mike_mahoney

PhotoNet is not all that bad, but it is down from time to time, and

it�s not the easiest site to move around in. It would be a

consideration if were are unable to maintain the site as is, or with

some changes as to fees or funding if required.

<p>

Deans' point about critical mass is a good one. Usefilm.com is a good

site among many good sites - and all photography sites are constantly

looking to increase their traffic/memberships. Altafs� offer is kind,

but I�m sure we would be welcomed at other sites as well - the

important thing here is to maintain our critical mass, and to try to

continue with the forum in it�s current form, or as close as possible

I'd agree with the previous post - wait until you're wishing you had

a wider lens or longer lens for specific applications. I often needed

a wider lens for exteriors, and certainly for interiors while using a

90, so my next lens will probably be a 72.

The next "logical step" for you will probably be different, depends

on your requirements and work. Wait until you find yourself saying "

If only I had an XXmm I could make this shot" a few times, then start

to shop.

The Lowepro bags ARE very good, and the harness system on the larger

bags make them seem almost weightless, which is a good thing, as a

Phototrekker AW is around 7lbs. The only complaint I have about the

bags is the way you need to put the bottom of the bag on the ground

to get full access to the inside - that same bottom is next to your

back when carrying, and picks up moisture and dirt, which of course

ends up on your back as well.

<p>

But I've used a Lowepro AW Phototrekker for the past three years, and

it's the best I've found for larger kits.

Sal, there is a LF forum on photo.net, but the link I posted is not

valid, it must be one of those addresses that changes with each post.

Try going to the main Photo.net page, then "community", "discussion

forums", "general photography", then scroll down the page to the

large format section. I'll try the link again, but if it's no good,

just follow the above.

http://www.photo.net/bboard/q-and-a-one-category?

topic_id=23&category=Large%20Format

A LF forum already exists on photo.net, I'd guess any arrangement

with them may involve uniting the two forums, check here to see

content:

<p>

http://www.photo.net/bboard/q-and-a-one-category?

topic_id=23&category=Large%20Format

As I type this reply, photo.net is down, a not uncommon occurance.

I'd like to see this forum continue in its current commercial free,

informative and mature style. Moving to a hosting service such as

Yahoo or Photo.net will necessarily threaten these qualities, but if

the first alternative is not too much work it would be my preference.

Agree with the above Arca answer. Discovery set up in the field is

simply taking out of bag, placing on tripod and focusing.

Boy, some of you guys work quick - 100+ shots per day!!!

<p>

Jennifer, your Discovery can be broken down to a failry small size,

as you probably already know. Should be able to fit into a smaller

backpack, so why not carry on? You remove two of travels' biggest

questions - will my luggage arrive with me?, and if so - will it be

in one piece?

<p>

You didn't mention the whole size of your kit in terms of lenses,

meters, etc., so maybe it's really NOT possible, but I'd try it

first.

Andy, this question appears from time to time, and the above-

mentioned McGrath book seems to get the most votes each time.

Thanks for the responses, I really appreciate the information - as a

point of clarification, I had contacted them over a period of eight

to nine months after the initial samples, thus moving the time period

from my last contact with them to the actual use of the image to be

about sixteen months. Also, although my contact person is no longer

with the firm, at least one other senior person was aware of my

initial agreement with them, although not directly involved. My gut

tells me they are trying to get something for nothing, and it's not a

simple clerical error or not knowing where the image originated.

<p>

I've decided to invoice them for the image, with a covering letter

outlining copyright, asking for the return of the other samples, and

state no further use of any images without prior arrangement. If I

don't receive payment in 90 days it's off to the lawyers. Some of you

may see me as softhearted, but I'd still like to give them a chance

to pay up before going legal.