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c jensen

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Posts posted by c jensen

  1. <p>I have a Gitzo 0541 and love its light-weight and portability. My other setup is a Bogen Manfrotto (a bit heavier), and by comparison I can see where it would be easier to tip over the Gitzo. The Really Right Stuff website recommends that to avoid top-heaviness, the tripod should preferably weigh 2.5X the weight of the ball head. This can be a challenge with the Gitzo models because they are so light-weight.</p>
  2. <p>I started with the Bogen 488RC4, which cost somewhere in the $110 range, then later purchased a Gitzo magnesium ballhead for around $250. The Gitzo release mechanism is easier to work with, but I wouldn't say it justifies the price difference. The Bogen works well, holds a lot of weight, is nicely finished, etc. It's quite possible that I don't know what I'm missing vs the higher ends brands like Arca Swiss, but the Bogen is more than sufficient for my level of skill and frequency of use as an amateur.<br>

    Where I did choose to spend the $ was on the tripod to get the better properties associated with carbon fiber.</p>

  3. <p>You mention you like landscapes at 24mm. Both #1 and #2 on you list are going to have some noticeable barrel distortion at 24mm. Can't speak for the other two on your list. If you're going to use the wide end a lot you'll either need to supplement with a prime or with the reasonably priced 17-40 f/4L or the more expensive 16-35 f/2.8L.</p>
  4. <p>My understanding from reading the manual that came with my 5D Mark ii is that the charger can be used in Europe. The back of mine says "Input: AC 100-240V". I bought a spare on eBay for $120 from someone who looked to be reputable and the battery I received was genuine. One thing to keep in mind if you buy a non-Canon brand battery - if it leaks or explodes Canon isn't going to fix / replace the camera. I'm sure many have had good experiences with these other brands, but Canon posted on their website a message about the risks of knock-offs. Of course they'd love you to buy only Canon, but at least the warning is worth consideration.</p>
  5. <p>JDM's comment on the 5D Mark ii battery is correct. It is not compatible with 5d, 40D, 50D, etc. And if you're thinking of buying this camera (the Mark ii) and want a spare battery, be prepared to shell out over $100 on eBay. They are almost never in stock at B&H, Adorama, and Amazon at the "normal" price.</p>
  6. <p>You'll find the topic of filter vs hood a topic of much debate. My personal preference is to not take the risk of damage to the lens, so I use UV filters. While it costs a bit more, multicoated filters are the way to go. I have used B+W and Hoya (and to a lesser extent Heliopan) and recommend B+W. I've found it more difficult to keep the Hoyas streak-free.</p>
  7.  

    <h2><a href="http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Canon-EOS-Digital-Rebel-XTi-400D-Guide-to-Digital-SLR-Photography/David-D-Busch/e/9781598634563/?itm=11">Canon EOS Digital Rebel XTi/400D Guide to Digital SLR Photography</a> by <a href="http://www.photo.net/search/results.aspx?ATH=David+D.+Busch">David D. Busch</a></h2>

    <p >I found this one to be useful helping me understand enough about the camera and how to use it to be dangerous.</p>

     

  8. <p>I have owned both the Canon 10-22 and the Tokina 11-16. My personal preference is the latter based on build quality and additional flexibility at 2.8. Costs less too. As others point out don't buy either of these if you plan to go to full-frame later.</p>
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