nicholas_fiduccia1

<p>Hi Jennifer, Pentax makes good equipment of very good value. For people that like primes, Pentax offers a pretty complete line-up that is really hard to beat. I am a landscape photographer that needs the weather-sealing Pentax offers as well as their large range of available lenses.<br>

If you want us to help you on your upgrade, please tell us what kind of pictures you shoot or possibly want to shoot in the future. Most photographers today do not necessarily need to buy an DSLR. This wasn't always the case just a few years ago when one of the only ways to get better image quality was buying a DSLR to gain access to a large sensor. Today, even the small sensor on the mirrorless Olympus EM5 can give the APS-C sensors a run for their money. It is compact, weather-sealed, has amazing IBIS, and has a pretty good lineup of lenses in its system.<br>

For those who shoot fast action sports or wildlife pictures, a DSLR is of great value with the ability to do tracking once the target has been acquired. Nikon and Canon cameras are especially good at providing instruments that appeal to this type of photographer.<br>

The DSLR technology is mature, there are a lot of choices available and Pentax is one of the players that puts out great value. For example, the K30 would be a great upgrade path for you should you decide to stay with Pentax. No other camera manufacture will be able to put out a comparable camera at the same price point. Check out the Canon T4i vs the Pentax K30 and you will see what I mean. Both these cameras are priced identically.<br>

However, the new mirrorless cameras today have the ability to take incredible photos and they are far less bulky than their DSLR counterparts. You should consider them as well.<br>

By the way, do not follow the crowd as usually they do not buy what they truly need, but get what some biased salesperson tells them they need. Do your own homework and you will be a better informed consumer.</p>

<p>>If Pentax made a teleconverter (inexcusable that they don't) you'd have options to get to 600mm with the Pentax system (600mm f/5.6 isn't all that slow of a lens) which I am sure is more than enough for most people besides birders.</p>

<p>That would be a good (optical) trick Justin! A 300f4 fitted with a 2X teleconverter becomes a 600mm f8 lens. I would be happy with a 1.4X converter producing an equivalent 420mm f5.6. Now, if we had a 400mm f4, then a 1.4X would produce a 560mm f5.6! Hey, do you suppose the new 560mm planned is really a 400mm f4 with a built-in 1.4X teleconverter?</p>

 

<p>Hi Ross, I think can think of two cameras that may work well for you and fit your budget. First, the Fuji X10 with a 28-112mm f2-2.8 fast non-removable lens - $600. Even though the camera has a 2/3" sensor, it still takes stunning pictures, even in low-light conditions. It has a basic optical viewfinder that is much larger than the Canon G12 or G1X cameras. It may take you a while to learn how to use this camera so I would get it soon so that you can get in lots of practice. Another camera that may work well for you is the Panasonic G3 w/14-42mm kit lens. These can be had at B&H for about $550 right now. The camera comes with a very nice electronic viewfinder and is small and very light. It may seem flimsy, but I think if you put it in a padded case, it should do well on your bike. Have a great bike adventure!</p>

<p>Hi Ray,<br>

Have a great trip! I do like traveling with primes, the 35 and 85 would be my choice. However, for this perhaps once-in-a-lifetime trip, I would leave the heavy D700 home and take a mirrorless camera - the new OMD EM5 with the 12-50mm lens are both weathersealed. By using one lens, you would prevent dust from getting into the camera. I would also put either the tiny 14/2.5 or 20/1.7 in my backpack as a spare in case the zoom lens gets broken. The camera will be out shortly and has everything you need to bring home decent quality images. You can not always "zoom with your feet" on mountain trails and the 12-50 provide the equivalent of a 24-100mm range, which should meet 95% of your needs. Frame tightly and compose in camera. Are you taking a tripod?<br>

Nick</p>

<p>I think the design is very beautiful in a modern sort or way, but I am concerned with the ergonomics. First, the exposure compensation button is in location that will make it difficult to hold down with your pointing finger and turn the control dial with your thumb while maintaining a tight grip with the right hand. The EC button should have been moved further forward and to the left on the top of the body when viewing the camera from behind. A possible location could be just north of the control dial. The red button can then occupy the previous location of the EC button. This would make the arrangement of buttons around the control dial more symmetrical - (green is to the left, red is to the right and EC is north of the control dial). </p>

<p>The second potential problem is that I hope there is enough room around the grip so that my fingertips do not run out of room as my long fingers wrap around the grip. I am hopeful this will be a non-issue.</p>

<p>I do hope that Pentax brings out the K-02 quickly with an added viewfinder. With the body being so large (in volume) there should be lots of space for a high quality EVF. </p>

<p>Great job Marc and Pentax!</p>

 

<p>I suspect the strategy here will be to pair the K5 with this lens at a greatly reduced price once the initial sales fury tapers down a bit. Perhaps this it to also get more premium from those early adopters of the lens as well as the K5.</p>

<p>Leslie,<br>

I would love Nikon to come out with a $1400 full frame model that is smaller than the D700 - about the size of an F100 or a slightly larger D90. However, Nikon has got to make sure the new model doesn't trash the rest of their product line. <br>

However, Nikon cannot afford to become too stingy with lowering the price and increasing the value (to the consumer) on FF cameras because it they do not do it, someone else will. There's an old saying "It is better to eat your own lunch than having someone else eat your lunch".<br>

In the past Nikon has indeed trashed an upper end model with a more valued lower end. Remember when the D200 camera came out? The D2X was pretty severely trashed, even though that model did have a few advantages over the newer D200.<br>

I think though that Nikon can put out a small simplified FF camera without super-high fps, super-fast autofocus, and other bells and whistles. Let's face it most people are just fine with modest fps and autofocus speeds and simplified user interface. I'm all for Nikon making your FF dream camera!</p>

<p>One more thing. Don't be afraid to do a panoramic using multiple shots. Just remember to lock your exposure for all shots and overlap successive images generously (about 50%). After that, just let the software work it's magic. I use photoshop, but there is probably a lot of lower cost packages out there.</p>

<p>Hi all, I just helped a friend choose his first digital camera (he was a film guy) and we chose a Panasonic G1. He likes it, but the 4/3 sensor in it is not better than the Kx's APS-C. The sensor has a fairly low dynamic range and the high ISO noise is too high, as too be expected for such a small sensor. The EVF is excellent, much bigger and brighter than the mirrored prisms that grace today's inexpensive DSLR. If you have not, I urge you to check out either the G1, G2, or GH1 models to see what the fuss is all about.<br>

I do think that MILC will take a big chunk out of the low to mid-end DSLR markets. Here are the advantages of MILC over DSLRs as I see them:<br>

1) these MILC can be made smaller (mostly thinner) and lighter because lack of mirror and a prism. They are still not pocketable however.<br>

2) contrast-detect focusing is very accurate and doesn't suffer from ff/bf problems in DSLR's. However, contrast detect focusing is slower than phase-detect so, if you need the very fastest focusing, you should stick with a higher-end DSLR. I think for 90% of the people, the focusing speed of the G1 is sufficient.<br>

3) I have seen a lot of bad EVFs, but the ones in the G1/2, and GH1 are fantastic. They maintain their brightness in low light conditions which allows you to see and focus what you are shooting. However, they do get noisy as the light levels drop and they are not so great for following fast action because of the screen refresh.<br>

4) you can shoot at slower shutter speeds because of the lack of a flipping mirror. I'd say about 1 stop slower. The cameras are generally quiet, although the shutter of the G1 is pretty loud. Not as loud as a Kx, but louder than the K7.<br>

5) Manual focusing is helped by automatic magnification of the EVF image. And with the brightness of the EVF, you can actually see what you are focusing on no matter how dark it is.<br>

I think that in 3 years, mirrorless IL cameras will outsell DSLRs. I do hope Pentax sees this trend and makes changes to their business plans!</p>

 

<p>Hi Jerry,<br>

I believe the DSLR will begin to lose dominance in the next few years as the EVIL cameras start to mature. Most people do not need an DSLR, but get talked into them anyway by an overzealous salesperson and the marketing machines of the large camera companies. The AF speed on the m43's cameras is just fine for most purposes and the electronic viewfinders (for those cameras that have them) present the user with a sharp and bright image for composing even when light levels get low. The focus accuracy on the m43's camera is dead on, whereas the DSLRs, because of the complications of phase-detect AF system may suffer from back/front focusing issues.<br>

The EVIL cameras will be entirely adequate for many people and give quality close to the APS-C sensor on digital SLRs at a fraction of the size and weight of traditional DSLRs. Yes, the DSLR manufactures will respond by building smaller cameras (eg. Pentax K7), but they are never going to be able to build a DSLR camera smaller than the Panasonic G1, for instance.<br>

However, DSLRs are still useful for those that require fast autofocus, the ability to follow action quickly, or needs a wide variety of special purpose optics. The best IQ today lies with full frame DSLRs (or medium format DSLRs), but look for someone to introduce a full-frame EVIL camera (I know, there is the M8!) that is smaller than todays DSLRS and will produce superior IQ at a comparable price.<br>

My advice for the original poster is to pick up a Panny G1 at closeout prices (~500). This camera is very small and light, has a very sharp kit lens, and produces images that will satisfy all but the most discriminating photographer. If that camera is too big, there are lots of compacts without interchangeable lenses that may satisfy you. Good luck!</p>

<p>Hi Jerry,<br>

I believe the DSLR will begin to lose dominance in the next few years as the EVIL cameras start to mature. Most people do not need an DSLR, but get talked into them anyway by an overzealous salesperson and the marketing machines of the large camera companies. The AF speed on the m43's cameras is just fine for most purposes and the electronic viewfinders (for those cameras that have them) present the user with a sharp and bright image for composing even when light levels get low. The focus accuracy on the m43's camera is dead on, whereas the DSLRs, because of the complications of phase-detect AF system may suffer from back/front focusing issues.<br>

The EVIL cameras will be entirely adequate for many people and give quality close to the APS-C sensor on digital SLRs at a fraction of the size and weight of traditional DSLRs. Yes, the DSLR manufactures will respond by building smaller cameras (eg. Pentax K7), but they are never going to be able to build a DSLR camera smaller than the Panasonic G1, for instance.<br>

However, DSLRs are still useful for those that require fast autofocus, the ability to follow action quickly, or needs a wide variety of special purpose optics. The best IQ today lies with full frame DSLRs (or medium format DSLRs), but look for someone to introduce a full-frame EVIL camera (I know, there is the M8!) that is smaller than todays DSLRS and will produce superior IQ at a comparable price.<br>

My advice for the original poster is to pick up a Panny G1 at closeout prices (~500). This camera is very small and light, has a very sharp kit lens, and produces images that will satisfy all but the most discriminating photographer. If that camera is too big, there are lots of compacts without interchangeable lenses that may satisfy you. Good luck!</p>

<p>Have you tried the Panasonic G1? Comes with a 14-45mm lens, has a bright & large EVF, lots of external controls laid out in a very logical fashion, and has a 3 inch articulated lcd. A friend just bought a red one for $499 from Amazon (be patient as they have been having this "sale" occasionally. I was very surprised at the beautiful EVF. Check it out!</p>

<p>Well, if you do not need FX, then I would keep the D2X for your base ISO shooting. It is a fine camera and you wouldn't get too much for it. So, if you like it, keep it. To get you good ISO performance and also double as a great travel camera, I would sell the D60 and buy a D90. The D90 has a very nice viewfinder. If you want FX, I would wait until the D700's replacement comes out at which point you can buy either the discounted D700 or the replacement.</p>

<p>Hi Lee, You really should decide what your priorities are. If you are going primarily for photography, then having two DSLRs would be the way to go, along with the supporting heavy lenses. However, by the way you describe it, this seems to be a travel adventure with your wife, emphasis on travel. What I would do in your situation is take 1 SLR, either the D300S or the D90. You can take a D700, but you will limit your reach when using the 70-300 (you do want to get good pictures of penguins, right?). You will have your LX3 for backup, just in case your only DSLR malfunctions or gets stolen.</p>

<p>Now, for lenses. If you get a DX camera, I would get the 16-85 and have that on the camera in a holster case worn in front of you most of the time (even when you are carrying the backpack). This means that you do not have to take your pack off when a photo op presents itself. The 70-300 would be stored in a protective wrap inside your pack. This arrangement gives you fast access to your camera. Of course, the holster case should be big enough to hold your camera and longer lens if you think that that will be an advantage.</p>

<p>If you get a D700, I would get the 24-70 and the 70-300. You could substitute the 80-400 for the 70-300, but we are getting heavy again.</p>

<p>I would definitely take a lightweight tripod. You could also bring along a 35/1.8 too. I wouldn't get anything wider than that. If you feel you a wide view, take a pano series. Make sure you use manual and overlap the frames by 50% or so.</p>

<p>Also, I hesitate on recommending the D90 because it is not weather sealed and this camera needs to last at least 6 months. So, I think you should go with the more robust D300s. Finally, if you are at all open to other makes of cameras, I think the Pentax K7 with 16-50/2.8 and 60-250/4 lenses is the best for the adventure traveler that values small, relatively lightweight, and full weather sealing. </p>

<p>Have a great time!</p>

<p>Hi Keith,<br /> Have you considered an APS-C camera? The reason that I ask is that they are indeed capable of very good quality, certainly to satisfy most hobbiest. It sounds like you want the best bang for the buck sort of camera and for that I would recommend APS-C. The FF cameras are still for the very serious who are willing to put up with heavier equipment at a larger price. I do think the next few years are going to see FF camera prices start to approach a reasonable cost for the common man (or photographer), but it ain't there yet. Kudos to Sony for giving us the first under $2000 FF camera - the A850. For landscapes, I'd recommend at least getting a weather sealed body. The APS-C cameras that meed those requirements are the Nikon D300S or the Pentax K7. Right now the weather-sealed compact K7 is a bargain since it will probably be replaced this fall with the K8. If you like to shoot primes, the Pentax system has them available in spades. Also, if you have any Pentax lenses, they will work on the K7. The heavier Nikon D300S is a very fast camera and will be beneficial is you like to shoot fast action. Nikon has most excellent zooms available. Good luck and good shooting!</p>

<p>You will want the Pentax Kx or the Nikon D5000 or D90. Each of these cameras share the same amazing sony sensor that produced low noise pictures at high ISO.</p>

<p>Wow, I am amazed at the objectivity of most of the posters, especially Andrew Gilchrist. His last post was the most balanced posting I have read in a long time. The only advise I can add is to really consider what lenses you need for the type of photography that you do and then go to a site like B&H photo and see what that lens set will eventually cost. If you like landscape photography, a weather-sealed K7 would provide a great benefit over the D90. On the other hand, if you like bird photography which uses very expensive long glass, the Nikon system may be a better fit for you. The Nikon will probably be better if you shoot a lot of action photography since the D90's AF algorithms are a bit more sophisticated and faster than that of the K7. Either way, they are both great cameras!</p>

<p>Hi Gregory,<br>

I wouldn't advise getting a D90 for landscape/wildlife since the camera is not weather sealed. One of my friends D90s has become an expensive paperweight because of water intrusion while on a shoot near some waterfalls. Buy a D300! </p>

<p>Hi Ron, The K100D, even though a lowly 6MPixels, will indeed make good use of the limited prime quality. The K100D with lithium batteries, the 40/2.8, and the 21/3.2 is just under 2 pounds (901grams) and makes an excellent travel setup. Enjoy!</p>

<p>Have a look at the Pentax K7, especially if you like shooting with primes. Alternatively, the E620 from Olympus with some of their high quality zooms. The advantage to the Pentax system is most cameras in their lineup are weather-sealed where you will need to purchase the Olympus E3 to have the same level of weather-sealing. </p>

Paul, you have a great eye. I love the abstract quality of many of these images. Nice work!

No Lindy, look again! B&H dropped the price $20 (from $789.95 to $769.95) , but they also dropped including a $100 gift card!

Those of you that paid $789.95 including the gift card got a great deal!

Opps. Sorry Erik, I misspelled your first name in my last post. Just call me Nic. :)

 

Nick

Hi Eric,

 

I was expecting to find Jordan somewhere in you picture, but didn't. :( Nice one!

 

Yes, Pentax cameras are very easy to use. The next time that you want to shoot a falls and cannot shoot slow enough, try

one of my favorite techniques. Do a multi-exposure (say three shots same exposure) on a tripod, of course, and the camera

will combine those three shots into one photo. This technique actually increases dynamic range by lowering noise which

helps prevent the highlights from getting blown out. But wait, there's more (!), on a K20D, after you set up the camera to

take the multiple exposure, hit the function button and set the camera to take a 2-second delay. Then, just hit the shutter

button and after a 2-second delay, all 3 of your shots will be taken with just one-push of the shutter. Oh, make sure you

enable "one-push bracketing feature" before you do this. Enjoy! And, thank you for sharing your picture.

 

Nick

Robert, I think both cameras are very good. The Pentax is weather-sealed which means you can shoot in mist/light rain with

no ill-effects. The Nikon is not. Nor does the Nikon have in-body stablization which means you will fork over a pretty penny

paying for VR lenses for the Nikon. The Nikon has video-mode that may come in handy.

 

My advice to you is to consider the lens lineup of both systems. Pentax has high-quality, lightweight, reasonably priced

prime lenses in spades. Do you like shooting with primes? Go with Pentax. However, Nikon has some absolutely amazing

zoom lens (at amazing prices!) so if you like zooms, put together some lens kits from each maker to see what your potential

future costs may run.

 

The Pentax camera are a great value compared to Nikon and Canon for those people willing to live with their strengths and

limitations. You certainly pay a premium with N&C because they are the "big two".

 

If you haven't already read the Canon 50D review on the dpreview website. They compare both the K20D and the D90 to

the camera being reviewed so that you can see the IQ differences (if any).

 

Good shooting!