bwfotograf

<blockquote> <p>Thank you all for the comments. Time to save up! :(</p> </blockquote> <p>No, no, no. unless you have a bad copy of the 7100, it's you. You need to learn to use your camera and that's OK. Very few people pick up a complex, modern-day dSLR and understand every nuance of it's operation. FF is not necessary unless you need superb dynamic range, high-iso quality (greater than 1600) and/or you make BIG prints. There are TONS of pro sports and wildlife photographers using crop-frame rigs and producing results.</p> <p>First, learn how to set-up AF-ON with your D7100. It's a GAME CHANGER for action:<br /><a href="http://www.backcountrygallery.com/photography_tips/af-on-and-back-button-autofocus/">http://www.backcountrygallery.com/photography_tips/af-on-and-back-button-autofocus/</a></p> <p>Second, learn off-camera flash and lose that horrible and worthless Fong diffuser. STUDY David Hobby's Strobist blog. Grab a cheap stand, cheap manual flash, cheap triggers, a combo reflective/shoot-through umbrella and PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE. <br /><a href="http://www.strobist.blogspot.com/">http://www.strobist.blogspot.com/</a></p> <p>Third, set up and save, either to U1 or U2 an A-priority mode that you fine tune for ISO and min shutter. Don't know how to do that? Get out your manual. Try max ISO 1600 and min shutter 1/125 to start. Make notes of what speed you need to stop various forms of action. This mode coupled with back-button AF-ON will turn you into a SUPERSTAR.</p> <p>Fourth, be honest with yourself about your ability to handle the camera. Using AF-S, half-shutter focusing and recomposing takes SKILL not to shake and move and blow your shot. You have to BREATHE right, no different than if you were firing a rifle.<br /> <br />I've shot my entire port (<a href="http://bwfotograf.500px.com">bwfotograf.500px.com</a>) with a consumer D7000 and consumer-grade FX lenses (70-200/4G, 85/1.8G, 24-85/3.5-4.5G VR, 50/1.4D) My D7K is my first dSLR and I just got started two years back. I have practiced, studied and practiced some more. This isn't hard, and it shouldn't bring you so much grief, but you do need to know where to find the best info to help you enjoy your camera.</p> <p>Best of luck!<br /> Brad</p>