'm retired and have discovered my love for photography late in life when I can least afford it. Any advice would be appreciated. - Maris
Have you been shooting real estate images? Do you have tips to share?
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That's it for this week. Make sure you grab your favorite camera and capture some images to share with family and friends (especially us at Nikonians). -- Tom Boné (flashdeadline)
Posted by flashdeadline at 11:20 PM
May 23, 2017
New camera, new book, new questions
Here are some of the topics and news items we're tracking for our community this week. ---
New book coming with member input weighed in, lens storage issues, rip stop nylon for portraits--- PLUS more....
1 -- New camera, new book, new questions
Nikonians author Darrell Young (DigitalDarrell) has opened a virtual Pandora's Box while researching his next book in the Mastering Series.
He knew that before he embarked on this new project. Our members have not been too kind when reading about a new DSLR with apparently more features missing than actually added.
The camera is the new Nikon D7500, and although Darrell does not have his in hand yet, he's looking for our input:
Friends,
I have preordered the new Nikon D7500 (from Berger-Bros.com) and have been examining the camera's features on the Nikon site. There are some exciting things and some negative things that I want to talk with you about before I write our upcoming NikoniansPress book Mastering the Nikon D7500. I value your input on the camera.
What do you see that is positive and/or negative about the D7500? Is there a particular feature you like or dislike? I am looking for positives about the D7500, although I recognize a few negatives. What are your thoughts?
Editor's note: Darrell's research shows he's ready to tackle what may be the most negatively "pre-reviewed" new model since the Nikon DF. He's asking for input because he's noticed our comments so far seem to be missing some goodies. I talked to him at length before posting this, and I can assure you he's not a "fan-boy" looking to ignore negatives in favor of positives, simply to publish a book. The new book is already in the pre-order pipeline, so if you want it reserved, orders yours today.
2 -- Right side up? - or down?
Silver member Mark Stephan (Mark37814) from Tennessee, USA wants to know how you are storing your lenses. It's not as much the storage location as deciding "which side up?"
Here's the question:
I own a bunch of lenses, both AF Nikkors and many 3rd party lenses. I use a set of shelves in my bedroom closet for storage and easy access. Do I need to keep the front lens element facing up or down?
Currently all of my lenses including heavy primes and zooms are stored with the front element facing up. With my non AF-S lenses should I keep the lens aperture opened all the way (f/1.4, 1.8, 2.0 etc) or closed to the smallest aperture (f/16, 22 or 32) like my G lenses?
I know this is a silly question but I want to store my lenses in a way that doesn't hurt functionality later on.
Do you have a preferred method? Let us know, and don't forget to mention why.
3 -- Ever lose any equipment? Gear lost forever? - Maybe not!
Each IDmyStuff® label set includes includes 29 labels, in 3 sizes. Big enough for a 400mm lens to small enough for a filter ring.
3 lines of text on each label, plus a gift or coding message for each set. Up to 30 characters per line. Super weatherproof outdoor vinyl with sign grade adhesive, UV resistant colorfast thermal resin printing, laminated with tough polyester. 7 different colors--code your gear by types, storage locations, or application purposes.
Just $9.95, including shipping in USA. (International: $4.95 flat rate shipping per order.) 20% off orders of 3. 30% off orders of 10 sets or more. Typical turnaround--order to delivery--is one week or less.
4 -- Share your favorite photo storage solution
New member John O'Connell (JBOC) from Virginia, USA needs help deciding on a photo storage sharing site for his club.
Johns asks:
I have been using Dropbox for members to put their monthly theme shots in and if they come up something they like better they can pull back their shot and drop in another.
I would like to have a site where each month's work can be stored for members viewing.
I can't figure out how Flicker can be used by many and any advice would be appreciated.
We've already received comments on sites we've rarely considered. Before you share your advice, don't forget that John's usage is specialized for members of a club, (as opposed to picture sharing with family and friends.
5 -- Can rip stop nylon improve your portraits?
Have you ever considered using a light panel made of rip stop Nylon?
Portrait photographers have been using light panels made of translucent materials for years.
The versatility factor alone is worth a try.
Silver member Robert Metheney (bobpilot) from Utah, USA has been performing trial runs with the material and he's posted examples.
He has received a few suggestions (mostly about the color of the fabric) and now he's ready for the next step:
Several colors are available. Blue, Black, Charcoal gray, red, hunter green, burnt orange, brown, and a few more that I don't like. My next project, with his mom's approval, is a portrait of a teenager. He wants something modern. He showed me some examples, not of himself, and some had light gray backgrounds, and some had dark backgrounds. We can do both.
I'm thinking burnt orange then I can light from behind and make it brighter or darker, move it from orange to dark brown.
I am not good at picking background colors. Any help will be appreciated.
6 -- Don't get p****ed
Silver member Mike McLain (AUMike) from Alabama, USA was first to mention an unusual friend request:
Note to everyone....appears that a scammer has obtained email addresses of members of Nikonians. The body of the email I received from this scumbag references Nikonians.org. Not good.
Not good indeed Mike, and you were not alone. When I got mine I briefly pictured Gina Lollobrigida or Sophia Loren but my suspicious nature immediately pointed to a phishing scam.
Silver member Fred Brickenkamp (FredB D3) from Florida, USA went a few steps further and looked into some background.
He reports: This is both a dating scam and an attempt to get people's money (help me get my father's estate, and I'll share with you).
Many members have also been targeted, and our founders are planning for enhanced preventive measures.
7 -- Boundless creativity in digital darkroom
Moderating Team member Dan Wiedbrauk (domer2760) reminds us to check out the current digital artistry competition because it is filling up with some amazing images.
Have a look, and let the current submissions give you inspiration to join the competition.
The May challenge is-- Lines.
This contest features images that have been significantly manipulated for creative effect. The final output can be realistic, surreal, abstract, or fantastic.
Show us your digitally manipulated images of lines and objects in lines. Any photographic subject is acceptable so long as it meets the Nikonians terms of use. We want to see wall-worthy line abstracts, objects/people in lines, clothes lines, blurred movement lines, architectural lines, or any liney thing that tickles your fancy. Let your inner artist lead the way.
This is a digital manipulation contest, so tell us a little something about how you achieved the visual effect.
Editor's note: the image used to illustrate this item was chosen at random, and does not indicate any favoritism to this entry. I'm not on the judging team. Not much time left to enter this May competition.
8 -- Pushing for perfection
Silver member Bob Levesque (BOB_LEVESQUE) wants to shoot fast action events under challenging light conditions. He needs a good camera and some good advice.
He has that camera, but now it's time for some advice.
Here's the question:
This is my first attempt at shooting boxing (also my first outing with my new D750, Nikon 28-300 3.5/5.6 VR, No flash).
Settings: AF-C, "Group", Manual 1/1000 sec, f/5.6, ISO Auto, face detection ON, focal length used usually 300, shot from the stands (not ringside).
Read and followed all the tips in the owner's manual, other publications and local camera expert.
PROBLEM: Even with Face-detection on, and AF-C/Grp, most of the shots were focused on the Rope around the ring instead of the boxers faces. (see attached shot)
What did I do wrong?
Help and advice much appreciated as I intend to shoot a lot of low-light, fast action events, (boxing, roller-derby, gymnastics...etc.) which is why I bought the D750 to start with.
Thanks!
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That's it for this week. Make sure you grab your favorite camera and capture some images to share with family and friends (especially us at Nikonians). -- Tom Boné (flashdeadline)
Posted by flashdeadline at 10:54 PM
May 16, 2017
What do you do with your photographs?
Here are some of the topics and news items we're tracking for our community this week. ---
Members share what they are doing with their photos, two photography specialties worth trying, sensor dust remedies--- PLUS more....
1 -- What do you do with your photographs?
Gold member Steve Castle (AusPhotoMan) from New South Wales, Australia has tons of images collected over the years, and now he's looking to make good use of his efforts. What have you been doing with your "keepers" when you are not sure whether to hit the delete option?
Here is Steve's question:
Hi all,
I have been shooting for many years including some time as a working pro.
These days I struggle to figure out what to do with images I take. I have limited display space at home, but some are on display. I don't have young children or grandchildren to shoot ATM, but do shoot extensively when I travel and make those images into photobooks, but that is generally once every two years.
I enjoy shooting but can't see the point if I am not doing something useful with the images. Decent competitions are expensive to enter multiple images, the main reason I see to enter comps is the prestige of getting an award but I am not one who gets off on receiving awards.
Thoughts please? -- Regards, Steve
Responses so far include printing for fun, printing for profit, posting online forums, donating prints and arranging for stock photo reprint options.
If you have a huge stack of great images, you need to follow (and perhaps contribute to) this discussion.
2 -- Drops of water equal art?
Silver member Robert Metheney (bobpilot) from Utah, USA is looking into expanding his photo skills by tackling images of water drops. Yes, drops of water. If you have never seen the unique results from this style, you really need to check out the examples posted in response.
Here's the original question:
Now that I have abandoned sports photography, I want to find a new interest. My studio is ready for use.
Today I did some research on water-drop photography. This seems like something I might like.
Because I have no experience with this type of photography, I don't know if this kit is the way to go, or if there is something better.
Bob specified a certain kit, and from the looks of it--responses so far include many options and techniques. This is not a challenge for those of us with limited patience or resources, but the results are truly amazing. This discussion has turned into a great "how-to" primer for all of us willing to take on the challenges.
Have a look, and if you are a water-drop shooter - make sure you add your best shots.
3 -- Lowest prices ever on Nikon D500, D750 & D810 plus free Nikon Battery Pack Grips
Berger Bros. Camera tells us they have never seen Nikon offer bigger Instant Savings.
• D5500
Two lens kit - save $550
• D500
Body Only - Save $200
w/ kit lens - Save $670
Plus Free MB-D17 Battery Pack
• D750
Body Only - Save $500
w/ kit lens - Save $1100
Plus Free MB-D16 Battery Pack
• D810 Body Only - Save $500
D810 w/ kit lens - Save $1100
Plus Free MB-D12 Battery Pack
You can now pre-order the new D7500 Body at $1,249.99 or the D7500 w/kit lens at $1,749.99. Great Personal service: Brad Berger 516-816-4921 or Brad@Berger-Bros.com. or mailto:BradBerger@mac.com.
4 -- Irritated by sensor dust?
Silver member Fay Jordan (TripleSeven) from England, The United Kingdom has been trying to resolve sensor dust issues with her Nikon D750. This is one of the most talked about topics in our forums for all DSLR's and her particular problem is drawing good suggestions.
The original question (and image):
Hi all, I have a D750 I bought at the start of last year and it's riddled with spots. It has been cleaned but, within a day or two of the cleaning the spots were back, and in force. The attached just-for-example photo shows how bad the spots are down the right-hand side of the sensor - no processing has been done, apart from resizing the photo so I could upload it, and equalizing it in Photoshop to highlight the spots (which is why the colours look a bit groovy).
What could be causing all these spots? The lens was only changed once in the time since it was cleaned, in a reasonably clean hotel room and I hadn't been in any dusty environments. My D810, by contrast, is immaculate.
Sensor dust is a fact of life, I get that, but this does seem excessive and more so as the sensor was cleaned immediately prior to the trip I was on. My previous D750 that I sold was the same, more dust than the Sahara. That said, is this dust or could it be oil spots? And, although it's a month out of warranty, would it be worth sending to Nikon UK for servicing and cleaning? Thanks in advance for your responses.
Do you have additional suggestions for her problem? Share them with us.
5 -- What the heck is a "sportrait?"
Silver member Brian Barbash (brianbarbash) from New Jersey, USA has posted a few images of an athlete (his son) while describing it in a relatively new term. His technique has drawn praise.
Brian tells us:
For about a year or so, I've been playing around with "sportraits" and compositing, creating images of my kids and their teammates. Usually I drop them into a stadium or some other kind of setting that mimics big time sports. The kids go bonkers when they see themselves like this and it's a lot of fun.
The shot (attached) is my youngest son Tyler, 8, wearing his NJ State team gymnastics uniform. He qualified to represent New Jersey in a 5-team state meet held at the West Point Military Academy in April. The team took 2nd place. While this shot isn't a composite, I did use compositing techniques to change the background to near black - the original was a dirty white muslin backdrop that just didn't work that well, but was all I had.
Any feedback or suggestions for improvement are greatly appreciated.
Responding members complimented Brian on his technique with a limited number of suggestions.
Moderating Team member Martin Turner told Brian:
Masterful use of rim lighting which is the mark of the modern sportrait. This is superb, and you haven't gone too far (which is easy to do).
Brian added an additional image showing more creativity. If you have been shooting "sportraits" please feel free to add to this discussion. And, make sure you tell us how you did it.
6 -- Comfort plus Theft-Resistance?
Can your strap keep your camera safe when traveling?
This strap, available from PhotoBert, is great for travel as it helps thwart camera thieves and is great for everyday use.
It fits any camera that has a removeable camera strap.
Don't let this strap fool you - it looks (and is) lightweight, but is incredibly strong!
It is 30% lighter than nylon/polyester, 45% lighter than aramid and 15 times stronger than steel.
(Sorry -- PhotoBert can only ship this product to US customers only.)
Nikonians Price: $37.95
Price is after discount reflected in your cart.
7 -- Mark your tripod. Best method?
Gold member John A. Meiers (Dakotaboy) from North Dakota, USA is asking for suggestions on speeding up his tripod settings. Do you mark pre-sets, and if so, how so you mark the gear?
Here's the original question:
About a year ago I purchased a used Gitzo tripod. When fully extended and a D3 attached to ballhead it is about 2 inches too high. Does anybody have any DIY tricks to marking the tripod legs for quick easy setup according to my height? It would be nice to see a tripod with tape measure type markings on the bottom legs.
We have two responses:
• The simplest solution is to adjust the length of the bottom set of legs to your eye level and then mark one or more of the legs with a sharpie so you know how far to extend them the next time you set up the tripod. You could also just remember to not fully extend the bottom section and guess the height. If you do it often enough you will get very close to eye level without having to put a mark on the leg.
• I don't recommend marring your tripod legs with tick marks, but Marty has a good suggestion. I usually extend the bottom sections of my tripod less than halfway out. For one that keeps dust and mud out of the telescoping joints, and two I can more easily adjust the top sections to set the height I need. BTW, the middle section(s) get extended out all the way.
How would you mark your favorite tripod settings?
8 -- Camera ban on air travel: updates
It has been nearly two months since Moderating Team member Ned S. Levi started tracking and reporting on recent air travel security measures that could impact our members flying with their gear. The restrictions apply to electronic devices, but believe it or not -- your Nikon gear may be included.
In a recent update, Ned shows a pessimistic viewpoint:
As to this ban that isn't really a ban, the only people who are adversely affected are law abiding passengers, many of whom who have decided that the government has gone too far and are not traveling. (Emirates Airlines has reported a $1.5 billion drop in profits since the ban that isn't really a ban when into effect. Other affected airlines are reportedly hurting similarly.)
There is no upside.
The ban has no capability to make air travelers more secure. That's not opinion. That's fact. The ban likely makes us less secure according to experts.
The result of these security measures is starting to point towards our air-traveling members investing in costly "check-in" traveling luggage from sources such as Pelican.
How are you dealing with the newest air travel security arrangements?
-------
That's it for this week. Make sure you grab your favorite camera and capture some images to share with family and friends (especially us at Nikonians). -- Tom Boné (flashdeadline)
Posted by flashdeadline at 9:50 PM
May 9, 2017
D5 and D500 becoming extinct?
Here are some of the topics and news items we're tracking for our community this week. ---
Members speculate on the future of Nikon, 35mm lens suggestions, blending skin tones PLUS more....
1 -- D5 and D500 becoming extinct?
In an ironic twist, while we are celebrating the 100th Anniversary of our favorite camera company, Silver member Thomas Lawrence (tomlawone) from Idaho, USA is speculating on the inevitable demise of popular Nikon cameras like the D5 and D500. Responding members are countering with a measure of confidence and a glimpse of future generations.
Tom's initial post was a bit on the gloomy side:
Nikon as a camera company is dying. Sony and Fuji and Olympus and Panasonic have mirrorless, the future. The SLR generation was the 50's to 90's. That generation is now old and retired. Today big, fat, full-frame cameras go to professionals and enthusiasts who are young and will carry the weight. DX is the compromise. Does anyone see a day 5 years from now when mirrorless has not done everything the D5 or D500 can do now?
Responses so far include:
• Automotive industry is dying because only Tesla has electric cars.
That said the Sony a9 seems to be a great but also expensive camera. Nikon is not sleeping and it is expected that the D6 will be a new camera as the a9 is today. That will happen within the next 3 or 4 years.
• Truth is that mechanical devices are expensive and unreliable. The camera of the future will have no moving parts and the SLR will become the photographic equivalent of steam locomotives.
• To paraphrase Mark Twain, "The reports of Nikon's death are greatly exaggerated".
I have been hearing these stories for years each time a competitor one ups Nikon. Sure, Nikon is not as big as Canon or Sony, but cameras are also not its only business. That being the case, it is still considered one of the top makers of professional cameras.
• The dead thing is the point and shoot camera, not DSLR cameras. I wouldn't dream of buying a point and shoot; my phone is just as good. But my phone can't touch the quality of a DSLR image, except under the best of circumstances---good light, an appropriate subject for wide angle, and plenty of time to focus.
Where do you stand? Share your opinion.
2 - Which 35mm lens are you using?
Silver member Mark Virgil Stephan (Mark37814) from Tennessee, USA is wondering if he should service a good 35mm lens or perhaps start looking at a replacement.
Here's the original question:
My current lens is an old AF NIKKOR 35mm f/2D and the aperture blades are sluggish although I don't see oil on the blades. Before getting it repaired I'd like to find out which 35mm lens you're using? Is it sharp and reliable? I like to use my old 35mm on my D700 or D800.
Both of his listed cameras have full frame sensors, and our members are giving him a number of interesting suggestions:
• Have been using the Zeiss zf 35/2 for many years on D700 and D800. Very sharp wide open, beautiful colors, good contrast. This is my most used lens.
• One lens everyone raves about is the Sigma 35/1.4 Art.
• There is now a good variety of options available, the AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ED FX version is excellent and good value, the 1.4 and earlier f2 lenses have nice character but are not my preferred options.
Do you have a favorite 35mm lens that you would recommend? Let Mark know.
3 -- Ever lose any equipment? Gear lost forever? - Maybe not!
Label ALL your gear... BEFORE you go out to shoot!
Each IDmyStuff® label set includes 29 labels, in 3 sizes. Big enough for a 400mm lens -- small enough for a filter ring.
Three lines of text per label, plus a gift or coding message for each set. Up to 30 characters per line. Super weatherproof outdoor vinyl with sign grade adhesive, UV resistant colorfast thermal resin printing, laminated with tough polyester. 7 different colors -- code gear by types, storage locations, or application purposes.
Just $9.95, including shipping in USA. (International: $4.95 flat rate shipping per order.) 20% off orders of 3. 30% off orders of 10 sets or more. Typical turnaround (order to delivery) is one week or less.
4 -- Blending skin tones primer
Silver member Peter Conis (PC60) from Iowa, USA asked for advice on fine-tuning a portrait. He provided an original, and our members have made edits to solve some blending issues. Do you think you have a new approach?
Here's the original question:
Here's a photo from a session I conducted involving our nursing instructors.
My concern is the neckline--I can't manage to blend the tan line and reduce the color distinction between the obviously sun exposed portion of her neck and the remainder of her neck visible in this photo.
I tried dodging, cloning, and painting and I was not happy with the results.
Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Any additional comments would also be welcomed.
Responding members used a variety of methods, and as we all know, there a many ways to solve post processing challenges.
Take a look at Pete's original - and if you can improve on it, share your version and make sure you tell us how it was accomplished.
5 -- Moderately priced gear for panoramas
Gold member Steve Castle (AusPhotoMan) from New South Wales, Australia is interested in expanding his panorama shooting techniques and apparatus. He's already done some stitching and he's ready for the next step. Take a look at his progress so far and let him know if he's on the right track.
Here's the original post:
Hi all,
I am looking to play around with panoramas. I have been successful with hand held and single row horizontal stitches with a standard tripod pan/tilt head, but sometimes those don't blend correctly in PS. I have a Manfrotto tripod with built in level that to me is very inaccurate when check against a builder's level. The inbuilt level case also moves when the center column is set horizontally, so it can't be accurate.
I have carefully set the tripod level to be apparently level, then set the pan/tilt head which also has a level to be level, then rotated the pan/tilt head in azimuth and the level position on the pan/tilt head changed, to me a further indication the tripod level is inaccurate.
Am I doing something wrong here in setting up?
I am planning on using a macro focus rail to set the camera to the pupil entrance point, along with one of the rotating mechanisms you can buy economically from China via Ebay. Also, adding an Arca Swiss style l plate and bracket for vertical operation. I figure I can do this for about $AUD150-$AUD200. Are there any flaws in my approach, if so are there other ways to approach the problem? I simply cannot afford a Nodal Ninja or Novofelx style setup.
Attached is a 3 shot vertical stitch, shot on a tripod, not very carefully levelled and lens not at pupil entrance point, but with no foreground to cause issues. Actually, stitched with MSICE. Regards, Steve
6 -- Big lens - Big price - Big decision
Silver member Gig Marshall (Giguchan) from New York, USA is contemplating a step up to the AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR Lens. He already has the predecessor. Should he reach for his wallet?
Gig asks:
Have many of you traded up to the latest version of this lens? I have the previous version and was just wondering if any of you have made the swap to the latest version.
In other words, is the latest that much more sharp?
I was also curious to see if the change of the focus and zoom was that big of a learning curve.
I know that every other lens in the world is "normally" the other way around.
Thanks.
Many members have already answered that they would not be upgrading their 70-200's, but one who has already made her purchase says she's very satisfied:
I had the VRII, and now own the new FL. I preordered and had mine two days after BH had it in stock. The older lens is a great lens, but the latest version is really nice. It's sharper across the whole frame, sharp at 135mm (most zooms are weakest in their mid range), has even faster AF (great for sports), and is a little lighter than it's predecessor. It also doesn't have the focus breathing issue.
Is this lens appealing to your NAS (Nikon Acquisition Syndrome)?
7 -- D5500 Fixes arrive
Nikon has released a firmware upgrade for the D5500.
This week's 1.02 version improves over the previous (1.01) by addressing issues with shutter response under certain conditions and display preferences. Nikon lists the following fixes:
• The camera would stop responding if the multi selector was pressed right with Add items > CUSTOM SETTING MENU > c Timers/AE lock selected in MY MENU.
• The shutter would sometimes not be released in response to live view touch shutter controls if autofocus was used with an SB-800 flash unit attached.
• Optimal exposure would sometimes not be achieved in photographs taken during live view with lenses that support both autofocus and electronic aperture control (type E lenses).
• If image review was enabled during viewfinder photography, the camera would sometimes display shooting information in place of the most recent picture when the user removed their eye from the viewfinder after shooting.
• The camera would sometimes fail to store the option selected for a Autofocus > a3 Built-in AF-assist illuminator in the CUSTOM SETTING MENU after the mode dial was rotated to another setting.
8 -- Fall ANPAT 17 now booking
Nikonians founder J. Ramón Palacios (jrp) has announced the location for our next Fall season Nikonians Annual Photo Adventure Trip (ANPAT).
The Fall ANPAT-17 will be taking our members to Acadia and the Coastal Maine and for a very limited time, we have an early bird discount. This location is a photography paradise, with rugged coastlines, iconic lighthouses, and warm tones of the northern light.
The dates are: October 7, 2017 (arrival) to October 14, 2017 (departure).
JRP tells us:
October is the best time to be there; exquisite colors abound, not just on the trees, but also on the ground, thanks to the berry plants characteristic of the northern areas. Nikonians Academy Director Eric Bowles (ericbowles) will be our ANPAT Leader.
Check out the 17th ANPAT in the Fall FAQs and the official Nikonians Academy reservations page for more details.
------------------------------
That's it for this week. Make sure you grab your favorite camera and capture some images to share with family and friends (especially us at Nikonians). -- Tom Boné (flashdeadline)
Posted by flashdeadline at 9:54 PM
May 3, 2017
Are you ready for the USA blackout?
Here are some of the topics and news items we're tracking for our community this week. ---
USA members plan for August Eclipse, March contest congrats, sensor cleaning update, PLUS more....
1 -- Are you ready for the USA blackout?
Gold member Mark David (tpnaspen) from Illinois, USA reminds us the 2017 Total Solar Eclipse covering a large swath of the USA is coming in three months.
Mark asks:This coming August I will be within 50 miles of 100% total solar eclipse. I would love to take some photos but concerned with my own safety and my camera. I shoot a Nikon D750.
Is there a particular lens I should use? Some helpful hints would be appreciated.
Our Astrophotography forum members are known for their attention to details, and we must commend Gold member Gerry Mulligan (Gerry M) from Arizona, USA for his response, which includes a treasure chest of significant links covering solar eclipses.
The 2017 eclipse will hit land in on August 21, in western Oregon (Lincoln Beach and Depoe Bay) at 10:15 a.m. local time then proceed across the USA until it exits land over South Carolina at a barrier reef (Cape Romain) just east of McClellanville at 2:49 p.m. local time. The actual time (ignoring time zones) will be only about an hour and a half, covering 14 States.
2 -- March Contest Congrats
Nikonians Contest Coordinator David Summers (dm1dave) has posted the results of the March contests. Congratulations to our winners!
Check our winning images legend below and scroll down for the names of the winners. Each photo title serves as a link, which will lead you to explanations behind some of the photographs and an overall look at the competition.
1. -- Wildlife - "In the Beautiful Light at Dusk or Dawn" theme winner Aart Louw (AartPapaya) from South Africa with his image titled Good Bad and Ugly.
2. -- Landscape - "Dusk or Dawn -Sun Below the Horizon" theme winner Nick Randall (NRandall) from Victoria, Australia with his image titled Daybreak - Addiscott Beach - Great Ocean Road.
3. -- Macro - "Black and White Close-ups in Nature" theme winner Mark Thomas (Danygraig) from Wales, The United Kingdom with his image titled Sagartia anemone.
4. -- Travel - "Traditional Sports and Pastimes" theme winner Steve Piccolo (pic) from Washington, USA with his image titled Tibetan Tug-of-War.
5. -- Digital Artistry - " Animal or Plants" theme winner Roberta Davidson (birdied) from Louisiana, USA with her image titled The Swallowtail.
6. -- Online Assignments - "Old" theme winner William McEwen (Wolfgang55) from Connecticut, USA with his image titled Bus.
Interested in submitting your photos?
If you want to participate, please be sure to enter one of the monthly competitions listed in David Summers' contest guide.
The Online Photo Assignments category is coordinated by Rob Migliaccio (rmigliaccio) from Rhode Island, USA. You can check his recap of past assignments here.
The current (May) assignment is Street Photography.
Here is Rob's description:
My suggestion is to Google the term "Street Photography" to get a sense of this month's assignment. Wikipedia says, "street photography, also sometimes called candid photography, is photography conducted for art or enquiry that features unmediated chance encounters and random incidents within public places." What do you think street photography is? Post some images to prove your point!
3 -- What is your favorite photography vest?
Silver member Marion Pavan (pqtrths) from California, USA has a birthday coming up and he's thinking of gifting himself with a photographer's vest. Marion's search is uncovering some interesting suggestions.
Here's his list of requirements:
I been thinking about this beforehand to reduce my physical profile especially in tight locations, such as entering WWII bombers, or car shows - with my backpacks, I would first drop the pack and carry it between the cars - where a backpack is a tight fit; to evenly distribute the weight of the equipment; and to provide convenient access for my equipment.
My equipment is listed in my profile. Instead of me trying to carry nearly everything in my 7x backpack, I would use the 7x, and, maybe, the 6x as storage, and selecting from the backpacks what I'd probably need.
Also, I've been using my D3x only - I want to now use my D3x and my D200 again for its crop factor.
What would you suggest? The old Tamrac company had a number of vests that I remember I liked but they're long gone. The vest's build quality and longevity is important. New or lightly used is acceptable. The vest should have attachment rings and pockets, covered or enclosed, of varied size. A fisherman's vest would also work. Questions, comments, and recommendations are appreciated.
Ok folks, if you have a favorite vest that would meet Marion's needs, share your thoughts.
4 -- Lowest prices ever on Nikon D500, D750 & D810 plus free Nikon Battery Pack Grips
Berger Bros. Camera tells us they have never seen Nikon offer bigger Instant Savings.
• D5500
Two lens kit - save $550
• D500 - Body Only - Save $200
w/ kit lens - Save $670
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• D750 - Body Only - Save $500
w/ kit lens - Save $1100
Plus Free MB-D16 Battery Pack
• D810 Body Only - Save $500
D810 w/ kit lens - Save $1100
Plus Free MB-D12 Battery Pack
You can now pre-order the new D7500 Body at $1,249.99 or the D7500 w/kit lens at $1,749.99. Great Personal service: Brad Berger 516-816-4921 or Brad@Berger-Bros.com. or BradBerger@mac.com.
5 -- Does size matter?
Silver member Larry Mannino (Larry E30) from Oregon, USA is wondering if camera size (as opposed to functionality) is important to our members.
He asks:
I have had a lot of DSLR's (I especially like the jumbo Olympus E-3 with 18-180mm) but I find after using these SMALLER cameras .... I don't want to go back to FULL SIZE - for what I do.
I guess it depends on your needs - I don't have any.
What do you think is important?
Responses so far show preferences based on needs, more than size:
• I'll say what's important is that the camera/lens combo does what I need it to do. I probably shoot almost as many photos with my iPhone as I do with my Nikons but when I go out to Yellowstone I'll take a D5, D500 and a half-ton of glass.
• I find that my DSLR brick is staying on the shelf more and my smaller camera is going outside more. I am not ready to ditch the brick. When I go out specifically to engage in photography, I will take the brick.
• Depends on the situation for me. In addition to my (all DX) DSLRs, I have an Olympus E-M5 that I use a lot when traveling, and when I want a smaller camera.
• I love large size cameras because to me it feels rock solid to hold a large size camera.
Do you prefer a "hefty feel" while shooting?
6 -- When is a portrait not a portrait?
Gold member Geoff Baylis (GBaylis) from England, The United Kingdom started a "food for thought" discussion that has evoked a large measure of carefully analysis, and even the Queen of England.
Warning: Don't start reading the discussion until you are in a quiet room with a soothing beverage at your side.
In response to Geoff's observations on a recent photo contest our members said:
• I would agree that the dominant part of a portrait photograph should be the face/expression.
However, I don't know if there is an enforceable international definition that supports my feelings.
But then if portraits can be anything, why have the word portrait?
• Your definition of "portrait" doesn't seem to include any of the painted portraits of the past 800 years or more that include the entire body - not just the head and shoulders - and the floor, chair, bench, stool or throne on which the subject is sitting or standing.
• A portrait, whether close-up or environmental, is a portrait or it is not. Just like a cat is not a horse.
• For my money, as long as an image contains enough detail, particularly facial detail, to enable this sort of "character reading" I can accept and enjoy it as a portrait. Studio close up or street scene, it's the humanity that fascinates.
The above is just the tip of the iceberg on this topic. Join the discussion and give us your thoughts on portraiture.
7 -- Are you cleaning your sensors?
Nikonians Academy Director Eric Bowles (ericbowles) has posted a link to a very informative article regarding a shift in sensor cleaning based on chemistry. If you have been using the Eclipse system, perhaps you need to consider Aero-clipse.
Eric explains:
Essentially some of the newer sensors have replaced glass covers with coated sensor covers to repel dust on the sensor. These coatings are increasingly vulnerable to the formulation of cleaning fluids, so original Eclipse has gone through several iterations. The latest - Aero-clipse - is driven by the coatings on the Sony sensor but will likely be useful for other sensors.
The difference is a reduction in the amount of pure methanol, and the addition of ethanol and isopropanol alcohol to provide gentler cleaning but potentially slower evaporation.
Some of the Sony sensors have had the coatings that specifically require the newer fluids. I don't know if Nikon is using those coatings, but there is little risk of using a less aggressive cleaning product. This also suggests using a light touch with cleaning fluid since evaporation may be slower. Using excess fluid remains a problem that can lead to streaking.
If you have experience cleaning sensors, we invite you to share your opinion.
8 -- Back to the good old days?
Moderating Team member Holger Wahl (Holger) from Switzerland is on a roll -- roll of film that is. Yes, he's gone back to film for a while, and so far, he's liking the results.
Here is a part of his story:
I started a project now: analog for 6 months (except official tasks), with FM2n (b/w) and F3 (Ektar/Portra), 28mm f/2.8 AIS, 50mm f/1.2 AIS (NEW!!!), 200mm f/4 and a 100-300mm zoom. Plus, some MF and LF gear, once I got started and will have time to spare (optimist....).
Hope it works, the first (very old) Velia I found in a drawer is on the way back from the lab, two HP5 Plus are waiting for me to spare some time in the bathroom, and more good old films are sitting cool and dark in the basement, waiting to get used over the weeks and months to come.
Sure, scanning and de-dusting will take more time than "producing" thousands of digital pictures in LR, but it's like working on an old wooden boat: it's not about quantity, it's about reflection, concentration, creation of unique pictures, not about technical perfection, but about vision and manual work.
Anyone tried to step back, relax and find out about himself (or herself), about the origins of film-based photography, the smell of film when you open the little plastic can, the limitation to 36 or less pictures?
So far, so good. Holger has posted some images and he's getting support from others who have not given up on film.
-----------------------------
That's it for this week. Make sure you grab your favorite camera and capture some images to share with family and friends (especially us at Nikonians). -- Tom Boné (flashdeadline)
Posted by flashdeadline at 9:01 PM
April 25, 2017
Will Sony's a9 draw Nikon fans?
Here are some of the topics and news items we're tracking for our community this week: 1- Will Sony's a9 draw Nikon fans?
It's a fair question. Sony has unveiled a camera that features a mirrorless system designed to rival results from high end DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) models out of Canon and Nikon, and the price is competitive.
According to Sony, the a9:
...realizes a totally blackout-free viewfinder while conventional systems can only try to reduce blackout time. A high-speed, vibration-free, silent Anti-Distortion shutter vastly extends the range of shooting situations while a mechanical system can only aim for lower vibration and quieter shutter release sound. α9 provides continuous tracking of moving subjects for foolproof AF/AE while traditional SLRs can only challenge such AF/AE performance improvements. Moreover, α9 allows its viewfinder to show not only images of the subject -- available on conventional systems -- but also the final image of a shot.
Our members have been weighing the specs, and some are not about to jump ship.
Here are some comments:
• I'm thinking this is a game changer. Won't the D5 replacement need to be mirrorless to compete?
• Sony writes a good marketing blurb but the a6500 did not fulfil their promises and my a7rii is woefully deficient to the D750 in so many ways. If Sony is shooting for the Tokyo 2020 then we will probably see some refining in an a9ii. They may also have some Sports lenses by then.
• The specs are impressive. But specs don't make a camera. Sony's interface and ergonomics are pretty awful compared to Nikon.
Are you getting ready to purchase a Sony A9? Join the conversation and share your thoughts.
2- Fall ANPAT 17 now booking
Nikonians founder J. Ramón Palacios (jrp) has announced the location for our next Fall season Annual Nikonians Photo Adventure Trip (ANPAT).
The Fall ANPAT-17 will be taking our members to Acadia and Coastal Maine and for a very limited time, we have an early bird discount. This location is a photography paradise, with rugged coastlines, iconic lighthouses, and warm tones of the northern light.
The dates are: October 7, 2017 (arrival) to October 14, 2017 (departure).
JRP tells us:
October is the best time to be there; exquisite colors abound, not just on the trees, but also on the ground, thanks to the berry plants characteristic of the northern areas. Nikonians Academy Director Eric Bowles (ericbowles) will be our ANPAT Leader.
Check out the 17th ANPAT in the Fall FAQs and the official Nikonians Academy reservations page for more details. Make sure you take note of the early bird discount on that page (deadline approaching in just one week).
3- Ever lose any equipment? Gear lost forever? - Maybe not!
Label ALL your gear... BEFORE you go out to shoot!
Each IDmyStuff® label set includes 29 labels, in 3 sizes. Big enough for a 400mm lens -- small enough for a filter ring.
Three lines of text per label, plus a gift or coding message for each set. Up to 30 characters per line. Super weatherproof outdoor vinyl with sign grade adhesive, UV resistant colorfast thermal resin printing, laminated with tough polyester. 7 different colors -- code gear by types, storage locations, or application purposes.
Just $9.95, including shipping in USA. (International: $4.95 flat rate shipping per order.) 20% off orders of 3. 30% off orders of 10 sets or more. Typical turnaround (order to delivery) is one week or less.
4- Wedding photography - Getting started
Silver member Robert Metheney (bobpilot) has a friend wanting to get into the wedding photography business. His original question concentrated on the gear, but responses from our wedding pro members are quickly adding important precautions.
Here's Bob's question:
A friend asked me what camera I would suggest for him to enable him to photograph weddings. He can't afford a camera with an FX sensor. What DX camera would you suggest?
Replies quickly cautioned against venturing into this line of photography with only one body. We also have great advice on gaining experience.
Here are some examples:
• Having photographed weddings for 37 years I must suggest two (2) D7200 bodies. NEVER take on a paying photo assignment with a single camera body.
• I personally think, the best thing for him to do first, would find a wedding photographer, that would let him go to some weddings with him or her, as their assistant, as there are far more things to being a wedding photographer than people think.
• There is a lot more homework that needs to be done. Choosing the camera body is probably pretty low on the list of decisions for a new wedding photographer.
In all fairness, Bob never mentioned if his friend had already been pulling apprentice duties under an accomplished wedding photographer. But as the replies start piling up, we invite anyone with hopes of shooting weddings to read the responses. For our wedding photography-experienced members - Do you have additional advice to share? Join the discussion.
5- Profiled--Bird Photography Enthusiast Jack Backs
Moderating Team member Marsha Edmunds (meadowlark2) has posted her latest chapter in the Nikonians member profile "I am Nikonians" series of articles.
Her subject in this installment is Gold member Jack Backs (jfbacks) from Missouri, USA.
Jacks' photography background goes well back into the days of film, and it was the arrival of the Nikon D100 that enhanced his creative skills in capturing two elusive subjects: children playing sports and birds.
Jack tells us:
It always amazes me how one can blaze away with a DSLR and the sound rarely spooks a bird, but make one sudden movement and they are off in a flash. My last bit of advice on getting close to birds is to find a conservation area or seldom traveled country road and take images from your car window... A lot of birds are accustomed to traffic and will be much more tolerant than if you were on foot.
Check out the full article for a look at Jack's accomplishments in capturing stunning bird images.
6- Where eagles dare
M
oderating Team member John David Hutchison (Kipmm) from British Columbia, Canada shares an awesome series of eagle "fly-by" images captured while searching for an entirely different bird.
John describes the circumstances:
Sitting on a beach waiting for the tide to roll out and hopefully the arrival of an Osprey this Bald Eagle came from nowhere. Actually, there were two of them and this one was chasing the other out.
I never did see the other but I did see the shadow.
This series ended quickly as the Eagle flew right over me...
-- kip
The images were captured with his Nikon D500 and AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8 G ED VR II combined with a Nikon AF-S Teleconverter TC-14E II.
If you are a "BIF" fan (Birds In Flight) make sure you jump in on the discussion and check out the other three images in this set.
7- The siren call of better glass
Silver member Dale Williams (Tropidale) from Florida, USA wants to add a new lens to her gear bag and she's seeking advice from our members.
H
ere's a short excerpt from her question:
I currently shoot with a D7000, primarily animals, birds, flowers, scenic, or whatever strikes me wherever we happen to be. I am a raw and manual shooter primarily, and being a bit of a zoom freak, I currently use a Nikon 18-140 and Tamron 70-300 which have been the best coverage I felt I could get for my budget. I have gotten some pretty good shots out of both, but I keep hearing the message of better glass, over and over, and have the urge to improve my results. But I am just not sure if there is an appreciable improvement to support the investment, especially if it turns out, that I am the limiting factor, not my lenses. I clearly have plenty to learn, and I know I should use my tripod a lot more. I certainly know that nobody can guarantee I will get better results with better glass, not really knowing my knowledge and skill level, but I am just trying to get an idea if an upgrade would be a very noticeable improvement or a more subtle one for image quality.
Along with reaching out to the forum, I am also planning to rent a 24-70 or 70-200 2.8 for a little comparison work. I am sure that will answer my questions as well.
Thanks for any words of wisdom. -- Dale
As you can see, Dale is not just looking for advice on specific lenses. She's also wondering if a new lens purchase is necessary in the first place. Read the full post and check out her sample images. Does she really need new glass?
8- Scooter shooter tips anyone?
Gold member Dale Lundy (stlsailor) from Missouri, USA enjoys hopping on small motorcycles (sometimes scooters) and exploring great photo sites. What he doesn't enjoy is trying to lug his gear safely, stopping at a site, setting it up, and then breaking it down. How would you handle this situation?
Dale asks:
A few days ago, I did a short reconnaissance moto shoot at Kep National Park. By moto shoot I mean I rode the moto until I came to a place I wanted to shoot. Then I'd park the moto, take off my backpack, get my camera out of it, set up and take any shots I wanted, put the camera back in the backpack, put the backpack back on, get on the moto and take off for the next shot.
It was OK the first time. After a few stops it began to be a pain. Does anyone have any tips on making this easier? When I do a walking shoot I have my camera ready, of course, and if I bring an extra lens or two, I carry them in ThinkTank pouches for easy access. But I don't want to have my camera out and risk damaging it while riding the moto, and the pouches I don't think would work well when I'm sitting on the moto. Thoughts? -- Dale
Are you a moto-shooter? How do you pack your gear for easy access? Share your tips.
------------------------------
That's it for this week. Make sure you grab your favorite camera and capture some images to share with family and friends (especially us at Nikonians). -- Tom Boné (flashdeadline)
Posted by flashdeadline at 9:37 PM
April 18, 2017
Six reasons to stick with your DSLR
Here are some of the topics and news items we're tracking for our community this week:1- Six reasons to stick with your DSLR
Gold member Wayne Lorimer (wjlorimer) from New Zealand ventured into the world of mirrorless system photography for two years. It had many benefits. So, why has he returned to the DSLR realm?
The introduction to his recent article explains:
Mirrorless camera systems are all the rage, while sales of traditional DSLR's are in decline.
Many refer to DSLR technology as a "dinosaur". If you want to keep up with photography, then you should ditch all your DSLR gear and make the switch to mirrorless - right?
Hang-on. Not so fast.
Are these new mirrorless cameras all that they're cracked up to be? Or can the DSLR still give them a run for their money? Should you seriously consider a mirrorless camera as your next upgrade?
Or is it just overblown marketing hype designed to sell more cameras?
Follow Wayne as he explores his own journey from DSLR, to Micro Four Thirds, and back again
2- Do you plan to buy the Nikon D7500?
Last week we covered the unveiling of the new Nikon D7500. This week, with the help of post by Silver member Mark Virgil Stephan (Mark37814) from Tennessee, USA we're following our member's reactions and their intentions.
Some sample (and randomly selected) comments:
• I for one plan to buy the D7500, my D7100 will become a backup body. It's at a price point that I can afford and judging by the specs it has a lot of D500 DNA which makes it more attractive. The tiltable rear LCD screen was the feature I've been looking for in a prosumer Nikon dSLR. Is a 20.9 MP camera a deal breaker? No, it isn't. In addition to my Nikon's I shoot with 20.1mp Canon 6D and 70D.
• I was excited, thinking I would upgrade from my D7000, until I saw no vertical grip support. I shoot a lot of high school basketball and a vertical grip is essential. D500 or D750 for me at this time.
• I would consider it as I have the D7000, and it would be an upgrade. I have never bought a vertical grip for my D7000, 2nd card slot is nice but not sure it is a deal breaker. My only concern is I think they priced it a bit high.
• No, I would miss the second SD card slot and definitely miss the vertical grip. Unfortunately, Nikon choose not to include these important features. I was due to upgrade with this model, maybe next model.
Do you plan on buying this new camera in the D7000 series? Join the discussion.
3- Need new gear? Limited budget? Think "trade-in"
Do you want that new Nikon D7500? Berger Bros Camera is offering great trade-ins or outright purchase for your used Nikon or any brand photo gear.
They see many people trading in older heavy DSLR gear toward new Fuji, Sony or Olympus Mirrorless cameras.
They now have in stock new fabulous Olympus EM1 MKII Sony A6500, Sony A7R II cameras as well as Fuji XT2 and coming soon Fuji GFX50S medium format 50mp.
They also have spectacular deals on Nikon D810 and you can put your order in now for the new Nikon D7500.
Great Personal service: Brad Berger 516-816-4921 or Brad@Berger-Bros.com. or BradBerger@mac.com.
4- 100 years- and counting
Our thanks to new member Richard Haw (ricoBaby) from Japan, who happens to be in a very enviable geographical location for those of us celebrating Nikon's 100th Anniversary this year. Richard went to the Nikon Museum in Tokyo and he shares a great series of images and background information.
Richard links us to his blog:
On the first installment on this series, I will be presenting you a report of the current exhibit currently being held at the Nikon Museum. I take it that there will be more that's coming after this so please follow this blog to get updates on those.
The current exhibit showcases the prototype cameras of Nikon from the post-war years up till the late '80s. The exhibit is presented like an engineer's diary/memoir with words accompanying each surviving prototype. I take it that this exhibit was made possible by people with great passion for Nikon because collecting all of these prototypes is not easy because these were usually destroyed according to Nikon's company protocol. It is with much appreciation that I am writing this blog post in honor of the people who worked with these prototypes and to the people who archived them.
Check out his link and make sure you encourage him to give us more... a lot more.
5- What's your ghostbuster?
Are you plagued by the challenges of shooting through a fence at sporting events?
Moderating Team member Diane L. Simmons (coolmom42) from Tennessee, USA has been looking for a solution to the inevitable "ghost lines" resulting from these "Out of Focus" (OOF) obstructions.
Diane asks:
Is there any way to get rid of the almost transparent streaks from the OOF fence, in this image? (and others from a ball park.)
It's most conspicuous at the bottom of the image, but shows up as hazy streaks across the backs of the uniforms, as well.
I have LR6 for PP software.
No seats up above the fence at this level of play, unfortunately.
Suggestions lean towards Photoshop cloning, but perhaps a bit of "healing" may be the answer.
If you have conquered this pesky problem, make sure you share your solution with us.
6- How silent can you get?
Silver member Harry Cowan (DougieCowan) from Texas, USA is trying to get a clear understanding of the motors inside certain Nikkor lenses. Which is best for video and what's the actual difference?
Harry asks:
I've been happy with the SWM (Silent Wave Motor) motors on AF-S lenses but Nikon has brought out the pulse motor on the AF-P lenses now.
Nikon, of course, states that each is great so I'm wondering what gives?
Nikon's official explanation says:
AF-S NIKKOR lenses feature Nikon's Silent Wave Motor (SWM). This technology converts "traveling waves" into rotational energy to focus the optics. This enables high-speed autofocusing that's extremely accurate and super quiet.
AF-P lenses use a "Pulse" motor or "Stepping" autofocus motor and are even quieter and smoother to autofocus than an AF-S lens, making these lenses ideal when shooting video with a DSLR.
Check our responses to Harry's question and let us know if you have been using an AF-S lens for video with good results.
7-Foreground subject lost in the dark?
Silver member Ralph Magin (Fezant) from Arizona, USA is dealing with poor results when faced with subjects surrounded by bright backlighting. How do you resolve this problem?
Here is the original question:
I am new to photography and would like to take photographs of subjects in the shade with a bright background without a fill-in flash. What can you do so that the subject is not silhouetted? Thanks, Fezant
Of course, a number of responses are suggesting Ralph should reconsider his thoughts on fill-in flash. But,
When that flash is totally not an option, we have some responses point towards metering choices:
• You can use Spot Metering on your subject to determine the correct exposure.
• I select Center Weighted Metering Mode and move in closer to have the subject occupy a larger portion in the frame. When it is very bright and the subject is not too large in the frame I go for Spot metering.:
• If it were me in the field, I'd use the spot meter if assuming no flash.
What's your advice? Join the discussion.
8- Sky / area is light to dark?
Gold member Karl Lalemand (slalemand) from Maine, USA wants to get a better grip on the various lighting situations that crop up while doing panoramas. What do you do when the sky changes while capturing the image?
Karl asks:
Not sure if the title helps much, but what is or are the secrets to doing pano's when the sky / area goes from light to dark?
This seems to cause me the most problems, that and the fact I don't know what I'm doing.
Karl posted examples and he's already getting some solid advice. If you have been struggling with similar lighting challenges, this discussion is a must read.
------------------------------
That's it for this week. Make sure you grab your favorite camera and capture some images to share with family and friends (especially us at Nikonians). -- Tom Boné (flashdeadline)
Posted by flashdeadline at 7:35 PM
April 15, 2017
Nikonians Photography Awards Winners 2017
The Nikonians Photography Awards is a competition open to any photographer, member of Nikonians or not, and with any camera brand.
Lots of excellent photographs made this a tough one for the jury in the 2017 Nikonians Photography Awards.
But, the 2017 winners have been announced.
1st Place Winner "Phan Rang Fishing Net Making"
by Yen Sin Wong - Seremban, Malaysia
2nd Place Winner "Face to face"
by Bence Mate - Pusztaszer, Hungary
3rd Place Winner "A Jonah Moment"
by Michael AW - Sydney, Australia
Here you can find all the photography award winners, higher resolution images and more information.
Posted by bgs at 5:19 PM
Add months to your Silver, Gold or Platinum membership
This is something that many members miss, so let me wrap it up here:
If you invite another person to join Nikonians, they will get 10% off on their new membership and you will get an additional month on your current membership (Silver, Gold or Platinum) added as a small "thank you" for helping spreading the word.
How does it work?
It is simple, really.
- Go to "My Profile" and click on the tab "Invitations".
- Type in the person's email to be invited
- Hit the "Generate voucher" button
- Now you can either hit the link "Send" to send out the voucher as an email to the person, or you can print it out to personally hand it over.
There is no limit on the number of invitations you can make and you can keep track on them easily in the list shown on the "Invitations" page.
Thanks for spreading the word about the community!
Posted by bgs at 4:22 PM
April 11, 2017
Nikon announces D7500
Here are some of the topics and news items we're tracking for our community this week. ---
Nikon unveils the new D7500, removing water spots from lens, testing your camera and lens - PLUS more....
1- New D7500 unveiled
We've been tracking rumors of the newest D7000 series camera for over a month. We invite our members to post here with their reactions to the new Nikon D7500.
Our thanks to Yale Fogarty (Bluedogs) from Oregon, USA for getting the discussion started.
The new DX-format camera uses the same sensor as the Nikon D500 (20 Megapixels), 8 frames per second capability and a tilt screen. Its predecessor, the D7200, has a 24.2 Megapixel sensor, 6 frames per second and no tilt screen.
The D7500 supports the same 4K UHD (3840 x 2160)/30p movie recording possible with the D500. The maximum recording time for movies of this resolution is approximately 29 minutes 59 seconds.
The camera is slimmer and lighter than the D7200 and demonstrates even greater agility with a deep grip that provides a superior hold and portability. It is also compatible with SnapBridge, which enables constant connection of the camera to a smart device.
2- Out damn spots!
Gold member Marc L Rosenblum (alty02) from Idaho, USA is looking for a safe method to remove water spots from a lens:
I just returned from our local waterfalls and it was flowing at a record rate, with lots of fine mist covering just about everything, including the picnic grounds, overlooks & automobiles.
The car windows were covered with fine water spots that will now need something stronger than Windex due to the fact that they dried rather quickly. Soap & water does not remove them.
A dry method of cleaning the lens will not do the job and lens cleaning fluid is not removing the water spots. I used some vinegar on a small section of my car window and it seems to work well.
Will vinegar damage the front element of a lens if used full strength? I would use a cotton swab (Q-tip) with a small amount of vinegar and follow up with a bit of distilled water, also applied with a Q-tip.
Any other recommendations to remove stubborn water spots? Thanks!
Have you solved a water spot problem? How did you do it? Share your solution.
3- Blog Views now easier
Nikonians founder Bo Stahlbrandt advises the News Blog is now much easier to read on mobile devices, and you now have a choice to view it in both white and black background modes.
Forgot how to switch?
It's easy.
Go to My Profile, look for the Preferences Tab.
On the Preferences Tab go to Preferred Skin and choose Nikonians V2.0
On the upper right corner of the screen, push the Save button.
--voilà-- it's done.
4-Comfort plus Theft-Resistance? Can your strap keep your camera safe when traveling?
This strap, available from PhotoBert, is great for travel as it helps thwart camera thieves and is great for everyday use.
It fits any camera that has a removeable camera strap.
Don't let this strap fool you - it looks (and is) lightweight, but is incredibly strong!
It is 30% lighter than nylon/polyester, 45% lighter than aramid and 15 times stronger than steel.
(Sorry -- PhotoBert can only ship this product to US customers only.)
Nikonians Price: $37.95
Price is after discount reflected in your cart.
5- Higher and higher
Silver member Paul Naish (DS256) from Ontario Canada wants to go much higher with his camera, yet maintain a stable platform:
There are times when I'd like to raise the camera above the scene for a better perspective. Examples are farm fields with colour and I want to get more of the field from a higher angle.
I've been looking online and the only products I've found are surveyors' tripods modified to accept a camera head. These can be 12 feet in height.
I realize that I'd need a wireless remote and setup could be a pain.
Looking for ideas of what others may have done. - Thanks
So--how do you elevate your camera while keeping it stable enough to avoid jittery shots? From some of our responses we've already seen suggestions regarding camera settings to go along with the higher reach. Check it out.
6- 30-thousand and counting
Moderating Team member Eric Bowles (ericbowles) alerts us to an impressive milestone:
Congratulations to Nikonians moderator Brian Wong (blw) for reaching 30,000 posts. That's an incredible milestone - especially with the information filled posts that Brian typically shares.
Thanks for all of your support of Nikonians and our community.
Here are just a few comments on Brian's contributions to the community.
• I've learned a lot from your posts, Brian. 30,000 posts is quite an achievement and even better a great contribution. Thank you!
• I always look for Brian's posts because I know that I will learn something from them. Thanks, Brian.
• And that's not counting the number of posts he may have lost at The Big Crash in the fall of 2005.
30,000 looks great. Thank you, Brian.
Brian's response was modest and pointed to a fellow member:
Glad to be a productive and valued member of the community. And I'll point out that Marty McDonough (MEMcD) is 10% past me at 33,000+ - and in several years less time!
Want to join the many members congratulating Brian? Join the discussion.
7- Camera and lens test tips
Silver member Robert Metheney (bobpilot) from Utah, USA is trying to figure out whether he may have spotted a focusing problem with a Nikon D500. He used a test method that drew a lot of responses.
Robert asked:
I want to be sure the camera and lens are in sync with focus so I set up the slant ruler test in my backyard. The camera is 60 from the target. The focus point is on the checkerboard adjacent to the number 26 on the ruler. The 600mm in on a tripod with a RRS Gimbal head and a RRS long lens support system.
The responses (and eventual answer to his problem) are a must read for those of us who want to set up a homemade test. Here are just a few examples:
• Did you use a remote release. If you do not have one for the rented body you should use "Mirror UP" and enable the 3 second delay.
• It never hurts to test/confirm at a similar distance to what you expect to use the lens at.
• Your target isn't really very good. It needs a bigger "checkerboard" plus there is low contrast lighting.
• I recommend that you slow the shutter speed to 1/500 or so and shoot at ISO-100 with the same f-stop.
Have you been using a favorite testing method? Share your results. Tell us why that method served your needs.
8- Older lens a best bet?
Bernhard Hein (localheroo) from Germany asked about a specific lens for a specific camera, and the resulting discussion covered the famous "1.5 crop factor" issue in great detail.
Bernhard asked:
As we plan a trip to Canada this year (landscape photography) I'm looking for a tele zoom lense for my D80 (Standard lense 18-70).
Is the AF-S 70-300mm (FX Format) a good choice? I saw the lense is already about ten years on the market. Is it still up to date? Thanks for any advice.
We assume the lens he's considering is the AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G IF-ED (product Number 2161) which is a 450mm equivalent on DX-format cameras like Bernhard's Nikon D80.
It debuted over ten years ago and is still available through online sellers, with average prices hovering in the $500 USD (470 Euros) range.
You may not be considering this lens for yourself. But, has the "crop factor" issue confused you? If so, you need to read the responses in this discussion.
9- Neutral Density Blender?
Silver member David Powell (DaveP142) from England, The United Kingdom is wondering if any of our members have used a neutral density filter that goes to extremes:
I stumbled across a passing reference to these recently which caught my attention because I had previously noticed that Formatt Hitech currently offer them and I had wondered just what they were intended for.
If you haven't come across them, what they are is a graduated filter with the listed strength at one end fading to clear at the other end rather than the mid-point.
I've been wondering if one might be useful for handheld use on those days when the sky is very bright but uninteresting. (I seem to see a lot of bright overcast when I'm not at work). Obviously, there would be no horizon line to worry about
Has anyone tried one?
Do you have "before and after" shots to share to give David an idea on how these filters can be used. Share them here.
That's it for this week. Make sure you grab your favorite camera and capture some images to share with family and friends (especially us at Nikonians). -- Tom Boné (flashdeadline)
Posted by flashdeadline at 7:06 PM
Newsletter not scam
Our thanks to alert Silver member Tom Canning (tcann) from Florida, USA for spotting a potential email scam.
The good news he spotted it. The better news-- it isn't a scam.
Tom posted
a question about emails he's been getting from our Chief Editor, Tom Boné
(flashdeadline). They looked a bit suspicious and he asked:
At the top of the email is the logo without the circled R, .org or the statement under 'nikonians'. This makes me suspicious. I just delete the emails. Is anybody else getting these? Are they legitimate?
Well, yes, they are legit. We answered his question:
We've migrated to a
"quick and simple" style in the emails because the founders have
found the large number of images and links in each email (and to a very large
subscription base) was often being filtered out from the subscribers as
potential junk mail. The new style leans towards shorter emails with no images
and very few links. Instead of coming from an organization, it was decided to
take the editor out from the shadows.
The very first link
leads to more details plus images.....
You can read the full response here.
Thanks again Tom!
Posted by flashdeadline at 1:44 PM
April 4, 2017
Two new Nikon DSLR's
Here are some of the topics and news items we're tracking for our community this week.---
Those "new" cameras PLUS contest updates, big filters advice and much more.......1- Two new Nikon DSLR's
Nikon's 100th Anniversary Celebration (coming in July) is already spawning new cameras. They are not new exactly "new" models, but they are unique.
The company has announced Anniversary editions of their flagship FX-Format Nikon D5 and the DX line Nikon D500. Each feature exclusive centennial designs and come with a special set of commemorative accessories.
Both cameras offer:
• Metallic gray finish that expresses the camera's innovation and reliability with massive splendor
• 100th anniversary logo on a side of the camera's pentaprism portion
• Commemorative leather strap embossed with 100th anniversary logo*
• Body cap imprinted with 100th anniversary logo
• Metal case with a plate engraved with 100th anniversary logo and serial number
The Nikon D5 version also adds:
• Bottom of the camera is engraved with "NIKON - CONTRIBUTING TO MANNED SPACE FLIGHT SINCE 1971"
• Anniversary booklet to convey Nikon's contribution to the space projects
The Nikon Anniversary Product Page has details and information on other specials, including some real sweet glass.
Will you be buying one of these cameras or any of the Anniversary goodies? Join the discussion.
2 - February Contest Congrats
Nikonians Contest Coordinator David Summers (dm1dave) has posted the results of the February contests. Congratulations to our winners! Check our winning images legend below and scroll down for the names of the winners. Each photo title serves as a link, which will lead you to explanations behind some of the photographs and an overall look at the competition.
1. -- Wildlife - "Wildlife youngsters" theme winner Francine Dollinger (Francine) from Colorado, USA with her image titled Love You.
2. -- Landscape - "Winter's Wonders" theme winner William McEwen (Wolfgang55) from Connecticut, USA with his image titled Diane's Pool.
3. -- Macro - "Spirals and Circles in the Natural World" theme winner Gerald Botkin (bayouboy66) from Louisiana, USA with his image titled Button Bush flower abstract.
4. -- Travel - "The Waterfront" theme winner Darryl Hodson (skibreeze7) from Oregon, USA with his image titled Raiatea, French Polynesia.
https://www.nikonians.org/forums/user_files/350814.jpg
5. -- Digital Artistry - "Soft" theme winner Godofredo Baylon (GBaylon) from Ontario, Canada with his image titled Our little Ball of Fur.
6. -- Assignment - "You Decide" theme winner Geoff Baylis (GBaylis) from England, The United Kingdom with his image titled Braving the Storm.
Interested in submitting your photos?
If you want to participate, please be sure to enter one of the monthly competitions listed in David Summers' contest guide.
The Online Photo Assignments category is coordinated by Rob Migliaccio (rmigliaccio) from Rhode Island, USA. You can check his recap of past assignments here.
The current (April) assignment is "Young."
Here is Rob's description:
Last month you all shot images of something "old". Well, it would follow then that this month, the assignment is to shoot something "young". Same types of issues, different subject.
There are no other restrictions except that your image(s) must be taken during the month of April 2017.
Speaking of contests:
The Best of Nikonians 2017 Segment 1 competition has already started and the theme is "Black and White." Here are the details posted by Contest Coordinator David Summers (dm1dave).
3- Sneak Preview from JRP
The Best of Nikonians 2017 contest is not to be confused with the recent Nikonians Photography Awards 2017 we partnered with LensCulture. That one is done and we have advance scoop.
Nikonians founder J. Ramón Palacios (jrp) advises:
We will publish an article about this special contest, including the images of another 25 photographers from around the world, selected by the jury as finalists.
In the mean time you can have a complete preview here.
The LensCulture contest page tells us:
Our jury of experts had a difficult time settling on the winners and finalists given the outstanding level of submitted work.
4- Need new gear? Limited budget? Think "trade-in"
Berger Bros Camera is offering great trade-ins or outright purchase for your used Nikon or any brand photo gear.
They see many people trading in older heavy DSLR gear toward new Fuji, Sony or Olympus Mirrorless cameras.
They now have in stock new fabulous Olympus EM1 MKII Sony A6500, Sony A7R II cameras as well as Fuji XT2 and coming soon Fuji GFX50S medium format 50mp.
They also have spectacular deals on Nikon D810 and put your order in now for the new Nikon Full Frame Body to be announced shortly.
Great Personal service: Brad Berger 516-816-4921 or Brad@Berger-Bros.com. or BradBerger@mac.com.
5- Big lens = big filter headache
Gold member John A. Meiers (Dakotaboy) from North Dakota, USA is facing a serious sticker-shock solution for capturing broad dynamic range with wide angle lenses. There must be a cheaper way---right?
John asks:
Eventually would like to get a good quality wide angle full frame lens to fit my full frame Nikon DSLR. Some of the really good lenses come without filter rings. How does one take advantage of using graduated neutral density (GND) filters when there is no filter ring?
His first answer sounds great, except for the wallet busting aspects. Here's a small portion:
By the time you get the filter holder ($200), an adapter ring for other lenses (say, 77mm, although these days it might take both 77mm and 82mm), a set of grads, something like a Big Stopper and a CP, you'll be looking at approaching $1000 for the filter system.
Other members suggested the problem can be solved by using multiple exposures along the high dynamic range (HDR) principal married to solid post-production. Do you have less expensive solution? Let us know.
6-Will he dump her?
New member Heinz Augustin (heinzy) from British Columbia, Canada has had it. He's frustrated because she gave him 11 good months and now she's acting up. Does he dump her or seek a remedy for their relationship?
You guessed it, "she" is a camera.
This is a brief excerpt describing his Nikon D750 dilemma:
I was more than happy with her.
Then --bang-- out of the blue, she had a heart attack! Her shutter froze open for ~3-4 seconds at every release at any and all of many setting combinations. No 'ERR' messages.
"Did you try this and that; did you do the settings reset per menu; change lenses; batteries ; did you talk nicely to her and-- and -- and" ....yes I did it all...for hours. Yet...she stubbornly kept her shutter open. Checked the net: yes, a known NIKON D750 problem.
Nikon sent him some advice, and for a brief time he thought his problems were over. But, now he's wondering what "she" will do next.
Does he dump her? Does he keep her? Read the full story (including Nikon's advice) and feel free to counsel Heinz.
7- Illiterate reader stumps moderator
Moderating team member Gary Worrall (glxman) from South Australia not only excels in dispensing advice, he's also professional enough to seek it. See if you can help him with the "mystery of the nonreading reader."
Here's his story:
Got new XQD card and a new reader, will not read the old card shown,
My old Sony card reader reads the old card
I believe the new Sony card reader is "backwards compatible" but I'm not sure about that?
If it is, may be a better option for the future
.........Gary
Have you had a similar experience with "backwards compatible" readers? Share your solution.
8- Internet videos - How are you watching?
Gold member Don Burton (Bug) from Michigan, USA is trying to view streaming video, and his TV is "dumb."
He's been using a laptop to feed a nice large screen, but that option is not always available. What should he do?
Don tells us:
I'm using my laptop to view Lynda.com videos and my wife needs our laptop when she travels.
So, Is there another method for me to watch Internet videos on my dumb TV?
At Best Buy they suggested Apple TV or an Xbox. I would hope the suggestion is something that can use my wireless internet. Thanks, Don
Suggestions so far include Roku and Chromecast, but one particular (and relatively inexpensive) alternative is gaining Don's interest. Check it out, and if you have a suggestion make sure to let us know.
----------------------------------------------------
That's it for this week. Make sure you grab your favorite camera and capture some images to share with family and friends (especially us at Nikonians). -- Tom Boné (flashdeadline)
Posted by flashdeadline at 10:32 PM
March 28, 2017
Where is your cloud?
Here are some of the topics and news items we're tracking for our community this week.
Gold member Ian Crook (Pics905) from British Columbia, Canada seeks the best possible "cloud" option for his images, and our members are dishing great advice.
Here is Ian's question:
Do people have any recommendations for cloud backup providers such as Dropbox or Amazon? I have three drives at home, but really would like to have off-site storage as well - all recommendations are welcome!
Responses so far include:
• I have been using Mozy home/personal version for years. It is a paid service that I use for photos and other data. It transmits and stores data in encrypted form. You can either use Mozy's encryption key or create your own strong key. I did the latter, in which case Mozy is unable to decrypt my data on their own. And I better not lose the key!
• I've done a lot of experimenting and offer a couple of observations (ok, more than a couple - get a cup of coffee -- a large cup, before reading...)
Yes-- make sure you get that large cup of coffee, because Silver member Linwood Ferguson (Ferguson) from Florida, USA replied with tons of information.
Have you been wondering which way to pursue your cloud storage solution?
You need to bookmark Linwood's well-researched post.
2- Tons of slides-- how to save?
New member David Rucker (ridinonairs10017) is dealing with a large number of old slides and he's looking for advice on how to preserve them:
I have been left with literally several thousand slides from my father. I want to digitize them as to preserve and share them with the rest of my family. What is the easiest way to do this?
I looked through this subforum briefly and noticed that many were suggesting a slide scanner or a slide copy adapter that attaches to a camera. I am not really interested in sending them all off to be copied by another company ($$$$) and would like to do it myself. Besides, there is something to be said regarding reliving old memories during the process.
David's challenge is the same many of our members have been dealing with and he's already getting some experienced advice.
Check it out, and if you have any new information to share, let us know.
3-Comfort plus Theft-Resistance?
Can your strap keep your camera safe when traveling?
This strap, available from PhotoBert, is great for travel as it helps thwart camera thieves and is great for everyday use.
It fits any camera that has a removeable camera strap.
Don't let this strap fool you - it looks (and is) lightweight, but is incredibly strong!
It is 30% lighter than nylon/polyester, 45% lighter than aramid and 15 times stronger than steel.
(Sorry -- PhotoBert can only ship this product to US customers only.)
Nikonians Price: $37.95
Price is after discount reflected in your cart.
4-Are these baseball pics garbage?
Tennessee, USA Silver member Andrew King (HonestAK) wants to take the next step in his sports photography. His subject for now is baseball:
I had a hard time capturing action on my first time shooting sports but will get another chance this weekend. There is a double header starting at noon so I will have plenty of light for a lot of innings.
Please do let me know how I can improve.
A quick read on his responses so far shows there are an infinite number of variables to consider.
Here's an example:
• Overall, I would suggest being mindful of framing and crops. For example, in Pitcher Cropped he has a great expression, but cutting off the throwing arm and glove I think takes away from that a bit. In the full version, his feet are cut off slightly which is a little distracting to me as well. Having him higher in the frame, aside from the foot issue, I think would also strengthen the composition.
Are you a baseball fan with a portfolio full of good and bad examples? Share them with us, and tell us what you have learned.
5-Sarah shines
Moderating Team member Marsha Edmunds (meadowlark2) has posted her latest chapter in the Nikonians member profile "I am Nikonians" series of articles.
Her subject in this installment is Gold member Sarah Boser (Sarah9) from Pennsylvania, USA.
Sarah recalls:
I joined Nikonians last year when my husband, Bob, suggested we register for the Fall 2016 ANPAT to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. He attended the Spring 2015 ANPAT to the southern marshes, swamps and beaches, and really enjoyed the trip. While it didn't take much to convince me to agree, I was a little apprehensive about whether my skills would be too rudimentary. That definitely wasn't the case. The ANPAT really is a trip that welcomes all skill levels. I learned a great deal from the others on the trip, and also had a great time in a stunning location.
The article includes images by Sarah showing us she's definitely not in the "rudimentary" category. They were captured with her Nikon D5500.
6- Looking to showcase your best images?
Nikonians Photo Contest Director David Summers (dm1dave) tells us the Best of Nikonians 2017 Contest is underway.
David has posted background information to guide you through the many options available:
Each year, Nikonians takes great pride in showcasing the inspirational work of the talented photographers who make up our community.
This year's contest will continue our tradition of recognizing all of the winners of the monthly Challenges in the Master Your Vision Forums and Online Assignments. Additionally, we will offer four themed segments, beginning in April.
In brief:
• The following forums feature monthly contests:
Landscape, Wildlife, Micro, Macro & Close-up, Travel, Digital Artistry Forums and Online Assignments.
• The four themed segments will be posted and pinned in the Annual Best of Nikonians Contest forum.
Beginning in February 2018, a panel of judges from the Nikonians Masters Society will review and score each image. Winners will be announced before the end of February.
The overall winners at the end of the year will be awarded prizes from our Sponsors.
More details are available here.
7-Think Tank Photo releases Signature line
Eleven years and an impressive inventory of photo accessories has inspired a new product line from our friends at Think Tank Photo.
They call it the Signature shoulder bag series and once again they have extended a special offer to provide our members with free gear and free shipping incentives.
The Signature Series from Think Tank is a modernized version of the classic shoulder bag.
Doug Murdoch, Think Tank Photo's CEO and lead designer tells us:
The new series features a modern fabric that is soft to the touch and yet is durable. In addition, the zippered flap provides full closure and security to the main compartment, or tucks away when not in use. It is a next generation design for today's discerning photographer.
Whether one is a young urban professional or corporate photographer, the Signature shoulder bag is as fashionable as it is functional. Hand sewn, advanced fabrics blend weather protection and durability with the classic feel of fine wool. Genuine leather detailing and metal hardware add character and stand up to the rigors of daily use.
8-Bigger than yours?
Ok-- we all get it.
No matter how large our personal collection of cameras and lenses, there will always be somebody out there with an even larger assortment.
We've had just such a thing happen in the English Café, where Moderating Team member Brian Wong (blw) and some friends decided to stack and photograph a pile of gear guaranteed to make us drool.
Brian explains:
Fellow Nikonian Victor Newman (vfnewman) and another one of my friends came over today to shoot a simulation of one of those "Nikon System Portraits" - you know, the sort of thing that goes into Nikon advertising occasionally. Vic and I have both been at this for 35+ years... and you can't get me together with five (actually six) fisheyes and not get a fishy picture out of it!
It's a fun exercise in satisfying what we all like to call NAS (Nikon Acquisition Syndrome), and if you follow the post-- you'll see not all the gear in this discussion comes from Nikon.
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That's it for this week. Make sure you grab your favorite camera and capture some images to share with family and friends (especially us at Nikonians). -- Tom Boné (flashdeadline)
Posted by flashdeadline at 11:45 PM
March 21, 2017
Carry-on restrictions impact Nikonians
Here are some of the topics and news items we're tracking for our community this week.
Moderating Team member Ned S. Levi (Ned L) from Pennsylvania, USA is following a recent security measure that will impact some of our members planning to bring their cameras as carry-on luggage for certain international flights. No cameras, no iPads, and much more.
Ned's listing of gear is extensive. It includes: Laptops, e-readers, tablets, printers, electronic games, portable DVD players, cameras and other electronic device larger than a smartphone.
He goes on to report: The ban applies to nonstop flights to the US from 10 international airports in Cairo, Egypt; Amman, Jordan; Kuwait City, Kuwait; Casablanca, Morocco; Doha, Qatar; Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; Istanbul, Turkey; Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; and Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Ned is keeping up with developments and posting them here. The ensuing discussion goes into details from members concerned with
other issues. Here is a sample:
How do they plan to deal with the lithium ion batteries in most of these devices (many of which, i.e. those in tablets and laptops, cannot be removed) and which are not allowed in checked baggage?
2- What's your Nikkor Trilogy?
Three Nikkor zoom lenses combining versatility and quality have long been known as "The Three Kings, The Nikkor Trilogy or The Holy Trinity." Most Nikonians will agree on the concept, but naming those three specific lenses can be difficult. Nikonians founder J. Ramón Palacios (jrp) helps clear some confusion.
He has posted an article titled What Nikon lenses to buy - The Three Big Dragons which explains why this list of lenses has changed over the years:
Each new generation brings in more improvements, more sharpness corner to corner, less distortion, better resistance to flare, improved contrast and color rendition, better definition, higher acutance, less and less chromatic aberration, wider focal range in the wide angle, more precise shutters.
Special Hint: The comments section on this article is a must read if you are preparing your own "trilogy."
3- In search of the perfect zoom?
You have two Nikon DSLR bodies. One has a full frame sensor and the other has an APS-C sensor. It's time to add a new zoom lens that will work with both bodies. How do you choose the right lens?
Silver member Mark Virgil Stephan (Mark37814) poses the question:
In the next month or two I'll be upgrading from my AF-D 80-400 to something longer with better optics. Camera will be my D700 if I need 8fps or my D7100. Plan to use the new lens for local wildlife.
Currently watching and reading all the reviews trying to decide which lens. Why did you choose the 200-500 over one of the 150-600's or other lenses?
You may have the answer for Mark, so make sure you share it with us.
4- Need new gear? Limited budget? Think "trade-in"
Berger Bros Camera is offering great trade-ins or outright purchase for your used Nikon or any brand photo gear. They see many people trading in older heavy DSLR gear toward new Fuji, Sony or Olympus Mirrorless cameras.
They now have in stock new fabulous Olympus EM1 MKII Sony A6500, Sony A7R II cameras as well as Fuji XT2 and coming soon Fuji GFX50S medium format 50mp.
They also have spectacular deals on Nikon D810 and put your order in now for the new Nikon Full Frame Body to be announced shortly.
Great Personal service: Brad Berger 516-816-4921 or Brad@Berger-Bros.com. or BradBerger@mac.com.
5- Sigma anyone?
Platinum member Mick Klass (mklass) from Washington, USA tells us Sigma has a bunch of new lenses that may be of interest to those of us who are not sticklers for "Nikon only" purchasing habits.
Responses so far speak well of the Sigma line:
• Sigma has indeed been making amazing lenses. A good friend of mine is doing his photography almost exclusively with the Sigma 35/1.4. This lens is outstanding, even sharper than my Zeiss 35/2, though I prefer the rendering of the latter.
• The Sigma 135 seems, for me personally, the most interesting of the Arts - saw some samples today with great looking bokeh.
• Lots of great stuff out there right now so I'm giving some thought to refreshing my lens line-up.
Are you a Sigma fan? Join the discussion.
6- Are you new to Nikonians?
Our community is large and can feel a bit overwhelming to new users, so Nikonians founder Bo Stahlbrandt (bgs) has posted a listing of articles, social media sources and forums currently accessible to our Basic members.
Bo explains the purpose behind his article:
Nikonians is a large community with lots of activity in various places. As a first time visitor, we know it can feel a bit overwhelming, so here are some areas that you might want to look at for starters.
None of these require you to sign up with the community (which is free on its "Basic" membership, by the way).
Check out his article, and make sure you scroll down to the very bottom and look for a link to an overview for anyone who wants to freshen up on the skills.
7- Perfect panning 101
Silver member Bill Stewart (LightMeter) from Texas, USA is trying to perfect his panning skills. He shows some examples, along with posting his shutter speed. Can you point to any specific shutters speeds or techniques that will improve his final product?
Bill asks:
Yesterday I shot a lot of images of the bike ride. I set the camera to shutter priority at 1/80. Out of about 200 images I got 10 or so that are sharp. What can I do to get smoother panning and go slower on the shutter speed? What about a monopod? Anyone pan with a monopod?
Silver member Bob Brand (Bob32) from California, USA replies:
In panning cycling races I started out shooting at 1/60 and 1/80, but didn't have much success until I increased the shutter speed. I had better results at 1/125 and 1/160. At the last cycling races I shot on February 26 (See my March 1 post titled "Downtown cycling races") I used shutter speeds between 1/160 and 1/250. I used a D750 + 70-300 f/4.5-5.6 VR with VR turned on. I never use a monopod.
Do you have some samples and panning advice to share?
8- Firmware updates piling up
Our thanks to Gold member Mike Rheault (mikerofoto) from Ontario, Canada for his comprehensive listing of recent Nikon firmware updates.
His listing covers many cameras and even the WT-7 wireless transmitter.
Mike tells us the recent upgrades include:
• Nikon WT-7 firmware update version 1.1
• Nikon D7200 firmware update version 1.02
• Nikon D500 firmware update version 1.12
• Nikon D750 firmware update version 1.11
• Nikon D810 firmware update version 1.12
Check his post for brief explanations of the individual upgrades and their enhancements. Scroll down on that post for a link to The Nikon Download Center.
9- Multiple programs for same task -- redundancy or strategy?
Nikonians Academy Director Eric Bowles has started a thought-provoking discussion on image processing. It will be of great interest to those members who are using more than one program to accomplish the same task.
Eric explains:
Many of us use one program for 99-100% of all image processing. Among those that use multiple programs, it is usually part of a standard workflow that converts in one program, processes in a second, and does some specialty tasks in a third.
This post is for those that normally use multiple programs for the SAME task to produce different results. For example, are you using multiple RAW converters depending on the image - ACR and Capture One as an example. Or Photoshop and Capture One or Elements? What kinds of situations cause you to choose a specific product? How does this impact your personal workflow?
Join the discussion and you may find an approach that could improve your workflow.
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That's it for this week. Make sure you grab your favorite camera and capture some images to share with family and friends (especially us at Nikonians). -- Tom Boné (flashdeadline)
Posted by flashdeadline at 10:18 PM
March 14, 2017
What's your favorite kid pix Nikon?
Here are some of the topics and news items we're tracking for our community this week.
It's an unwritten rule of thumb that the person in any family who is sporting Nikon gear is the official family photographer. Number one on the shooting list will always be the kids.
Silver member Mike Poynor (MTP1) from Texas, USA has been searching for the perfect "kid" camera:
I have purchased Nikon equipment almost exclusively since 1968. My first Nikon was a Nikon FTN. I now own D200 D700 D800E.
Most of my photography is of children, (grand kids, relative's children, etc). I have been thinking about going to a D5, D810 or maybe waiting to see what replaces the D810. From what I have been reading, it seems the D5 would be the best for children and for their sports. My children grew up during the 80's and 90's.
I took lots and lots of 35mm pictures at my son's soccer games and my daughter's soccer and fast pitch softball games with various 35mm Nikons (F100 being the last one I bought). Now that their children are beginning to play sports I would like to have the best camera for their sport pictures and to chronicle my newest grandson's life who is to be born in 2 days. I would appreciate your opinion.
Thank you.
If you are the official family photographer, what are you using?
2- Too Many Images? Need a new Hard-Drive?
Gold member James Buch (jimray) from Oregon, USA has hit the ceiling on storage space for his software and images, and he's shopping around for an external hard drive. Have you solved that same storage problem?
Jim asks:
I'm about out of space for backups and will soon add an external hard drive to replace the 4TB Seagate I am currently using. Operating system is Windows10, apps and system on 256 SSD and files on an internal 2TB drive. C drive is backed up to one Seagate 2TB drive and the files are backed up on a separate 4TB Seagate. I am thinking about replacing the 4TB external drive with an 8TB drive. Is there one brand I should consider or conversely not buy? My understanding is Western Digital and LaCie are now owned by Seagate. Is there really any difference between the three?
Thanks for your suggestions and comments.
Do we have any 8 terabyte external hard drive users with an answer for Jim?
3- Help with equipment storage
Meanwhile, across the big pond in Northern Ireland, Gold member Antonio Dinis (adinis) has another kind of storage problem. His collection of photography gear is getting harder to organize. He's looking to either buy or build a solution. How do you store your gear?
Antonia describes his dilemma:
I have quite a few items that I would like to properly store. Currently I store my items between a camera backpack, sling camera bag and a drawer in my kitchen. My camera, battery grip, l-bracket and 4 out of the 6 lenses are stored in the camera backpack. This makes my backpack extremely heavy.
In the sling bag, I have 2 lenses (hoping to sell one of them soon), a flash and microphone.
In the drawer I have chargers, batteries and cables.
I'm looking for suggestions on what I could use to keep ALL of my gear in one central place, be it something I would need to buy or a DIY project.
The one good thing I would not have to worry about is humidity as I live in Northern Ireland and the weather is quite cool.
Whatever is to be suggested needs to be able to hold my largest item, the Tamron 150-600mm.
Thanks in advance and looking forward to your suggestions.
PS. I'm sure someone will suggest a Pelican case but I would like to keep cost down.
Suggestions so far include everything from closets to auto mechanic tool chests. If you have a suggestion, please try to include a photo.
4- Your path to amazing outdoor portraits and still lifes
Digital cameras can exaggerate shadows and highlights, ruining your photos with too much contrast when taken in sunlight. Those harsh shadows and highlights need to be tamed.
PhotoBert's answer is a simple double-sided reflector called "Sunlight-White."
This reflector is a convenient 22 inches in diameter when open, but folds up and stores in a 9-inch diameter pouch - perfect for most camera bags. And it weighs less than 5 ounces!
Check this link for details.
While you're at it, scroll down for Nikonians exclusive bargains on the ProDot Shutter Upgrade, the ROR lens cleaner, and PhotoBert's legendary Nikon CheatSheets.
5- Nutmeg State Nikonian in focus
Moderating Team member Marsha Edmunds (meadowlark2) has posted her latest member profile in the "I am Nikonians" series. Her subject is Silver member Fred Laberge (labtrout) from Connecticut, USA.
Fred tells us:
I shot film for several years in the 1970s and '80s as a photojournalist. In fact, my wedding gift from Susan in 1973 was a Nikkormat FTn, my first SLR. I've always used Nikon cameras, mostly F2's in the late '70s. But over time I transitioned into becoming an editor and writer.
Then my job at Aetna took me in a new direction, managing the company's financial and crisis communications, so my cameras and any serious photography got put on the shelf for a number of years.
Check the article for more, including samples of Fred's photography. And make sure you scroll down to the comments section and give Marsha some kind words for her great job so far on the "I am Nikonians" series.
6- Drone photogs, you bag has arrived
So-- You own a Nikon DSLR and a sophisticated drone, and your next shoot will require extensive travel.
Wouldn't it be nice if someone came up with a high-quality transport bag that could carry your drone and your camera gear?
Our friends at Think Tank Photo already have the concept covered.
They call it the Airport Helipak V2.0 backpack for DJI Phantom.
This newly updated backpack, renowned for its comfort, accommodates a DJI Phantom 4 quadcopter and similarly sized drones plus a small camera kit, 15" laptop, controller, GoPros, chargers, spare rotors, extra batteries, jacket, tools, and more
Its refined design is carry-on compatible for both U.S. domestic or international airline travel.
Use this link to get full information while using your Nikonians free gear and free shipping advantage.
You should also want to check out their special bag for the popular new DJI Mavic Pro drones.
7- Wireless remote options
Anne DePietri (adepietri) from New York, USA is looking for a decent wireless shutter release. Her research has uncovered many options.
Moderating Team Member Brian Wong (blw) posted an extensive breakdown.
If you're in the market for one of these gizmos you need to read his response.
Here is a short sample:
The Cadillac solution: PocketWizard Plus-III's. At $135 each (and you need two, plus a cable), they are not cheap.
I switched to them after the 4th YN cable died about 18 months ago. As one would expect from the gold-plated price (and by the way the cables ARE gold plated), the PWs are bulletproof. They also operate at a kind of ridiculous 5x the distance of the lower cost ones.
The cheapies all go at least 300 feet or so, which is probably enough for 98% of all applications. I've run the PW's at longer than 300' just once, although that once was close to 1500' according to Google Maps.
Like I said--that's just a short sample. Go to the discussion for the full version.
8- Need new gear? Limited budget? Think "trade-in"
Berger Bros Camera is offering great trade-ins or outright purchase for your used Nikon or any brand photo gear. They see many people trading in older heavy DSLR gear toward new Fuji, Sony or Olympus Mirrorless cameras.
They now have in stock new fabulous Olympus EM1 MKII Sony A6500, Sony A7R II cameras as well as Fuji XT2 and coming soon Fuji GFX50S medium format 50mp.
They also have spectacular deals on Nikon D810 and put your order in now for the new Nikon Full Frame Body to be announced shortly.
Great Personal service: Brad Berger 516-816-4921 or Brad@Berger-Bros.com. or BradBerger@mac.com.
9- Fall ANPAT heads East
Nikonians founder J. Ramón Palacios (jrp) has announced the location for this year's Fall Annual Nikonians Photo Adventure Trip (ANPAT). Some call it the most beautiful National Park in the country, a tiny gem compared to its larger siblings.
Full details will be available soon, but for now here is the Reader's Digest version:
When:
October 7, 2017 (arrival)
October 14, 2017 (departure)
Gold member Sarah Boser (Sarah9) from Pennsylvania, USA was first to applaud the announcement:
Great location choice!
Acadia National Park is spectacular. In addition to the rugged and beautiful coast of Maine, there are also streams, lakes, fishing villages, etc. The dates are perfect for autumn color.
Stay tuned to the Nikonians Annual Photo Adventure Trips (ANPATs) forum for breaking news and updates on the Acadia adventure.
10- Sending pix 101
Andrew Armenti (aaa147) from California, USA is a new member with an old question. We've all been dealing with the same challenge ever since we learned how to send a photo with our computers instead of in an envelope. What is too big? What is too small?
The question:
What is the best way to send photos (JPGS) that were edited in Lightroom via the web without losing quality?
So far it seems like dropbox may be the best option.
Any suggestions?
Moderating Team member and Director of the Nikonians Academy Eric Bowles (ericbowles) has a detailed breakdown to share.
An excerpt:
When you get larger than 4 MB, you need to start thinking about sharing it using something other than email. Email programs and hosts vary on how large files can be. My host lets me send 10 MB files, but they are slow and are not always received. So, I normally send web sized files. For larger files, Dropbox is a good option and it is what I use. If this is something that comes up frequently related to events, some of the photo sharing sites have tools. I use Zenfolio, but there are download features in some of the others.
Check here for the full version.
11- Digital artistry, the next step
Moderating Team member Dan Wiedbrauk (domer2760) from Michigan, USA is always on the lookout for ways to create examples of digital artistry from standard images. One of his most recent images sparked an interesting question. Now that you've created that image -- what do you do with it?
The question comes from new member Hilbert Nease (hhnease3):
How are some of you using these images? I'm mainly interested in if/how you print/use these. Do you print and frame them? Print on canvas? I've done some work like this, and to me they look kind of funny if I just print a "painterly" image on glossy paper. I know it would be highly variable -- for example, I can imagine some of the images would look great on metal, but I'm not sure about the more painterly ones.
Thanks, and keep up the beautiful work!
By the way -- The image we're using for this discussion topic is by ---drum roll please --- Dan Wiedbrauk (domer2760). He posted it here.
That's it for this week. Make sure you follow up on our highlights above by clicking on the "complete wrap-up" link at the top, and don't forget to grab your favorite camera and capture some images to share with family and friends (especially us at Nikonians). -- Tom Boné (flashdeadline)
Posted by flashdeadline at 9:09 PM
March 9, 2017
Your Nikon can co-habitat with your drone
So-- You own a Nikon DSLR and a sophisticated drone, and your next shoot will require extensive travel.
Wouldn't it be nice if someone came up with a high quality transport bag that could carry your drone and your camera gear?
Our friends at Think Tank Photo already have the concept covered.
They call it the Airport Helipak V2.0 backpack for DJI Phantom. This newly updated backpack, renowned for its comfort, accommodates a DJI Phantom 4 quadcopter and similarly sized drones plus a small camera kit, 15" laptop, controller, GoPros, chargers, spare rotors, extra batteries, jacket, tools, and more
Its refined design is carry-on compatible for both U.S. domestic or international airline travel.
Doug Murdoch, Think Tank Photo's CEO and lead designer tells us:
The contoured adjustable harness with lumbar support, articulated air-channel, removable padded waistbelt, and height-adjustable sternum strap enable comfort for travel into remote areas.
Key Features
• YKK RC Fuse zippers, 1680D Ballistic nylon bottom panel, metal hardware, and nylon webbing are the most durable, long-lasting materials on the market
• Side pocket for tripod attachment or water bottle
• Internal see-through mesh pockets for small accessories: rotor blades, screwdriver, cables, and more
• Robust handles ensure rapid and easy retrieval from overhead bins, and car trunks
• Seam-sealed rain cover helps to protect gear and stows away inside backpack when not in use
Want more details?
Use this link to get full information while using your Nikonians free gear and free shipping advantage.
You should also want to check out their special bag for the popular new DJI Mavic Pro drones.
Posted by flashdeadline at 7:27 AM
March 7, 2017
Did we help kill Popular Photography Magazine?
Here are some of the topics and news items we're tracking for our community this week.
It's a sad day when traditions and legacies fade away.
Gold member Yale Fogarty alerted us to the passing of Popular Photography Magazine. Did online communities like ours speed up the eventual demise of this famous photo magazine?
Responses so far point to modern technology and a change in reading habits:
• My late brother-in-law had a subscription for many years, and I used to mooch his back copies all the time. The last one I read was about 10 years ago. A few months ago, I picked up a copy in a supermarket to flip through, and didn't even bother buying it. It was 75% advertising, and the content quality was mediocre. A big downhill slide from what it used to be.
• I am surprised it lasted this long. I think the days of the monthly photography magazine are long over. Magazines are a venue that is obsolete. Portability used to be one of the advantages of magazines. You could fold it up and put it in your back pocket or bag to read while you were out. But now that you can read pretty much anything on a tablet/phone, where is the actual advantage of a magazine these days?
• Sad indeed. They put up a good fight and they were our friends.
If you have a favorite Popular Photography Magazine experience, share it with us.
2- Nikon D760 on the horizon
Is it ready yet?
The Nikon D750, debuting in September 2014, came in at a suggested retail price of $2299.95 USD (body only). Currently, that same camera is showing an MSRP of $1,899.95. Does this mean the D760 is ready to launch?
Our friends at LetsGoDigital think so.
According to an article posted by Ilse Jurriën, the new camera will:
Incorporate the same 24.3-megapixel image sensor. New is the possibility to use slower shutter speeds. The current model has a maximum shutter speed of 1/4000, the D760 goes to 1/8000.
Editor's Note: We chopped the last sentence in our published quote from Ilse after an alert from a Nikonian reminding us that capturing smooth flow of water and sunsets requires slow shutter speeds (not fast).This article, which has been sitting in our Resources section for over five years, clarifies the subject. My thanks to our eagle-eyed Nikonian -Tom, March 15, 2017
3- Add rubber to your Nikon
Named as one of the "Best Camera Add-Ons of 2013" by Men's Journal this tiny accessory can improve your camera handling. Best of all, it's inexpensive, easy to attach to your camera and now available at a discount for Nikonians.
Upgrade your shutter. Each package contains 2 shutter upgrades (choose RED or BLACK). Fits all Nikon DSLRs.
Also, check out the world's best lens cleaning solution used by Leica, Hasselblad, Bausch & Lomb & NASA.
Save 20% on our legendary CheatSheets; 10% on Helicon Software and 5% on accessories. Get your discounts on all items mentioned above with this link.
4- Welcome home
If you have a habit of going straight to our forums when logging in, you are skipping our Homepage.
In that case, you are missing some new features like our new Market box, Winner's Gallery enhancement and mouse-hover hints.
Take a look at the upper right corner and you will see a prominent positioning of the portal for our Winners' Gallery.
We are all looking forward to soon see many more, excellent images being showcased here.
Then, scroll down to the lower left side, where a new box highlights our MARKET forums. This is a great resource for buying sale items posted by our members. The current listings include everything from cameras and lenses to gear bags and filters/
Finally, (and you will love this) --- Moving the mouse over any item in any box will give you a hint showing more info from the post, article or image. Give it a try.
5- If you like it -- Say so
Did you like that great post on fixing a camera malfunction or the one about improving your photo composition? Too bad we don't have a "Like" button.-- Wrong! -- We now have a "Like" button.
Nikonians founder Bo Stahlbrandt (bgs) has announced the debut of our own version:
He explains how it works:
When logged in, you can find a small heart icon at the bottom left corner of each message in the forums. Clicking on it will signal the author that you liked what she shared or wrote.
Please do note: This does not replace the communication of writing whole sentences Always write and show your gratitude when you are helped, not only "liking" it.
At the top of the pages, you will find the same heart symbol again. Clicking on it will bring you to your overview of recommendations and likes.
This function has been brought to you by the hard-working back office team, specifically Zita and Dmitry have done a hands-on job.
Enjoy!
P.S. if you dislike being recommended, you can opt-out from that in your profile under preferences.
6- What's in a name?
Mary Myers (Pistil) from Washington USA is organizing her image collection in Lightroom and she's wondering if we have any personal preferences for image names.
Here is just a small portion of her many questions:
As usual, learning one thing about the camera/computer/processing brings up several other issues/problems I did not know about before. Now I am stuck on how to rename my photo files, which does seem necessary so I might as well start now. It appears I can easily do this using Lightroom, and they have a few different ways to batch name files, with sequential numbers for the individual files in a batch. (Anyone have an opinion on which way is best?)
I do like the year-month-day system (20171305 for example), and will probably start with that so the files are in date order. I plan to scan in old photo negatives and slides from my pre-digital life, I thought I can usually at least guess the year, they could be entered as 19890000 or if month is known 19890500. That seems do-able. Old historical photos I inherited from 1920's could be problematic (maybe 00000000?).
Check her entire long post and if you have any suggestions, feel free to add your advice.
7- Sticky situation
Yuck!! You pick up one of your older cameras after many months in storage and it feels like somebody sprayed glue on it. What gives?
Silver member Mark Virgil Stephan (Mark37814) from Tennessee, USA has run into "sticky rubber" and he's asking for advice:
My F100 hasn't been used for the last six months. It sits on a shelf in my bedroom closet. I grabbed it a couple of nights ago to make sure it was still working and discovered the rubber (all of it) has become sticky. I read somewhere that 91% rubbing alcohol was the cure and after rubbing with a damp rag for an hour or two while watching TV I couldn't tell a difference. I took it to my local camera store to see if they've had experience with sticky rubber and they had not.
As an experiment, I put a little bit of Armor All on a rag and gave it a good rub down. The camera looks new with shiny rubber and the rubber is less sticky. I'm still looking for a permanent cure. Do any of you with a F100 have a solution? A few years ago, my F5 developed the sticky rubber and I sent it to Nikon for a full CLA including rubber replacement and I haven't had a problem since (knock on wood).
Have you run into this problem? How did you fix it?
8- That darn Err
Gold member Don Burton (bug) from Michigan, USA has a puzzling dilemma. His Nikon D610 gives him an error message and locks up when using one particular lens. Yet... that same lens works fine with his Nikon D810. Sound familiar?
Here is his description:
I'm getting an error message on my D610 when using my Nikon 24-120 f4 lens. When I close down the aperture starting around f/10 and definitely at f/22, I get the shot but the camera locks up with an error message... then I turn the camera off & on and it's good for a single shot between f/16 to f/22. The camera and lens works great with apertures between f/4 to f/10.
Background info
No aperture problems on other lenses using my D610(all Nikons 14-24, 105mm, 70-200mm)
Yes, I used a micro cloth to rub contacts, both 610 camera and 24-120mm lens.
The pictures taken at f/22 are correct exposures, but need to turn the camera off and back on before the camera is operational.
Yes "C 1.01" & "L 2.015" firmware is current,
Here is the head scratcher......
The same 24-120 lens work great on my D810 at all f-stops.
I'm ready to ship the lens to Nikon, but wanted to check here first.
Don
Can you solve the mystery?
9- Yucks to share
We started with sad news about a favorite magazine, so let's conclude with a lighter note. If you haven't been checking out our recent Joke of the Day postings, you're missing some fun. Platinum member Hektor R. Fuster (Hektor) from California, USA started the most recent edition.
Hektor starts off with one of his favorites:
Bill walks into a post office one day to see a middle-aged man standing at the counter enthusiastically writing addresses on bright pink envelopes covered with hearts.
He then takes out a scent bottle and starts spraying perfume over them. Bill's curiosity gets the better of him and he walks over to the man and asks him what he's doing.
"I'm sending out 1,000 Valentine's Day cards signed, 'Guess who?'" says the man.
"Why on earth are you doing that?" asks Bill.
"Because I'm a divorce lawyer." replies the man.
Looking for some laughs? Looking to share a good chuckle? Join the fun.
10-Upgrades Galore
The Nikon Download Center is full of upgrades.
Here's a quick list of downloads available as of March 3,
2017:
Nikon SB-5000 TTL Flash Firmware 14.002
D500 Firmware Version 1.12
WT-7 Wireless Transmitter Firmware Version 1.1
D7200 Firmware Version 1.02
D750 Firmware Version 1.11
D810 Firmware Version 1.12
That's it for this week. Don't forget to grab your favorite camera and capture some images to share with family and friends (especially us at Nikonians). -- Tom Boné (flashdeadline)
Posted by flashdeadline at 10:10 PM
Your "Like" will now be official
Popular in many online forums, the ability to show you "like" a post has been absent from our forums-- Until now.
Nikonians founder Bo Stahlbrandt (bgs) has announced the debut of our own version:
He explains how it works:
When logged in, you can find a small heart icon at the bottom left corner of each message in the forums. Clicking on it will signal the author that you liked what she shared or wrote.
Please do note: This does not replace the communication of writing whole sentences Always write and show your gratitude when you are helped, not only "liking" it.
At the top of the pages, you will find the same heart symbol again. Clicking on it will bring you to your overview of recommendations and likes.
This function has been brought to you by the hard working back office team, specifically Zita and Dmitry have done a hands-on job.
Enjoy!
P.S. if you dislike being recommended, you can opt-out from that in your profile under preferences.
Posted by flashdeadline at 4:43 PM
Check out our new Homepage
Our Homepage is now showing the results of user requested tweaks.
Take a look at the upper right corner and you will see a prominent positioning of the portal for our Winners' Gallery.
We are all looking forward to soon see many more, excellent images being showcased here.
Then, scroll down to the lower left side, where a new box highlights our MARKET forums. This is a great resource for buying sale items posted by our members. The current listings include everything from cameras and lenses to gear bags and filters/
Finally (and you will love this) --- Moving the mouse over any item in any box will give you a hint showing more info from the post, article or image.
Give it a try -- Open our Homepage and start hovering.
Posted by flashdeadline at 4:10 PM
February 28, 2017
Members react to Nikon's gloomy financials
Here are some of the topics and news items we're tracking for our community this week.
Nikon, currently celebrating 100 years as a corporation, is facing financial difficulties. Gold member Gerry Mulligan (Gerry M) from Arizona, USA has started an in-depth discussion on the recent financial news regarding Nikon Corporation:
His summary:Imaging business net sales for 1st to 3rd Q (3/2017) down 29% when compared to 1st to 3rd Q (3/2016). Operating net income for same time period down 18.4%. They issued a notice of an "extraordinary loss" (their terms) for the company.
Our members added thoughtful analysis of the current news, along with predictions and wishes for the future of Nikon's imaging team. Here are a few examples:
• Nikon reminds me of Leica in the 1950's when they stuck with the rangefinders because the SLR's were a "passing fad." The company primarily responsible for bringing the venerable Leica to its knees was none other than Nikon! I would have guessed that Nikon learned from Leica's experience - apparently not.
• It is not just Nikon, it's is the whole industry. Mobile phones are hitting it harder and harder.
• My advice to Nikon's photography segment? Focus on two types of FX pro cameras; merge the DXs into two series, reduce the number of P&S cameras, and provide better service, as Canon seems to be trending to. That's my 2 cents from 55+ years of photography, almost all with Nikon gear.
Care to share your thoughts? Join the discussion.
2- Limited edition Nikon Gear
Hardcore Nikon enthusiasts will probably be drooling over a new anniversary edition set of cameras and lenses. Richard Haw (ricoBaby) attended the Camera & Imaging Products Association (CIPA) annual international camera and photo imaging show in Yokohama, Japan last week and he shares images of the limited edition sets in his blog.
He tells us the show (called CP+ 2017) is:
Japan's version of Photokina wherein new products are showed to the public and international brands come to Japan to sell theirs here. There are plenty of newcomers but it usually consists of the usual big boys in the Japanese camera industry.
Thanks Richard for sharing your images of the new gun-metal finish gear (and your overall review of the show).
The world's best lens cleaning solution is used by Leica, Hasselblad, Bausch & Lomb & NASA and PhotoBert has it for you at a special rate.
Observe measurable differences in brightness and clarity with glass or plastic lenses! 2 sizes: 1 & 2 ounce. Now on sale. (US customers only)
Upgrade your Shutter! The most inexpensive upgrade for your camera.
Each package contains 2 shutter upgrades (choose RED or BLACK). Fits all Nikon DSLRs.
Save 20% on our legendary CheatSheets; 10% on Helicon Software and 5% on accessories. Get your discounts on all items mentioned above with this link.
4- Password change
Nikonians founder Bo Stahlbrandt (bgs) is asking us to change our Nikonians passwords as a precaution following news that a third party system has had a security breach. There is no known impact on any of our members, but an ounce of safety is worth a pound of cure.
Bo assures us:
We are not using Cloudflare for payment pages. Payment related data thus not affected
Login pages are running through Cloudflare and thus are at potential risk. This issue has also been of concern to such sites as uber and yelp.
5- Advice on shooting dogs
We have a member entering the field of agility dog photography contemplating camera choices.
Gold member Beth Russell (goldogs) from Virginia, USA wants to upgrade:
I'm less than a year into working as a pro. Its weekend business that I dearly love. Also helps pay a few bills. I photograph what you see--field dogs in motion. I shoot at field trials and hunt tests. A unique specialty but remarkable dogs. I have a D750 and a 70-200 F2.8 as my primary lens. I rent an 80-400 when I need it.
The problem:
I realized after a few big shoots in the summer that I was missing key moments. These retrievers move like lightening. I need a camera with a higher FPS rate. I have sold lots of photos and a few gallery wraps. Nice. However, I see I'm my workflow that I am missing key fractions of a second. For this work, going faster makes sense to me. How to --is the question?
Do I go the financial distance and purchase a D5 or buy a D500? I'd consider buying a used D4S but only from someone I know. I crop a great deal on most shots --focusing in on the dog. I do know about noise with the D500. How substantially do you think it would impact the type of shots I've attached?
I really appreciate any advice -- Thanks
Responses to her question include some great action shots and the context could easily apply to many forms of fast-action sports photography.
6- Cowboy action
We've already mentioned action dog photography. Now, let's combine fast horses, angry bulls and determined cowboys.
Silver member Robert Metheney (bobpilot) from Utah, USA is working on his rodeo action photography and he's looking for critiques:This morning I looked at some photos in the Sports forum and then looked at the images I planned to post. Mine are not as good. I see the difference. So, what can I do to produce sharp images?
I hope it's all right to post four. I am not asking for a critique on each photo, the same problem exists in each one, although at different levels.
I rented a D500 and used the ruler method to check focus with my 200-400mm lens. The focus point was where it should be, no front focus, no back focus. I checked again the next day. Perhaps I didn't do it right.
Possibilities:
1. I need to pan to keep up with the forward movement of the steer and cowboy, this might explain for some of the issues.
2. I use the shutter release button, I don't believe this will produce a soft image at 1/2500
Check out his images and read the responses so far. Perhaps you have another good piece of advice to add to the discussion. Once again, the advice from this sport will be of help for many others.
7- Getting started: Custom Settings
You get a new Nikon DSLR and as you browse through you owner's manual you see hundreds of settings choices. You may be wondering what settings some of your fellow Nikonians have chosen.
P. F. Infante (pfinfante) from New Jersey, USA recently asked:I just received my D300, had the D100 many years ago. Does anyone have any suggestions for the Custom Settings, like best choice for configuring the AE-l/AF-L button, Qual setting, use of AF-ON button, etc.? Somewhat overwhelmed with all the options. Seems like more than the D100, but then again, I was 10 years younger!
Responses so far show a common theme:
• There is no best practice. You have to choose the settings that work best for you. Based on the subjects you shoot, the ambient conditions you shoot in, your preferences, and your particular shooting style.
• There's no "best practice" per se, since as Marty points out, they are settable for a reason: photographers and their situations are highly variable.
While we have agreement that perfection is elusive based on many factors, we already have a few "basic" settings being shared in this discussion and we invite you to add yours.
8- Masking Tips
Your portrait shot will need some masking during post-process but you soon find out this is easier said than done. It gets even harder with strands of hair.
Silver member Allen R. Stewart (cutupguy) from Oregon, USA has posted two sample images and the discussion has led to others sharing their techniques (with their own samples).
Allen asks:
I am trying to swap out the background on these 2 images, but the hair is driving me crazy. I'm beginning to think there just isn't enough contrast or color difference for the selection tools to pick up.
I have used PS(CC) Refine edge brush and painting overlay blend mode on the mask, but no joy.
I have tried Fluid Mask 3, which has some amazing color selection tools but had no success.
I have tried On1 Photo RAW Perfect brush and refine edge brush, same problem.
I have tried mangling the image in black and white with contrast, structure, etc., but still can't get a good mask.
I have tried inverting the colors and then trying the above again, same problem.
If anyone could share a technique that works, I would be eternally indebted.
Look like a challenge? Allen posted images large enough for you to show him your technique. Dive in and give it a shot. And don't forget to describe your work-flow.
Can you work on your image collection with a laptop? Many of our members are doing it right now, and we have a question on best choices for photography work.
Silver member Raymond Lach (Ray701) from Illinois, USA asks:
Hello fellow Nikonians! I've been a member for short time and finally felt it was time to get involved. I just recently got back into photography after a long hiatus.
Not too long ago I purchased my first DSLR, a slightly used D7100. While I am getting familiar with its features and functionality, I am in desperate need of a new computer. I am very partial to laptops and I would like to get some suggestions.
My budget is roughly $1000 to $1200. I would really like to be able to attach to a monitor (does not need to be very large) that could easily be color calibrated if needed in the future. I am strictly an amateur that has never used any photo editing software. My use will be only personal with no intentions of selling any of my photos. Sorry for the long post, and - Thank You for reading.
Any suggestions? - Post your thoughts here.
That's it for this week. Make sure you grab your favorite camera and capture some images to share with family and friends (especially us at Nikonians). -- Tom Boné (flashdeadline)
Posted by flashdeadline at 7:36 PM
February 21, 2017
NiMH puzzle, D200 dead?, Triptych tips and more.....
Here are some of the topics and news items we're tracking for our community this week.
1- NiMH batteries puzzle
Silver member Jerry Klumpp (jwk1940) from Texas, USA is having difficulty understanding why his MB-D17 battery grip with the D500 is not working well with his choice of nickel metal hydride batteries.
Jerry asks:
I was wondering if anyone has encountered a problem trying to use nickel metal hydride batteries in the MB-D17 battery grip with the D500?
When I tried using my 2700mAh, fully charged batteries, the camera would show a full charge, then after one picture, it shows low charge and will not work. If I remove the batteries and re-insert them, the camera once again shows full charge, take one picture, then shows low charge and won't work. I called Nikon tech help and all they could tell me was I'm using the wrong brand of battery, I should use Energizer or Duracell. I don't think the camera cares what brand I use as long as they supply the necessary voltage.
I know Ni-MH batteries don't have as high voltage as alkaline or lithium, so I thought that's the reason for the three battery type options listed under MB-D17 battery type, so it would accept the lower voltage, 9.6 vs 12. Anyone have any input on this issue?
Replies to this particular question may be useful to any of our members with battery issues.
2- Nikonians Uploader for Mac v1.32 now available
Our image gallery uploader for Mac has been updated. You can download it here. The Nikonians Uploader is an application allowing you to easily upload images to the Nikonians galleries directly from your Mac by simple drag & drop functionality.
The latest version of the Nikonians Uploader works on Mac OS X Lion (Mac OS X 10.7) up to and including El Capitan (10.11).
It is available for free to Nikonians on a Silver membership or higher.
3- Pocket Watches anyone?
We've known for many years that our members have a wide span of interests and hobbies (other than our Nikon gear) and recently a new topic has surfaced. Pocket watches - along with some very interesting macro shots of these relics from the past.
It all started with a simple question about a certain purchase-- and soon our members with collections started listing their favorites.
The neat part is our members used well-done macro shooting to illustrate their replies.
Here's a sample:
I own five, all family heirlooms. The ones at 12:00 and 2:00 belonged to my father, a violinist who felt a wristwatch interfered with his ability to play. The newer Hamilton was presented to him by the Women's Committee of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra in 1959. Continuing clockwise around the circle, my paternal grandfather's watch, my maternal grandfather's watch (a college graduation gift perhaps, engraved with his name in 1905), and finally, a watch belonging to a great uncle.
All are in working order. I have no idea what their dollar value is, and I don't care.
For the record, my dad was also a Nikon man. He bought his Nikon Photomic T and a variety of lenses at the Sony Galleria in Tokyo on a CSO world tour sponsored by the U.S. State Department in 1966. He brought one back for me, too.
Join the discussion if you want to show us your favorite pocket watch.
4- D200 Disaster
Benedikt Balian (bnbphoto) from Belgium has a Nikon D200 that has turned into an expensive paperweight. Is it really dead?
Here is the original question:
Hello everybody,
I am desperate, I bought today a nice D200 second hand. I decided to upgrade the firmware.
I downloaded the file from Nikon's website, formatted a CF card (Sandisk Ultra 4GB) in camera, copied the A file to the card with a card reader in my PC and started the update.
Once he was done and told me to switch off the camera I had a PG UP warning on the top LCD.
I took out the CF card copied the B file to it and put it back in. When I tried to switch the camera back on it stayed with the PG UP warning and nothing happened. I took out the battery to restart the camera.
However now the camera is completely dead. It doesn't switch on. There is nothing on the top LCD. It just doesn't do anything.
If anyone has any idea, please let me know. Thanks a lot.
5- Jig-saw selfie
Gold member Geoff Baylis (GBaylis) from England, The United Kingdom has been working on a digital artistry project that includes using JavaScript to create puzzle pieces.
During discussion on the project he told us:
I think that the most useful feature of PS that I discovered answered one of my biggest frustrations: how to easily identify and select a particular layer within a multi-layer document...simply right click on the point in the image that you want to manipulate and a window pops up showing the stack of layers (and masks) that exists under your cursor: just click the one you want and it's selected without having to visit the layers panel.
How is it that all the tutorials I've followed didn't mention that?
If you are looking for more on how to pull off a similar digital artistry project - ask Geoff. He has been a productive member since 2012 and has many outstanding images in his User Gallery.
6- Triptych tips
Gold member Dale Maas (marnigirl) from Arizona, USA has posted a triptych for critique and if you have never tried this three-image format before, the replies can serve as a starter guide.
Here is a sample of some comments:
• Terrific action shots, but I'd love to see more of the horses.
• I agree with Candy, more horse. Is there a chance you could change to Landscape mode, widen each panel?
• Lovely and exceptional works. My eyes visualize the scene better with the vertical presentation,it seems to flow better.
• Great attempt - and so much to work with. My two thoughts echo the other's thoughts.
The top attempt;
The middle photo is a nice composition but it took study to figure out what was going on. Also if you study the triptychs in the history of painting, you may notice there is a composition of each and a composition of all three. The composition of all three in the top group is very poor in my opinion.
The second group;
This is so much better. It is clear what is going on and the composition is more pleasing. If the center image was slightly more to the left and the top to the right, you would have the classic triangle composition.
This entire discussion shows the benefit of posting in our critique forum with an open mind, accepting the comments and then followed by a few attempts to attack the project with an alternative view.
7- February Assignment no shows
Crickets are chirping in the February 2017 Photo Assignments section. Zero entries at press time. Rob tells us:
February is a short month. Rather than burden you with a specific assignment that you may or may not be able to perform during this short month, I am instead letting you decide what your subject will be.
The assignment is wide open. - You decide! Shoot anything you want. Have fun with the assignment, but make sure the image is wall worthy.
There are no other restrictions except that your image(s) must be taken during the month of February, 2017. Using images taken prior to February, 2017, is not permitted and will be deleted. Please honor the rules of the assignment.
We encourage you to grab your camera and enter your image in the February assignment today.
8- Markins Ball Heads explained
Nikonians co-founder J. Ramon Palacios (jrp) has posted an article explaining Markins ball head models and new modules.
The brief article includes the introduction of new modules -- the BV-12 which can be used on the Q10i and Q10i-Q and the BV-22 for the Q20i and Q20i-Q.
His description:
These modules mount on the ball head clamp (dropped on the open channel) and serve to constrain all camera-lens movements except for up and down tilt, allowing for use of the ball head pan capability. This makes Birds in Flight (BIF) photography and Video (hence the denomination BV) an efficient delight. In fact, the BV module replaces the need for an obtrusive Gimbal head or a Sidekick for BIF and for another head for video.
Posted by flashdeadline at 10:45 PM
February 17, 2017
Nikonians Uploader for Mac v1.32 now available
Our image gallery uploader for Mac has been updated. This new version takes care of some issues found in V1.30, such as a stall that could happen during upload.
Silver, Gold and Platinum members can download the uploader at no cost on the Nikonians site.
Posted by bgs at 10:47 AM
February 14, 2017
Congrats Top Ten 2016 -- I am Nikonians/Candi -- DL cameras cancelled
Here are some of the
topics and news items we're tracking for our community this week.
Nikonians Photo Contest Director David Summer (dm1dave) has announced the winners of the Best of Nikonians 2016 Photo Contest.
The winners are: (listed in random order)
1. John McGarry (jtmcg) from Connecticut, USA with his image titled Dew Covered Honeybee.
2. Fred Morton (Fred Morton) from Virginia, USA with his image titled Night Time in Havana
3. Peter Allinson (critidoc) from Maryland, USA with his image titled Swordfish
4. Koos Erasmus (Rassie) from Ontario, Canada with his image titled Gliding Snowy
5. Russ Glindmeier (russg) from Arizona, USA with his image titled Meadview Arizona
6. Michael Kawerninski (qanik) from British Columbia, Canada with his image titled Spring is in the Air
7. Tom Jacob (sevendayimages) from Spain, with his image titled A Bright Stare for the Photographer
8. Henning Bossen (henbo) from Denmark with his image titled Alpe di Siusi at sunrise
9. Godofredo Baylon (GBaylon) from Ontario, Canada with his image titled This face needs Photoshop help
10. Scott Ashley (scottashley) from Colorado, USA with his image titled Red Fox Peering Over Snow
The winners had gained points by entering in the Landscape, Wildlife, Micro-Macro & Close-up, Travel, Digital Artistry Forums and Online Assignments as well as themed segments covering: People, Animals, Plants and Places. Competition was open to Silver, Gold and Platinum Nikonians Members.
Speaking of winners: Congratulations to Gold member Richard Higgins (HigginsR1) from Florida, USA. He was named Wildlife Photographer Of The Year 2016 by The Societies of Photographers, an international organization for serious and professional photographers based out of Rhyl, North Wales, United Kingdom.
Here is the official announcement.
The world's best lens cleaning solution, Shutter upgrades and CheatSheets are all on sale!
The world's best lens cleaning solution is used by Leica, Hasselblad, Bausch & Lomb & NASA.
Observe a measurable difference in brightness and clarity with glass or plastic lenses! 2 sizes: 1 & 2 ounce. Click here: Now on sale. (US customers only)
Upgrade your Shutter!
The most inexpensive upgrade you can make to your camera. Each package contains 2 shutter upgrades (choose RED or BLACK). Fits all Nikon DSLRs. Click here to save 5% now.
Save 20% on our legendary CheatSheets; 10% on Helicon Software and 5% on accessories. Get the discount with this link. (discounts show in Cart).
I Am Nikonians - Candi Foltz (CandisCamera)
Moderating Team member Marsha Edmunds (meadowlark2) has posted her latest chapter in the Nikonians member profile "I am Nikonians" series of articles.
Her subject in this installment is Silver member Candi Foltz (CandisCamera) from Florida, USA.
Candi tells us:
I think with these images I have illustrated
a short autobiography of my history with photography and the Nikon camera. The
photos of the Iguanas and the Pug dog are a glimpse into my past when I was a
pet photographer twenty years ago using the Nikon 8008n film camera. I made all the costumes myself and most of
the backdrops. The other photos show more recent digital camera shots and my
interest in post processing artistry.
The article includes images showcasing her expertise in pet photography.
Berger Bros. great trade-ins and spectacular deals
Berger Bros Camera is offering great trade-ins or outright purchase for your used Nikon or any brand photo gear. We see many people trading in older heavy DSLR gear toward new Fuji, Sony or Olympus Mirrorless cameras.
We now have in stock new fabulous Olympus EM1 MKII Sony A6500, Sony A7R II cameras as well as Fuji XT2 and coming soon Fuji GFX50S medium format 50mp.
Also we have spectacular deals on Nikon D810 and put your order in now for the new Nikon Full Frame Body to be announced shortly.
Great Personal service: Brad Berger 516-816-4921 or Brad@Berger-Bros.com. - BradBerger@mac.com.
Nikon cancels DL cameras
Silver member Ron DeBlock (ron917) from New Jersey, USA has started a discussion on Nikon's announcement of a product line cancellation.
Nikon's official statement of February 13 includes:
A June, 2016 release
was originally planned for the DL series. However, with the identification of
issues with the integrated circuit for image processing, release of the three
cameras was delayed indeterminately.
Since then, everyone involved has worked very hard to develop products with which our customers will be satisfied. However, it has been decided that sales of the DL series will be canceled due to concerns regarding their profitability considering the increase in development costs, and the drop in the number of expected sales due to the slow-down of the market.
Mac software picks
New member P. F. Infante (pfinfante) from New Jersey, USA is
asking for advice on Photo
Editing software on a Mac.
We've seen this question many times in the past few years,
but for our newer members, it's worth having a look at the latest (most up to
date) replies.
Here's a sample:
• If you exclude Photos, which is better suited to cell phone shots and lightweight editing, Lightroom is probably the most popular. Ditto on Windows. A large percentage of apps are licensed to run on either Macs or Windows computers. You don't necessarily need to buy new apps. Lightroom is a good example of that.
• Lightroom is popular with Photoshop but comes with monthly subscription. You can also look at others like Luminar from Macphun, Nikon software, ON1 raw, Affinity Photo, Phase One, DxO... now a day, you can get a trial version to try them before buying.
• One should note that each time you make a change from one editing software to another, your images will not look the same as each and every one have their own algorithms and codes to produce the image, (that's a layman's explanation.
These are just short samples-- check out the full discussion for details, and don't forget to share your opinions.
Spring ANPAT in less than 3 months
Start the new year right by locking on your reservation for our Spring ANPAT (Annual Nikonians Photography Adventure Trip).
The Spring ANPAT will be held in Moab, Utah. Join us for a full week of photography, shop talk and camaraderie.
The dates this year will be:
Arrival on Saturday May 6, 2017
Departure on Saturday May 13, 2017
As with previous editions, this ANPAT is administered under the Nikonians Academy for bookings and it is for all skill levels. For more information check our FAQ's.
Posted by flashdeadline at 11:13 PM
February 7, 2017
December congrats -- Melissa is angry -- Hasselblad news -- Solar Safety
H
ere are some of the topics and news items we're tracking for our community this week.
Nikonians Contest Coordinator David Summers (dm1dave) has posted the results of the December contests. Congratulations to our winners!
Specials congratulations go to Scott Ashley (Scottashley) who took top honors in two categories for the month of December.
Check our winning images legend below and scroll down for the names of the winners. Each photo title serves as a link, which will lead you to explanations behind some of the photographs and an overall look at the competition.
1. -- Wildlife - "Winter & Wildlife" theme winner Scott Ashley (Scottashley), from Colorado, USA with his image titled Red fox peering over snow.
2. -- Landscape - "Best of 2016" theme winner Scott Ashley (Scottashley), from Colorado, USA with his image titled Spotlit trees in the Smokies.
3. -- Macro - "Your Personal Best of 2016" theme winner Geoff Baylis (GBaylis) from The United Kingdom, England with his image titled Abutilon Pictum.
4. -- Travel - "Into the Shadows" theme winner Huw Thomas (HUW) from New South Wales, Australia with his image titled Into the Shed.
5. -- Digital Artistry - "Holiday" theme winner James Buch (jimray) from Oregon, USA with his image titled Father Frost Needs Help.
6. -- Assignment - "Bottles" theme winner Dan Wiedbrauk (domer2760) from Michigan, USA with his image titled Wavy Glass.
Interested in submitting your photos?
If you want to participate, please be sure to enter one of the monthly competitions listed in David Summers' contest guide.
The Online Photo Assignments category is coordinated by Rob Migliaccio (rmigliaccio) from Rhode Island, USA. You can check his recap of past winners here.
The current (January) assignment is "You Decide" - and this one lets us choose our own artistic direction.
Here is Rob's description:
February is a short month. Rather than burden you with a specific assignment that you may or may not be able to perform during this short month, I am instead letting you decide what your subject will be. The assignment is wide open - you decide! Shoot anything you want. Have fun with the assignment, but make sure the image is wall worthy.
Melissa is angry
Silver member Melissa OGarr from Western Australia is a bit mad (actually she used a much stronger descriptive) with her Nikon D3300.
It seems the camera has gone "dead" on her and she's not happy with any of her fixing options.
Here's a small (condensed) portion of her post:
I wanted a good Macro camera, and was advised to buy Nikon. The Nikon is terrible at macro, see a previous post, now I'm stuck with four lenses that are no good to me at all and severely out of pocket). Now the hardware seems to be failing and I haven't even had it a year! I bought it in China, so getting warranty in Australia could prove difficult.
Two days ago, this Nikon stopped being able to download any pictures onto my laptop or PC. We have tried everything, to find out what's gone wrong. The cable has charge, the camera works, but I can't get any communication between camera and computer. I tried taking out the card (which I initially thought was the problem as my Canon card (only 4mths old - just suddenly died two days earlier) it was able to be read on a friend's PC, but I have no card reader on my PC or laptop. I'm a pensioner so a $300 charge and a cost to drive 400km to Perth to get it repaired is out of the question. I also thought that maybe there was a driver/windows conflict - so downloaded over 2GB worth of drivers from Nikon, which put me over my monthly data limit and now I'm throttled at a slow crawl. None of those drivers were of any use, so it was back to square one.What the hell do I do now? The camera is USELESS if I can't access the photos.
This problem has caught the attention of many of our members and we're expecting someone to come up with the best answer at any time. If you had a similar experience -- Check it out.
Hasselblad changing hands
The Nikonians community has always held quality gear from other manufacturers in great regard. Industry legends like Leica and Hasselblad are not only respected but also owned by some of our members. That is one of the reasons we found this discussion, led by founder Bo Stahlbrandt (bgs) of interest:
In case you have missed it, Swedish Hasselblad now Chinese, going the way Volvo and other iconic Swedish manufacturers went.
When will we see the first Hassi with integrated propellers?
More info over at luminous landscape by Kevin Raber.
Kevin's article includes this important disclaimer: Information relayed in this article was obtained from numerous credible and reliable sources.
Although the final conclusion has not yet been confirmed by Hasselblad or DJI, I am confident in my sources and believe that a formal announcement is forthcoming.
As the discussion progressed, it was highlighted by a bit of industry background provided by Gold member Steven Licht (SteveDotNet) from New York, USA. If legendary gear is one of your passions, join the conversation. One more thing -- our image of a camera under a drone is pure imagination.
Sun Shooting Safety
We have more members planning to shoot the Solar eclipse in August, and now the conversation is shifting towards safe filters. The consensus so far comes from those who are advising extreme caution.
Here are some samples:
● Don't even think about using anything but real, purpose-built solar filters. Many are available from the astrophotography world.
● It's worse to use the wrong filter than to use no filter at all. Some ND filters do not block the full spectrum of IR and UV light. Some filters are drop in filters positioned at the back of the lens stack so light and heat is not blocked until passing through the lens.
● I would strongly recommend an external filter. While the internal filter would prevent damage to your sensor, everything "in front" of the filter could still be damaged by heat or IR.
If you have ever aimed your camera at the sun for an extended period of time, this discussion is a must read.
Posted by flashdeadline at 6:09 PM
February 2, 2017
Speedlight update, missing Easy ISO and Solar Eclipse planning
Here are some of the topics and news items we're tracking for our community this week. Some of you may have seen the same information in an earlier newsletter.
Is your SB-500 Speedlight not working with your camera?
Nikon has released firmware update version 13.002 for the SB-500 Speedlight. We had a question from one of our members back in November wondering why his Nikon Df was not functioning with the SB-500. It was his only post, so we're not sure if he's still checking in -- but if so-- this firmware upgrade should fix his problem.
Apparently, there were some instances of certain Creative Lighting System (CLS) supported cameras that were not communicating with the SB-500.
According to the Nikon Download Center, the update should work for:
• The D5, D4, D4S, Df, D3X, and D3S
• The D3 (camera A/B firmware version 2.00 or later)
• The D810, D810A, D800, D800E, D750, D700, D610, D600, D500, and D300S
• The D300 (camera A/B firmware version 1.10 or later)
• The D7200, D7100, D7000, D5600, D5500, D5300, D5200, D5100, D5000, D3400, D3300, D3200, D3100, D3000, and D90
• The COOLPIX A
Missing Easy ISO
Silver member Mike Kuznicki (mmm55) from Pennsylvania, USA started an interesting discussion, wondering why the Nikon D500 seems to be missing a popular International Organization of Standardization (ISO) function:
Researching the D500 and don't see "Easy ISO" feature. Am I missing something, or did Nikon really choose to not include it in this body?
Not part of a software package, but a feature of the camera. If enabled, and in certain modes like shutter or aperture priority, it allows changing ISO on the fly simply by rotating the main command dial (no need to press a separate button). I've found it extremely useful on my D810, and can't imagine why it wouldn't be included on every body.
His question led to detailed descriptions of "work-arounds" and more than one member hoping Nikon finds a way to return the function to the D500 via an upgrade. Check it out.
Berger Bros. great trade-ins and spectacular deals
Berger Bros Camera is offering great trade-ins or outright purchase for your used Nikon or any brand photo gear. We see many people trading in older heavy DSLR gear toward new Fuji, Sony or Olympus Mirrorless cameras.
We now have in stock new fabulous Olympus EM1 MKII Sony A6500, Sony A7R II cameras as well as Fuji XT2 and coming soon Fuji GFX50S medium format 50mp.
Also we have spectacular deals on Nikon D810 and put your order in now for the new Nikon Full Frame Body to be announced shortly.
Great Personal service: Brad Berger 516-816-4921 or Brad@Berger-Bros.com. - BradBerger@mac.com.
AF-S Nikkor 105mm f/1.4E ED IF Review
Silver member Glenn Koury (Glenn_K) from Texas, USA recently enjoyed the excitement of opening a NIKKOR lens box, and wasted no time in slapping it on his Nikon D750 for some test shots.
Later, he took the time to share with us his AF-S Nikkor 105mm f/1.4E ED IF - User Review.
Glenn tells us:
I have officially joined the “Out of Focus Nose and Ear Club” by acquiring the 105mm f/1.4E.
I have been shooting with a D750 for the past two years, having moved up from my D200 after more than eight years (I’m a slow upgrader) and was wanting an excellent portrait lens. Over the past eight months, I rented the 85mm 1.4G twice and was about to get it when the 105mm f/1.4E was introduced, so I held off. I rented the new 105 about a month ago, and decided to get it.
He also shares his first few images and a well thought out list of important factors that can help you if you decide to make a similar purchase.
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Save 20% on our legendary CheatSheets; 10% on Helicon Software and 5% on accessories. Get the discount with this link. (discounts show in Cart)
Start Planning for the USA Solar eclipse
Our members in the USA are already making plans for the Solar eclipse coming to the "lower 48" in August.
According to earthsky.org:
It will be the first total solar eclipse visible from the contiguous U.S. since 1979. The path of the moon’s umbral shadow starts in the northern Pacific and moves east through parts of Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, North Carolina, Georgia, and South Carolina.
We have members in the English Café currently sharing the best vantage points and shooting tips, thanks to United Kingdom Gold member Stephen Dann (mort) who plans on visiting the USA in time for the eclipse:
I appreciate this is still 7 months away but is anyone planning to be in Tennessee for the solar eclipse taking place in August. I am going to be in the area between and north of Nashville and Chattanooga. Some advice would be nice as to if there are any parts of this part of Tennessee to either avoid or be at on the day.
Faster Glass for DX?
Silver member Paul Boden (greenhorn) from The United Kingdom, is wondering why Nikon isn't pushing faster glass in the DX arena:
As we all know the key advantages of FX over DX is the shallow DOF and superior bokeh. The current range of Nikon primes are f-1.4/1.8 and give excellent results on FX cameras, less so on DX.
What is needed is a series of DX f/1.2 primes. I am far from being an optics expert but my gut feeling is that it would be possible to take advantage of the reduced image circle to make this happen at a cost comparable to the current f/1.4 lenses. (Please correct me if I am wrong). Look at how tiny and cheap the DX 35mm f/1.8 is compared to its FX counterpart.
If my assumptions are correct then the only thing preventing this is commercial decisions. I can think of two scenarios:
1. DX shooters won't pay out for expensive primes so they won't sell any.
2. DX primes will be very popular and will reduce FX camera sales.
I'm a hopeless businessman but what do you think? - Paul
Spring ANPAT coming in May
Start the new year right by locking on your reservation for our Spring ANPAT (Annual Nikonians Photography Adventure Trip).
The Spring ANPAT will be held in Moab, Utah. Join us for a full week of photography, shop talk and camaraderie.
The dates this year will be:
Arrival on Saturday May 6, 2017
Departure on Saturday May 13, 2017
As with previous editions, this ANPAT is administered under the Nikonians Academy for bookings and it is for all skill levels. For more information check our FAQ's.