mike grossman

<p>Courierware photo bags are high quality messenger bags with padded inserts. They don't look like a photo bag, they're understated, and keep equipment safe. What more could you want?</p>

<p>I'd like to know if anyone has used Nikon glass on an E-P1. This seems very possible as the converters exist, but I haven't heard reports of usage or seen images.</p>

<p>I've reached a point in my photography where I feel comfortable with many technical aspects of portraiture - in particular, lighting. I consider myself a Strobist disciple, for what it's worth. I have the chance to take a great photo - a grandmother surrounded by her four grandchildren, all four years old and under. I'm not so interested in taking everyone to the park or lining everyone up against a piece of seamless, throwing up a couple of umbrellas, and clicking away. The problem is, however, is that I'm at a loss for what else to do.</p>

<p>Where do others go when they're feeling a need to be inspired or to get some unique ideas, particular for portrait and lighting purposes? I'd like to take a very ordinary subject - a grandmother with grandchildren, and turn it into something a bit unique and different...</p>

<p>And what if the OP (or me) were looking for a sub $700 FX zoom? What would the collective recommendations be?</p>

<p>I used to have a bag problem. I'd buy and sell them - continually looking for the perfect bag. I was hopeless.</p>

<p>Until, that is, I bought a Courierware bag. For walking around, I think they can't be beat. They get little attention, but they're certainly worth a look - especially if you like messenger-style bags that you sling over your head and shoulder. </p>

<p>I purchased the "medium" size camera bag - which is the largest camera bag they offer - and I regularly use it to carry a D700 with prime attached and up to four additional primes in the bag with various other accessories. </p>

<p>http://courierbags.com/objects/20.itml/icOid/20</p>

<p>I used to have a bag problem. I'd buy and sell them - continually looking for the perfect bag. I was hopeless.</p>

<p>Until, that is, I bought a Courierware bag. For walking around, I think they can't be beat. They get little attention, but they're certainly worth a look - especially if you like messenger-style bags that you sling over your head and shoulder. </p>

<p>I purchased the "medium" size camera bag - which is the largest camera bag they offer - and I regularly use it to carry a D700 with prime attached and up to four additional primes in the bag with various other accessories. </p>

<p>http://courierbags.com/objects/20.itml/icOid/20</p>

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<p>I looked for a long while but eventually settled with the Camdapter for my D700. Sturdy, functional, comfortable. Completely recommended.</p>

<p>I've had the 40mm for about a week now and it's a pleasure to use. I can only compare it to the 35/2 that I also own. I find that I'm thinking more about my photography with the manual focus of the 40mm. It's compact and feels totally solid. It's an inconspicuous lens.</p>

<p>For everyday use, the 40mm remains on my camera. From my perspective , somewhere in between 35mm and 40mm resides the demarcation of wide and normal. Unless I need the wide for a specific purpose, I enjoy the normal view that the 40mm affords.</p>

<p>Try a prime. Any of the 85mm or 50mm primes should make you say "wow" beyond what the zoom did.</p>

<p>In addition to all of their marvelous qualities, dogs are simply wonderful subjects. Their eyes, their hair, their movement. They give us so much and, to photographers, they give us practice. In this shot, I think Belmont is saying, "Again? Oh... you got a new lens, huh? Okay, I'll sit here for one second, but then I'm off to go bark at something."</p><div></div>

<p>I was using a Nikon D700. Was shooting up to ISO 2000 in the church with nice results.</p>

<p>I just shot my first baptism today and this thread was very helpful. All I own are primes and I had thought about renting a 24-70/2.8 zoom. But, in the end, all I needed was my 35/2. The speed gave me great shots and the size made me less conspicuous than if I had a big zoon poking in the goings-on. Before shooting I asked the Priest if I could go in certain areas and I think he appreciated my concern.</p>

<p>Prime prime prime. Small and light. They're like microwave ovens - once you get one, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it. :-) On my D700 I enjoy my 35/2 lots. For something a bit different you might also consider the very compact and manual focus Voigtlander 40/2. I just ordered one today - can't wait to get it.</p>

<p>I don't think you're missing anything. I think, unfortunately, it should be returned or serviced.</p>

<p>I would look for a used two ring Nikon 80-200 2.8. If you keep out a keen eye here or on other web resources for finding used eqiupment, you can find a clean one for around $650. I think this would be the best option.</p>

<p>Dave S - I like your website. Can you share with us how you did it?</p>

<p>I use Smugmug and Zenfolio. I think that Zenfolio can have a more professional looking appearance straight out of the box. Although I use Smugmug for my personal photos and I like their service, modifications are challenging for one unfamiliar with CSS. I plan on linking to a Zenfolio portfolio from my iWeb created webpage on my own domain name. I do my best to avoid HTML and CSS at all costs...</p>

<p>Good answer - the Internet.<br>

Also a good answer - Elsa Dorfman. It's about the subjects, not the equipment. Capture the humanity...</p>

<p>How big can collections in Lightroom get? I understand (I think ) that the Lightroom database references photos from their original hard drive location, but is there a practical limitation before the database grinds to a halt? Perhaps it's relative to CPU and RAM?</p>

<p>I donated because I find value in what Photo.net and this incredible community of photographers have to offer. It's a payback to help with maintenance and keeping this place in order. Look around a while... perhaps you'll feel the same way after you become more acquainted with this wide and deep resource.</p>

<p>I've recently purchased a Courierware bag that I really love. Their medium sized one - the largest they make in a camera bag format - will hold what you've described. I find it perfect for wearing on my shoulder or slung across my body like a messenger bag, which is what it essentially is. Getting my camera, while wearing the bag, is very easy. The biggest downside is the price. But I'm confident that this bag will feel "right" for a long while...<br>

<br /> http://courierbags.com/</p>

<p>Regardless of the D80 or D90, I would recommend a Sigma 30mm f/1.4 lens, if you can afford the price. It's fast, solid and sharp. Although not a zoom, this focal length is standard and will give an excellent beginning and introduction to your first dSLR. My second choice would be a Nikon 35mm f/2 lens. Let your feet be your zoom. Have fun!</p>

<p>Much of what you're asking will depend upon the room where you'll be shooting. What's the available wall look like? How big is the room? Is there any available natural light? That being said, I would use the 50mm lens as it will most closely resemble a traditional protrature focal length on your D90. Certainly get the flash off the camera if possible. Without question, though, browse the sections here on portraits and flash photography - they're under the LEARNING tab. I've learned much from these articles and comments that follow.</p>

<p>I like my Kata 467. It's got everything you mention, plus a compartment for your laptop or other similarly sized materials.</p>

<p>That being said... I'm selling it. I realize I don't really need a backpack for my photo equipment. But if I needed one, this would be it! :)</p>