The Digital Photography Equipment Thread [Archive] - Ozformers Transformers Club of Australia (otca.com.au)

Vector Prime

7th August 2011, 11:28 AM

Awesome thread! I actually teach a Digital Photography night class at my local TAFE and I am always happy to help answer questions etc.

Ah cool - I'm thinking of enrolling myself in one of those courses - so far, I have only done a day course teaching the basics.

I'm hoping to invest in a Nikon D700 soon but it all depends on money. If only it grew on trees, right?

Yes, photography is an expensive hobby - almost as big a money pit as cars. :p

Quite a good idea man, just try not to be consuming anything whilst reading my camera's specs. :p

Lol :D

Even still, you've managed to come up with some fine pics Hursty!

I shudder to think what results you would get from an SLR.

gamblor916

7th August 2011, 12:14 PM

Good idea! Right now I have an old Olympus D770 but I'm going to upgrade soon. I'm leaning towards the Nikon d5100 for the hdr features and it has the same sensor as the more expensive d7000.

Vector Prime

7th August 2011, 01:02 PM

I'm leaning towards the Nikon d5100 for the hdr features and it has the same sensor as the more expensive d7000.

And the war wages on... Nikon Vs. Canon - similar to Ford Vs. Holden in many ways... once you adopt one clan, most people stick with it for life. :p

The d5100 is a fine camera, yet I found Canon's easier to use, so that's why I went that way (after playing around with a few of my friend's DSLRs).

Reviews only tell one side of the story - hands on play is a different thing altogether, so my advice is to have a fiddle with them first (if you can) and see what feels more 'right' to you.

jena

7th August 2011, 02:09 PM

And the war wages on... Nikon Vs. Canon.

I knew that was going to pop up here sooner or later. I try to keep myself unbiased but... Nikon are far superior. SORRY! :p :D

Vector Prime

7th August 2011, 02:12 PM

Nikon are far superior. SORRY! :p :D

They probably are (since I'm no expert) - but all I know is that I find Canons easier and more user friendly. :p

gamblor916

7th August 2011, 02:45 PM

And the war wages on... Nikon Vs. Canon - similar to Ford Vs. Holden in many ways... once you adopt one clan, most people stick with it for life. :p

The d5100 is a fine camera, yet I found Canon's easier to use, so that's why I went that way (after playing around with a few of my friend's DSLRs).

Reviews only tell one side of the story - hands on play is a different thing altogether, so my advice is to have a fiddle with them first (if you can) and see what feels more 'right' to you.

Good point but I've found that once you get used to the menus and things it's not really an issue.
I had a play with a few SLRs at the photo expo a couple of weeks back. I did like the d3100 in-camera step by step guide. Didn't get a chance to look at the Canons though, too many people at the booth.

Vector Prime

7th August 2011, 02:59 PM

Didn't get a chance to look at the Canons though, too many people at the booth.

That should tell you something! :p

Vector Prime

12th August 2011, 02:48 PM

Are there any Canon users here that can recommend a good Macro lens?

(looking at the EFS 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM at the moment)

Also, is there anyone interested in buying a two week old EFS 55-250mm f/4.0-5.6 lens (MIB)?

Vector Prime

15th August 2011, 11:24 PM

Are there any Canon users here that can recommend a good Macro lens?

(looking at the EFS 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM at the moment)

Picked up a Tamron SP 60mm f/2 Di II Macro (http://www.tamron.com/en/photolens/di_II_macro/g005.html) over the Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM today.

It's faster, cheaper and (arguably) has better build quality over the Canon equivalent whilst producing equal (if not better) image quality.

I highly recommend it to anyone that is looking for a macro lens as the image quality is superb, which these pics (http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?p=260966#post260966) will attest!

rampagesss

18th August 2011, 04:13 PM

Hey all,

I thought I would start a thread for all those that are into digital photography, where we can discuss equipment, etc.

Newbies can also feel free to ask for advice before investing in a camera (and/or lens, etc).

Please also feel free to post about what sort of equipment you have too.

Here's what I have invested in over the past couple of months:

Body:
Canon EOS 550D

Lenses:
EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6
EF-S 55-250mm f/4.0-5.6
EF 50mm f/1.8

Next on the wish/shopping list is the EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 - would love feedback on this lens if anyone here has one.

So i want to replace my crappy camera (Kodak Easy Share) and looking at your pictures, how would you rate your camera? As your picture show all the little details that i want to capture. Is it easy to use? Mainly want it for toys photos and photos of my car and car events

Vector Prime

18th August 2011, 05:02 PM

So i want to replace my crappy camera (Kodak Easy Share) and looking at your pictures, how would you rate your camera? As your picture show all the little details that i want to capture. Is it easy to use? Mainly want it for toys photos and photos of my car and car events

It depends on whether you're a patient person or not, but going from a point & shoot compact camera to a digital SLR is quite daunting for some people - but if you're patient and willing to sit there and play around with various settings, you can get outstanding results.

The EOS 550D has already been replaced by the 600D - same camera except the new one comes with a flip out screen, but at the time, the 550D came very highly recommended by many reviews as one of the best 'entry level' DSLR and after a few months of ownership, I also highly recommend it.

The 550D can be had for quite 'cheap' these days as it has already been superseded - I'd recommend getting the single lens kit (18-55mm) based upon what you're saying you want to take pics of.

The 18-55mm is a zoom lens so it covers most bases, but if you want to keep it simple, you could just buy the 550D body alone and get the sub-$150 EF 50mm f/1.8 lens (which is a fixed lens).

I use my 18-55mm lens for taking pics of my car and outdoorsy type pics and switch to other fixed lens for taking pics of toys since they're faster and sharper.

Hope this helps.

tron07

18th August 2011, 11:11 PM

I am a Nikon fan in the flim SLR days... now change camp already

Vector Prime

19th August 2011, 08:51 AM

I am a Nikon fan in the flim SLR days... now change camp already

Traitor! :p

In hindsight had I known that the Nikon lens mounts have been backwards compatible with their old stuff, I'd probably would have gone Nikon over Canon to be honest (my father still has Nikon lenses from the 80's).

TheFallen

20th August 2011, 09:42 PM

Vector Prime

21st August 2011, 10:38 AM

I recently became interested in toy photography. I still have a long way to go but to get me started I bought the Nikkon D3100 w/ 18-55 lens and I love it.

I bought it off ebay for $600 and it came with a Kenko Pro1 filter, 32gig SD card and Lowepro bag.

I bought a tent box ages ago but I busted the globes so I replaced them with halogens but it is giving me the warm white look in my pics. Trying to find a decently priced cool white fluro wasn't easy but I have bought a couple from ebay that looked okay so hope they fit and give me what I want.

I am a complete noob to photography in general but I guess we all have to start somewhere

Sounds like you picked yourself up quite a bargain at that price mate - well done! :)

The D3100 is a great DSLR for beginners, especially with the inbuilt tutorial/user guide in the menu, so it's a good camera to learn on.

I looked at getting one myself but liked the feel of the Canons better, so I went that way instead.

With more experimenting and practice with the various settings, hopefully we'll see some more contributions from you in the pic threads. :)

TheFallen

21st August 2011, 11:21 AM

Vector Prime

21st August 2011, 11:49 AM

I got the D3100 because all the reviews I read said it was perfect as an entry level camera. I didn't want to pay big money for something that I may not have liked.

I already have some pictures that I posted on he-man.org. I think I will post them in the photography thread as well

Likewise why I seriously considered it too - I had no experience using a DSLR up until a few months ago and quite frankly was daunted by all the different settings, so I wanted the easiest one.

Friends of mine that are into photography recommended that I pay a few dollars more and get the Canon 550D instead (even though it was not as 'user friendly' to begin with as the Nikon).

After fiddling with both of them, I preferred the feel of the Canon over the Nikon, hence the reason I went that way.

Since then, I've just been playing and experimenting (and learning) as I went along - you just have to keep pushing it to see what the limits are and what settings work best for different scenarios.

I decided to cut and copy your other post and reply to it here since it's more related to a discussion on photography:

I have been trying out taking photos with my new camera, working on lighting and what not. I'm a bit frustrated because I just can't get my photos looking good like other people's.

What setting are you taking the pics in?

Have you learnt how to use the various other modes yet (like aperture or shutter priority)?

How about adjusting your focal point?

TheFallen

21st August 2011, 12:05 PM

What setting are you taking the pics in?

Have you learnt how to use the various other modes yet (like aperture or shutter priority)?

How about adjusting your focal point?

To be honest, the pictures I posted in the other thread are all from me playing around with the camera settings.

I don't know which ones are which but I was trying out the S and A settings and Macro and portrait. I want to try and do a picture like the one with the seekers in the toy photography thread. With a 3 in focus and then only Starcream in focus. I love that picture.

I just need to practice using the settings more I guess.

I have since learnt more about changing the focal point using the multi selector. I want to take more pictures but the lighting thing is really frustrating me. Hopefully the cool white globes will fix that

Vector Prime

21st August 2011, 12:16 PM

To be honest, the pictures I posted in the other thread are all from me playing around with the camera settings.

I don't know which ones a which but I was trying out the S and A settings and Macro and portrait.

I have since learnt more about changing the focal point using the multi selector. I want to take more pictures but the lighting thing is really frustrating me. Hopefully the cool white globes will fix that

If you don't remember what mode was what for each pic, you can always look at the metadata of each pic on your computer (by clicking the file and looking at properties) and it should display what mode, aperture, shutter and ISO the pic was taken in (among many other things).

Maybe try taking a few in aperture priority (with ISO at 800 or 1600) and play around with a few f-stops from maybe f/5.0 to f/11 whilst adjusting the exposure compensation to see what works best for you given the lighting you have available at the time.

My advice is to just set one focal length (for consistency whilst comparing), pose one figure and then just work with that figure whilst adjusting the settings - once you've figured it out, remember that setting and you will find it works well with every subsequent figure after that.

Lighting is important, but it's not the end all or be all for creating great shots - work with what you have and you can adjust the camera settings to compensate for the lack of lighting. :)

TheFallen

21st August 2011, 12:27 PM

Vector Prime

21st August 2011, 12:47 PM

When you start mentioning ISO and the f-stops that is where you lose me. I have read up on them but I don't fully understand them. I usually just put the ISO on Auto and let the camera do the rest.

I might set everything up a bit later today and try out a few more settings. I think this thread and your knowledge will help me immensely.

Thank you

You're welcome.

Someone with more knowledge may disagree with what I say since I'm a relative newbie to DSLRs myself (sub-3 months). :p

As for leaving ISO on Auto, that's fine in the interim, but you will need to learn how to experiment with aperture.

You need to grasp a basic understanding of the elements to be able to figure out how they are all inter-related and affect the pics you're taking.

Maybe read up further on ISO and aperture (and shutter)?

Basics (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photography#Exposure_and_rendering)
ISO (film speed) (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Film_speed)
Aperture (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aperture)
Shutter (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shutter_(photography))

jena

21st August 2011, 08:38 PM

Vector Prime is spot on, you need to understand how aperture, shutter speed and ISO work together.

In simple terms:
ISO - sensitivity to light (like good ol' film)
Aperture - the size of the opening in the lens
Shutter speed - the amount of time that the shutter is open

One thing to be careful of is that a high ISO means your pictures will have lots of noise (grain) - it's the same as buying film. It's best to stick within the range of 100 to 400 ISO.

Aperture is a confusing thing to learn. Large apertures mean you let lots of light in through a large opening in the lens but they're given the smaller f/stop numbers. So f/2.8 is a much larger aperture than f/22. Just remember it's opposite and you'll be right.

There's so much more I could ramble on about. I'm happy to try and answer questions though, I teach Photography at my local TAFE so I think I know what I'm rambling about, hah!:D

Vector Prime

22nd August 2011, 09:11 AM

Vector Prime is spot on

Yay! :p

One thing to be careful of is that a high ISO means your pictures will have lots of noise (grain) - it's the same as buying film. It's best to stick within the range of 100 to 400 ISO.

Interesting that you recommend 100 to 400 - I never shoot anything in that range.

I use mostly 800 to 1600 and don't really notice that much noise - I might experiment with the slower film speeds and see what sort of results I get. :)

jena

22nd August 2011, 01:38 PM

Interesting that you recommend 100 to 400 - I never shoot anything in that range.

I use mostly 800 to 1600 and don't really notice that much noise - I might experiment with the slower film speeds and see what sort of results I get. :)

You might surprise yourself, between 100 and 400 is beautifully clear and crisp. The only downfall is that you won't be able to get such fast shutter speeds in low light, so a tripod will probably be necessary.

I just had another lookie at your photos in the toy photography thread and I don't see much noise at all, generally 800 isn't too bad though. And when photos are resized for web use, you don't notice noise so much anyway. If you were to print a photo taken at 1600 ISO as an enlargement, you'd definitely notice the noise.

Vector Prime

22nd August 2011, 03:01 PM

You might surprise yourself, between 100 and 400 is beautifully clear and crisp. The only downfall is that you won't be able to get such fast shutter speeds in low light, so a tripod will probably be necessary.

I just had another lookie at your photos in the toy photography thread and I don't see much noise at all, generally 800 isn't too bad though. And when photos are resized for web use, you don't notice noise so much anyway. If you were to print a photo taken at 1600 ISO as an enlargement, you'd definitely notice the noise.

I shall do some experimenting tonight with the lower speeds and post my findings (pics) - I've recently purchased a tripod, so the slower shutter speeds won't be a problem. :)

On a side note, picked up another prime lens 'bargain' today - Canon EF 28mm f/2.8 for just under $300, so my current lens selection is as follows:

Canon EF 28mm f/2.8
Canon EF 50mm f/1.8
Tamron SP Di II Macro 60mm f/2
Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6
Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 (SOLD)

jena

22nd August 2011, 03:45 PM

I shall do some experimenting tonight with the lower speeds and post my findings (pics) - I've recently purchased a tripod, so the slower shutter speeds won't be a problem. :)

On a side note, picked up another prime lens 'bargain' today - Canon EF 28mm f/2.8 for just under $300, so my current lens selection is as follows:

Canon EF 28mm f/2.8
Canon EF 50mm f/1.8
Tamron SP Di II Macro 60mm f/2
Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6
Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 (SOLD)

Nice! You have more lenses than me and I've been doing this photography thing since 2006!

I'll look forward to seeing your photos. I need to find the time to take some more photos, working 3 jobs blows.

Vector Prime

22nd August 2011, 03:55 PM

Nice! You have more lenses than me and I've been doing this photography thing since 2006!

Lol... when I get into something, I tend to go slightly overboard - still not done yet with the lenses though.

Have decided to move away from zoom lenses and focus (no pun intended) on prime lenses - next on the shopping list is a 22mm prime (which will give me the approximate equivalent of 35mm).

I also intend on upgrading to a full frame body later on (5D Mark II's successor, whenever that comes out) so I want to be able to re-use the same lenses (EF-S zoom lenses don't fit).

I'll look forward to seeing your photos. I need to find the time to take some more photos, working 3 jobs blows.

Working one job already blows! But whatever it takes to make the dollars so you can live (or buy stuff that you don't necessarily need). :p

jena

22nd August 2011, 08:10 PM

Lol... when I get into something, I tend to go slightly overboard - still not done yet with the lenses though.

Have decided to move away from zoom lenses and focus (no pun intended) on prime lenses - next on the shopping list is a 22mm prime (which will give me the approximate equivalent of 35mm).

I also intend on upgrading to a full frame body later on (5D Mark II's successor, whenever that comes out) so I want to be able to re-use the same lenses (EF-S zoom lenses don't fit).

Working one job already blows! But whatever it takes to make the dollars so you can live (or buy stuff that you don't necessarily need). :p

I'm hoping to invest in a full frame body also, the nikon d700 or any newer model that comes about between now and then. I'll continue working on the lens collection then.

I'm saving up to go to Comic Con next year so it will all be worth it.

Vector Prime

22nd August 2011, 09:13 PM

Thanks for the tip with using the slower film speed - quite happy with the results at ISO200 with the pics I took. :)

jena

22nd August 2011, 09:31 PM

Thanks for the tip with using the slower film speed - quite happy with the results at ISO200 with the pics I took. :)

Awesome! I knew you'd like the results. I've had ISO on the brain because I taught my class all about ISO and noise last week. I'm glad I could help.

Robzy

22nd August 2011, 11:06 PM

Great thread!! :)

Have decided to move away from zoom lenses and focus (no pun intended) on prime lenses - next on the shopping list is a 22mm prime (which will give me the approximate equivalent of 35mm).
Nothing beats a fast lens, but don't give up on zoom lenses! They're really terrific, but I would recommend getting ones with constant apertures. The down side is they're more expensive, but the quality is much better and you have quick access to several different focal lengths.

I also intend on upgrading to a full frame body later on (5D Mark II's successor, whenever that comes out) so I want to be able to re-use the same lenses (EF-S zoom lenses don't fit).

I, too, am eager to see what they're going to do with the Mk III! I'm specifically keen to see what "improvements" they do in the HD video department.

Just like you've suggested, future proofing is the aim of the game. I always recommend buying lenses that will fit on full frame cameras rather than cropped. If you ever upgrade, you'll be able to use the lenses. Let's face it; cameras change, but lenses should last forever. It's not unusual to spend 2 or 3 times on lenses as to what you spent on the body itself. But the lenses are interchangeable and will last a lifetime (provided you take care of them).

When you start mentioning ISO and the f-stops that is where you lose me. I have read up on them but I don't fully understand them. I usually just put the ISO on Auto and let the camera do the rest.
Jena and Vector Prime have given some great advice here already, so I won't be too redundant :p Understanding ISO, Aperture value, & Shutter speed is crucial for getting correct exposure. But the trouble is, when you adjust one, it can affect the others significantly. Or, in contrast, it can directly affect the "style" of picture you're trying to take (eg, depth of field; which is something that's been mentioned already).

I would highly recommend keeping your ISO value as low as possible for the highest quality pics, but sometimes it's just too dark and you need to increase the value. This is where good, fast lenses come in handy. Primes are great!! Anything that has a low f-stop number (eg, 1.8 or 1.4, so on). A good tripod is another option, and will help if you intend on having slow shutter speeds, as will IS (Image Stabilizer) Lenses; but they cost more!!

Good lights, or an external flash, can help too. I would recommend practising in Aperture Priority or Shutter Priority Modes. Manual Mode is great when you know how to get correct exposure.

Vector Prime

23rd August 2011, 01:19 AM

Great thread!! :)
Nothing beats a fast lens, but don't give up on zoom lenses! They're really terrific, but I would recommend getting ones with constant apertures. The down side is they're more expensive, but the quality is much better and you have quick access to several different focal lengths.

Oh I haven't given up completely on zoom lenses - the Canon L lenses are awesome - maybe somewhere down the track when I buy a full frame, I might look into them.

But the justification to buy a singular piece of glass that's more expensive than the camera itself is kinda hard to accept at the moment (naturally when I go to a 5D Mk II or III or whatever, then it becomes all relative ;))

I, too, am eager to see what they're going to do with the Mk III! I'm specifically keen to see what "improvements" they do in the HD video department.

The video dept doesn't interest me in the slightest, I'm only keen since the current Mk II has been out for awhile and the thought of shelling out big dollars for something that will be superseded rather quickly is not that appealing.

I figure it will be at least a year before the itch to go to full frame gets me, so by then, the Mk III should be out (and hopefully is so awe inspiring that it will justify the hefty price tag, otherwise I could just go Mk II on 'clearance' :p)

Just like you've suggested, future proofing is the aim of the game. I always recommend buying lenses that will fit on full frame cameras rather than cropped. If you ever upgrade, you'll be able to use the lenses. Let's face it; cameras change, but lenses should last forever. It's not unusual to spend 2 or 3 times on lenses as to what you spent on the body itself. But the lenses are interchangeable and will last a lifetime (provided you take care of them).

Very true there mate - the two Canon EF lenses I have (the 'nifty fifty' and the 28mm) date back to the late 80's in design and have somehow still stood the test of the time as being reliable and excellent performers despite lacking the modern fancy stuff such as IS and USM (it also helps that they are now a lot more affordable given the age of their designs :))

I wasn't aware that the EF-S stuff didn't fit on full frames until a week ago when a friend of mine that uses a 5D mentioned it to me after I purchased the Tamron Macro (which was designed specifically for APS-C sensors).

It has kinda made me rethink my lens choices for any future purchases and the need to 'future-proof' myself as you succinctly put it. :)

I would highly recommend keeping your ISO value as low as possible for the highest quality pics, but sometimes it's just too dark and you need to increase the value. This is where good, fast lenses come in handy. Primes are great!! Anything that has a low f-stop number (eg, 1.8 or 1.4, so on). A good tripod is another option, and will help if you intend on having slow shutter speeds, as will IS (Image Stabilizer) Lenses; but they cost more!!

Until the earlier discussion with jena re: ISO, I thought 800-1600 was a good speed, but having experimented with 200 this evening, I'm very happy with the results (colour saturation).

Goes to show that I'm still a very green newbie with only a few months experience learning new stuff as I go along. :o

bowspearer

23rd August 2011, 01:36 AM

Just discovered the thread.

My girlfriend is the photographer out of the 2 of us and has 2 rigs currently: a Nikkon D90 with a 50mm Macro lens and a 80mm-400mm lens, as well as a Sony NEX-VG10 camcorder with a 18mm-200mm lens. The later of these is going to be used primarily for video work, but still works amazingly well as a DSLR stills camera.

TheFallen

23rd August 2011, 10:12 AM

Jena and Vector Prime have given some great advice here already, so I won't be too redundant :p Understanding ISO, Aperture value, & Shutter speed is crucial for getting correct exposure. But the trouble is, when you adjust one, it can affect the others significantly. Or, in contrast, it can directly affect the "style" of picture you're trying to take (eg, depth of field; which is something that's been mentioned already).

I would highly recommend keeping your ISO value as low as possible for the highest quality pics, but sometimes it's just too dark and you need to increase the value. This is where good, fast lenses come in handy. Primes are great!! Anything that has a low f-stop number (eg, 1.8 or 1.4, so on). A good tripod is another option, and will help if you intend on having slow shutter speeds, as will IS (Image Stabilizer) Lenses; but they cost more!!

Good lights, or an external flash, can help too. I would recommend practising in Aperture Priority or Shutter Priority Modes. Manual Mode is great when you know how to get correct exposure.

Ok, so I should be keeping my ISO number low. What about Shutter priority and Aperature? Those things are still so alien to me even after reading up on it.

I use a light box that I picked up off ebay which came with the lights. It was about $40 so nothing flash. What does everyone else use?

Vector Prime

23rd August 2011, 10:28 PM

Ok, so I should be keeping my ISO number low. What about Shutter priority and Aperature? Those things are still so alien to me even after reading up on it.

I use a light box that I picked up off ebay which came with the lights. It was about $40 so nothing flash. What does everyone else use?

Yep, keep the ISO low.

As for shutter and aperture priority, have a read here (http://www.digital-photography-school.com/aperture-and-shutter-priority-modes) - I don't think it could be explained any simpler.

In terms of light box/tent, I don't use one when I take my pics (nor do I own one or have any intention of buying one).

adds

24th August 2011, 11:49 AM

Ok, so I should be keeping my ISO number low. What about Shutter priority and Aperature? Those things are still so alien to me even after reading up on it.

I use a light box that I picked up off ebay which came with the lights. It was about $40 so nothing flash. What does everyone else use?

Another setting to add to the mix is white balance. This will be why some of your photos look orange/warm. It is most likely set to auto. Not sure on the Nikon as I am a Canon user, but you should be able to change the white balance to tungsten or a light bulb symbol. You will want to change it back to auto when your new white lights arrive though. :)

gamblor916

24th August 2011, 10:18 PM

Vector Prime

24th August 2011, 10:28 PM

I just had a play with my uncle's Rebel T2i, identical to the 550D. Nice and chunky, it's pretty solid. I think I'm sold. Hopefully I'll pick one up Friday.
I asked him about the settings and he say's he just leaves it on auto :D

Cool! Yeah, that's what I loved about the feel of the 550D - it feels solid (although it feels slightly small in my hands), but once you add a big lens to it, it still feels the part. :p

Are you going to go single lens? Or body only and add your own lens?

And whatever you do, don't follow your uncle's lead and leave it in Auto! :p

gamblor916

24th August 2011, 10:38 PM

I'll get the stock lens and go from there.

Vector Prime

24th August 2011, 10:44 PM

I'll get the stock lens and go from there.

Yeah the standard 18-55mm is a good starting point - in no time, you'll be picking up other lenses left right and centre. :p

Another setting to add to the mix is white balance. This will be why some of your photos look orange/warm. It is most likely set to auto. Not sure on the Nikon as I am a Canon user, but you should be able to change the white balance to tungsten or a light bulb symbol. You will want to change it back to auto when your new white lights arrive though. :)

I think as a beginner learning the ropes on a DSLR, it's most important to comprehend the 'triangle' first (shutter, aperture & ISO) and how they all relate to each other before even introducing white balance adjustment into the equation.

Once the grasp of all the key elements are firmly in place (with plenty of practice and understanding of how they all affect the exposure result), then white balance can be introduced into the mix.

Hell, I haven't even touched the white balance adjustments yet! :p

Robzy

24th August 2011, 11:02 PM

I was gonna mention White Balance... but, yeah, baby steps to the elevator :D

White balance is, imo, crucial to getting a good photo (almost as crucial as correct exposure) but I was worried about bringing it up because too much info too quickly might scare people off :(. Photography's pretty simple once you understand what you're doing. Trouble is--there's quite a lot to learn.

Of course, one option is to shoot in RAW mode; that way you can change your white balance in post production if you have the right software :p The downside is that RAW files eat up your memory. But that's how I tend to shoot personally.

Vector Prime

24th August 2011, 11:07 PM

Hursticon

25th August 2011, 07:52 PM

Goes to show how blessed we are these days with modern technology - back in the old days, it was shutter, aperture and ISO (and lighting) and that's all they had to work with pretty much - and they still churned out great pics. :p

You're dead right VP, truly some amazing work was done in the past with photography huh? - Gives you a better appreciation too IMO. ;):cool:

gamblor916

26th August 2011, 04:57 PM

So it begins :D
Canon 550D with stock 18-55 lens.

http://img405.imageshack.us/img405/8982/p1013237.jpg

Hursticon

26th August 2011, 05:10 PM

That looks beautiful, purpose built and frightfully expensive Gamblor! :D:cool:

Vector Prime

26th August 2011, 05:21 PM

So it begins :D
Canon 550D with stock 18-55 lens.

--SNIP--

Welcome to the dark side! :D

gamblor916

26th August 2011, 05:31 PM

That looks beautiful, purpose built and frightfully expensive Gamblor! :D:cool:

It wasn't really that expensive. It only cost a little bit more than my fixed lens Olympus, which I've used for the past 6 years. If I get similar mileage out of the dslr then I think it's a pretty good deal.

Welcome to the dark side! :D

Let the fun begin :D

Vector Prime

26th August 2011, 05:36 PM

It wasn't really that expensive. It only cost a little bit more than my fixed lens Olympus, which I've used for the past 6 years. If I get similar mileage out of the dslr then I think it's a pretty good deal.

Technology gets cheaper every day - I remember buying a Sony DSC-T1 5 megapixel compact camera back in 2003/04 for $1k.

These days, you can pick up superior compacts for about $100. :(

DSLR's aren't expensive, it's the lenses that are - I give it a month before you start exploring other lens options. :p

Let the fun begin :D

Indeed - can't wait to see your pics taken with that lightbox of yours. :)

jena

27th August 2011, 10:24 AM

Hursticon

27th August 2011, 10:40 AM

For those of you who want a cheap DIY alternative to a lightbox, I found this via a quick google search. I'm tempted to give it a try.

http://www.digital-photography-school.com/how-to-make-a-inexpensive-light-tent

Thank you very much for that link Jena, for poorpers like myself this could just be the ticket. ;):D
Mind you, the level of quality that is being obtained by other members now is simply staggering! :eek:

TheFallen

27th August 2011, 11:34 AM

I think I have the basics of ISO, Aperature and Shutter priorities. Thanks for all the help, this thread has become a Godsend and my main resource during this learning curve.

I think a lot of the blame rests on me because I am impatient and when buying a DSLR I figured I could just take it out of the box and take perfect photos.

jena

27th August 2011, 11:38 AM

Thank you very much for that link Jena, for poorpers like myself this could just be the ticket. ;):D
Mind you, the level of quality that is being obtained by other members now is simply staggering! :eek:

I'm thinking of making one for myself, and I suppose if members wanted to make it more sturdy I'm sure a frame similar to the box could be made out of wood. It would still be cheap. I remember at Uni when we'd have to do some product photography, we would just use white card and a lamp!

TheFallen

27th August 2011, 12:01 PM

jena

27th August 2011, 12:26 PM

Here (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/SOFTBOX-OPEN-CUBE-PORTABLE-MINI-STUDIO-LIGHTS-CASE-/290601106387?pt=AU_Cameras_Photographic_Accessorie s&hash=item43a92cfbd3) is the exact light box I use. I don't remember paying that much but it does come with the lights.

There is also plenty of decent sized light boxes on ebay. They usually start from around $20 with free shipping

I'd rather be a cheapo and make one, because I prefer to shoot outside in natural light anyway. I like trying to get realistic looking moments with my toys out in the real world. It's fun.

Vector Prime

27th August 2011, 02:34 PM

When I first started taking pics, I used a clear storage tub (as a lightbox) as it filtered out the light glare, but of late, I've stopped using it altogether and have found that my pics have actually improved (probably attributed to a better understanding of camera settings).

I haven't seen any need to get a proper light box/tent thus far, but seeing as I've bought pretty much every other camera accessory already, it may be time to buy one and experiment with it. :p

Vector Prime

28th August 2011, 03:56 PM

Thought I would post regarding tripods since they're an integral part of photography.

Prices range from the obscenely cheap stuff ($20) to the hundred's.

So I guess it all depends how hardcore you are (or how big your bank account is) as to whether you want to splurge on a tripod made out of carbon composite (or some other exotic material).

Personally I went the ultra cheap method initially and went with a $20 jobbie (http://www.officeworks.com.au/retail/products/Technology/Digital-Compact-SLR-and-Video-Cameras/Tripods-and-Accessories/Tripods/ADI3150) I found at Officeworks.

Do yourself a favour and don't buy it! It's the biggest P.O.S ever - it lasted a week.

One of the adjustments broke (since it's made of cheap brittle plastic) and I wasn't very impressed with it's ability to cope outdoors either (as it was quite flimsy).

Subsequently to replace it, I was recommended this one for $55 (http://www.digitalcamerawarehouse.com.au/prod6309.htm) which I have been very happy with since it's certainly very solidly constructed (for excellent stability) and the price was reasonable.

Anyways, just my 2c.

Vector Prime

29th August 2011, 09:03 AM

Added another lens to the collection today: EF 50mm f/2.5 Macro

Didn't really need a second macro lens (since I already have the Tamron 60mm), but it was 'cheap', so why not? :p

Vector Prime

8th September 2011, 10:37 AM

Finally picked up a light box/tent setup today - so will be experimenting further with more pics over the coming few days, now that I have a mini 'photo studio'.

Also picked up another lens - Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM (http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/Canon-EF-85mm-f-1.8-USM-Lens-Review.aspx) for a 'decent' price today.

Lens count is now at 6 - just need to get a wide angle prime lens (EF 20mm f/2.8) and I think I'm done (hopefully).

Vector Prime

22nd January 2012, 10:12 PM

Digging up an old thread, but seeing as I have upgraded some lenses and no longer have any usage for this stuff, it's up for sale for anyone interested.

Not fussed whether they sell or not since they've been sitting in storage for the past few months (and will remain there if there's no interest).

Anyways, upgrade that EOS lens of yours to one of these:

EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II (http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/Canon-EF-S-18-55mm-f-3.5-5.6-IS-II-Lens-Review.aspx)
$80
Near mint condition with barely any signs of usage. Was hardly used as I purchased fixed focal lenses very early on. No box or manual as this was packaged originally with my EOS550D kit. Filter attached.

EF 50mm f/1.8 II (http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/Canon-EF-50mm-f-1.8-II-Lens-Review.aspx)
$90
Virtually brand new, hardly used 'nifty fifty'. Probably the best 'bang for bucks' lens out there. Fast and sharp. Comes with original box and inserts. Filter and lens hood attached.

EF 50mm f/2.5 Macro (http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/Canon-EF-50mm-f-2.5-Compact-Macro-Lens-Review.aspx)
$300
Virtually brand new, hardly used as I also have a 60mm Macro & favour that. Comes with original box and inserts. Filter and lens hood attached.

Pick up and cash payment is preferred (Sydney) - PM or post here if interested.

I've got this stuff listed for sale elsewhere too, so may be sold prior.