View Full Version : Digital cameras
I want to get a new digital camera for our next visit to Fl and am looking for advice.
At the moment I've got a Canon powershot S40 and it is fine for most of the things I use it for, but would like to move up a bit now.
I want to look at some digital SLR's, and this may be a really dumb question but do any of the digi cams enable you to take panoramic pictures?
Can you guys recommend some to look at.
Thanks [msnsmile]
Cruella DeVilla
29-10-2005, 20:16
Youv'e seen our camera and although it is bulky it is the best one I have owned Fuji finepix 602pro I think is the name, takes compact flash and smart media and is 6 million pixel but you can drop it to 3 or 1 million also plus video, voice notes etc. We paid about 500 pounds for it 3 years ago, so it will be chaper now I would imagine.
Steve will be able to give you a heads up on this one Rose especially with the panoramic etc. My SLR takes fab panaromic pictures so I would imagine the digital slrs probably do.
I'll do the panoramic bit for you first Rosie, then post a second post with camera thoughts.
For the most part, where a digi (typically a point-and-shoot type digi) has a panorama format it tends to cheat a little. The idea originally stemmed, I think, from the APS format and this did the same.
Inside each digital camera is an image sensor, which is doing exactly the same job as an old photograph negative (or slide). So start by imagining an old photographic negative. Typically they're about an inch long and a little less than that high and they capture that rectangular image.
When the camera switches into panorama mode what it does is effectively mask off the top and bottom third of it's image sensor. This gives it a sensor that is much much wider than it is high, so you get the panoramic aspect ratio.
All well and good so far ... or is it?
If you mask off the top and bottom third of the image sensor aren't you then running at 1/3 resolution, and therefor 1/3 quality.
Alas yes. So it kind of begs the question why bother? If you just shot full frame you would still have that middle third and you could cut it digitally later to produce a panoramic shot. Doing this later gives you more control and usually a better result.
So if you'd be effectively running at 1/3 resolution (1/3 quality) is there a better way?
With a DSL and some point-and-shoots there is.
If you take a series of full frame shots you can re-create the panorama from the set of images. There is heaps of good photo editing software to help with this that will help stitch the images together.
One of the things you have to watch for is the camera changing exposures between each shot. The light levels between each shot will differ so the camera will try to correct this. It can lead to each shot being slightly lighter or darker and it makes the joins stand out. This is where you, the photographer, take over and work out what you think is about the best exposure compromise across the whole panorama. With a DSL you can then turn off all the autoexposure, set it to what you think will give the best result, and shoot away.
The quality is quite astonishing, and so it should be.
Rather than taking, say, a 6 megapixel image detector and only using 1/3 of it (2 megapixels). You are stitching together maybe 6 images each of 6 megapixels. That's a 36 megapixel equivalent. 36mp vs. 2mp. Wowzers!
I tried this out with the Nikon when I was out in Arches last year and John very kindly posted the result to the photo thread as it was too big to upload. If you want to see what's possible it's at http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/topic_16162.asp and it's the bottom photo. It would happily enlarge up to about 6' wide by 2' high. If you look very closely you can see the joins but this is entirely my fault. The exposures are all spot-on but I was using Canon software to stitch together Nikon images and so the software wouldn't do the joining automatically for me, and I didn't quite get it right and left a bit of overlap. If I ever get the time to fix it and do the job right it will be quite a nice photo.
Thanks Steve, I knew you would talk sense [msnsmile2]
And WOW that panorama is AMAZING [clap][clap][clap] so now, about your rates for doing my pics and I'll forget buying a new camera.... [msnwink]
Post 2 Rosie - DSLRs.
I apologise in advance to everyone I'm about to upset with the next sweeping statement because there are heaps and heaps of good products out there, and I'm about to do almost all of them a complete dis-service without ever even having held them. Sorry!
If it were me, I wouldn't look at anything that didn't say Nikon or Canon on it.
There. Said it.
The reason behind the rather sweeping statement stems mostly from personal experience of both Nikon and Canon kit, but also from watching what the pros use. Nikon and Canon more than any other imaging companies have an incredibly dominent position in the pro marketplace. They haven't achieved this because they are cheap, or because their products look pretty or come with a nice looking box. They are there because the products perform. Over and over again.
Choosing between them is difficult, and for the most part I'd say it will come down to which feels the most comfortable when you hold it and play around with it. I find them both pretty much as easy to handle. Which is best? Nikon vs. Canon discussions seem to run for ever on the photo forums so I don't think there is an answer. From what I read Canon usually have a slight edge in terms of technology (more megapixels and twiddly bits) whereas Nikon tend to have a slight edge on the optical quality of their lenses. You do pay for that quality though, and it ain't cheap. Either one you will be incredibly happy with.
In terms of products, I have a Nikon D70 and I'm still over the moon with it. It's excellent. End of. The Canon equivalent is probably the EOS 20D. That's also excellent. End of.
If those are a bit pricey for you I think the next closest contenders would be a Nikon D50 vs. Canon EOS 350D. Both still excellent.
As a last thought, if you want to get serious about your photography, start saving up for lenses. We all tend to think about cameras with all their gizmos, widgets and megapixels, but the words of my old photography teacher still ring clear in my ears. The lens takes the photo; the camera is only there to hold the film.
Thanks Steve. The Nikon D70 and the Canon EOS 20D are a bit more than I wanted to pay [msneek].... I don't like Al THAT much :D:D:D
I like the look of the Nikon D50 though, so I'll take a trek to a camera shop to have a play with it and probably come back with more questions [msnwink]
chrisflowers
29-10-2005, 22:34
I agree with Steve, as I have a Nikon D100 which I bought for my daughter's wedding nearly 2 years ago.
You still need a point and shoot - like my Nikon coolpix - so that you don't need to carry around your bulky SLR camera with all the extra lenses/flash etc.
One of the good things about the DSLR systems Rosie is that most of the bits are interchangable within the same brand. So if you go for a D50 and then start to build up a collection of lenses (a life's task) then decide to upgrade the camera the existing lenses just attach to the new body. Flash systems and other goodies are mostly the same. It lets you spend the money where it's most important (the lens) and only have to worry about upgrading the camera when you start pushing it beyond its limits.
There are some places that will rent you a lens if you have a specialised need. You might ask when you'd ever need to do this, but suppose you were going on a safari one year. You might prefer to rent that 400mm f/2.8 with a TC20 rather than shell out £7,500 for a lens you're only likely to use for two or three weeks.
Hi Rosie
I treated myself to the Nikon D50 in the summer and have been have been very pleased with it. It may not have all the features of the D70, but then i doubt I am a good enough photographer to be able to use them fully. The D50 is easy to use, and produces good quality photographs. I'm not too sure that buying the camera in the US gives you any savings, may be worth checking out the prices on UK and US websites and comparing.
We did that with our original SLR many years ago, upgraded a bit at a time, so being able to do it again sounds like a good idea.
I'll never be in your league Steve, I just like taking photo's for my own enjoyment, but want to be able to experiment a bit more than my Canon Powershot will let me. It's still a good point and shoot though, and its small and compact, so it is always in my bag [msnsmile]
You may want to look at the Minolta 5D which is the newer, lower cost version of the 7D. All the same features as the rest of the DSLR's with the exception that it has an anti-shake built into the body of the camera so that any lens you attach now has this function.
Regards Dave (Fuji S550 and Minolta 7D)
Thanks Chris and Dave, for your advice.
Chris I want to buy it here so that I can play around with it before we go
[msnsmile]
Cruella DeVilla
30-10-2005, 13:53
My first SLR was a Minolta, infact my current SLR is also a minolta and it is a great piece of kit, but unfortunately it is just sitting gatering dust since we went digital 4 years ago, shame really.
Mine too CDV. A 7xi. And a smashing piece of kit it was (and still is) too.
I also had a 7xi and with all the extras which is why I waited for the Minolta 7D. Only thing I really need now is a very wide angle lens as my 24mm has become a 35mm on the digital. Still it's something to shop for on the next visit.
I will attach a photo I took about 3 weeks ago from the side of a ship, at night. It shows some lava flowing out of a volcano in Hawaii down into the sea, where it bring up clouds of steam. The actual image is 6MB so this is a cut down version but it does show what the anti-shake can do as this was hand held and nearly 2 sec exposure.
Regards Dave
http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/DaveL/2005103015436_vol1.JPG
I've got a Nikon coolpix and a Canon EOS. After a previous thread here I was told that you only have to get a new digital body for you old SLR, I didn't realise that, what a moron, of course you don't get didital lenses. Duuuuuuhhh. ([msnembarrased]I was so embarrassed.)
However, onwards and upwards, there's no fool like an old fool, best foot forwards, etc. etc.
I fully intend to buy a new digital body, (lord knows I could do with a new body) however.. if you have a decent digital, and I think my Nikon is at 7.1 mp, do I really need a digital SLR? how much better will my pictures be? They are just so good with the little Nikon.[msntongue]
I am looking for a wide angle lens for my Nikon Coolpix 4300 but have failed miserably so far. Has anyone got any ideas[?]
walden64
03-11-2005, 11:16
I am looking to buy a new digital SLR and was so pleased when Rosie made this post.
Can anyone tell me which are the best web sites to order from or would it be better going into a conventional camera shop?
Michelle
djdigitald
03-11-2005, 11:58
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Macka
I've got a Nikon coolpix and a Canon EOS. After a previous thread here I was told that you only have to get a new digital body for you old SLR, I didn't realise that, what a moron, of course you don't get didital lenses. Duuuuuuhhh. ([msnembarrased]I was so embarrassed.)
However, onwards and upwards, there's no fool like an old fool, best foot forwards, etc. etc.
I fully intend to buy a new digital body, (lord knows I could do with a new body) however.. if you have a decent digital, and I think my Nikon is at 7.1 mp, do I really need a digital SLR? how much better will my pictures be? They are just so good with the little Nikon.[msntongue]
[/quote]
So what you are saying Macka is i only need to get a Digital body for my existing SLR (Minolta Dynax Maxxum 303si). I have a few lenses so if i can utilise them the better! Anyone recommend a Minolta DSLR Body for my existing SLR?
I do miss using my SLR.
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by djdigitald
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Macka
I've got a Nikon coolpix and a Canon EOS. After a previous thread here I was told that you only have to get a new digital body for you old SLR, I didn't realise that, what a moron, of course you don't get didital lenses. Duuuuuuhhh. ([msnembarrased]I was so embarrassed.)
However, onwards and upwards, there's no fool like an old fool, best foot forwards, etc. etc.
I fully intend to buy a new digital body, (lord knows I could do with a new body) however.. if you have a decent digital, and I think my Nikon is at 7.1 mp, do I really need a digital SLR? how much better will my pictures be? They are just so good with the little Nikon.[msntongue]
[/quote]
So what you are saying Macka is i only need to get a Digital body for my existing SLR (Minolta Dynax Maxxum 303si). I have a few lenses so if i can utilise them the better! Anyone recommend a Minolta DSLR Body for my existing SLR?
I do miss using my SLR.
[/quote]
Yes, despite my spelling I think that's what I was saying, I'm not sure about the interchangeability of 35mm SLR lenses and bodies but I guess you could use just about any lens from your old 35mm SLR on any new Digital camera body. Can someone confirm? I know how stupid the question is, but I only have one lens and even with my old SLR It stayed on auto most of the time, because for important photo's I didn't want to risk playing around with it, and to experiment, the film and developing is too expenisive. Now then it's just occurred to me, Whooo Hooooo! you don't need film with a digital!! You can practice till your fingers drop off!![msnsmile2]
That's made my mind up for me.
djdigitald
03-11-2005, 12:46
I always loved using an SLR as i found you could get superb shots without realy trying and absolutely superb shots with a little bit of know how. I always wanted to get a digital SLR and i think i am going to start looking heavily for on especially if i can use my lenses that i already have. [msnsmile2]
Hi Rosie
We purchased a Canon Ixus 700 while out in Florida last although they are not called Ixus in the USA, went to Bestbuys on OBT. Excellent service. Camera very easy to use and takes fab pics.
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Ruth
I am looking for a wide angle lens for my Nikon Coolpix 4300 but have failed miserably so far. Has anyone got any ideas[?]
[/quote]
Ruth, I've got the Coolpix 7MP version it's quire new, but I don't think you can get lenses for them can you? I hope so but i'm sure you can't. Can anyone enlighten us?
Nikon WC-E68 Wide Angle Converter Lens for Coolpix 4300 & 5000 Digital Cameras
Features:
Dimensions: 2.60 x 1.31 inches
Minimum Range:Coolpix 5000: 10.6 in. Coolpix 995/990: 5.51 in. Coolpix 950: 5.91 in. Coolpix 900: 3.15 in. Coolpix 885: 3.94 in. Coolpix 880: 6.30 in. Coolpix 5000:Coolpix 800: 5.51 in. Coolpix 700: 5.12 in.
Combined Focal LengthCoolpix 5000: 19mm(35mm equivalent) Coolpix 995 990 950 900s 900 885 880 800: 26mm (35mm equivalent) Coolpix 700: 24mm (35mm equivalent)
Angle of View Coolpix 5000: Approx. 99 degrees Coolpix 995 and 950: Approx. 82 degrees Coolpix 990: Approx. 81 degrees Coolpix 900s/900: Approx.84 degrees Coolpix 885/880: Approx. 81 degrees Coolpix 800: Approx. 82 degrees Coolpix 700: Approx. 84 degrees
Weight: 6.7 ounces * The UR-E6 Adapter is required to use the following Lenses and Accessories with the CoolPix 5000 Digital Camera
This is currently selling in the U.S. for around $140.
Regards Dave
http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/DaveL/2005113191956_lens.jpg
http://nikonimaging.com/global/products/digitalcamera/slr/d200/index.htm
I only spotted this today, I think it's only been officially announced within the last day or two.
Oh boy! Nice kit. Some very serious competition for the EOS 20D.
I've already found my reason why I need one. It does in-camera multi-exposures (which my D70 doesn't) and I've been wanting to try some of them with the Epcot fireworks. I have. Really. Honest. I haven't just made that up as a reason for buying one of these. Honest. Really! [msnwink]
Uh huh, we believe you Steve :D
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by DaveL
Nikon WC-E68 Wide Angle Converter Lens for Coolpix 4300 & 5000 Digital Cameras
Features:
Dimensions: 2.60 x 1.31 inches
Minimum Range:Coolpix 5000: 10.6 in. Coolpix 995/990: 5.51 in. Coolpix 950: 5.91 in. Coolpix 900: 3.15 in. Coolpix 885: 3.94 in. Coolpix 880: 6.30 in. Coolpix 5000:Coolpix 800: 5.51 in. Coolpix 700: 5.12 in.
Combined Focal LengthCoolpix 5000: 19mm(35mm equivalent) Coolpix 995 990 950 900s 900 885 880 800: 26mm (35mm equivalent) Coolpix 700: 24mm (35mm equivalent)
Angle of View Coolpix 5000: Approx. 99 degrees Coolpix 995 and 950: Approx. 82 degrees Coolpix 990: Approx. 81 degrees Coolpix 900s/900: Approx.84 degrees Coolpix 885/880: Approx. 81 degrees Coolpix 800: Approx. 82 degrees Coolpix 700: Approx. 84 degrees
Weight: 6.7 ounces * The UR-E6 Adapter is required to use the following Lenses and Accessories with the CoolPix 5000 Digital Camera
This is currently selling in the U.S. for around $140.
Regards Dave
http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/DaveL/2005113191956_lens.jpg
[/quote]
Whoaaaaaaa! coooool! Can I get one for my Coolpix 7600? and how does it fit on? Do you zoom the lens out and pop it on?
I'm not sure if you can get this type of converter for the 7600. My memory not perfect but I cannot recall there being any mounting threaded either inside or outside the lens. Some people put and extension tube into a body mount so that when the lens extends it comes up to the pre mounted converted. I would go into your local photo shop and ask if they have anything like this for your model.
Regards Dave
Thanks Dave, I'll check Nikon's website, see if that turns one up.
Paul.
caroline
04-11-2005, 13:15
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Ruth
I am looking for a wide angle lens for my Nikon Coolpix 4300 but have failed miserably so far. Has anyone got any ideas[?]
[/quote]
Ruth, as you know we have the same camera as you. We bought a wide angle lens from a shop on the 192 a few years ago (literally the week after we bought the camera. The shop is called 192.com Cameras (or something like that)
The lens was recommended by the guy in the shop and we've been really pleased with it. It's a Bower Titanium Digital Super wide 0.42X - give me a call if you want to have a play with it when you're next down our way.
Great, thanks Dave and Caroline:)Looks like we will have to wait until we are in the US to get one as I just can't find a stockist over here. Wayne wanted it asap to take some better photos of work for our website.
Caroline, are you home already? Hope you had a great time[8D]
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Ruth
Great, thanks Dave and Caroline:)Looks like we will have to wait until we are in the US to get one as I just can't find a stockist over here. Wayne wanted it asap to take some better photos of work for our website.
Caroline, are you home already? Hope you had a great time[8D]
[/quote]
Ruth, The Nikon uk website shows the lens and has main stockists, that might help.
Can't have lenses for mine, despite being a new model.[msnsad]
Thanks Macka, I will go and check out their website. I am sorry that you can't get a lens for yours:(
Okay I found it:)£140 in the UK, I think I may wait until I get to the US;)
eagleydo
04-11-2005, 15:46
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Snapper
http://nikonimaging.com/global/products/digitalcamera/slr/d200/index.htm
I only spotted this today, I think it's only been officially announced within the last day or two.
Oh boy! Nice kit. Some very serious competition for the EOS 20D.
I've already found my reason why I need one. It does in-camera multi-exposures (which my D70 doesn't) and I've been wanting to try some of them with the Epcot fireworks. I have. Really. Honest. I haven't just made that up as a reason for buying one of these. Honest. Really! [msnwink]
[/quote]
Steve, go for it! we love your photos so we feel you should treat yourself to this as a reward for making us happy by displaying your wonderful shots.:D
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Ruth
Okay I found it:)£140 in the UK, I think I may wait until I get to the US;)
[/quote]
Ok as a special deal for you, today only how about £81 inc vat[msncool]
I have sent a DM with the web site
Regards Dave
http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/DaveL/2005114152454_Snap1.jpg
caroline
04-11-2005, 19:29
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Ruth
Great, thanks Dave and Caroline:)Looks like we will have to wait until we are in the US to get one as I just can't find a stockist over here. Wayne wanted it asap to take some better photos of work for our website.
Caroline, are you home already? Hope you had a great time[8D]
[/quote]
Yes we're home[msncry][msncry] - I think the lens was about $90 but it was a few years ago and I have trouble remmebering what happened this morning[msnembarrased] - but we are really pleased with it.
Thanks very much Dave :)
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by DaveL
Ok as a special deal for you, today only how about £81 inc vat[msncool]
I have sent a DM with the web site
Regards Dave
[/quote]