Quick Thoughts - T4i(650d) mini and 70D

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Update - The latest information does NOT mention the 70D - it looks like we will see the T5i (700D) and a smaller rebel 100D. 700D Specs are mildly improved over the 650D with one item worth noting, an 18-55 STM lens will be available in April. The 100D will be available in May. Canonwatch is talking about a smaller form factor DSLR from Canon that may be coming soon - specs sounds basically the same including using the same sensor used in the T4i(650D). FYI it is quite difficult to shrink a DSLR down as it needs a mirror and the space required is a significant percentage of the total camera size. My excitement level is a 4 out of 10. The next exciting announcement is later this month when we should hear about the 70D, a 60D replacement. The rumor is a return to the higher level occupied by the 50D. 50D 60D 70D Released in 2008, the 50D was placed solidly above the Rebel line, it offered a camera with magnesium body (think pretty tough) and professional features like Micro-AF adjust (not all lenses focus perfectly with all bodies, Micro AF allows you to tweak the alignment to get better results for each lens) and a fast burst rate with large buffer. Two years to the day later the 60D was announced and was seen by many as a departure from the prosumer line and a blurring with the Rebel line.  The 60D was slightly smaller, lost the magnesium body and the Micro AF adjustment.  It did gain video recording features and the articulated screen.   With the feature set of the T4i it is likely that the 70D will return the XXD line to a more professional level. This will increase the price with a kit costing somewhere in the neighborhood of $1500. This also puts it on par with Nikon's recently released and excellent D7100. If you follow all of the different Canon lines you may wonder where that leaves the 7Ds replacement, the rumor there is that the 7D Mark II will come in at much higher level too, close to $2000 and offering a high-end focus system and burst rate that is needed by sports and wildlife photographers. miniT4iBack to the idea of a smaller T4i- eh.  Traditionally Canon has offered a dumbed down rebel and budget friendly rebel that uses a similar form factor with cheaper sensor and missing a few features.  This sounds like the opposite - a smaller camera with the current T4i guts crammed inside.   I don't know how this will fit in the pricing scheme but Canon is certainly feeling pressure from the mirrorless and Micro 4/3 systems otherwise they wouldn't have rushed the EOS-M out the door with admittedly slower AF.     The smaller rebel rumor isn't very exciting unless it comes with a new feature or two and knowing these companies desire to extract every penny from our wallets those features will only appear in the second version. Someone left a comment on one of my videos "If only Canon and Nikon would combine we would have one Awesome camera"   Noooo this is exactly what we do not want.  Competition is good and I am pretty convinced now that the price of the T4i really dropped over the last months to get a solid install base before the D5200 was released though the Nikon still doesn't seem to be selling well and probably won't until it sees a price drop too. I'd love to hear your thoughts?

Black Rapid Strap - Mini-review and gif

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Mini Review of the Black Rapid RS-7 Sport Strap.Pro:

  • Having your camera at the hip, no banging against your stomach
  • The attachment is on the bottom(tripod socket), traditional straps always seemed to be in my way when they are attached at the left and right strap hooks.
  • The strap is super comfy
  • The quick release system allows you to quickly go from no strap to strap in seconds. Even unscrewing the camera connector is quick.

Cons

  • Pricey - but a good strap that is going to last you years and years
  • If you are not careful the quick release lock could come undone.
  • On occasion, when I lift the camera to shoot, the strap slides off the shoulder.  I know others are having this issue because Black Rapid addresses it on their FAQ page.   I plan to add some small rubber grip-e-ness to the bottom of the strap to see if that helps.  I am also considering going with their double strap system and attaching a lens bag on the other side.

Quick Gif of me using a Black Rapid StrapSupport this site- Order your Black Rapid Strap from Amazon or B&H. Let me know if you have any questions.

Quick Tips for Better Photos - Video Playlist

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I have been on a bit of a tear lately producing shorter, tip filled videos.   I have those in a playlist that will be updated as more are added.  Drop me a line on my Facebook page if you have suggestions for topics that should be covered in a future video.   Tip topics so far: A reason to own a prime, Using your center focus point for more conistent focus, especially in low light, and why you can't change your exposure in Manual mode. . or can you ;) 

Capbuckle - Product Review and Giveaway

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Win a capbuckleI have lost more than a few lens caps over the last year, usually the issue is not having a consistent place to put my lens cap after taking it off the lens.  Capbuckle solves that, it threads onto your camera strap and gives you a place to snap the cap. A snug little home for your lens cap.   The only downside I have found is that it does not work without an extra bit of string with my favorite strap, the Black Rapid Straps.    Watch the video review below and then pop over to my facebook page to enter to win your very own Capbuckle.    Enter to Win (contest open to residents of the US only)

Nikon D7100 vs D7000 vs D5200

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NIKON D7100 Image Key Differences between all three cameras - If a camera is not listed with a feature bullet it does not offer that feature.

  • 24MP with a new sensor(not the same as the 24MP sensor in the D3200 or the D5200) and the AntiAliasing filter has been removed potentially increasing the image quality in some situations.
  • D7100 offers a 1.3x crop mode. You resolution is now limited to 15MP but provides additional benefits (see next two bullets)
  • 51 AF points and when you shoot in the 1.3x crop mode nearly 100% of frame is covered by AF. D7000 and D5200 offer 39 AF points.
  • 6 frames per second, 7 when you shoot in the 1.3x crop mode. D7000 offers 6FPS and D5200 offers 5fps.
  • Improved weather sealing - moisture and dust seals.  D7000 was a little less weather sealed.
  • D7100 and D5200 share video features 1080i at 60fps with a host of additional resolutions/FPS, D7000 was limited to 1080p at 24fps(which isn't a terrible limit)
  • D7100 and D5200 offer onboard stereo mic. D7100 also has a headphone jack.  D7000 offers mono mic and mic jack.
  • D7100 offers spot WB
  • D7100 and D5200 offer in camera HDR and Multi exposure.
  • D7100 and D5200 are compatible with the little WU-1A wi-fi adapter- paired with the Nikon app on a smartphone you can trigger the shutter and download photos.

 Buy the D7100 from Amazon | B&H ( I suspect that this camera will see very well early on and it may be a bit harder to get one at release, the D7000 was well loved) D7100 Sample Images | SD Cards tested in D7100 Should you upgrade?The D7100 is now Nikon's flagship DX model and the image quality out of this camera reflect this level of performance.  I mean simply that this is one of the highest quality crop sensors in one of the best bodies you can buy at this price level and even higher.  If you have a Nikon D5100 or lower model this would be a worthy upgrade.  If you have a D7000, still a very nice camera, it becomes less clear if you should upgrade.  The sensor is better, you have some nice additional features and more robust options in video mode BUT you are likely to see a greater, more long-term improvement investing in glass. A possible exception, if you are getting paid to shoot, especially in lower light environments or situations where you need that full AF coverage (sports and wildlife photographers I am talking to you) and you have somewhat decent lenses already - you should consider upgrading. If you any questions about the D7100, D5200 or other cameras or lenses leave a comment or send me a message on my Facebook page.   Thanks for reading.   

The Nikon D7100 Specs

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The Nikon D7100 has been announced and will be available at the end of March. Pre-order now at Amazon | B&H Nikon D7100 First Impressions:The Nikon D7000 was a well loved and well priced camera.  The Nikon D7100 looks to continue that trend - starting at a body only price of $1200 you get everything loved about the D7000 - handling, responsiveness, feature set and they have tacked on 51 AF points and a focusing brain borrowed from it's much bigger brother, the D4 as well as a host of other upgrades that make this a worth successor. The 24MP sensor is similar to what is used in the D5200 and that camera is capable of some stellar image/video quality from a crop sensor. However, the in the D7100 they have removed the Anti Aliasing(AA) filter which will increase the resolution further albeit at the expense of a bit more moire(rippled appearance on fine textures in stills and video) .  With 6 FPS, 7 FPS at the 1.3x crop mode a large target audience for this camera is your sports and wildlife photographers, in addition when shooting in the crop mode almost the entire field is covered by a focus point.  Movie options are robust and similar to the excellent options on the D5200 offering 1080i at 60fps.   And a new OLED screen in the viewfinder, that's right, not the LCD but in the 100% glass pentaprism viewfinder we have additional information over-layed via an OLED screen.    Overall this looks to be an excellent camera and a noticeable upgrade from the D7000 or one of the entry level Nikon cameras.   If you have any questions about this camera or other Nikon DSLRS feel free to use the email link on the right or send me a message on Facebook.  I answer your questions.The Nikon D7100 Available to Preorder: Buy at Amazon | B&H (available at the end of March)Nikon D7100 specs:

  • 24MP CMOS sensor
  • 6fps (7fps at 1.3x Crop mode)
  • 51 AF point, 15 cross-type, center type good to f/8
  • 2016-pixel RGB sensor
  • 3.2" 1,229k dots LCD screen
  • Dual SD card slots
  • EXPEED 3 processor
  • ISO range: 100-6400
  • Built-in HDR function
  • 100% viewfinder coverage includes new OLED screen inside viewfinder
  • Video: 1080p @ 60i/50i/30/25/24 fps plus 720p @ 60p
  • Compatible with the WU-1a wireless mobile adapter

Gallery of ImagesPress Release:

Superior subject acquisition performance and sharp renderingAdvanced basic performance from features such as an AF system with 51 focus points, all in a compact, lightweight body

Tokyo - Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the release of the advanced, high-performance DX-format D7100 digital SLR camera.The D7100 is a compact, lightweight camera (W x H x D: approx. 135.5 x 106.5 x 76 mm; weight: approx. 675 g*1) that offers superior portability. It is loaded with features that enable excellent subject acquisition and rendering performance capable of reproducing the finest details.The high density of 51-point AF system accurately acquires the intended subject for superior subject acquisition and tracking performance. Cross-type sensors have been adopted for the 15 most frequently used focus points at the center of the frame. In addition, the center focus point (cross-type) is fully functional with lenses with a maximum aperture of f/8. This means faster, more precise autofocusing with a variety of conditions. The D7100 is also equipped with a new crop image area, 1.3x DX crop, which increases the angle of view by approximately 1.3x that of the standard DX-format angle of view. This effectively increases lens focal length to an equivalent angle of view of approximately 2x*2, making distant subjects larger. In addition, the 51 focus points cover the entire image area when 1.3x DX crop is enabled for quick and certain acquisition of subjects moving randomly through the frame with high-speed continuous shooting at approximately 7 fps*3.The D7100 is also equipped with a DX-format CMOS sensor, an effective pixel count of 24.1-million pixels, the high-performance EXPEED 3 image-processing engine, and does not have an optical low-pass filter. These features enable excellent rendering with high resolution. The incredible potential of the high pixel count, high-definition D7100 can be maximized by the use of NIKKOR lenses, which offer superior rendering performance made possible with Nikon's own optical technologies.The D7100 also offers a number of new functions that improve operation and support more natural and efficient shooting, including Spot White Balance, a white balance Preset Manual option that allows users to choose a specific subject from which white balance is measured with shooting in live view. Additionally, the D7100 features an RGBW array that enables more effective accumulation of light, as well as a large, 3.2-inch high-resolution TFT LCD monitor with wide viewing angle, and an  button that enables direct access to frequently used functions.

  • *1Camera body only
  • *2Equivalent in 35-mm [135] format.
  • *3When 1.3x DX crop is enabled; up to 6 fps when standard DX format is enabled. Both maximum frame rates possible only when image quality is set to JPEG/12-bit NEF (RAW). Measured according to CIPA guidelines.

D7100 primary features

  1. Support for lenses with a maximum aperture of f/8 and an AF system comprised of the high-density 51 focus points offering faster AF initiationThe 51 focus-point AF system built into the D7100 utilizes the new Advanced Multi-CAM 3500DX autofocus sensor module with 51 focus points covering a broad range of the frame for more certain acquisition of the intended subject. Cross-type sensors have been adopted for more certain acquisition and tracking of rapidly moving subjects. In addition, the camera is able to focus automatically with extreme accuracy, even in lighting measuring just −2 EV (ISO 100, 20°C), roughly equivalent to moonlight. What's more, the center focus point (cross-type) supports autofocusing with lenses with a maximum aperture of f/8. This allows users to enjoy ultra high-speed AF shooting with a compact and lightweight system when a telephoto NIKKOR lens with a maximum aperture of f/4 and a teleconverter (2x) are used.
  2. 51 focus points covering the entire frame bring distant subjects closer. 1.3x DX crop for high-speed continuous shooting at approximately 7 fps*1.The DX format effectively increases the shooting angle of view to an equivalent of approximately 1.5x the actual focal length of the lens*2. The new 1.3x DX crop image area increases this effect by an additional 1.3x for a total effective increase in angle of view to approximately 2x lens focal length*2, making distant subjects appear closer. What's more, when 1.3x DX crop is enabled, the AF system's 51 focus points cover the entire frame, and high-speed continuous shooting at approximately 7 fps*1 is possible for quick and certain capture of the intended subject.
    • *1When 1.3x DX crop is enabled; up to 6 fps when standard DX format is enabled. Both maximum frame rates possible only when image quality is set to JPEG/12-bit NEF (RAW). Measured according to CIPA guidelines.
    • *2Equivalent in 35-mm [135] format.
  3. A new Nikon DX-format CMOS sensor, an effective pixel count of 24.1-million pixels, no optical low-pass filter, and the EXPEED 3 image-processing engine optimized for high-performance digital-SLR camerasThe D7100 is equipped with a new Nikon DX-format CMOS sensor, an effective pixel count of 24.1-million pixels and no optical low-pass filter. It supports a broad range of standard ISO sensitivities, from ISO 100 to ISO 6400, as well as further expansion to an equivalent of ISO 25600 (Hi 2) for capture of sharp, clear images for which noise is effectively suppressed throughout the entire range of sensitivities. In addition, when used with NIKKOR lenses loaded with Nikon's advanced optical technologies, the D7100's high pixel count achieves sharp, well-defined rendering with a sense of depth. The EXPEED 3 high-performance image-processing engine maximizes the potential of the high pixel count for faithful reproduction of scenes.
  4. A compact and lightweight Nikon DX-format camera that is strong despite its light weight, and extremely portableDespite its advanced basic performance and being loaded with a number of new functions, the D7100 is a compact, lightweight camera measuring approximately 135.5 mm wide, 106.5 mm high and 76 mm deep, and weighing just 675 g*. As an entire system, the Nikon DX format, which includes DX-format lenses, offers excellent portability. The magnesium alloy adopted for the top and rear covers of the D7100 ensures great strength, and sealing of individual components ensures a high level of water and dust resistance. These aspects make the D7100 the perfect camera for a broad range of uses, from casual capture of everyday scenes to full-scale photography.
    • *Camera body only.
  5. Increased usability and improved operation
    • A new  button enables quick access to frequently used camera functionsA new  button, positioned to the bottom left of the camera's monitor, enables simple access to frequently used functions with viewfinder and live view photography, movie recording, and playback. Pressing the button displays the options screen for the desired setting, allowing immediate access to setting options for normal shooting, live view photography, and the retouch menu in playback mode.
    • A new Spot White Balance option for measuring white balance using a specified portion of the frameWith live view photography, preset manual white balance data can be easily acquired based on a portion of the scene selected by the user. Spot White Balance eliminates the need to prepare a reference object, such as a gray card, and allows for preset white balance measurement without changing lenses when a super-telephoto lens is used.This new option is most convenient with outdoor shooting, and sports and landscape photography.
    • A high-performance optical viewfinder utilizing a glass pentaprism and offering frame coverage of approximately 100%The optical viewfinder built into the D7100 offers frame coverage of approximately 100% for extremely precise framing of images, and magnification of approximately 0.94x* that makes all elements in the viewfinder display easy to see. Adoption of a very bright, high-contrast, low power consumption OLED display element ensures excellent visibility even in low temperatures.
    • OLED display elementAdoption of a very bright, high-contrast, low power consumption OLED display element ensures faster viewfinder display ((information display below image area) with excellent visibility even in low temperatures.
    • 3.2-inch, 1229 k-dot TFT LCD monitor with wide viewing angle utilizing a new RGBW arrayThe D7100 is equipped with a large, high-definition TFT LCD monitor with wide viewing angle for which an RGBW array that increases brightness has been adopted. This increases visibility with viewing in bright surroundings.
    • *With 50mm f/1.4 lens at infinity, -1.0 m-1.
  6. Support for 1920 x 1080/60i and 1920 x 1080/30p movie recordingThe combination of NIKKOR lenses, an imaging unit that does not include an optical low-pass filter, and the EXPEED 3 image-processing engine enables sharp, high-resolution imaging expression with movie recording as well. The Multi-area mode Full-HD D-Movie function supports movie recording using not only the standard DX-movie image area, but also the new 1.3x DX crop image area. The 1.3x DX crop option brings distant subjects closer with movie recording. In addition, the stereo microphone built into the pentaprism enables recording of high-quality stereo sound. The D7100 also supports recording of stereo sound via connection of the optional ME-1 stereo microphone.
  7. Support for the new WR-1 Wireless Remote Controller(available separately)The D7100 supports the WR-1, a highly functional transceiver that enables verification and adjustment of settings*1, as well as control over remote shooting. The WR-1 uses radio waves and supports 15 channels for communication over a maximum range of 120 m*2 between multiple WR-1s. Not only can one WR-1 be configured as a transmitter and a second as a receiver*3 to control operation of one remote camera, but multiple WR-1s can be configured as receivers for remote control over multiple cameras. A number of remote shooting options are available, including simultaneous release and synchronized release*4, as well as interval timer shooting and division of multiple cameras into groups for separate control over each group. Remote control is also possible using the WR-R10/WR-T10 combination.
    • *1Some functions excluded.
    • *2At an altitude of approximately 1.2 m; effective range may be reduced by obstacles and inclement weather.
    • *3Pairing required for all WR-1, WR-R10, and WR-T10 units. Up to 20 WR-1units can be paired, up to 64 WR-R10 units can be paired.
    • *4Only cameras with a ten-pin remote terminal can be employed as master cameras with synchronized release.

Other D7100 Features

  • Release time lag of approximately 0.052 s*1high-speed continuous shooting at up to approximately 7 fps*1*2
  • Extremely durable shutter that has passed testing for 150,000 cycles
  • Built-in flash equipped with a commander function
  • Double slots for SD memory cards
  • New Multi-Power Battery Pack MB-D15 (available separately)
  • *1Measured according to CIPA guidelines.
  • *2When 1.3x DX crop is enabled; up to 6 fps when standard DX format is enabled. Both maximum frame rates possible only when image quality is set to JPEG/12-bit NEF (RAW).

Canon EOS Instant Rebates

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Canon Rebates February 17 2013

February and March Canon USA Rebates

Canon Camera Rebates (FULL PDF)New instant(no messy paperwork) rebates on Canon lenses and speedlites begins today, February 17, and runs until March 30th, 2013.A few choice offerings, rebate amount in brackets

Costco Bundle T4i vs Amazon Bundle Canon T4i

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Multiple folks have asked me about the Costco Canon t4i Bundle. For $899 they are offering. . well just check out the spreadsheet below and see that buying from Amazon saves you $130. It is important to note that this savings is mostly from the 55-250 discount that ends on 2/16Deal is still live as of 2/18. As always let me know if you have questions.    UPDATE: Added a video that shows exactly how to get the 55-250 bundle.

Nikon D5200 HDR Samples

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Sample images using the built in HDR function on the Nikon D5200 - Options are HDR OFF, Auto HDR,  Extra High, High, Norm, and Low.  In my testing there was often very little difference between auto, normal and low.    Notice the serious Halos around your higher contrast areas when HDR was set to Extra High.  Compare the options and results to the HDR feature built into the Canon T4i and it is clear that Nikon offers some real potential here but it still is not going to beat bracketing three shots on your own and combining in Photomatix or Photoshop.HDR OFF - Mouse over for HDR Extra High[himage]HDR OFFHDR Extra High - Notice the halo around the building[/himage]HDR OFF - Mouse over for HDR Auto[himage]HDR OffHDR Auto - Very Little difference from the HDR off[/himage]Viewing tip - Open up the photos and use the arrow keys to navigate through - once you have been through all of the photos once you can use the arrow keys to easily pop back and forth to compare the HDR on and off.

Tutorial: How to Shoot Video without Natural Light

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Step by step approach to setup your camera (in this case a T4i) for shooting in low light/without natural light.   A few posts back I have a video tutorial that covers how I setup for my video review.   I waxed somewhat poetic about natural light, it is flattering and free.  But what about shooting videos at night or in a room that doesn't get lots of natural light?   In this video I go through the settings step by step and offer a few cheap lighting suggestions including a 500 Watt work light and a little LED light panel.