Starting with Photo News this week -An instagramer makes $15,000 seling his prints! In one day!!!The Instagramer - Arnold Daniel http://instagram.com/arnold_danielThe Forbes Article - http://www.forbes.com/sites/jeffbercovici/2014/03/07/this-photographer-made-15k-in-one-day-on-instagram/Christina discusses buy expensive cameras and adding filters/effects.Christina's Lightroom presets of choice - Replichrome Presets12:00 Introduction to Presets in LightroomSigma is going to pay Nikon 14.5 Million for patent infringement! This is related to a a "complaint" I received from Craig this weekCraig
I'm registering a complaint with the camera manufactures: Why are you using different proprietary terminology for the same feature? Image Stabilization is a great example: Canon, IS (Image Stabilization); Nikon, VR (Vibration Reduction); Tamron, VC (Vibration Compensation); Olympus, IBIS (In Body Image Stabilization); Sony, OSS (Optical SteadyShot) and SSS (Super Steady Shot); Panasonic and Leica, OIS (Optical Image Stabilization); Sigma, OS (Optical Stabilization); Pentax, SR (Shake Reduction); Nokia, PV (PureView); HTC, UP (UltraPixel). Are manufactures just trying to make it more difficult for entry-level photographers, or any photographer for that matter? What is the thinking around this?
22:55 Follow up on my 70D Focus Issues26:06 First Look at the PolarPro Filters that arrived this week - very excited to try these out on my GoPro28:32 New HTC One plus One with dual camera tech hmmmm - sounds like the Lytro- what is that revolutionary product up to today?DISCUSSION35:06 Predictions for the future - Camera Technology.42:03 Take the POLL: Will the Canon T6i have dual pixel focusing technology?45:00 Click here to see Your predictions for future cameras on FacebookChristina’s Cat Lady Camera Owner Confession54:55 Reader Question - Using an external flash outside - with nothing to bounce the light how do you get good flash exposure?Bob SmithHow do I use my on camera speedlite when I there's nothing to bounce the flash off?I'm new to dslr's and recently purchased a Canon 430exii flash to supplement my Canon SL1. I was quickly and easily able to capture great pictures indoors by bouncing the flash and using a small stofen diffuser. However, I'm lost when I don't have something to bounce the flash off and end up aiming the flash directly at my subject and casting some hard heavy shadows. I try to reduce this by dialing the FEC down, but obviously the image gets dark. I most recently encountered this problem when trying to use fill flash on my wife with a sunset in the background. Any tips or recommended diffusers? Thanks Favorite Photo of the week -Christina Pickshttp://www.flickr.com/photos/joerggoetz/12979370023/in/pool-digitalphotorecToby Pickshttp://www.flickr.com/photos/27733102@N02/13130780863/in/pool-digitalphotorec Thanks - Submit to http://www.flickr.com/groups/digitalphotorec to see your photo picked as the picture of the week.
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My Bullet points touch on what matters. Do not get stuck on numbers - the difference in focus points 39 vs 11 or the megapixels 24 vs 18. Both sound like a big difference but in day to day, real world use they do not matter.
Nikon D5300 Strengths
Suggestion - Buy the 35mm f/1.8 with the D5300 and you have the most portable package with excellent low light quality. You do sacrifice some convenience but gain incredible sharpness, quality and the ability to create those images with blurred background. More lens recommendations for the Nikon D5300Nikon D5300 Weaknesses
Watch my complete review of the Nikon D5300Buy the D5300 From Amazon | B&H | Adorama
Canon T5i (700D) Strengths
Canon T5i weaknesses
Full Canon T5i (700D) ReviewBuy the Canon T5i (700) from Amazon | B&H | Adorama
Final Word - As an all around photo and video machine I really like the T5i - it provides that smooth and silent auto focus for video, is very user friendly while offering very good image quality and provides room to grow as a photographer.
The D5300 provides excellent image quality at the expense of user friendliness but does provide some power if you go digging through the menu. It also has to be given high marks for excellent auto pics- just point and shoot. Avoid the 18-55. The 18-140 is fine but if you are thinking about buying this camera and not planning on also purchasing the 35mm f/1.8 you are missing out.
Considering spending $1000+ on the Nikon D5300? Also consider the Canon 70D which is about the same price and offers all the benefits of the Canon - see my D5300 review for more comparison.
Still have questions not answered by the post or video? Leave a comment below or find me on Facebook.
Week in Review-Stay tuned for the giveaway...We didn’t define a few words last week in our Jargon episode like BOKEH!!! Blown Out, Highlights, Histogram, ChimpingHistogram video Link - What is your HistogramHistogram discussionChimping9:00 70D focusing problem70D focus issue? Dont panic - it is disappointing but not cause for total panic12:27 NEWShttp://lensvid.com/gear/lensvid-exclusive-what-happened-to-the-photography-industry-in-2013/Revel android release http://m.connect.dpreview.com/post/6445023773/adobe-releases-revel-for-androidAre camcorders dead?Getty’s BIG announcement http://www.bjp-online.com/2014/03/10-facts-you-need-to-know-about-getty-images-embed-feature/29:50 Discussion - AV MODE IS DANGEROUS!!37:28 Reader Questionssokoli989 asks - What is the most common lens you use at weddings?March Canon Mail In Rebates (LINK)Does the greater number of focus points mean more will be in focus?Often asked about Nikon having 39 focus points vs the 11 from Canon and relatedly I had someone comment that they always use all the focus points so that everything will be in focus.Fav Photo of the week?Christina pickshttp://www.flickr.com/photos/96294033@N08/8790207444/in/pool-digitalphotorecToby pickshttp://www.flickr.com/photos/spammie33/12515239865/in/pool-digitalphotorec48:13 something special - GIVEAWAY
Canon has a month long rebate program for many of their high end lens. There are some solid deals to be had! Check out the spreadsheet below- green indicates a great buy and we are not likely to see prices that low on some of these lenses till the 2014 holiday season. Click to view the Full Spreadsheet of Deals or scroll around the embedded version below.
They both weight about 2.5 lbs, fold down to 12.5" and have little ball heads. They also both have hooks under center column for hanging weight to increase stability. Neither tripod is extremely stable at it's very highest setting, something I am willing to sacrifice since the tripods fit in my camera bag so nicely.Tune in to tomorrow's MishMash Podcast for details on how you could win the Dolica Proline
Original Full MeFoto ReviewNote - MeFoto also offers the RoadTrip model for $189 that has a removable center column, also converts into a monopod - Buy from AmazonI am happy with my MeFoto and feel the extra money was well spent for as much as I use it. If just an occasional user you should consider the Dolica and save. If you don't need a travel or compact tripod consider the excellent budget tripod. Watch my review of the Dolica Proline Tripod.Support this site and my reviews- Buy the MeFoto Travel Tripod from Amazon | Buy the Dolica Ultra Compact Tripod from Amazon
It appears that some models of the 70D has issues with accurate focus when using the center focus point through the viewfinder with lenses wider than f/2.8. The images below illustrate the problem on my 70D. To be fair I had to go looking for this issue and in the 6 months that I have used the camera I hadn't noticed an issue. It is unclear how widespread the issue is. Many German users are unhappy while here in the United States I haven't heard a peep from a single user. Is it because so few of us have used fast lenses and carefully pixel peeped? Or? At this time I don't want to speculate more. I have contacted Canon and am waiting for a response. Please don't assume if you have taken a blurry photo that your 70D also has the issue. Watch the video and follow the directions below for testing your own 70D.tl;dr 70D doesn't focus properly using the center focus point with lenses faster the f/2.8. Use the LCD to focus and take photos at those wider apertures. Full Image 50mm f/1.2- Rollover to view image taken with LCD. See the difference? Slight change in sharpness.[himage]
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[/himage] More Samples can be downloaded from this Dropbox folder - All are labeled and should be self explanatory. There is a folder of the smaller 100% crops or just zoom to 100% of the images in the main folder.I was careful to eliminate ALL other variable. I used a sturdy tripod, set a fast shutter speed at least 2x the focal length and used 2-second delay with mirror lockup to avoid any blur from movement of any kind. For each image you see I took at least three others under the exact same settings and picked the sharpest of the four. So the sharpest viewfinder image vs the sharpest LCD image. There rarely was little difference between the shots.What about Autofocus Micro Adjustment(AFMA)? I tried it and could occasionally get a matched focus at one distance (meaning the sharpness of images taken using the viewfinder to focus was the same as the image taken using the LCD to focus) but at other distances it would still be noticeably different and AFMA should generally correct across the range. I do plan on testing more.At shorter distances with some lenses no issues were seen and only presented themselves at 30'(roughly 10 meters). I also tested the 50mm f/1.4 and the 85 f/1.4 and saw equally disappointing results.Test your 70D
Findings? Leave them below- Let me know what lens you used. Questions? Concerns?Leave a comment. Please do not assume that if you have taken one blurry photo your 70D is broken. You MUST make sure you have eliminated all variables except the method of focusing used.
Had an opportunity to try some Steel Wool Photography last night and thought I would share my experience-You will need -
*You will potentially be throwing sparks 15-20' possibly more depending on the wind and these are sparks or bits of wool that continue to burn. DO NOT experiment with this anywhere that potentially could catch fire and have someone with you keeping an eye out for for issues. And when done do a walk through picking up any mess and making sure nothing is still burning or smoldering.Directions -
Show Notes!Christina's InstagramToby's Instagram
Drawing ends on 2/27/2014Q&APaul Dove - Great podcast guys, I have a question maybe not really related to this vid, but, what type of gear did you start out with way back in the day, has it been digital only or was there film in the mix and what were you shooting with and do still own the gear today?Ali Shadpour - What do you think about using a graduate ND filter to change the exposure and if they can be as smooth as pro lenses to change the amount of light coming to camera? If that is a good solution which brand do you recommend?Immanuel Parra -Hey Toby & Christina thanks for the video, very helpful, even though I do have a question, I am going to travel through Mexico in a few months and would like to know what type of lenses would be good to take some photographs and video footage while I'm out there...and I would like to hear more on the business on photography subject. Thanks once again ;)BabyBelleLove- Question specifically for Christina - and it's kinda random...lol - but, in the behind the scenes of the styled shoot it appears you're petite. So I'm not sure if that's an accurate observation or not. If so, do you have have any issues with being petite? I'm 5'1" myself and sometimes I feel like if I was a little taller I might get a better shot. Maybe it's my own issue, but if it is something you've had to take into consideration and have made adjustments for, I'd love to know!Freddy Cougar i'd like to know how to do such a photo that you got on your wall focus object with a blured/moving background ! i got a t5i and 18-55mm lens kit + 40mm pancake THX a bunchLee Pinnington- Hope you both have a great weekend and always watch to the very end. If you wanted to do the detailed stuff then that would be fine, always interesting, maybe do one about props and giving the image that extra oomf!Jeff Martins My question would be about cards. Will the quality of the card effect the sharpness of a photo. Also will thequality effect video playback?I have had some issues with stop and go playback, not sure if it is something I am doing or the quality of the cards I was using.One more questions how many time can you reuse a card? by erasing old photos. Thanks for all you advise.Ahmed Adly Question 2: what's the best photography contests, not in terms of prizes but in terms of best competition with professional photographers.David Danseur- How can I tell what the native resolution of my photos is?And a follow-up: When exporting out of Lightroom or Photoshop for web presentation, which resolution should I set my photos to export at?Dale Harrison- Question: Do you run into aliasing and moire issues when shooting video? I have a t5i and 70d and both cameras seem to have issues with this. It seems to be really bad when shooting video outside. What recommendations do you have about this....Melinda Cochran I would like to know how you keep your equipment safe when traveling. What do you do when you stay in motels/hotels ect.Rene Beaudoin Hello to both of you from Canada, I have recently purchased a Canon Macro Lens EF 100mm 1:2.8 L IS USM. I understand that it is one of the top of the line in Macro Lens and my Question is, Would you or wouldn't you add ext.tubes to this lens. Better yet is it possible to add ext tubes to this lens. I thank you in advance for any advise that you can answer on this question. All the best to both.Daniel Colyer In terms of composition, what do you look for when shooting street photography?David Aronov My question: When uploading to Instagram, maybe you have mentioned this before, but which way is best to upload to Instagram the 1 x 1 ratio or the way I have been doing which is full size but with a white boarder around the picture? I noticed many do it your way and the pictures are really HQ but also it does cut down some of the details I wanted to include in the picture.Michael Kahn Any tips on how to get good candids of kids? They move quickly and sometimes either freeze or (the opposite) act out when they see me break out the camera.Ahmed Adly My Question: How to get Sharp images with night shooting, and is increasing the F to 22 or above a good practice? as some friends advised to do soNew Segment - Favorite photo of the week - Christina and I both pick a photo from the Flickr Group(uploaded within the last week). In the future we will actually tell you WHY we picked our images. In this episode you just get to see the photo that we each selected as being our favorite from the past week.Thanks for watching/reading and don't forget to Subscribe!
DSLR Controller is an Android App available for $7.99 on the Google Play store. It is well worth the cost giving you much greater control over your wifi connected Canon camera.
Show Notes!OPENINGStyled Shoot followupDiscussion of GoPro behind the scenes running vs VIRB timelapse5:30 Softbox followup -10:40 Photo NewsCP+ announcements from Canon - Canon T5, G1X Mark II and waterproof camerahttp://jeffcable.blogspot.com.es/2014/01/what-is-it-like-to-be-photographer-at_28.html19:38 - Should you shoot on one big card or many?http://shuttermuse.com/olympic-photographer-leon-neal-camera-bag/The lazy person’s lens (follow up to last weeks discussion of Do It All Lenses)http://petapixel.com/2014/02/10/rant-wedding-photographer-wants-buy-good-wedding-shots-pad-portfolio/26:18 - Building your portfolio the right way31:40 Moving to professional level and the lenses that are going to work well for youRecommended Lenses for Canon crop sensorsRecommended prime lenses for CanonRecommended lenses for Nikon DX camerasMaking Money as a photographerOptions include- Stock, Wedding, Portrait, Events,Calculating your Hourly rate45:00 something exciting!
Drawing ends on 2/27/201450:10 READER QUESTIONHow to achieve a film look when shooting video with your DSLR
CP+ photo show is happening in Japan and as I mentioned in last weeks podcast This is traditionally a time when the camera makers announce new P&S cameras and low end DSLRs- very consumer orientated products. And last night Canon did announce a new entry level DSLR, the Canon EOS T5 and a pretty serious P&S the GX1 Mark II - which is the sequel surprisingly to the GX1 ;)
[gallery ids="4348,4351,4353"]Pretty disappointed in this release and I don't see any reason you would pick this over the cheaper SL1.
The Canon T5 will be available in March for $549.00. The SL1 currently sells for $539.00Full Canon Marketing Blitz below. The Canon EOS SL1 offers the same quality with continuous AF and the STM lens that is improved at a slightly cheaper price.
[gallery ids="4350,4349,4347"]Slightly more interesting is the GX1 Mark II - A larger than average sensor size P&S with some nice features
The Canon GX1 has sold OK - it is a crowded marketplace in the space between traditional P&S and your DSLRS - we have lots of options with these smaller format cameras that are wrapped around larger sensors. This latest offering from Canon with the GX1 Mark II looks strong. The feature set is nice and the sensor should provide good low light capabilities all packaged into something that can almost fit in your pocket.The Canon GX1 Mark II will be available at the end of April for $799 - Preorder from AmazonFull Product Info
18.0 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) SensorThe EOS Rebel T5 has an 18.0 Megapixel CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor that captures images with exceptional clarity and tonal range, and offers more than enough resolution for big enlargements or crops - your photos can be printed and framed without having to worry about quality. This first-class sensor is APS-C sized for an effective 1.6x field of view (compared to 35mm format) and features many of the same new technologies as used by professional Canon cameras to maximize each pixel's light gathering, helping to ensure images are captured beautifully and brilliantly.DIGIC 4 Image ProcessorThe DIGIC 4 Image Processor on the EOS Rebel T5 dramatically speeds up camera operations, offering an intuitive shooting experience and providing images full of detail and natural color reproduction. It works in concert with the camera's 18.0 Megapixel CMOS sensor to achieve phenomenal levels of performance in virtually every situation, so you can shoot without having to worry about camera processes.EOS Full HD MovieThe EOS Rebel T5 offers easy-to-use video capture with breathtaking Full HD quality that is difficult for a smartphone to match. Capable of shooting in a number of recording sizes and frame rates, the EOS Rebel T5 offers outstanding video capturing performance, quality and simplicity -simply press the dedicated Live View/Movie Recording button to get started shooting. Additionally, the EOS Rebel T5 enables easy manual control of exposure, focus and Live View features and even allows for in-camera editing. And with a wealth of over 60 interchangeable lenses available to choose from, your video has plenty of creative options.Plus, with the Video Snapshot feature, the EOS Rebel T5 will capture short video clips (of 2, 4 or 8 seconds) then combine them automatically into one video file as a snapshot or highlights "album." With no editing needed after shooting, the compiled video is perfect for sharing online or displaying directly on an HDTV via the camera's HDMI port.Scene Intelligent Auto modeThe EOS Rebel T5 features Scene Intelligent Auto mode, which incorporates a number of Canon technologies to deliver the best possible exposure, simply. Joining Picture Style Auto, Automatic Lighting Optimizer, Automatic White Balance, Autofocus, and Automatic Exposure, Scene Intelligent Auto mode analyzes the image, accounting for faces, colors, brightness, moving objects, contrast, and whether the camera is handheld or on a tripod. It then chooses the exposure and enhancements that bring out the best in any scene or situation. Users without extensive photography knowledge or experience will not need to puzzle over settings; the Scene Intelligent Auto mode simplifies DSLR image capture so photographers can simply concentrate on composing images.Feature GuideTo help explain the specific function of features found on the EOS Rebel T5, the Feature Guide displays a simple description helpful in determining the applicability for the situation at hand. It is displayed in each shooting mode, during mode dial operations, and for Quick Control screen functions. It appears automatically when a function is selected - a lifesaver when trying to determine the best mode or function for the next picture. The feature guide works automatically by default, and can be disabled easily through the camera's menu.Up to 3.0 fps Continuous ShootingThe EOS Rebel T5 is a fast camera, capturing up to 3.0 fps (frames per second) for up to approximately 69 JPEGs or approximately 6 RAW files. Whether capturing the action on the soccer field or waiting for that perfect expression, the EOS Rebel T5 delivers intuitive, speedy operation for the best shot. With instant startup, speedy AF and virtually no shutter lag, the EOS Rebel T5 will help you capture the action, every time.Large 3.0-inch LCD MonitorThe EOS Rebel T5 has a huge, bright 3.0-inch LCD monitor that is ideal for composing and capturing amazing images, as well as showing them off to friends and family. The large display has high resolution with 460,000 pixels and a wide viewing angle of 170°. It's perfect for Live View composition or viewing camera settings like AF, ISO, Metering, AF Point selection and flash options.ISO 100-6400 (Expandable to H: 12800)With a broad range of light sensitivity ratings from ISO 100-6400 (expandable to H: 12800), the EOS Rebel T5 is ready to go no matter the light, capturing the finest detail with ease. Thanks to this expanded ISO range, the EOS Rebel T5 can capture more subjects in more situations, handheld, without the need for flash. This means more natural and detailed looking pictures and movies that can be shot discreetly, with ease.9-point AF System and AI Servo AFThe EOS Rebel T5 has exceptional autofocus with a 9-point AF system including a center cross-type AF point, delivering accurate focus whether the camera is oriented in portrait or landscape position. The system intelligently uses both normal and high-precision focus, depending on the aperture and available light, so your images are in crisp focus. An AI Servo AF system achieves and maintains consistent focus with an exceptional degree of reliability.Creative FiltersThe EOS Rebel T5 allows you to capture images with a new perspective without any need for extra accessories. The camera features five different, creative filters for still images: Grainy B/W, Soft Focus, Fisheye Effect, Miniature Effect and Toy Camera Effect. Each filter alters the mood and feel of any particular scene, allowing you to create photos with a fun, distinctive flair.Basic+ and Creative AutoThe EOS Rebel T5 is always ready to take beautiful pictures automatically. For photographers looking to experiment with more advanced settings, the EOS Rebel T5 is loaded with features to take you to the next level. Basic+ makes it easy to create the image effects you want, changing ambience or scene type according to simple choices made on the camera's Quick Control Screen. And ideal for beginners looking to expand their photographic horizons is Creative Auto mode where basic settings are based on full automatic operation, but shooting guides on the LCD screen explain how to make changes to exposure, tone, sharpness and more, and how those changes will affect the final image. In essence, with Creative Auto mode, you can experiment and learn more about photography while still taking stunning photographs.Compatible with the full line of Canon EF and EF-S lensesThe EOS Rebel T5 is compatible with all Canon lenses in the EF and EF-S lineup, ranging from ultra-wide angle to super telephoto lenses. Canon lenses employ advanced optical expertise and micron-precision engineering to deliver unprecedented performance in all facets of the photographic process. Numerous lenses feature Canon's sophisticated Optical Image Stabilizer technology to minimize the effect of camera shake. Through Canon lenses, photographers can truly maximize the quality and liberating performance of the EOS Rebel T5.Compatible with GPS Receiver GP-E2With the optional GPS Receiver GP-E2 attached to the hot shoe or the digital terminal, the EOS Rebel T5 can record location, including latitude, longitude and altitude, and has the ability to track the trajectory of movement with its logging function. An electric compass records the camera's orientation during each shot, and world time information is recorded through GPS syncing. With GPS information, you can always remember where and when your images were taken, perfect for tagging vacation photos or organizing albums.
The Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark II raises performance and quality to new heights in a compact, brilliant design. Featuring a huge, 1.5-inch 12.8 Megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS sensor, a powerful DIGIC 6 Image Processor and an all-new 5x wide-angle optical zoom lens with Optical Image Stabilizer and a circular, 9-blade aperture for stunning blurred backgrounds, the PowerShot G1 X Mark II delivers the outstanding image quality you would expect with a digital SLR camera but in a portable, Wi-Fi and NFC enabled package.It can capture 14-bit RAW plus JPEG images, features a staggering 31 focus points for speedy and accurate AF, a capacitive 3.0-inch tilt-type touch panel LCD and has newly developed Dual Control Rings on the lens barrel for fast control of exposure and focus. An optional high-resolution electronic viewfinder adds to the camera's professional feel and functionality. Whether being used as a companion to an EOS digital SLR or as a standalone camera, the PowerShot G1 X Mark II has the power to handle most any photographic situation it encounters.Canon 1.5-inch, 12.8 Megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS Sensor Almost as large as the APS-C CMOS sensor found in many EOS digital SLRs, and bigger than those found in 4/3 system cameras, the PowerShot G1 X Mark II's sensor sets the standard for sensitivity and resolving power in compact cameras. Each cell area is 4.5x the size of those found in 1/1.7 type sensors and is thus able to capture more light at the pixel level. This means better detail, even at higher ISOs, with minimal noise and distortion and, thanks to the sensor's wide cell pitch, breathtaking dynamic range. The PowerShot G1 X Mark II camera natively captures images in the 3:2 aspect ratio, which is the same as Canon EOS SLR cameras. The PowerShot G1 X Mark II also features a new Aspect Ratio function, enabling RAW image capturein both 3:2 and 4:3 aspect ratios while maintaining the same angle of view.Canon DIGIC 6 Image Processor The PowerShot G1 X Mark II camera is equipped with the very latest Canon proprietary processor, the DIGIC 6 Image Processor, which makes several important advancements to image quality both in stills and video. Improved light sensitivity allows for higher resolution with less noise when shooting in dark conditions, and Dynamic IS now detects and compensates for tilt and parallel movement (shift blur) to create video that's exceptionally free of distortion. The DIGIC 6 Image Processor also enhances the performance capabilities of the PowerShot G1 X Mark II, powering full resolution high-speed continuous still shooting and the advanced Star shooting modes. Video recording has also been improved with MP4 recording for better compatibility with mobile devices and tablets. Highly compressed MP4 video not only preserves space on your memory card but also improves playback on mobile devices. Plus, with MF Peaking possible thanks to the new processor, you'll have a pro-level focusing tool at your disposal.Canon HS SYSTEM The Canon HS SYSTEM lets you take bright, clear photos in an even wider range of shooting situations. Beautiful low-light shots are possible with minimal noise and maximum detail in highlight and shadow areas. The system is the result of two technologies in the PowerShot G1 X Mark II: the amazing 1.5-inch High-Sensitivity CMOS imaging sensor, which is able to capture more light; and the DIGIC 6 Image Processor, which actively reduces noise at high ISO speeds and processes images at high speed, even at full resolution. Thus, the Canon HS SYSTEM allows you to use higher shutter speeds to capture clearer images with reduced noise and blur in more situations.5x Optical Zoom plus a new f/2.0 - f/3.9, 24mm Wide-Angle lens with Optical Image Stabilizer Developed specifically for the PowerShot G1 X Mark II, this large aperture lens offers the highest specifications for any camera in this class, and incorporates dramatic improvements on all fronts based upon the feedback of PowerShot G1 X users. It offers a 5x zoom factor with a 24-120mm equivalent range that's perfect for any number of shooting scenarios, and it has an incredibly bright aperture value of f/2.0 at wide angle and f/3.9 fully zoomed. It has a newly designed inner focusing system which enables fast AF speed with minimal lens movement, a reduced focusing distance of 5cm, features 14 elements in 11 groups and has a 9-blade aperture diaphragm for beautiful background blur. Engineered to perform and deliver gorgeous images every time, it's the perfect lens for the PowerShot G1 X Mark II camera's amazing sensor. And, in response to the overwhelming requests from PowerShot G1 X users, it has an integral lens cap.Optical Image Stabilizer Handheld shooting can often lead to camera shake, making photos and videos blurry. Canon's Optical Image Stabilizer is a sophisticated system that uses lens-shift technology to correct for unwanted camera movement. It makes handheld photography more practical in more shooting situations, providing excellent image quality in many difficult situations: outdoors at dusk, inside without a flash, and even at the telephoto end of the zoom range without a tripod. For still photos, it enables shooting at slower shutter speeds, accommodating more low-light shooting situations than ever before without having to boost ISO sensitivity. With camera shake and vibration reduced, you get a sharper, steadier image. And because it is an optical system, there is none of the image degradation typical with electronic image stabilizers.Built-in Wi-Fi The PowerShot G1 X Mark II is equipped with built-in Wi-Fi® technology for convenient sharing and transferring of your still images and video. Easily post your images to social networking and media sites - Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Flickr and now Google Drive - through CANON iMAGE GA TEWAY# directly from your PowerShot camera, or save them to the online photo album to share anytime, anywhere. The camera can also connect directly to both iOS® and Android devices, and upload images via the free Canon CameraWindow app without a computer. You can control the destination of your uploads to share with everyone or to selected groups, and even add comments. Sharing video is also easy with the PowerShot G1 X Mark II, which records video using the MP4 format with minimal file size. Enhanced Wi-Fi makes posting in real time possible, so you can keep everyone up to date with amazing photos and video even as events unfold. The built-in Wi-Fi technology on the PowerShot G1 X Mark II also allows you to transfer images to other Wi-Fi equipped PowerShot cameras or print your photos directly to a PictBridge (Wireless LAN) certified printer.One-touch connection to your mobile device or computer is also made possible on the PowerShot G1 X Mark II with the camera's dedicated Mobile Device Connect Button. You can choose to transfer images to your smartphone or tablet for immediate sharing with the CameraWindow app**, or to your computer on the same network with Image Sync to make saving and organizing your images easier. When the camera finds a linked computer on the same wireless network, images are sent directly to it. Otherwise, images are temporarily stored on CANON iMAGE GATEWAY# then transferred once a connection is made, eliminating the need for cables.Remote Shooting With the built-in Wi-Fi® on the PowerShot G1 X Mark II, you can use your smartphone or tablet to remotely control the camera. Simply connect wirelessly to your device and access the free Canon CameraWindow app. Your device will show a live image of the camera's capture for easy composition - perfect for wildlife and nighttime shots, group photos and all kinds of situations. The camera's versatile zoom, flash, self-timer and shutter are all under your control, with images being saved to your camera as usual.Built-in NFC (Near Field Communication) The PowerShot G1 X Mark II camera supports NFC (Near Field Communication) technology, eliminating the need to find and open the Canon CameraWindow app* on your mobile device. Simply touch the NFC icon on your camera to your compatible Android device**, and the CameraWindow app will launch automatically for remote shooting and quick, easy sharing of your images. Built-in NFC technology also makes it simpler to install the app. If the app hasn't been installed yet, once you touch the devices together for the first time, the download screen will display automatically.Canon Full HD Video Advantage Preserving your important memories and creative film clips in stunning quality is easy with Full HD recording on the PowerShot G1 X Mark II camera and its dedicated movie button. With the camera's advanced DIGIC 6 Image Processor, the camera records Full HD video in MP4 that is breathtaking even when played back on a large-screen HDTV via the camera's HDMI output. Video is recorded at 30 frames per second* with stereo sound and because clips are recorded in MP4, you can fit more on a single memory card. The smaller file size also makes it easier to download to a computer and share with family and friends.
B&H has a nice page with all of the savings- These are instant rebates - no paper work, no waiting for your savings.
Amazon has dropped the price of the 70D and the T5i and with a little know-how (see the video below) you can pile on tons of free extras that are heavily discounted(many free after the discount) and end up with a camera and a load of goodies all for free. It is important to note that these items all need to be purchased from Amazon, not 2rd party vendors selling via Amazon. The complete shopping list is below the video70D Start Here -Add the 70D and desired Lens to Cart.Add Canon 70D CameraAdd 18-55 Lens, The 18-135 STM does not give you as big a discounted bonus (which lens to buy?)Add LP-E6 BatteryAdd Dolica MonopodAdd AmazonBasics Camera CaseAdd 32GB SD CardAdd 16GB SD Card (some have reported success adding multiples of this card and Amazon discounts each time, giving you up to 4 free SD Cards with camera)See what else I recommend buying with the Canon 70D and T5i Cameras
We chat about MAKING photos, My tripod catches fire(take that Zach), What does $425,000 worth of Canon gear look like? What you should watch for at the Winter Olympics, Christina unpacks the biggest package that has ever arrived on our doorstep and what aspect ratio should you shoot at? And MORE! No Image Critique in this episode - we ran out of time, I will make it up to you- Promise!Busy? Watch By SectionsClick to Watch 9:17 starts this week's Camera & Lens News - Mostly Lens... The New Sigma 50 f/1.4 is going to cost HOW MUCH? Christina's opinion on the new full frame compatible lens from Tamron - the 28-300, What does $425,000 worth of Canon camera gear look like? What to watch for at the Winter OlympicsClick to Watch 23:10 Unboxing the biggest packages that has ever arrived on our door step, continuous lighting for photos and Christina's styled wedding shoot.Click to Watch Reader Question: What aspect ratio should I shoot at?
Another fairly big photo show starts up next week - CP+ in Japan. Traditionally camera announcements around this time are fairly consumer orientated - not high end professional stuff - no 7D Mark II- what we will see, and the flood gates opened last night, is new P&S models and a new Micro Four Thirds camera from Panasonic that is quite exciting!Nikon has announced -Nikon Coolpix P600, 60x optical zoom bridge camera - 60X zoom. I wonder if you can see the Lunar Module on the Moon with that?Nikon Coolpix S9700, 30x pocket compact with Wi-FiNikon Coolpix S32, underwater all-weather compactNikon Coolpix AW120, Rugged pocket camera with Wi-Fi - This is also waterproof, not sure why they are burying that in the description.Nikon Coolpix P340, Low-light, fast lens compact with Wi-Fi - The most exciting of the bunch.Nikon Coolpix P530, 42x zoom compact with EVF and Wi-Fi - Interesting to see a traditional P&S get an EVF added - they are great for outside shooting in the sun,Adorama has a nice page with pics and pricing - Honestly there isn't anything here that is terribly exciting. I do like that an EVF has been added, this is a promising trend that can give P&S cameras a little more usefulness
I published a video with five tips for getting sharper images with your DSLR. The comments and tips left by the DPR community where excellent and I used those in a second video - both videos are embedded below - sometimes though a quick text list is preferred over a video- here are all of the tips.
Don’t shoot wide open(wide open refers to your aperture). Stop down which means close your aperture down from its maximum. Sharpest photos for many lenses are going to occur between f/5.6 and f/9 and this is referred to as the sweet spot. This sweet spot varies from lens to lens but f/8 is usually a safe bet for the sharpest images with any lens. Please don't take this tip as a suggestion to only shoot with your prime lens, that might open up to f/1.8 or wider, at only f/8 - use that when you have enough light and you don't care about depth of field. Use your judgement when shooting and find a compromise - Don't always shoot at f/8 and don't always shoot wide open.
Keep your shutter speed faster than your focal length and keep your shutter speed fast enough to freeze moving subjects. This is a tip that I have talked about before but again and again I hear from readers with blurry images simply because their shutter speed was slower than their focal length. If you have an image stabilized lens you can cheat a little and go slower but you will need to practice, test and review your shots to see how slow a shutter speed you can reliably hand-hold. And remember that image stabilization doesn't help with moving subjects. See the chart below for some suggestions on shutter speeds for moving subjects. These are just starting points and the higher shutter speeds should be used when the subject is moving across the frame as opposed to toward and away from you.
| Subject | Suggested Shutter Speed |
| Walking | 1/60 - 1/125th |
| Dancing | 1/160 (Slow Dancing)- 1/250th (Crazy Dancing) |
| Running | 1/200th - 1/250th |
| Soccer /Football | 1/250th - 1/500th |
| Horses, Dogs Running | 1/320th - 1/1000th |
| Car Racings | 1/1000th - 1/2000th |
If you are using a tripod make sure Image Stabilization is off. Some IS systems can be fooled when on a tripod and actually compensate for movement that isn't there creating soft images. Mostly seen at slower shutter speeds. IS = Image Satbilzation, VR = Vibration Reduction, OS = Optical Stabilization, VC = Vibration Compensation. See my full glossary of lens terms/acronyms.
The higher the ISO of your images the noisier or more grainy they are going to look and this will decrease the perceived sharpness of the image. This is one of the reasons I am not a fan of Auto ISO- it can be quick to go higher than you need causing very noisy images. If you must choose between slow shutter speed and higher ISO go ahead and increase your ISO. Noise can often be reduced in post process and motion blur can't (although photoshop is working on it)
Make sure your lens(es) are clean. A quick swipe with a soft lens cloth should do the trick.If your subject has eyes - human or otherwise - those should be what you focus on. This becomes especially important when working at a shallow depth of field(wide apertures).Be careful not to move the camera when you push the shutter button - big movements change composition and smaller movements shake the camera. Use the two second timer if no tripod is available and hold camera as steady as possible. I used that technique to take this photo or a waterfall without a tripod. Using the 2-second timer allowed me to concentrate and hold the camera as steady as possible with no change when the camera snapped the photo.Use the camera's high speed drive mode - Fire off a series of shots and one is likely to be sharper than the others. Use this when your subject is moving or you are working at dangerously slow shutter speeds(and have no other options)And keep in mind the the sharpest lens is a good tripod and a good tripod head. Having a good tripod that can hold the camera rock steady will allow you to shoot at slower shutter speeds so you can keep your ISO down and your aperture up for sharp images.
