Monday, July 6, 2009

Canon Digital Rebel XSi 12MP Digital SLR Camera (Black Body Only)

For stunning photography with point-and-shoot ease, look no further than Canon's EOS Rebel XSi. The EOS Rebel XSi brings staggering technological innovation to the masses. It features Canon's EOS Integrated Cleaning System, Live View Function, a powerful DIGIC III Image Processor, and a 12.2-megapixel CMOS Sensor with Optical Image Stabilizer. The EOS Rebel XSi's refined, ergonomic design includes a 3.0" LCD monitor, compatibility with SD and SDHC Memory cards and accessories that enhance every aspect of the photographic experience. Image Format - 22.2mm x 14.8mm 3 - 2 Horizontal - Vertical Aspect Ratio Color Filter System - RGB primary color filter Low-pass Filter - Located in front of the image sensor, non-removable Recording Format - Design rule for Camera File System 2.0 Image Format - JPEG, RAW (14-bit Canon original) RAW+JPEG White Balance Settings - Auto, Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Tungsten, White Fluorescent Light, Flash, and Custom Focusing Modes - One-Shot AF, AI Servo AF, AI Focus AF, Manual focusing (MF) Metering Range - EV 1-20 (with EF50mm f/1.4 USM lens, ISO 100) Exposure Compensation - Manual 2 stops in 1/3 or 1/2-stop increments and AEB 2 stops in 1/3 or 1/2-stop increments AE Lock - Automatic when focus achieved with evaluative metering and One-Shot AF, and Manual by AE lock button Shutter Type - Electronically controlled and focal-plane shutter Shutter Speeds - 1/4000 seconds to 1/60 seconds, X-sync at 1/200 seconds, 1/4000 sec. to 30 seconds, bulb Self-timer - 10-seconds, 2-seconds delay or 10-seconds delay plus continuous shooting Brightness Control - 7 levels provided Dimensions - 5.1 x 3.8 x 2.4 (128.8x97.5x61.9mm) Weight - 16.8 ounces (475 grams) body only
List Price: $699.99
Amazon Price: $569.88
Used Price: $499.88
Customer Review: Great features don't mean a thing if it's out of focus
This camera has great features and I really liked it. But unfortunately I had to return it because like many out there, all of my photos were slightly out of focus. I ended up purchasing the Canon Digital Rebel XS instead. I lost a few things, but it was worth it. The XS takes great photos and for the same price I was able to get the camera kit plus an additional 75-300 lens.
Customer Review: Entry level price with mid- to pro-range performance
Like others have said, don't let the "Entry level" tag scare you away from this camera if you are looking for something that will produce stunning images. If you aren't getting great shots with this, it isn't the camera (the user image gallery speaks to that). I've had the chance to use a range of digital cameras in the last few years, ranging from the pro-level stuff like a Canon 1Ds Mk ii to the real entry level SLR's like the Nikon D40 (which I will go ahead and say to avoid if you are looking for an SLR - its not a bad camera at all, but considering the fact that you don't have to spend THAT much more money to get a LOT more camera, it just isn't a real wise investment). I can say straight away that this camera performs beyond its price tag. I needed an SLR that would be good enough to do portrait work, some outdoor sports shots, an occasional wedding but at the same time be something small and lightweight enough to conveniently take with me while hiking, traveling, etc., and not break the bank. This camera does all that and more. Performance is great at low ISO's and the camera produces good shots even at 1600 (the noise reduction features both in camera and with the included raw editing software also help). Obviously it won't produce shots at ISO 1600 that are as good as shots on one of the professional grade cameras like the aforementioned 1D series, but its a HUGE step up from a point and shoot if that is all you have used. My own personal experience is that I usually never need to go above ISO 800 for the low light shooting I do, and the pics I get at that ISO are great without a distracting amount of digital noise. The large LCD screen is a great step up from the smaller ones on previous rebels and menus are easy to navigate. The self-cleaning sensor function works like a charm, but you should still invest in a hurricane blower to in case dust does get on your sensor (an inevitable situation if you use the camera long enough and change lenses). I highly recommend getting a Canon Speedlight external flash (I own the 430 EX II). The built in flash on the camera works fine, but you can do so much more with directional and reflected lighting, and the speedlight flashes give you this opportunity. If you get this camera, don't always rely on a flash for portraits. A steady hand, slightly slower shutter speed and wider aperture with slightly darker natural indoor lighting will produce some stunning portraits that really capture a mood instead of a shot where the flash has drowned out lots of the details. Also, if you want a lens that is great for portraits with nice blurred background (bokeh), you can't beat the value of the f1.8 50mm prime here: Canon - Lens - 50 mm - f/1.8 II - Canon EF The 18-55 mm kit lens is a decent starter lens, but there is no doubt that better lenses will produce better pictures (but you will be spending some serious $$$). Still, if you are looking at your first SLR, this lens will get you lots and lots of great shots. I got the kit at Costco and it came with a Canon camera bag, the 18-55mm lens, and a 55-250 mm IS lens as well (all for $849). Again, both perform admirably for kit lenses. One last thing I want to reiterate - Learn to use the SLR - don't just stick to auto mode and use it as a point and shoot camera. You will be missing out on nearly all of the benefits that really separate SLR's from the others. There is a learning curve, so don't be afraid to take a bunch of pictures while playing with your aperture, shutter, flash, iso, etc., to get a feel for how all work together to produce certain types of images. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.


Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Zoom Lens + Canon Digital SLR Gadget Bag + Accessory Kit for Canon EOS 40D, 30D, 20D, and Digital Rebel XT, XTi SLR Cameras

Kit includes: 1) Canon 18-55mm IS Lens; 2) Canon Digital SLR Gadget Bag; 3) Multi Card Reader; 4) Deluxe Photo/Video Tripod; 5) ImageRecall Digital Image Recovery Software; 6) Memory Card Storage Wallet; 7) Deluxe 6-Piece Lens Cleaning Kit; 8) Universal LCD Monitor Screen Protectors. The Canon EF-S 18-55mm IS zoom lens is designed with Canon's Optical Image Stabilizer which allows sharp hand-held shots at shutter speeds up to four stops slower than otherwise possible. It consists of 11 elements in 9 groups and uses an Aspherical lens element to correct aberration for excellent image quality throughout the zoom range and a circular aperture for exquisite out-of-focus backgrounds. Protect your valuable camera investment with this Canon Brand camera carrying case. The PQI All in 1 Multi Card Reader is a simple solution for transferring images from your memory cards to your computer. It is compatible with both Windows and Mac platforms, and is compliant with high-speed USB 2.0. With the Deluxe Tripod, get increased performance and extraordinarily sharp pictures that will exceed your expectations! Recover lost or deleted images from your memory cards with ImageRecall Digital Image Recovery Software. Keep multiple memory cards protected and organized with this durable storage wallet. The 6-piece cleaning kit contains a Hurricane air blower, lens cleaning tissues, microfiber lens cloth, cleaning solution, a blower brush, and cotton swabs. Keep your digital camera's LCD screen clean and free from scratches with the Universal LCD Monitor Screen Protectors.


Sunday, June 21, 2009

Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 "IS" Lens & EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 "IS" USM Telephoto Zoom Lens + 8GB Deluxe Accessory Kit

Canon's new EOS 50D bridges the gap between the novice and the seasoned pro with a perfect combination of high-speed and quality. It features an APS-C sized 15.1-megapixel CMOS sensor for tremendous images, new DIGIC 4 Image Processor for fine detail and superior color reproduction, and improved ISO capabilities up to 12800 for uncompromised shooting even in the dimmest situations. It features a refined 3.0-inch Clear View LCD (920,000 dots) monitor, supercharged Live View Function with Face Detection Live mode, plus a number of new automatic Image Correction settings and HDMI output for viewing images on an HDTV. +PLUS+ Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS SLR Lens: Canon's latest optical Image Stabilizer (IS) technology provides up to 4-stop compensation for image blur caused by camera shake and slow shutter speeds. Photographers normally shooting handheld at 1/250 sec can switch on IS to obtain a similarly steady and blur-free result with a shutter speed of just 1/15 second. The inclusion of automatic panning detection makes it easier for photographers to track wildlife and other moving subjects. +PLUS+ Canon 70-300mm telephoto zoom lens with f/4.5-5.6 maximum aperture for Canon EOS SLR cameras; # IS (Image Stabilizer)dramatically reduces image blur caused by camera shake. # 3-stop Image Stabilizer for reducing camera shake; ring-type ultra-sonic monitor (USM)# Electro-magnetic diaphragm (EMD) helps create attractive background at large apertures# Super Spectra lens coating and lens element shaping suppresses flare and ghosting. ++PLUS++ 8GB DELUXE ACCESSORY KIT: Loaded with extremely useful accessories.
Price: $3,199.99


Saturday, June 20, 2009

Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera W/ Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 Image Stabilized USM SLR Lens W/ Transcend TS8GSDHC6-S5W 8GB SDHC6 Memory Card W/ Card Reader W/ Samsonite Digital Camera Gadget Bag (Black) W/ Clean & Scratch Free Kit

Canons new EOS 50D bridges the gap between the novice and the seasoned pro with a perfect combination of high-speed and quality. It features an APS-C sized 15.1-megapixel CMOS sensor for tremendous images, new DIGIC 4 Image Processor for fine detail and superior color reproduction, and improved ISO capabilities up to 12800 for uncompromised shooting even in the dimmest situations. It features a refined 3.0-inch Clear View LCD (920,000 dots) monitor, supercharged Live View Function with Face Detection Live mode, plus a number of new automatic Image Correction settings and HDMI output for viewing images on an HDTV. Pick up the EOS 50D and youll experience true digital inspiration! Equivalent to a 28-135mm lens, this new EF-S lens brings true wide-angle to tele coverage to EOS 20D and Digital Rebel shooters. It has Canon's Image Stabilization system, allowing safe hand-holding at speeds up to three stops slower than otherwise possible. And of course, it's optically optimized for digital SLRs. A ring-type USM means both fast and silent AF, as well as full-time manual focus when in the AF mode.


Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Tamron AF 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD IF Macro Lens for Canon Digital SLR Cameras

The SP AF70-200mm F/2.8 zoom lens features a versatile MFD of just 37.4" over the entire zoom range, best-in-class maximum macro magnification ratio of 1:3.1 at f=200mm, and an advantageous internal focusing (IF) system that allow stress-free photography. The new tele-zoom lens covers a desirable focal length range of 70mm medium telephoto to 200mm telephoto when mounted on full-size format SLR cameras and a focal length range from 109mm to 310mm ultra telephoto when mounted on a DSLR camera with an APS-C sized imager. Diameter 3.5 x Length 7.6 (89.5x194.3mm) Weight - 40.6 ounces (1150 grams) without tripod mount
List Price: $1,245.95
Amazon Price: $639.00
Customer Review: Tamron takes Nikon/Canon to the optical wood shed!
With Nikon and Canon throwing buckets of money at Pop Photo and other magazines, it's hard to get a respectable review of a third party lens! And those rabid Canon/Nikon owners, bawling about a little noise during focusing, or a slight click, or it ain't pretty enough,and no built in stabilisation, in their eyes, there isn't anything good with Tamron or other third party lenses when compared to their overpriced lenses, except for the price and optical superiority in some instances on the part of those awful Non-Canon/Nikon lens producers. True a $1,600.00 Canon lens seems unbeatable judging by the price and that pretty white Canon lens look! But I found out the real truth about the Tamron 70-200 F:2.8's side-by-side comparison to the Canon equivalent, and it made the Canon seem like a Vivitar knock-off. To quote the reviewer, the Canon 70-200 F:2.8...had "VISIBLE BARRELING AND PINCUSHIONING" compared to the Tamron 70-200 F:2.8. Later I tried to find that same review for a second look, and Canon had it pulled until another fabrication could come out making them look like the cat's pajamas once more to the camera world at large! I did have a minor aperture problem with my Tamron 70-200, but the company replaced the lens no questions asked. While taking a vacation trip along the Columbia River last Spring, I took a shot of a Tugboat and barge going up river from a mile away,I could almost read the name on the life ring outside the pilot house. The saturation and sharpness of the lens was incredible. Night shots and Portraits and 1:3 macro close-ups are almost too sharp to discribe, and all with my 6MP K100d Pentax. Yes the HSM focusing system on the Canon will outshoot this lens hands down, but if the optics can't take decent architechtural shots without making them look like a barrel or corsette, what does it matter the price? I don't rate a lens by the ambiance or the bokay, but due to my 40 years of artistic and technical knowledge of lenses in general, It took me five months to decide between the Tamron and the Sigma 70-200's build, and the reason for my decision over the Sigma, was that it took five ED glass lenses to correct for chromatics in the Sigma and only two for the Tamron, making it optically better, and this was corroborated by a lens technician of 15 years at another third party lens company who worked with his products and comparing them with all brands of lenses, and grew to understand why the need for ED glass... Why add ED glass? If the chromatics and light transference are high, less correction? See my point? Companies don't like to put ED glass into their lenses because it is expensive! It just sounds good in print, when in all actuality, it means that the Optical Design has need to be tweeked for the light to properly focus on the sensor, without chromatic fringing. So to sum up my diatribe, if you are an ardent amateur photographer or a sharp freelancer, and ain't worried about a little Buzz, click or whirr, when your lens takes a darn sharp photograph, then stick with optical performance, and not a name, look, or extreme price tag when purchasing a new lens. It took Tamron five months to fill all the Nikon/Canon orders before they could start filling the Pentax orders! Go Figure! Doesn't that say something about this F:2.8 70-200 Tamron wonder? So why did I opt for the Tamron lens? Read on! Tamron, Sigma, Tokina, Vivitar, and Soligor have been taking it to Nikon/Canon/Pentax/Olympus and Minolta for years, and if these photo giants had their way, they would like to wave a magic wand, and do away with these third party Optical upstarts...Yesterday!
Customer Review: Best 70-200 for the money and very close to the best optically period!
This lens has never failed to amaze me with it's optical quality. It has a fairly slow AF speed in low light. The build quality isn't vintage Minolta. But, for that matter, what is? It is as solid of a 70-200 that I have felt that isn't all metal (ie. Sony g or vintage Minolta). The optical qualities of this lens match, if not better, any 70-200 on the market and approach that of some of the best Minolta primes. I doubt that the bokeh is as good with this lens as a Minolta prime or G prime. But, you can't have prime bokeh with a zoom lens. That said, I have been using it with a Pro 300 DG 1.4x converter on it and this lens still shines. Put it this way, I have been posting some images of 100% crops on my flickr account lately and it is hard to distinguish these shots from other similar shots of lesser lenses of a longer focal length(500mm'ish) with no TC AND much less of a crop. Yes it is that sharp. If you doubt what I am saying you ought to check out the set of pictures I have taken with it. I am nothing more than an amateur having fun. But, this lens makes me look better than I am. http://www.flickr.com/photos/eightballrj/sets/72157612276294083/


Tuesday, June 2, 2009

Sigma Zoom Super Wide Angle AF 17-70mm f2.8-4.5 DC Macro Autofocus Lens for Canon Digital SLR Cameras

The Sigma 17-70mm f/2.8-4.5 DC Macro Lens can be used with wide variety of subjects and it is an ideal large aperture standard zoom lens for digital SLR cameras featuring APS-C size image sensor. This lens has a minimum focusing distance of 7.9" (20cm) throughout the entire zoom range. Maximum magnification of 1:2.3 enables close-up photography like a macro lens. The new lens design and multi layer lens coating reduce flare and ghosting, which is a common problem with digital cameras. A Special Low Dispersion (SLD) lens and two aspherical lens elements provide excellent correction for all types of aberrations and produce a high level of optical performance throughout the entire zoom range. This lens offers a large aperture of F2.8 at 17mm wide angle and yet it is compact, with an overall length of 82.5mm (3.2") and diameter 79mm (3.1"). It performs superbly even in relatively low light conditions indoors or at dusk. The lens design incorporates an inner focusing system, which ensures fast AF speed as well as prevents the front of the lens rotating, making it particularly suitable for use with circular polarizing filters and petal shaped lens hoods. This lens is also equipped with Zoom Lock Switch that eliminates «Zoom Creep» during transportation.
Price: $479.95
Customer Review: Was not disappointed
I bought the lens about 2 years ago to replace my Tamron 28-200 that just was not sharp enough. I read techical reviews that compared the Sigma to the comparible Canon lens. They said the Sigma was sharper. I can't verify this but the Sigma is quite a good lens and I've made many of my most successful images with it. This and the Canon 100-400 cover about all my photographic needs. The close focus is awesome. You can almost touch your subject and still get accurate focus. As the title said, I was not dissapointed my purchase.
Customer Review: Great Utility Lens
Great affordable lens with a good focal range - ideal "walkabout" lens. Focus is fast and pictures are sharp. I got this predominantly for underwater photos (put in a dome port to give ability for macro and wider angles with a single lens), but also very useful topside.


Saturday, May 30, 2009

Canon Digital Rebel XS 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera (Black) + Canon EF-S 18-55mm IS Lens + Tamron 70-300mm Lens + Spare LP-E5 Battery + 16GB Card + Gadget Bag

Kit includes:
1) Canon Digital Rebel XS
2) Canon 18-55mm Lens
3) Tamron 70-300mm Lens
4) Transcend 16GB HC SecureDigital Class 6 (SDHC) Card
5) Precision Design USB 2.0 High Speed SecureDigital (SD/SDHC) Card Reader
6) Precision Design 1000 Deluxe SLR Pro Carrying Case
7) Spare LP-E5 High-Capacity Lithium-Ion Battery Pack
8) Image Recall Digital Image Recovery Software
9) Precision Design Memory Card Storage Wallet
10) Cameta Microfiber Cleaning Cloth

The Canon EOS Rebel XS Digital Camera incorporates a 10.1 megapixel CMOS sensor; enhanced sensitivity up to ISO 1600; High-ISO Noise Reduction; Auto Image Optimization technology; and a precise 7-point autofocus system. The large, 2.5-inch 230,000 pixel LCD monitor makes it a pleasure to review images and scroll through menus. The Live View feature allows you to frame shots using the LCD screen rather than the viewfinder. Canon's Integrated Self Cleaning System removes dust automatically from the sensor using ultrasonic vibration.

The Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Zoom Lens is designed with Canon's Optical Image Stabilizer technology to allow sharp hand-held shots at shutter speeds up to four stops slower than otherwise possible.

The Tamron 70-300mm f/4-5.6 Di LD Macro Autofocus Lens is a quality, compact ultra tele zoom which covers the 70mm to 300mm telephoto range, with a macro magnification ratio of 1:2 (1/2 life size) at the 300mm setting - ideal for shooting sporting and theatrical events.

Take more high-resolution pictures faster with this 16GB High-Capacity SecureDigital (SDHC) memory card.

The Precision Design 1000 Deluxe SLR Pro Carrying Case will discreetly hold and protect your Digital SLR camera with zoom lens attached, plus 3 extra lenses, flash, and accessories.




Thursday, May 28, 2009

Canon EOS ELAN 7E 35mm SLR Camera Kit w/ 28-90mm Lens

The Canon Elan 7E features the eye-controlled focus system, the fastest means of focusing and metering a photographer can find. By using more focusing points and greater off-center coverage than other cameras in its class, this camera is able to take an exact reading in approximately 1/20 of a second. When a photographer brings the camera to their eye, their glance is tracked by the focusing system, allowing framing and focusing to become a single uninterrupted creative process. An easy one-time calibration is all that's needed to activate the eye-controlled focus system. Once this calibration is complete, the camera is able to precisely detect which part of the viewfinder the photographer is using. It then automatically focuses the lens with amazing accuracy.

This system delivers crisp, sharply focused images whether the camera is in a vertical or a horizontal position. The Canon Elan 7E is even able to store the distinct calibrations of up to five different photographers. Using an EF 300mm f2.8 IS lens, it can track a subject moving at 186 mph until it's a mere 66 feet from the camera. This fast-focus system, combined with the ability to shoot at almost four frames per second, makes the Canon Elan 7E the perfect choice for capturing those demanding sporting events or special occasions when you don't want to miss a single moment. And, considering its continuous shooting speed, the Elan 7E is also remarkably quiet. This feature gives the photographer the opportunity to shoot the perfect wildlife scene without disturbing or scaring the subject.

Part of the Elan 7E's focusing system is the seven-point wide-area autofocus. The eye-controlled focus system was designed to work especially with this precision feature. Seven focusing points are arranged in a wide cross pattern with a central "cross-type" sensor. The wider-than-usual area gives the photographer the ability to achieve a remarkably sharp, focused image instantly. This function works whether the subject is off-center, stationary, in motion, in low light, or even in low-contrast situations. The shot will still come out sharp and crisp, and without the need to recompose the shot. By using the focusing-point selection keys, the user is able to select any of the seven focus points simply by pressing a key. Representing a bold innovation in speed and usability, this feature gives an additional amount of image control back to the photographer.

A highly advanced metering system, comprised of 35-zone evaluative metering sensors, is linked to the seven focusing points. Whether shooting indoors or outside, day or night, a seamless integration of exposure and focus ensures remarkable clarity and contrast in any image. This system gives the photographer accurate control over situations that combine light and shadow or that feature strong backlight. When metering subjects against very dark or very bright backgrounds, partial-area metering measures 10 percent of the viewfinder around the chosen focusing point. This provides accurate image results when dealing with shadows or highlights. The photographer can also use the Elan 7E's center-weighed metering function. This mode places greater emphasis on what it reads as the center of the frame by measuring the entire scene. No matter which function the photographer chooses, precision metering is guaranteed--whether the camera is in a vertical or horizontal position.

Giving the photographer even more creative control is the command dial. This allows manual-control light, speed, aperture, and depth of field. Shutter priority lets the photographer choose the shutter speed, while the Elan 7E automatically selects the correct aperture. This function is especially useful when capturing action shots. With aperture priority, the photographer picks the aperture setting while the camera chooses the correct shutter speed. This is helpful when control over the depth of field is essential. Using the eye-controlled focus system to define the "sharp zone," the photographer can calculate the precise depth of field automatically. It's even possible to check the depth of field using the preview button.
List Price: $900.00
Used Price: $349.00
Customer Review: Absolutely Phenomenal 35mm
This is an absolutely great camera. Out of the 35mm's, it is the best model (in my opinion) and has some features desired in professional models. Very fast shutter speed, different shooting modes, DOF preview and many other features lead up to the cameras spectacular picture clarity (I shoot with a Tamron Lenses). You Will NOT regret this purchase
Customer Review: Best of all
Talk about bang for your buck. This camera has everything you'd expect from a mid-range camera and some you usually only find on high-end cameras. The eye control focus works great though you do need to calibrate it many times in different lighting conditions. The controls are well placed and easy to use. The custom functions are relatively simple to set and allow you to customize how the camera operates. Functions like the true mirror lock-up and the 4 fps advance speed help place this camera securely in the top ranks of its class. The thing that surprised me the most was the near silent operation. Even on rewind you can only hear it if you place your ear near the body (unless of course you choose to rewind at the faster speed). Of course there are options I'd love to see added like a PC cable port and an interchangeable focusing screen but thats why there are pro class cameras. Like I said before, this camera is hard to beat for the price.


Thursday, April 23, 2009

Canon EF 15mm f/2.8 Fisheye Lens for Canon SLR Cameras

Love the fisheye effect? Turn to the Canon EF 15mm fisheye lens, which offers an ultra-wide 180-degree angle of view for capturing scenes well beyond your natural field of vision. As with all fisheye lenses, the 15mm provides a ton of unique and interesting effects, with a minimum focusing distance of 8 inches giving new meaning to close-up shots. Best of all, the lens is tack-sharp throughout its entire focus range. The lens--which includes a fixed petal-type hood and a built-in rear filter holder that holds up to three gel filters at once--carries a one-year warranty.

  • Focal length: 15mm fisheye
  • Maximum aperture: f/2.8
  • Lens construction: 8 elements in 7 groups
  • Diagonal angle of view: 180 degrees
  • Focus adjustment: Overall linear extension system with AFD
  • Closest focusing distance: 0.7 feet
  • Filter size: Rear gel holder (accepts up to 3 precut gel filters)
  • Dimensions: 2.9 inches in diameter, 2.4 inches long
  • Weight: 11.6 ounces

List Price: $970.00
Amazon Price: $610.00
Used Price: $530.00
Customer Review: Great lens for reasonable price
This lens performs at top quality levels in terms of contrast, resolution, and color rendition. It is a full-frame fisheye design, i.e., on a 24x36mm sensor (or film) the diagonal angle of view is 180 degrees, and the full frame area is covered (not a "circular fisheye"). Autofocus is a bit "buzzy" - it's not an ultrasonic motor type - but quick and accurate. For landscape work this wouldn't be an issue anyway, but good AF is very useful when making use of the possibilities for extreme close perspective portraits of animals, etc. The build quality is not quite like the Canon L series lenses, but is generally solid and confidence inspiring. The lens cap is important, since the convex front element is protected only by the petal shaped built-in hood, and a front filter cannot be used. I consider this lens well worth its price, and if you understand the optical workings of a fisheye (tangential straight lines become curved as part of the design) you will not be disappointed.
Customer Review: Adds some drama
I am a wedding and portrait photographer. I use the lens for these situations and love it. 1. To add some interest to dancefloor shots. I just hold the camera above the crowd and shoot down. The shots are playful and energetic. 2. To make a small, boring church look huge. Just shoot inside and watch out to keep your toes out of the shot. and for fun 3. To shoot kids and pets with big, cartoony heads. It's a great lens and fun to use.


Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Canon EF 50mm f/1.2 L USM Lens for Canon Digital SLR Cameras

The Canon EF 50mm f/1.2L USM lens is a peerless standard lens for Canon digital SLR cameras. The lens is suitable for any shooting situation, with a lens coating and construction type that are optimized to minimize the ghosting and flare that frequently occurs when lenses are used with digital cameras. The lens also offers an ultra-large aperture that produces a narrow depth of field and the type of soft background blur so loved by photographers everywhere. The high-performance, weather-resistant lens delivers all the superb image resolution and contrast you expect in a Canon L Series lens.

Specifications

  • Focal length: 50mm
  • Maximum aperture: f/1.2
  • Lens construction: 8 elements in 6 groups
  • Diagonal angle of view: 46 degrees (with full-frame cameras)
  • Focus adjustment: AF with full-time manual
  • Closest focusing distance: 1.48 feet
  • Filter size: 72mm
  • Dimensions: 3.4 inches in diameter and 2.6 inches long
  • Weight: 19.2 ounces
  • Warranty: 1 year

List Price: $2,300.00
Amazon Price: $1,400.00
Customer Review: Amazing Lens, So fast hard to keep up with
So far I'm loving this lens. It's a purchase I put on hold for a long time due to the expense, but the investment has been well worth it. The single length forces me to frame my shots better and I am liking the results. The photos I am getting with this new lens are pretty amazing. It allows a flexibility that I've not had with other point and shoots or my 35mm SLR.
Customer Review: One of the best lenses ever made...
To many, this focal length may be the ideal length for portraits. For my particular skills it can be, as can it's sister lens, the 85mm, f/1.2L. Be forewarned, this requires a certain level of skill, and a certain knowledge of the camera itself. Furthermore, I am shooting a 1Ds Mk III. And while this lens is not known to be a particularly fast focusing lens, it is clear that it focuses better with the 45 point AF of this system than with that of the lower end cameras (I also own a 50D and a 5D - and a film EOS 3. And I have owned a 10D, 20D and a 40D also). Many users may have problems using the lens stopped wide open or nearly wide open, due to the EXTREMELY shallow depth of field, and this is an important consideration. It should, however, be noted that the lens can be stopped down quite a few steps to still obtain superior shots than you would with any zoom, Canon L Zooms included. It's the ultimate prime, and it is noticeably such. The results that can be achieved with this lens are simply mind-boggling. It is so tack sharp when shot correctly, it is almost unbelievable. The color is more correct than with most other lenses, and definitely deeper, with a higher amount of contrast. Using the high end 1Ds Mark III body accentuates this effect a bit more. With that said, I would suggest that equal consideration be given to the 85mm f/1.2L lens, as I consider this to be an equal companion (as stated, a sister) to this lens. If you can't afford both, base your decision on which focal length would provide the most use for your particular needs. If you can afford both, I recommend both equally.


Friday, April 17, 2009

Sigma 28-300mm f/3.5-6.3 DG IF Macro Aspherical Lens for Canon SLR Cameras

PRODUCT FEATURES:Compact high performance zoom lens with a 10.7:1 high zoom ratio and optimized for digital SLR camerasCoating reduces ghost and flareSLD glass elements and aspherical lensesMacro photography with a 1:3 ratioInner focusing systemThe "Zoom Lock" device
List Price: $299.99
Amazon Price: Too low to display
Used Price: $243.00
Customer Review: Sigma lens
Very satisfied with the purchase. A good lens to learn and use all the time until you learn more and know what you are looking for specifically.
Customer Review: AMAZING!! LOVE this lens!
I love this lens. The pictures are crisp and the price was perfect. The only complaints I have is that it's a little slower than the canon lens I have with zooming.


Friday, April 10, 2009

Canon Digital Rebel XS 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera (Black) + Canon EF-S 18-55mm IS Lens + Canon 75-300mm III Lens + Spare LP-E5 Battery + 16GB Card + Gadget Bag

Kit includes:
1) Canon Digital Rebel XS
2) Canon 18-55mm Lens
3) Canon 75-300mm III Lens
4) Transcend 16GB HC SecureDigital Class 6 (SDHC) Card
5) Precision Design USB 2.0 High Speed SecureDigital (SD/SDHC) Card Reader
6) Precision Design 1000 Deluxe SLR Pro Carrying Case
7) Spare LP-E5 High-Capacity Lithium-Ion Battery Pack
8) Image Recall Digital Image Recovery Software
9) Precision Design Memory Card Storage Wallet
10) Cameta Microfiber Cleaning Cloth

The Canon EOS Rebel XS Digital Camera incorporates a 10.1 megapixel CMOS sensor; enhanced sensitivity up to ISO 1600; High-ISO Noise Reduction; Auto Image Optimization technology; and a precise 7-point autofocus system. The large, 2.5-inch 230,000 pixel LCD monitor makes it a pleasure to review images and scroll through menus. The Live View feature allows you to frame shots using the LCD screen rather than the viewfinder. Canon's Integrated Self Cleaning System removes dust automatically from the sensor using ultrasonic vibration.

The Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Zoom Lens is designed with Canon's Optical Image Stabilizer technology to allow sharp hand-held shots at shutter speeds up to four stops slower than otherwise possible.

The Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Zoom Lens is a compact and lightweight 4x telephoto zoom lens ideal for shooting sports, portraits, and wildlife.

Take more high-resolution pictures faster with this 16GB High-Capacity SecureDigital (SDHC) memory card.

The Precision Design 1000 Deluxe SLR Pro Carrying Case is constructed of durable Pro-Nylon. It will discreetly hold and protect your Digital SLR camera with zoom lens attached, plus 3 extra lenses, flash, and accessories.




Wednesday, April 8, 2009

Canon Digital Rebel XSi 12MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens and Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4.0-5.6 IS Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon Digital SLR Cameras Package 2

For photography with point-and-shoot ease, look no further than Canon's EOS Rebel XSi. The EOS Rebel XSi brings staggering technological innovation to the masses. It features Canon's EOS Integrated Cleaning System, Live View Function, a powerful DIGIC III Image Processor, and a 12.2-megapixel CMOS Sensor with Optical Image Stabilizer. The EOS Rebel XSi's refined, ergonomic design includes a 3.0" LCD monitor, compatibility with SD and SDHC Memory cards and accessories that enhance every aspect of the photographic experience. Image Format - 22.2mm x 14.8mm 3 - 2 Horizontal - Vertical Aspect Ratio Color Filter System - RGB primary color filter Low-pass Filter - Located in front of the image sensor, non-removable Recording Format - Design rule for Camera File System 2.0 Image Format - JPEG, RAW (14-bit Canon original) RAW+JPEG White Balance Settings - Auto, Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Tungsten, White Fluorescent Light, Flash, and Custom Focusing Modes - One-Shot AF, AI Servo AF, AI Focus AF, Manual focusing (MF) Metering Range - EV 1-20 (with EF50mm f/1.4 USM lens, ISO 100) Exposure Compensation - Manual 2 stops in 1/3 or 1/2-stop increments and AEB 2 stops in 1/3 or 1/2-stop increments AE Lock - Automatic when focus achieved with evaluative metering and One-Shot AF, and Manual by AE lock button Shutter Type - Electronically controlled and focal-plane shutter Shutter Speeds - 1/4000 seconds to 1/60 seconds, X-sync at 1/200 seconds, 1/4000 sec. to 30 seconds, bulb Self-timer - 10-seconds, 2-seconds delay or 10-seconds delay plus continuous shooting Brightness Control - 7 levels provided Package Includes: * Canon Rebel XSi Kit * Xplorer Screen Protectors * WF 4 in 1 Cleaning Kit * USB 2.0 Memory Card Reader * Xplorer SB-7005 Bag * LP-E5 Battery * 4GB SDHC Memory Card * Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4.0-5.6 IS Telephoto Zoom Lens


Sunday, March 29, 2009

Canon EOS 1D Mark III 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)

The Canon EOS-1D Mark III has a 10.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor (APS-H size) with Canon's EOS Integrated Cleaning System and a 3.0-inch LCD monitor with Canon's Live View technology. The Self-Cleaning Sensor Unit is used against stray dust that enters the camera and adheres to the image sensor during a lens change. The IR-cut filter cleans itself automatically with ultrasonic vibrations, removing dust from the sensor assembly. The EOS-1D Mark III has a redesigned 100% viewfinder, a new 45-point AF system and can shoot up to 10 fps continuously with a maximum burst of 110 shots. Dual DIGIC III Image Processors work in tandem to speed up every process while refining image quality, a new, lighter body has improved weather sealing and shutter durability. Every facet of the EOS experience has been enhanced with the 1D Mark III. Image Sensor Type - High-sensitivity, high-resolution, single-plate, CMOS sensor Aspect Ratio - 3/2 (Horizontal/Vertical) Color Filter System - RGB primary color filters Recording Format - DCF 2.0 (Exif 2.21) JPEG, RAW and RAW+JPEG simultaneous USB 2.0 Hi-Speed mini-B port NTSC & PAL for video output Viewfinder - Eye-level SLR with fixed pentaprism ISO - Up to 6400 AE Lock applies in One-Shot AF mode with evaluative metering when focus is achieved Optional External Speedlite - E-TTL II autoflash with all EX Series Speedlites Self-timer - 10 seconds, 2 seconds delay Battery Power Source - LP-E4 lithium-ion battery Automatic Battery Check Power Saving - Power turns off after 1, 2, 4, 8, 15 & 30 minutes Back-up Battery - One CR2025 lithium battery Dimensions - Width 6.1 x Height 6.2 x Depth 3.1 inch (156 x 156.6 x 79.9mm) Weight - 40.7 ounces (1155 grams)
List Price: $4,499.00
Amazon Price: $3,724.88
Used Price: $3,499.00
Customer Review: It's phenomenal - except I didn't like the factory settings
The first two weekends with this camera (I'm on my 5th weekend now) yielded garbage photos and I needed help from the 1D3 forum people at DPReview. Look up "1D3 can't focus on a bug's nose" for the discussion. I was shooting bugs and couldn't get clear sharp pictures. My other camera is a 5D which shot great closeups of bugs with my EF 300 F/2.8 and EF 500 F/4 (but with a very high focus failure rate). It was finally decided that I needed to locate the custom function to turn off the assist points on the center focus sensor. That made all the difference. Also, even before that, just plain old normal pictures produced truly awful jpegs. When I reset jpeg compression to level 10 (instead of 8) that improved picture quality a great deal. Finally, I suspected level 4 sharpening (Landscape picture style) was not very sharp, so I shot a church bell tower from about 650 yards away using my 500mm and my 5D and this 1D3. Results: the 5D landscape style (factory settings) out-shot the 1D3 landscape style (factory settings), but my custom settings of 5 for sharpening, +1 for contrast, beat the 5D and yielded an incredible picture with detail that the 5D had only hinted at, and the 1D3 Landscape setting didn't reveal at all. Amazing what a difference a small adjustment can make. Now it is a fabulous camera and takes fabulous jpegs. Focus is very fast, much faster than the 5D, and much more accurate. Which is all I was hoping for. I now have a much higher percentage of well focused, beautifully detailed images that don't need any raw processing to make them look good (and I now delete plenty of pictures for composition reasons alone). If you shoot jpegs and hate messing with raw files, and you have a 5D or other high end camera that takes great shots, better do a comparison and set up the 1D3 accordingly. Then you'll have a very remarkable camera in the 1D3. A final note, if you want sharp pictures of bugs that don't stay put, or birds in flight, I recommend using the f/2.8 lenses over the f/4 because the auto focus sensors need it (I shoot most of my pictures in bright sunlight at f/7.1, but it's the auto focus that needs the extra light from an f/2.8 lens, not the depth of field that needs a big aperture). I haven't tried live view (I'm always outside and really don't care about live view anyway).
Customer Review: Essential tool for a professional photographer.
Purchased the Mark III in September 2007. Over one year later this camera still continues to amaze me! The controls are laid out perfectly and the camera feels like it's just the right size in my hands. Others have complained about the price, but believe me, you get what you pay for!! I purchased this camera to take professional portraits, weddings special events. This camera was an upgrade from the Canon 20d and 30d cameras I previously owned. Some of my favorite features are the auto - ISO feature. This mode allows you to set the camera in shutter or aperture priority, and if the camera cannot compensate for the exposure, it automatically increases the ISO. Great feature that allows the photographer more creative control of the picture while getting that perfect shot every time. Another nice feature is the live view shooting. This mode allows you to take long pictures, or pictures in awkward angles without requirig you to look into the viewfinder. You still have to manually focus. Another feature I like is the ability for the camera to record on multiple media targets. You can set the camera up to record raw on one card and jpeg on another. Or, you can set the camera up to jump to the other card when one is full. This is very convenient for me since I shoot in RAW. Another feature is the limits, configuration, and file handling settings. You can set the minimum and maximum ISO, shutter, aperture settings, fast shutter speed, slow shutter speed, and the camera will compensate within your set parameters and deliver results. One last feature worth noting is the microadjustment. This camera allows you to micro adjust for each of your lenses. This is especially useful if you have a front focusing lens that appears to be just a little off. You can adjust the camera so when you attach that lens, the camera automatically adjusts for that particular lens. Sure, this camera costs a few dollars more, but the payback in the pictures is nothing short of amazing.. This is a TRUE professional camera and as such requires the photographer to have a significant knowledge of photography. The battery life is phenomenal! Not only does the camera provide you with a battery meter, it has a menu setting that actually tells you what percentage of battery life you have left and the number of shutter actuations since the last charge. I routinely manage over 2000 (and once over 3000) actuations on a single charge. This is something that NO other digital camera can do! Significant upgrade over the 1dMarkII series cameras where the battery was larger, heavier, and lasted for at most 700 actuations. I thought of purchasing a backup battery, but haven't brought myself to do so because of the longevity of this battery. This camera has been a very important compliment to my existing L series lenses. Overall, I would recommend this camera for the professional photographer that is SERIOUS about the business of photography and needs proven professional equipment to deliver results to the customer. I have been considering purchasing a second Mark III as a backup to the one I own. My 5d is currently my backup camera (great, but not at the same level as the EOS-1 series). You can check out some of my pictures at www.eubankphoto.com


Thursday, March 26, 2009

Canon EOS Rebel XSi - Digital camera - SLR - 12.2 Mpix - body only - supported memory: MMC, SD, SDHC - silver

For stunning photography with point-and-shoot ease, look no further than Canon's EOS Rebel XSi. The EOS Rebel XSi brings staggering technological innovation to the masses. It features Canon's EOS Integrated Cleaning System, Live View Function, a powerful DIGIC III Image Processor, plus a 12.2-megapixel CMOS Sensor. The EOS Rebel XSi's refined, ergonomic design includes a 3.0-inch LCD monitor, compatibility with SD and SDHC memory cards and accessories that enhance every aspect of the photographic experience.


Monday, March 23, 2009

Canon Digital Rebel XSi 12MP Digital SLR Camera W/ EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens + Canon LP-E5 Li-ion Battery + Transcend 8GB SDHC6 Memory Card, High Speed RDS5W Card Reader + Samsonite Triton 1100 Tripod + Willoughbys Starter Kit

New Canon 12.2-megapixel CMOS sensor and DIGIC III image processor Canon's CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) sensor captures images with exceptional clarity and tonal range, and offers the most pixels in its class. It offers many of the same new technologies to maximize each pixel's light gathering efficiency that were first seen with the professional EOS-1D Mark III model. It's an APS-C size sensor (22.2 x 14.8mm), and there's an effective 1.6x increase in the lenss marked focal length when attached. Canons DIGIC III Image Processor dramatically enhances image quality and speeds up all camera operations for intuitive operation. It works in concert with the EOS Rebel XSis sensor to achieve unprecedented levels of performance in all lighting situations.


Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT - Digital camera - SLR - 8.0 Mpix - Canon EF-S 18-55mm lens - optical zoom: 3 x - supported memory: CF, Microdrive - black

For convenience, ease of use and no-compromise SLR performance, look no further than the EOS Digital Rebel XT. Featuring Canon's Digital Trinity - an 8.0 Megapixel CMOS sensor, Canon's own DIGIC II Image Processor and compatibility with over 50 EF Lenses-the new Digital Rebel XT has an all new lightweight and compact body, improved performance across the board and the easiest operation in its class, simplifying complex tasks and ensuring the perfect shot every time. With intuitive simplicity, powerful performance and unprecedented affordability, the Rebel XT is the EOS digital camera for everyone.


Saturday, March 21, 2009

Ikelite Underwater Camera Housing for Canon EOS Rebel XS (1000-D) Digital SLR Camera

Introducing a full-featured and affordable underwater housing for the Canon 1000-D Rebel XS Digital SLR Camera. The compact, clear polycarbonate case provides visibility of its o-ring seals and corrosion-free performance up to a depth of 200ft (60m). Controls are provided for every camera function and kept water-tight with Ikelite pioneered Quad-Ring seal glands--proven to be the most reliable method of sealing controls. A full range of dome and flat ports is available to accommodate most macro, wide-angle and zoom lenses. Port attachment is quick and easy with a simple locking system and clear view of the port o-ring seal. Lens port not included. A large zoom control knob can be comfortably reached without removing your hand from the handle. The housing size and weight provide near-neutral buoyancy and superb handling underwater. The included tray with quick release handles allows convenient attachment and removal of Substrobe mounting arms at the touch of a button. The handle assembly itself detaches with the removal of just two screws for traveling. Addition of the #9571.3 1" (2.5 cm) ball at release handle provides an attachment point for most non-Ikelite arm systems. The Ikelite Super-Eye magnifier comes standard and offers enhanced visibility of the camera's viewfinder while wearing a diving mask. The camera's live-view feature can also be used to its full potential with an unobstructed view through the back of the housing. The housin


Friday, March 20, 2009

Lowepro Classified 250 AW SLR Camera Case (Black) + Tripod + Accessory Kit for Canon Rebel XSi, XS, XT, XTi, EOS 40D, 50D, Nikon D3, D40, D40x, D60, D80, D90, D200, D300, D700, Olympus Evolt E-3, E-30, E-420, E-520, and Sony Alpha A200, A300, A350, A700, A900 Digital SLR Cameras

Kit includes:
1) Lowepro Classified 250 AW SLR Camera Case (Black)
2) Precision Design Deluxe Camera Tripod with Carrying Case
3) Precision Design Deluxe 6-Piece Lens & Digital SLR Camera Cleaning Kit

The Lowepro Classified 250 AW Pro Shoulder Bag is a slim, contoured briefcase-style bag that holds 1-2 professional digital SLR camera bodies with 70-200 f/2.8 lens attached, 2-3 lenses or flash and a 15.4" widescreen laptop computer. There is a full-grain leather trimmed divider system that suspends the camera and protects the lens mounting points. The easy-access main compartment has angled opening that allows quick access to gear between lens changes and fully collapsible, removable padding. There is a zippered gusset that expands carrying capacity. It has a removable memory card wallet, built-in All Weather Cover and SlipLock attachment loops at the sides and front. A built-in microfiber cloth protects LCD screen from dust and scratches. It is carried by a leather handle or a removable, adjustable shoulder strap with camera keeper and pad. There is a removable 3-point stabilizing strap that increases stability.

Avoid camera shake and achieve maximum image quality by setting your camera on this sturdy, lightweight 57-inch tripod.

This 6-piece cleaning kit contains everything you'll ever need to properly clean your lenses, including a Hurricane Air Blower, Lens Cleaning Tissues, Lens Cloth, Lens Cleaning Liquid, Brush and Cotton Swabs.




Thursday, March 19, 2009

Canon EOS-40D Digital SLR Camera U.S.A.Kit, with 2GB CF Memory Card, Spare BP-511 Lithium-Ion Battery, Lowepro Holster-Style Case, Mack 3 Year Extended Warranty, Digital Remote Release, Professional Lens Cleaning Kit

Welcome to the next generation of digital SLR photography-the Canon EOS 40D. The EOS 40D combines Canon's tremendous know-how in both the digital and photographic worlds, creating a camera that not only does everything one would expect of a traditional digital SLR, but one that incorporates staggering leaps forward in technological innovation. With new features like Canon's EOS Integrated Cleaning System, Live View Function, a more powerful DIGIC III Image Processor, plus a 10.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, a 3.0-inch LCD monitor and more, the EOS 40D elevates digital photography to new heights, enhancing the shooting experience, and delivering images one could only expect from a Canon.


Monday, March 16, 2009

Sigma 10-20mm f/4-5.6 EX DC HSM Lens for Canon Digital SLR Cameras

Designed exclusively for Canon digital SLR cameras, the ultra-wide-angle 10-20mm offers a view from 102.4 to 63.8 degrees, making it ideal for landscape photography and other vast applications. The lens is distinguished by its three special low dispersion (SLD) glass elements, which effectively compensate for color aberration, and its aspherical lenses, which provide maximum correction for distortion and various aberrations. As a result, the lens produces an extremely high image quality throughout the entire zoom range. The HSM-equipped models, meanwhile, produce fast autofocus (AF) speeds and quiet shooting while still letting you perform full-time manual focus. Other details include a minimum focusing distance of 9.4 inches at all focal lengths and an integral petal-type hood to block out extraneous light.

Lens Elements and Coating
The new multilayer lens coating and lens design reduce flare and ghost--a common problem with digital cameras--while also creating an optimal color balance throughout the entire zoom range. At the same time, the lens offers three SLD glass elements that effectively compensate for color aberration, along with a piece of glass mold and two hybrid aspherical lenses that offer excellent correction for distortion and all types of aberration.

Inner Focusing System and HSM
The lens incorporates an internal focusing system that eliminates front lens rotation, letting you use a petal-type hood to protect from additional glare. And models equipped with a Hyper-Sonic Motor (HSM) produce silent, high-speed autofocus and full-time manual focus for Sigma, Canon, and Nikon D-mount lenses.

Best Consumer Lens
The Sigma 10-20mm lens is so respected that it was named the best consumer lens in Europe (2006) by the Technical Image Press Association (TIPA), a collection of 31 publications from 12 countries. According to TIPA, the 10-20mm lens offers a versatile range of wide-angle focal lengths, a good optical performance, and a budget price, making it an excellent investment for owners of DSLRs with APS-C format sensors. Its sharpness remains constant throughout the zoom range, and its compact size makes it an ideal companion for shooting travel, landscapes, or architectural subjects.

  • Lens construction: 14 elements in 10 groups
  • Angle of view: 102.4 to 63.8 degrees
  • Number of diaphragm blades: 6
  • Minimum aperture: f/22
  • Minimum focusing distance: 9.4 inches
  • Maximum magnification: 1:6.7
  • Filter size: 77mm
  • Dimensions: 3.3 inches in diameter and 3.2 inches long
  • Weight: 16.4 ounces

List Price: $479.99
Amazon Price: Too low to display
Customer Review: VERY much impressed
Six lenes, three of which are sigma. This lens impresses. I've been using it for like 2 years now. Sharp, fast, quiet, overall good lens.
Customer Review: awesome
one of my most used lenses i love it.. and its a great deal too!


Friday, March 13, 2009

Ewa-Marine Underwater Housing for the Canon Digital EOS-5D SLR Camera

The housing can be used on small boats, in the surf, while swimming, snorkeling or diving. It's easy to operate as the camera as its various components and buttons can be operated through the PVC. The U-BXP is specially designed to fit the bulky, professional digital SLR cameras like the EOS 1D, 1Ds series, or the Nikon D1, H2H, D2X, D200 and similar cameras. Smaller SLR cameras then the mentioned above can still be used in the housing. Please note: In this housing you can only use lenses till a maximum filter thread diameter of 72mm. If you are using lenses with a 77mm or a 82mm filterthread, then you must use the U-BXP100 housing. With this housing, a whole new world of applications opens up for your professional digital SLR camera: Inside the housing you can now take the camera safely canoeing, snorkeling or even diving, up to a depth of 50 m / 150 ft. If the optional BF1 lead weight is inserted into the housing, underneath the camera, it becomes even easier to reach the maximum depth. Experienced photographers have confirmed, that the auto focus and flash both continue to function perfectly. As you descend, the air is pressed into the camera. Due to this, the pressure inside the housing will remain the same as the surrounding water pressure. (this is the reason why ewa-marine housings are so safe to use: implosions are impossible) Due to this, we have to start the dive with a suitable amount of air inside the housing.
Price: $479.00


Thursday, March 12, 2009

Lowepro Classified 250 AW SLR Camera Case (Sepia) + Tripod + Accessory Kit for Canon Rebel XSi, XS, XT, XTi, EOS 40D, 50D, Nikon D3, D40, D40x, D60, D80, D90, D200, D300, D700, Olympus Evolt E-3, E-30, E-420, E-520, and Sony Alpha A200, A300, A350, A700, A900 Digital SLR Cameras

Kit includes:
1) Lowepro Classified 250 AW SLR Camera Case (Sepia)
2) Precision Design Deluxe Camera Tripod with Carrying Case
3) Precision Design Deluxe 6-Piece Lens & Digital SLR Camera Cleaning Kit

The Lowepro Classified 250 AW Pro Shoulder Bag is a slim, contoured briefcase-style bag that holds 1-2 professional digital SLR camera bodies with 70-200 f/2.8 lens attached, 2-3 lenses or flash and a 15.4" widescreen laptop computer. There is a full-grain leather trimmed divider system that suspends the camera and protects the lens mounting points. The easy-access main compartment has angled opening that allows quick access to gear between lens changes and fully collapsible, removable padding. There is a zippered gusset that expands carrying capacity. It has a removable memory card wallet, built-in All Weather Cover and SlipLock attachment loops at the sides and front. A built-in microfiber cloth protects LCD screen from dust and scratches. It is carried by a leather handle or a removable, adjustable shoulder strap with camera keeper and pad. There is a removable 3-point stabilizing strap that increases stability.

Avoid camera shake and achieve maximum image quality by setting your camera on this sturdy, lightweight 57-inch tripod.

This 6-piece cleaning kit contains everything you'll ever need to properly clean your lenses, including a Hurricane Air Blower, Lens Cleaning Tissues, Lens Cloth, Lens Cleaning Liquid, Brush and Cotton Swabs.




Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Canon EOS 1D Mark III 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)

The Canon EOS-1D Mark III has a 10.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor (APS-H size) with Canon's EOS Integrated Cleaning System and a 3.0-inch LCD monitor with Canon's Live View technology. The Self-Cleaning Sensor Unit is used against stray dust that enters the camera and adheres to the image sensor during a lens change. The IR-cut filter cleans itself automatically with ultrasonic vibrations, removing dust from the sensor assembly. The EOS-1D Mark III has a redesigned 100% viewfinder, a new 45-point AF system and can shoot up to 10 fps continuously with a maximum burst of 110 shots. Dual DIGIC III Image Processors work in tandem to speed up every process while refining image quality, a new, lighter body has improved weather sealing and shutter durability. Every facet of the EOS experience has been enhanced with the 1D Mark III. Image Sensor Type - High-sensitivity, high-resolution, single-plate, CMOS sensor Aspect Ratio - 3/2 (Horizontal/Vertical) Color Filter System - RGB primary color filters Recording Format - DCF 2.0 (Exif 2.21) JPEG, RAW and RAW+JPEG simultaneous USB 2.0 Hi-Speed mini-B port NTSC & PAL for video output Viewfinder - Eye-level SLR with fixed pentaprism ISO - Up to 6400 AE Lock applies in One-Shot AF mode with evaluative metering when focus is achieved Optional External Speedlite - E-TTL II autoflash with all EX Series Speedlites Self-timer - 10 seconds, 2 seconds delay Battery Power Source - LP-E4 lithium-ion battery Automatic Battery Check Power Saving - Power turns off after 1, 2, 4, 8, 15 & 30 minutes Back-up Battery - One CR2025 lithium battery Dimensions - Width 6.1 x Height 6.2 x Depth 3.1 inch (156 x 156.6 x 79.9mm) Weight - 40.7 ounces (1155 grams)
List Price: $4,499.00
Amazon Price: $3,724.88
Used Price: $3,499.00
Customer Review: It's phenomenal - except I didn't like the factory settings
The first two weekends with this camera (I'm on my 5th weekend now) yielded garbage photos and I needed help from the 1D3 forum people at DPReview. Look up "1D3 can't focus on a bug's nose" for the discussion. I was shooting bugs and couldn't get clear sharp pictures. My other camera is a 5D which shot great closeups of bugs with my EF 300 F/2.8 and EF 500 F/4 (but with a very high focus failure rate). It was finally decided that I needed to locate the custom function to turn off the assist points on the center focus sensor. That made all the difference. Also, even before that, just plain old normal pictures produced truly awful jpegs. When I reset jpeg compression to level 10 (instead of 8) that improved picture quality a great deal. Finally, I suspected level 4 sharpening (Landscape picture style) was not very sharp, so I shot a church bell tower from about 650 yards away using my 500mm and my 5D and this 1D3. Results: the 5D landscape style (factory settings) out-shot the 1D3 landscape style (factory settings), but my custom settings of 5 for sharpening, +1 for contrast, beat the 5D and yielded an incredible picture with detail that the 5D had only hinted at, and the 1D3 Landscape setting didn't reveal at all. Amazing what a difference a small adjustment can make. Now it is a fabulous camera and takes fabulous jpegs. Focus is very fast, much faster than the 5D, and much more accurate. Which is all I was hoping for. I now have a much higher percentage of well focused, beautifully detailed images that don't need any raw processing to make them look good (and I now delete plenty of pictures for composition reasons alone). If you shoot jpegs and hate messing with raw files, and you have a 5D or other high end camera that takes great shots, better do a comparison and set up the 1D3 accordingly. Then you'll have a very remarkable camera in the 1D3. A final note, if you want sharp pictures of bugs that don't stay put, or birds in flight, I recommend using the f/2.8 lenses over the f/4 because the auto focus sensors need it (I shoot most of my pictures in bright sunlight at f/7.1, but it's the auto focus that needs the extra light from an f/2.8 lens, not the depth of field that needs a big aperture). I haven't tried live view (I'm always outside and really don't care about live view anyway).
Customer Review: Essential tool for a professional photographer.
Purchased the Mark III in September 2007. Over one year later this camera still continues to amaze me! The controls are laid out perfectly and the camera feels like it's just the right size in my hands. Others have complained about the price, but believe me, you get what you pay for!! I purchased this camera to take professional portraits, weddings special events. This camera was an upgrade from the Canon 20d and 30d cameras I previously owned. Some of my favorite features are the auto - ISO feature. This mode allows you to set the camera in shutter or aperture priority, and if the camera cannot compensate for the exposure, it automatically increases the ISO. Great feature that allows the photographer more creative control of the picture while getting that perfect shot every time. Another nice feature is the live view shooting. This mode allows you to take long pictures, or pictures in awkward angles without requirig you to look into the viewfinder. You still have to manually focus. Another feature I like is the ability for the camera to record on multiple media targets. You can set the camera up to record raw on one card and jpeg on another. Or, you can set the camera up to jump to the other card when one is full. This is very convenient for me since I shoot in RAW. Another feature is the limits, configuration, and file handling settings. You can set the minimum and maximum ISO, shutter, aperture settings, fast shutter speed, slow shutter speed, and the camera will compensate within your set parameters and deliver results. One last feature worth noting is the microadjustment. This camera allows you to micro adjust for each of your lenses. This is especially useful if you have a front focusing lens that appears to be just a little off. You can adjust the camera so when you attach that lens, the camera automatically adjusts for that particular lens. Sure, this camera costs a few dollars more, but the payback in the pictures is nothing short of amazing.. This is a TRUE professional camera and as such requires the photographer to have a significant knowledge of photography. The battery life is phenomenal! Not only does the camera provide you with a battery meter, it has a menu setting that actually tells you what percentage of battery life you have left and the number of shutter actuations since the last charge. I routinely manage over 2000 (and once over 3000) actuations on a single charge. This is something that NO other digital camera can do! Significant upgrade over the 1dMarkII series cameras where the battery was larger, heavier, and lasted for at most 700 actuations. I thought of purchasing a backup battery, but haven't brought myself to do so because of the longevity of this battery. This camera has been a very important compliment to my existing L series lenses. Overall, I would recommend this camera for the professional photographer that is SERIOUS about the business of photography and needs proven professional equipment to deliver results to the customer. I have been considering purchasing a second Mark III as a backup to the one I own. My 5d is currently my backup camera (great, but not at the same level as the EOS-1 series). You can check out some of my pictures at www.eubankphoto.com


Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Canon EOS 40D 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera W/ Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Standard Zoom Lens W/ Samsonite Digital Camera Gadget Bag (Black) W/ Canon BP511A 1390mAh Lithium Ion Battery Pack W/ Transcend TS8GSDHC6-S5W 8GB SDHC6 Memory Card with Card Reader W/ Clean & Scratch Free Kit

From the camera's newly enhanced, 10.1-megapixel CMOS imaging sensor (designed and manufactured by Canon) and its proprietary and super-efficient DIGIC III image processor, to its completely redesigned autofocus sensor and fast, 6.5 frame-per-second (fps) continuous shooting capability (for bursts of up to 75 Large/Fine JPEGs or 17 RAW images), the EOS 40D SLR puts the fun in functionality and makes serious photo business a positive pleasure. Compact, lightweight and a wide magnification range--this standard zoom lens features a wide focal length range from normal to telephoto equivalent to 29-320mm in the 35mm format. It features an Optical Image Stabilizer for up to 4-stops of effective correction even at full zoom. Since Canon's optical image stabilization system is in the lens, not in the camera, you can see the stabilized, steadier images through the viewfinder. And the circular aperture can give beautiful background blur effects. This new wide zoom ratio EF-S lens delivers excellent high-speed performance at an affordable price.


Sunday, March 8, 2009

Canon EOS-1D Mark II 8.2MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)

Canon's EOS-1D Mark II (successor to the original EOS-1D) is the ultimate professional digital SLR. Nearly doubling its predecessor's resolution to 8.2 megapixels, it also offers an improved shooting buffer for continuous shooting 8.5 frames per second at full resolution--making it the world's fastest digital SLR (as of January, 2004). It also features a faster DIGIC II imaging engine, a rugged yet lightweight weather-resistant magnesium alloy construction, capability for custom and personal presets, and dual storage slots for CompactFlash and Secure Digital cards.

Optics and Resolution
Canon's newly developed single-plate CMOS sensor with 8-channel reading technology delivers exceptional image quality, with approximately 8.2 million effective pixels (8.5 million total pixels) and a generous 28.7 x 19.1mm image size. The sensor's 3:2 aspect ratio is the same as in 35mm cameras, and the sensor's large size realizes an effective angle of view that's just 1.3 times the focal length indicated on Canon EF lenses. It features 3504 x 2336, 3104 x 2072, 2544 x 1696, and 1728 x 1152 pixel resolution settings.

A new on-chip noise elimination circuit eradicates fixed pattern and random noise. A low-pass filter placed in front of the sensor reduces false color and moire effects, while the infrared filter suppresses red fringing caused by sensor reflections and fog.

RAW processing
New Digital Photo Professional image processing software is provided for high-speed processing of lossless RAW files. It enables real-time display and immediate application of adjustments to images and includes a wide array of RAW, TIFF, or JPEG image editing functions, which give control over variables such as white balance, dynamic range, exposure compensation and color tone. It supports sRGB, Adobe RGB, and Wide Gamut RGB color spaces.

Digic II Imaging Processor
Canon's newly developed, state-of-the-art DIGIC II imaging engine achieves super high speed processing that results in continuous shooting of 8.2-megapixel images at 8.5 fps in maximum bursts of 40 (JPEG format) or 20 (RAW format) shots. By handling larger volumes of image data, DIGIC II also contributes to lower power consumption: up to about 1,200 shots can be taken on a full battery at 20 degrees C, or around 800 shots at 0 degrees C.

More Features
The new 230,000-pixel, 2.0-inch color TFT LCD offers nearly twice the resolution of monitors on other EOS digital models, nearly 100% coverage of JPEG images, and a new bolder typeface that simplifies reading of text menus. Photos displayed on the LCD monitor can be magnified from 1.5X to 10X in 15 increments, allowing you to check the focus and exposure of images with high precision.

You can easily tailor the EOS-1D MARK II to meet your own specialized needs:

  • 21 Custom Functions with 67 settings include the removal of the ISO speed extension setting to the ISO speed extension menu, the addition of new E-TTL averaged autoflash metering, and the inclusion of AI Servo continuous shooting, which was previously a Personal Function.
  • 25 Personal Functions can be installed in the camera at any time, via driver software, to meet high-level customization needs. New features include the ability to append data for data verification and the ability to apply the Quick Control Dial's ON/OFF switch to the Main Dial to prevent accidental changes to settings when shooting remotely with EOS Capture.
Other features include:
  • Images can be recorded in the JPEG image format, the RAW image format, or both formats simultaneously.
  • Seven Color Matrix settings are provided for JPEG and RAW images, including five factory presets that were previously available and two new settings that allow independent user adjustment of color space, color saturation, and color tone within a prescribed range.
  • ISO speeds are selectable in 1/3 increments (100-1600) and may be set as low as 50 or as high as 3200 through the ISO extension menu.
  • It offers 10 selectable white balance modes and a new WB Compensation function, which allows adjustment of blue/amber and magenta/green biases in +/-9 steps, as well as combined use of light-balancing (LB) and color-correction (CC) equivalent digital color filters.
  • Canon's improved Evaluative Through-The-Lens (E-TTL) Autoflash system offers new averaged metering in addition to the evaluative metering available on other EOS models.
  • Designed as a serious tool for professionals, the EOS-1D MARK II offers rigid magnesium alloy in the chassis and external covers (top, front, rear and memory card slot cover).

Lens Compatibility
Canon's lineup of professional EF lenses--including over 50 models ranging from 14mm ultra-wide-angle to 1,200mm super-telephoto--are compatible with the new EOS-1D Mark II (except the EF-S line). Canon's sophisticated electronic lens mount technology communicates with the camera as soon as the lens is mounted to transfer information about the lens, such as its type, f-number and focal length, thus enabling faster, more precise control from the camera.

EF lenses offer professional capabilities that meet wide-ranging needs, including such features as an Ultrasonic Motor that silently drives the autofocus mechanism with very high precision, an Image Stabilizer that automatically compensates for camera shake via microcomputer, advanced aspherical optics, fluorite lenses, Ultra Low Dispersion (UD) lenses, and Super UD lenses.

Storage and Transfer
The EOS-1D Mark II offers support for both CompactFlash Type I and II (making it MicroDrive compatible) and Secure Digital (SD) memory cards. Images can be recorded on a CompactFlash card or SD memory card alone; on both cards at the same time as a safeguard against losing important data; or on both cards, one at a time, to maximize storage capacity. It connects to PCs and Macs via FireWire (also referred to as IEEE1394, or i.Link) and USB 1.1 (which activates PictBridge printing capabilities).

Power and Size
The camera is powered by a rechargeable NiMH (nickel metal hydride) battery pack (NP-E3, included); it also requires one CR2025 for date and time settings. It measures 6.1 x 6.2 x 3.1 inches and weighs 43 ounces (camera body only without batteries; battery adds 11.8 ounces).

What's in the Box
This package includes the EOS-1D Mark II digital SLR camera body, rechargeable NiMH battery (NP-E3), AC adapter (DCK-E1), CR2025 battery, and USB and FireWire (IEEE1394) cables. The CD-ROM includes EOS Viewer Utility software for faster image preview, and Digital Photo Professional software for high-speed processing and handling of RAW images. It is compatible with over 60 Canon EF lenses (excluding EF-S lens) and the entire Canon EX series Speedlite flash range.
List Price: $6,499.99
Used Price: $1,349.00
Customer Review: This Looks Great!
This camera looks amazing, not that I will ever have the money for it. I am impressed that this camera was the choice to shoot a feature film! It was used to shoot Tim Burton's Corpse Bride!
Customer Review: Best (compromise for an) Exploration Camera
I had been waiting 3 years for any manufacturer to market a camera similar in specification to the Canon EOS1. As exploration Health, Safety & Environment advisor, work takes me to middle of the desert or the oceans. The wait was for 35mm film quality, with speed of picture taking (5 frames per second is barely enough to capture dolphins - hence the 8 + fps of the EOS 1 was desired). There was a parallel wait for an Image Stabilised 28-300 zoom lens. Let's cut the story short. If I want a camera to bring on holiday, it would not be this one - the battery and charger are too heavy and bulky; instead I would choose the EOS20D without hesitation. But having hundreds of failed 35mm film frames I decided not to wait any longer but to buy the EOS1D Mark II because the 1Ds Mark II is not fast enough at 4 frames a second. With 35mm cameras, after a few seconds on the shooting, I would have to run back inside to the cabin (of a ship) to change film. If there is large enough memory card in the EOS1DII, there is no need. This camera is built with seals against the environment (and so does the 28-300mm lens). Instead of being scared of running out of film, now it is easy to keep the shutter button pressed while panning (and hoping) the dolphins do their jumps into the air. With the 28-300mm lens attached, there is no need to change lenses either. Dolphins riding the bow wave of the ship could be captured at 28mm while those further away could be caught with 300mm setting. It is a disappointment that the battery is not LiOn but the older NiMH. But as with any photo gear requiring a battery it is wise to have a spare, whatever the substance. I just wish Canon package a small travel size charger instead of the standard one which is very bulky. It has connections for two batteries (yet it could only charge one following the other) but most people would be happy using one battery while the other one is being charged. You just try to convince some airport officials to let you on the plane with the above kit, binoculars, laptop, mobile phone, GPS.......ext. hard disk....as hand luggage. For work, I am committed and therefore bear the weight and troubles of hauling the hardware. But for holidays, I would choose the EOS20D with built-in flash because who would want to lug around 3 kilos all day plus flash gun and possibly a tripod? The camera gets 4.5 stars but the battery and charger lets it down. Why just 4.5 stars ? One of the beauties I had thought with digital SLR was not having to do anything in processing, just transfer the images to the computer. Wrong. The .jpg straight out of the camera is not sharp enough. Post processing is required. Why ? Why is that necessary when the Canon S60 (which I use for different assignments (with underwater housing)) doesn't need to ? That defeats the point of having a .jpg file at 5.5 Meg when the 1.5 Meg of the S60 looks sharper straight out of the camera ? Still, there is RAW if the standard output is not suficient. Incidentally, the EOS1DsII also produces 5.5 Meg .jpg and those also require post processing. For those of us who are not interested in working longer than necessary (me) 16.7 Million Pixels would seem a bit wasted. I am still waiting for the camera which produces sharp .jpg files in-camera without having to post process, and can shoot at 8+ fps with a sensor size equivalent to 35mm film. Meantime I shall have to learn to shoot with RAW files and post process. Also incidentally, the sensor size of the EOS20D is smaller, which means although itself is lighter than the EOS1D series camera, having to carry around an extrawide lens is not my idea of fun on holiday. The magnification ratio for the EOS1DII is 1.3 whereas the EOS20D is 1.6. This means I could still travel reasonably light (compromise) with the 1DII and 28-135mm IS lens attached. Sure it is possible to use stitching but that is more time spent at the computer and time is precious. Any regrets ? None what-so-ever. It is state of the technology at the moment. Another benefit of using digital is that, it doesn't matter if you had been shooting ISO 100 all day. come the night if you want to shoot the rig with a moon as backdrop, just change to ISO 1600 without having to bother about "pushing2 the film in developing. It's a beauty when an IS L lens is attached. You'd need IS when there is machinery vibrations and the ship is moving with the swell ! Good job Canon. Now you need to shoe horn in a more capable CPU (to process the images in-camera), fit the 1DsII sensor into this one or this motordrive into the 1DsII and you may persuade me to part with more cash.


Friday, March 6, 2009

Canon EOS Elan 7 35mm SLR Camera Kit w/ 28-90mm Lens

The Canon Elan 7 uses seven focusing points, arranged in a wide cross pattern with a central "cross-type" sensor. The wider-than-usual area gives the photographer the ability to achieve a remarkably sharp, focused image instantly. This function works whether the subject is off-center, stationary, in motion, in low light, or even in low-contrast situations. The shot will still come out sharp and crisp, and without the need to recompose the shot. By using the focusing-point selection keys, the user is able to select any of the seven focus points simply by pressing a key. Representing a bold innovation in speed and usability, this feature gives an additional amount of image control back to the photographer.

A highly advanced metering system, comprised of 35-zone evaluative metering sensors, is linked to the seven focusing points. Whether shooting indoors or outside, day or night, a seamless integration of exposure and focus ensures remarkable clarity and contrast in any image. This system gives the photographer accurate control over situations that combine light and shadow or that feature strong backlight. When metering subjects against very dark or very bright backgrounds, partial-area metering measures 10 percent of the viewfinder around the chosen focusing point. This provides accurate image results when dealing with shadows or highlights. The photographer can also use the Elan 7's center-weighed metering function. This mode places greater emphasis on what it reads as the center of the frame by measuring the entire scene. No matter which function the photographer chooses, precision metering is guaranteed--whether the camera is in a vertical or horizontal position.

Giving the photographer even more creative control is the command dial. This allows manual-control light, speed, aperture, and depth of field. Shutter priority lets the photographer choose the shutter speed, while the Elan 7 automatically selects the correct aperture. This function is especially useful when capturing action shots. With aperture priority, the photographer picks the aperture setting while the camera chooses the correct shutter speed. This is helpful when control over the depth of field is essential. It's even possible to check the depth of field using the preview button.
List Price: $579.99
Used Price: $289.99
Customer Review: I just love my Elan 7!
After living with a manual focus camera for 20 years, I'd splurged and bought myself the Canon Rebel and a couple lenses. I was happy with it, but it lacked some features I was seeking. Enter the Elan 7. Oh my! Once I learned how to use the multiple frame feature, there was no stopping me! I stopped getting so-so shots of my sons in their soccer games, and was getting at least one spot on perfect out of the two or three. This alone makes the camera worth its price for me, but there are other aspects I like as well. The camera just feels solid to me. My Rebel was lightweight, but I always worried that came with a price. I use my camera often in an active way, hiking in our bluffs, riding my bike through the wetlands and cross country skiing in the rare years we get enough decent snow cover. The camera can handle these kinds of conditions, and I've always had nice photos come back to me. I also appreciate the very high shutter speeds it affords me. I've nearly stopped the action of hovering hummingbirds with this camera, it's that fast. It's also fairly quiet as SLRs go, another plus for those who need that feature. The rewind is almost silent, which helps when I am stalking birds and my film runs out, as it invariably does. There were a few little glitches in going from the Rebel to the Elan for me. Although they are both EOS cameras, one can't assume that the Elan is just a more expensive Rebel and will operate as such. For one thing, the film counter system is completely reversed. The Rebel counts down, the Elan counts up. The benefit to this is that I always get 25 exposures with my Elan, whereas 24 was the max with the Rebel. Yes, film is cheap, but it does add up! Also, the creative controls work differently. I'd become very used to setting the Rebel to under or over expose, and needed to relearn the way to set that with the Elan. On the plus side, with the Elan, there is a setting that will allow for autobracketing, so that you can achieve the same thing with less thought, once you know that setting. The kit lens was a nice plus as well. My Rebel had 35mm as its widest angle, and the 28mm allows a little more range for me. I've had my Elan now for three years, and I am still learning to take full advantage of all it has to offer. From a camera junkie, that is high praise indeed.
Customer Review: My main camera
I bought this as my first (and as of now, only) auto-focus SLR. I'm generally pleased with the camera: the metering is fine and it's fairly problem free. I do have one gripe: low-light focusing. Unless you have an attached flash (I use a 550 Speedlite), low-light focusing is a pain. It doesn't come with a built-in infra-red light for such situations and instead, fires the flash like a strobe. Not exactly inconspicuous. Other than that, a good camera for more experience amatures like myself.


Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Sigma 12-24mm f/4.5-5.6 EX DG IF HSM Aspherical Ultra Wide Angle Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras

The large angle of view (122 degrees super wide angle of view at 12mm along the diagonal axis) is ideal for shootings indoor as well as landscape photography. It has a variable angle of view from 122 degrees at 84.1 degrees. Four Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass elements are provided for effective compensation of color aberration, which is a common problem with super-wide angle lenses. Two pieces of Glass Mold and one-piece hybrid aspherical lenses offer excellent correction for distortion as well as all types of aberration. By effective arrangement of lens elements and advanced technology this lens has Super Compact dimensions of 3.9 inches full-length, and 3.4 inches maximum diameter.
List Price: $779.00
Amazon Price: Too low to display
Customer Review: Gorgeous lens
I love it. Considering the extreme wide angle of this lens, when used with my 1DS Mk III, the distortion in minimal and my RAW processing software corrects that anyway. Great price, great optics. I love my Sigma lenses so much I own two of my 18-200 lenses so I can have two cameras loaded with them at once. Canon is great, but you'd be hard pressed to tell the difference between Canon's equivalent to this lens. I own both. The only downside to this lens design is the lack of front-mount filters. You have to treat this lens very gently, as you cannot install a UV filter to protect the coated glass front element. In some ways, of course, this is better, as you have nothing between the lens and the subject but air - but you have to use rear-mount filters and that pretty much excludes polarizers, which I use a lot.
Customer Review: Impressive performance and value.
I bought this lens to service a new client that does virtual tours for hotels and resorts. Their lens requirements are 18mm for full frame digital cameras and 12mm for DX chip cameras, to shoot 360 degree VRs. I didn't want to invest the 1000.00 plus dollars for another Canon lens and Canon or anyone else for that matter doesn't make a lens with this range. The Sigma would allow me to use both my 1Ds Mk II and 20D to service this client and cost me half what anything Canon provides. Having bought the lens mainly for Internet content, I wasn't going to be too critical about image quality from it, but I've been very surpised and pleased by it's performance. This lens has the least amount of barrel distortion of any wide angle zoom lens I've ever used. Even less than some primary lenses. To the point where it is essentally undetectable to the naked eye. It has less barrel distortion than my 1000.00+ 24-70mm f2.8L Canon lens! Operation is smooth, fast and constructions is first rate. I haven't done any critical sharpness comparisons yet, but I haven't noticed any problems from the images I've taken so far. The lens has a very bulbous front element, so conventional filters and lens caps won't fit. But Sigma cleverly includes a high quality adapter ring with filter threads in one end that slides over the built in lens shade on the lens. A lens cap is also included that fits on the end of the ring to protect the front element while being stored. The ring vignettes at 12mm on a full frame camera, but does not on DX chip cameras. So on those cameras, conventional thread on filters can be used with by screwing them on to the end of the adapter ring. You could do also this on full frame cameras, at longer focal lengths. A gelatin filter holder is provided on the back of the lens, but I can only imagine this being useful with film cameras. Overall, I'm very impressed and satisfied with this lens. I highly recommend it.


Tuesday, March 3, 2009

SIGMA LENS 24-70mm f2.8 EX Aspherical DG DF SLR Camera Lens FOR THE CANON EOS DIGITAL AND FILM CAMERAS

The Sigma 24-70mm f2.8 EX Aspherical DG DF lens is the perfect 'standard' lens for your SLR Camera. Variable zoom focal lengths span from 24mm ultra-wide angle to normal to 70mm portrait/telephoto, when used with a 35mm film and digital canon EOS cameras. For general photography, this lens is perfectly suited for pictures of places, people and faces.
Used Price: $399.99
Customer Review: Be aware this is for Nikon cameras.
The description does not specify the camera vendor. These lenses will not fit Canon 20D and Digital Rebel XT. These lenses for the Nikon cameras only. Had to return them.


Monday, March 2, 2009

Canon EOS Digital Rebel XSi 12MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens (Black) + Opteka Vertical Battery Grip & 4GB Pro Accessory Kit

For stunning photography with point and shoot ease, look no further than Canon s EOS Rebel XSi. The EOS Rebel XSi brings staggering technological innovation to the masses. It features Canon's EOS Integrated Cleaning System, Live View Function, a powerful DIGIC III Image Processor, plus a new 12.2-megapixel CMOS sensor and is available in a kit with the new EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens with Optical Image Stabilizer. The EOS Rebel XSi's refined, ergonomic design includes a new 3.0-inch LCD monitor, compatibility with SD and SDHC memory cards and new accessories that enhance every aspect of the photographic experience.

You Get The Following Brand New Items:
(1)Canon EOS Rebel XSi Body & All The Manufacture's Supplied Accessories Including a USA warranty.
(2)Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens
(3)Opteka 58mm HD2 Filter Kit (UV, PL, FL)
(4)4GB Ultra High Speed SD Card
(5)High Speed Card Reader / Writer
(6)ImageRecall - Image Recovery Software
(7)Opteka Battery Grip / Vertical Shutter Release for the XSi
(8)Replacement LP-E5 1500mAh Rechargeable Lithium Battery
(9)Opteka Remote Shutter Release Cord
(10)Opteka Double Axis Spirit Bubble Level
(11)Opteka Short Zoom Holster Case
(12)LCD Screen Protectors
(13)Opteka Tabletop Tripod
(14)5 Piece Camera / Lens Cleaning Kit
(15)53" Deluxe Camera Tripod
(16)Microfiber Ultra Protective Photo Bag/Case

Price: $1,900.00


Friday, February 27, 2009

Canon Rebel XTi 10.1 MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 17-85mm Zoom Lens

10.1-megapixel effective recording * EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM lens (35mm equivalent focal length: 28-135mm) * compatible with Canon EF and EF-S lenses, and EX-Series Speedlite flashes * EOS Integrated Cleaning System (for cleaning image sensor) * 2-1/2" high-resolution LCD screen with wide, 160-degree viewing angle *
Price: $1,300.00
Customer Review: Excellent - but you need to work to get the best from it
Consistently topping the recommendation lists for entry level Digital SLR cameras the 400D (Rebel XTi) is a fine piece of equipment. There are more than enough reviews here which to extol the cameras virtues and facilities; it is certainly an easy to use camera. However while is will work well enough on fully automatic mode, I have found that in order to get the very best out if it you have to do a little bit of work yourself. Different circumstances will warrant the camera operator selecting specific preferences, be it shutter speed or aperture, and perhaps allowing the camera automatic function to provide the rest, in order to produce the desired results. But perhaps the most important area where the user needs to be watchful is with the focusing. Especially with close-up work I now no longer use the cameras automatic focusing but rely on the eye and the viewfinder to ensure accurate focusing. The difference is considerable; in fact I was ready to up-grade the lens until I carried out a few experiments and proved what the standard 18-55mm lens could do, and it proved to be quite up to the job. Knowing what the standard lens can doo means I can now look much more specifically for additional lenses. It also is worth remembering that pressing the shutter release is only half the photographer's job. Back in the days of traditional film stock the rest (or even the most) was done in the dark-room. So some decent photo editing software is just as important; Adobe Photoshop is of course very good but my own preference is for Corel Photopaint. Excellent value for money, I am very happy with my 400D (Rebel XTi).
Customer Review: Nice deal.
They didn't respond to my e-mails but got what I want and expected. Nice deal.


Thursday, February 26, 2009

Canon Rebel T2 35mm SLR Camera with the EF 28-90mm f/4-5.6 III Zoom Lens

The EOS Rebel T2 brings together everything you want in a 35mm camera. It has the latest automation, a "souped-up" selection of powerful features, expanded shooting modes and state-of-the-art E-TTL II autoflash. It's what makes the Rebel T2 the most advanced SLR in its class. A masterpiece of form and function, its luxurious design is both lightweight and ergonomic to make it truly user friendly. See for yourself, why the Rebel T2 is a camera that will change your expectations. Compatible with over 50 Canon EF Lenses Manual Focus and Manual Exposure modes also possible for greater creativity Multiple Exposure - Up to 9 exposures can be preset. Automatically clears upon completion. Cancellable midway Exposure Compensation - Auto Exposure Bracketing (AEB) up to +/-3 EV in 1/2 stops; Manual exposure compensation up to +/-3 EV in 1/2 stops; Available in the Full Auto and Programmed modes Shutter Speeds - 30 to 1/4000 sec., Bulb; X-sync at 1/125 Built-in E-TTL II autoflash for high-precision, stable flash exposures (FE Flash enabled) Film Loading - Automatic prewind system. After film positioning and back cover closure, the film automatically winds to end of roll. As pictures are taken, film is rewound one frame at a time back into cassette. Auto ISO setting from 25 to 5000 (manual = 6 to 6400) Uses two CR2 lithium batteries housed inside the camera grip Size (W x H x D) 5.1 x 3.5 x 2.5 inch / Weight 12.9 ounce without battery
List Price: $299.99
Used Price: $200.00
Customer Review: Canon Rebel
Nice camera but it seems to take mirrored images. in other words the pics it takes are reversed. ????
Customer Review: good camera
My daughter rated this product as four stars. She just started photography classes at her school. I think it is a good camera for the beginning photographer.