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Digital SLR / DSLR Camera Question / DSLR Thread 2

Fair enough- as professionals we all have to decide on what techniques and gear we'll rely on to keep our bank accounts in the black. For me, I've wasted more shooting opportunities relying on the auto shutter than I've ever benefitted from it.

True that. I've seen some creative photographs that blow my photos away with a Canon T2 and an iPhone 4.
 
Did some family and night photography class practice shots.









Night Photo Class...



 
The 70D offers more than what the 7D can offer. They both share the same 19-point AF but the 70D is 20.2MP versus an 18MP. Plus it has the WiFi and it is a lot lighter than the 7D. Trust me I haul around a 1D Mk IIN camera and standing out for a long time it feels like a boat anchor.

So I hope this gives you some insight into my decision to "step down" from a 6D.

After much though, review reading and convincing myself that "its the craftsman, not the tool" that makes the difference, i've ordered a 70D. I like the fact that it has very good video capabilities and the same AF system as the 7D (except for the expanded customization of AF zones) The other main reason i got the 70D is that i have ordered some canon remote flashes that have several features missing on pre-2012 models.

Outta Control, again, thank you for your helpful insight

Hoping the camera gets here in time for Xmas!

Holidays Merry everyone!
Daniel
 
Thread bump for some advice!

I have a Nikon D100 I bought used nearly three years ago off of Craigslist, and have been using it since with the lens that I came with it. I mainly use it to take portrait photography of my children for a photoblog that I upkeep for relatives and in-laws that are out-of-state.

Never had a problem with the camera or the quality of photos it produces, but you know, I wouldn't mind higher quality pictures. I was told I don't necessarily need to upgrade to a whole new(er) camera, but just find a higher quality lens for my D100. I'd like to search Craigslist for compatible lenses for my D100, but the problem is I'm really not that savvy to know what I should be looking for in upgrading the lens.

Any help?
 
Start with a 'Nifty Fifty' - all the big manufacturers make a neutral-perspective 50mm, F1.8 (very bright/short DOF) lens.

I think they finally crept up to about $120 new, you should be able to get a used one for $60-$80, but I think I'd just get a new one and be secure with a warranty.

A great way to get a big F-stop lens without breaking the bank - every photographer should have one.

If your budget stretches to it, both Nikon and Canon also make fantastic 85mm F1.8's - just fantastic for portraits - you can make the background totally blur-out when wide open.

http://sfbay.craigslist.org/pen/pho/4883731027.html
 
So in layman - the shorter the lens, the better for portraits?
 
Yeah the inexpensive Canon version is noisy when it focuses but for my needs and price. Don't care about it.
 
Oh, I see. Actual mechanical noise from the auto-focus. Yeah, I could care less too. :laughing
 
So in layman - the shorter the lens, the better for portraits?
actually quite the opposite. a shorter lens will distort the image where a longer length "flattens" the image.


The best lens for portraits is the 85mm f1.8, but they are around $450

1.4 is better :thumbup but if youre shooting on a crop sensor id stick with a 50mm. the 1.8 vs the 1.4 has very minimal difference
 
Yep, an 85/1.4 will work magic, but a 50/1.8 isn't a bad $100 investment.

Also, the D100 is a very antiquated body at this point. Hell, I'm shooting with a D2x that only cost me $400.
 
I ended up picking up a Nikkor 50mm 1:1.8 off of CL last week for $60, and love shooting with it. It's especially great shooting inside the house, day or night, since the lens lets in so much light without me having to slow the shutter down. Thanks guys! :thumbup
 
Nice lens. I've been shooting with only my 50mm for a year now. Fun challenge.
 
The first lens I bought was a 50. For portraits I actually prefer the 60mm macro, it's sharper than the 50 using autofocus, and you can get in close if you want.
 
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