C&P Random Thread -
i believe Srika has a GX1 and a GF1 so he can give you insights on that. i guess with the GX6 and 7 its more updated with the sensor, at least you wouldn't feel the need to upgrade any sooner when newer sensors come out.
I'm racking my brain tying to decide how to upgrade from my gf1. I'll keep the gf1 as I love the little thing, but it's low light performance really can get in the way. Especially compared to what's available in m43 cameras today.
I could get
a $750 gx7 and use it with the 14 and 20mm lenses I already have
a $650 g6 with a 14-42 mm ois zoom with $100 to spend on tequila
a ~$350 gx1 dollar with a 14-42 zoom and something nice like a 30mm sigma and $200 to spend on whiskey.
The gx7 and g6 are pretty close in performance, but the form factor of the gx7 has proven to be my favorite. The gx7 also has a 1/8000th shutter and built in image stabilization for my old lenses.
The gx1 doesn't keep up with high iso performance of the others, but it's still a leap from the gf1 and leaves me with quite a bit of buying power.
If anybody would like to tell me what to buy so I can ignore you and make a much stupider decision I would appreciate it.
I could get
a $750 gx7 and use it with the 14 and 20mm lenses I already have
a $650 g6 with a 14-42 mm ois zoom with $100 to spend on tequila
a ~$350 gx1 dollar with a 14-42 zoom and something nice like a 30mm sigma and $200 to spend on whiskey.
The gx7 and g6 are pretty close in performance, but the form factor of the gx7 has proven to be my favorite. The gx7 also has a 1/8000th shutter and built in image stabilization for my old lenses.
The gx1 doesn't keep up with high iso performance of the others, but it's still a leap from the gf1 and leaves me with quite a bit of buying power.
If anybody would like to tell me what to buy so I can ignore you and make a much stupider decision I would appreciate it.
I have tried some ISO 800-1600 shots with the GX1 and been relatively content with its performance there btw.
Hope that helps.
This month the local camera club's PRINT competition is "Mono - Bridges". I can't decide on which to submit. Soooo…if you guys would take a look at this set on my flickr and let me know what you think, would be a better entry, I'd very much appreciate it! You can just reply here or there if you want. 
http://www.flickr.com/photos/petshot...7639359476304/
Thanks gang!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/petshot...7639359476304/
Thanks gang!
Danka Shane.
I usually take the gf1 to iso 1000 but that is my limit. At this point the last dslr I had was the xti so I've never really had a camera that was even relatively usable past that point and kinda want to just spoil myself a little bit. From the pictures I've looked at way too closely the gx1 probably will fit all of my needs and...
Ah what the hell in the middle of writing this I ordered a gx7 off ebay with a kit lens. I'm sure I'll be receiving a box full of rocks and calling paypal shortly.
Thanks for trying srika.
I usually take the gf1 to iso 1000 but that is my limit. At this point the last dslr I had was the xti so I've never really had a camera that was even relatively usable past that point and kinda want to just spoil myself a little bit. From the pictures I've looked at way too closely the gx1 probably will fit all of my needs and...
Ah what the hell in the middle of writing this I ordered a gx7 off ebay with a kit lens. I'm sure I'll be receiving a box full of rocks and calling paypal shortly.
Thanks for trying srika.
Last edited by Stapler; Jan 3, 2014 at 01:03 PM.
This month the local camera club's PRINT competition is "Mono - Bridges". I can't decide on which to submit. Soooo…if you guys would take a look at this set on my flickr and let me know what you think, would be a better entry, I'd very much appreciate it! You can just reply here or there if you want. 
http://www.flickr.com/photos/petshot...7639359476304/
Thanks gang!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/petshot...7639359476304/
Thanks gang!

This month the local camera club's PRINT competition is "Mono - Bridges". I can't decide on which to submit. Soooo…if you guys would take a look at this set on my flickr and let me know what you think, would be a better entry, I'd very much appreciate it! You can just reply here or there if you want. 
http://www.flickr.com/photos/petshot...7639359476304/
Thanks gang!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/petshot...7639359476304/
Thanks gang!

This month the local camera club's PRINT competition is "Mono - Bridges". I can't decide on which to submit. Soooo…if you guys would take a look at this set on my flickr and let me know what you think, would be a better entry, I'd very much appreciate it! You can just reply here or there if you want. 
http://www.flickr.com/photos/petshot...7639359476304/
Thanks gang!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/petshot...7639359476304/
Thanks gang!

Good luck!
Danka Shane.
I usually take the gf1 to iso 1000 but that is my limit. At this point the last dslr I had was the xti so I've never really had a camera that was even relatively usable past that point and kinda want to just spoil myself a little bit. From the pictures I've looked at way too closely the gx1 probably will fit all of my needs and...
Ah what the hell in the middle of writing this I ordered a gx7 off ebay with a kit lens. I'm sure I'll be receiving a box full of rocks and calling paypal shortly.
Thanks for trying srika.
I usually take the gf1 to iso 1000 but that is my limit. At this point the last dslr I had was the xti so I've never really had a camera that was even relatively usable past that point and kinda want to just spoil myself a little bit. From the pictures I've looked at way too closely the gx1 probably will fit all of my needs and...
Ah what the hell in the middle of writing this I ordered a gx7 off ebay with a kit lens. I'm sure I'll be receiving a box full of rocks and calling paypal shortly.
Thanks for trying srika.
Please let us know what you think and post pics!
Last edited by wndrlst; Jan 3, 2014 at 11:21 PM. Reason: because I do speak English..promise!
I prefer the one on the left, also. I like dead space, but the one on the right has a little too much for me (doesn't feel like it's helping the composition). Or maybe it's just that my eyes keep getting pulled to it because the bright spot is distracting. Don't get me wrong, it's a lovely photo, but I think the one on the left is stronger.
Good luck!
Good luck!
Sigma Announces the 50 f/1.4 Art Lens & More
JANUARY 6, 2014 THIRD PARTY LENSES FOLLOW ON OUR FORUM
LAS VEGAS– Jan. 6, 2014 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading researcher, developer, manufacturer and service provider of some of the world’s most impressive lines of lenses, cameras and flashes, today announced the launch of two new Global Vision lenses from the 2014 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.
The improved and redesigned 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM and 50mm F1.4 DG HSM lenses are the latest additions to Sigma’s Global Vision lineup. Both lenses’ availability and pricing have yet to be announced.
“These two lenses are among our most popular, and we’re pleased to reintroduce these products by adding them to our Global Vision lineup,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “The 18-200mm, in particular, is an exciting new lens as it now has macro functionality, updated optics and a Global Vision design, making it a fantastic alternative to the kit lens. As has been the case with our recent Global Vision lenses, we expect an array of photographers to gravitate to their technically advanced features and slick new look.”
The 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM Contemporary lens, designed specifically for APS-C DSLRs, is the successor to the 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 II DC OS HSM, which was launched in 2011. The smaller and lighter lens (15.2 ounces and 2.8×3.4 inches versus 17.3 ounces and 3×3.5 inches) now macro capabilities with a minimum focusing distance of 15.4 inches and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:3, as opposed to the lens’ earlier minimum focusing distance of 17.7 inches and max magnification ratio of 1:3.8. Its minimum working distance is 14.7 inches, which makes the lens suitable for close-up shooting with natural light, keeping shadows of the camera and lens out of the image.
The 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 Macro has also been updated to incorporate Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass elements that have a high refractive index and can correct chromatic aberration at the telephoto-end. Moreover, aspherical lens elements, including double-sided aspherical lenses, will ensure a compact size and excellent correction of distortion.
The new Sigma 50mm F1.4 DG HSM Art has been reengineered and redesigned to set a new standard of performance in the Art line. A staple focal length, the new Sigma 50mm F1.4 Art is a pro level performer for full-frame DSLRs great for many different types of photography including portraits, landscapes, studio work and still-life. It has been updated to include SLD glass and optimized for rich peripheral brightness with improved large aperture performance by positioning wide elements into the front groups. Other updates include an optimized autofocus algorithm for smoother focusing and a floating focusing system to reduce lens movement while focusing. Under the Global Vision line, it features a new matte finish, improved AF on/off switch and guarantees every lens is tested with Sigma’s proprietary modulation transfer function (MTF) “A1” measuring system before being shipped. Now with 13 elements in 8 groups compared to the previous 8 elements in 6 groups, it also has improved close focusing at 15.7 inches and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:5.6
Both lenses incorporate Sigma’s Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) system to produce quiet, high-speed auto focus. In addition, they include Super Multi-Layer Coating to reduce flare and ghosting, and to ensure high-quality images throughout the entire zoom range. The 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM and 50mm F1.4 DG HSM lenses are also compatible with Sigma’s USB dock and the company’s Mount Conversion Service.
Other recently announced lenses and accessories such as the 24-105mm F4 DG OS HSM, 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM | ART and USB Dock will be on display at Sigma’s CES booth. Visit Sigma at CES 2014 at booth 10431in Central Hall at the Las Vegas Convention Center from Jan. 7 to 10.
JANUARY 6, 2014 THIRD PARTY LENSES FOLLOW ON OUR FORUM
LAS VEGAS– Jan. 6, 2014 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading researcher, developer, manufacturer and service provider of some of the world’s most impressive lines of lenses, cameras and flashes, today announced the launch of two new Global Vision lenses from the 2014 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.
The improved and redesigned 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM and 50mm F1.4 DG HSM lenses are the latest additions to Sigma’s Global Vision lineup. Both lenses’ availability and pricing have yet to be announced.
“These two lenses are among our most popular, and we’re pleased to reintroduce these products by adding them to our Global Vision lineup,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “The 18-200mm, in particular, is an exciting new lens as it now has macro functionality, updated optics and a Global Vision design, making it a fantastic alternative to the kit lens. As has been the case with our recent Global Vision lenses, we expect an array of photographers to gravitate to their technically advanced features and slick new look.”
The 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM Contemporary lens, designed specifically for APS-C DSLRs, is the successor to the 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 II DC OS HSM, which was launched in 2011. The smaller and lighter lens (15.2 ounces and 2.8×3.4 inches versus 17.3 ounces and 3×3.5 inches) now macro capabilities with a minimum focusing distance of 15.4 inches and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:3, as opposed to the lens’ earlier minimum focusing distance of 17.7 inches and max magnification ratio of 1:3.8. Its minimum working distance is 14.7 inches, which makes the lens suitable for close-up shooting with natural light, keeping shadows of the camera and lens out of the image.
The 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 Macro has also been updated to incorporate Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass elements that have a high refractive index and can correct chromatic aberration at the telephoto-end. Moreover, aspherical lens elements, including double-sided aspherical lenses, will ensure a compact size and excellent correction of distortion.
The new Sigma 50mm F1.4 DG HSM Art has been reengineered and redesigned to set a new standard of performance in the Art line. A staple focal length, the new Sigma 50mm F1.4 Art is a pro level performer for full-frame DSLRs great for many different types of photography including portraits, landscapes, studio work and still-life. It has been updated to include SLD glass and optimized for rich peripheral brightness with improved large aperture performance by positioning wide elements into the front groups. Other updates include an optimized autofocus algorithm for smoother focusing and a floating focusing system to reduce lens movement while focusing. Under the Global Vision line, it features a new matte finish, improved AF on/off switch and guarantees every lens is tested with Sigma’s proprietary modulation transfer function (MTF) “A1” measuring system before being shipped. Now with 13 elements in 8 groups compared to the previous 8 elements in 6 groups, it also has improved close focusing at 15.7 inches and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:5.6
Both lenses incorporate Sigma’s Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) system to produce quiet, high-speed auto focus. In addition, they include Super Multi-Layer Coating to reduce flare and ghosting, and to ensure high-quality images throughout the entire zoom range. The 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM and 50mm F1.4 DG HSM lenses are also compatible with Sigma’s USB dock and the company’s Mount Conversion Service.
Other recently announced lenses and accessories such as the 24-105mm F4 DG OS HSM, 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM | ART and USB Dock will be on display at Sigma’s CES booth. Visit Sigma at CES 2014 at booth 10431in Central Hall at the Las Vegas Convention Center from Jan. 7 to 10.
Would you recommend using a mouse when editing photos (PS Elements) on a MacBook Pro? I'd think it would offer a little more control than the trackpad.
When I purchased the 70D it came with a free copy of Photoshop Elements. While it is not the most in-depth photo editing software, it's at least an introduction to the process and a step up from iPhoto.
When I purchased the 70D it came with a free copy of Photoshop Elements. While it is not the most in-depth photo editing software, it's at least an introduction to the process and a step up from iPhoto.
I do all my editing with the track pad on my MBP. Most of my edits are broad sweeps, though, so I haven't bothered to buy a mouse or stylus for the rare time I need something more fine tuned. So I guess it depends on your editing style and whether you need to finely outline detailed items frequently.
Also, I don't know if Elements has the same smart selection tools that PS has. Those are pretty darn good at correcting my manual errors if there's enough contrast.
Also, I don't know if Elements has the same smart selection tools that PS has. Those are pretty darn good at correcting my manual errors if there's enough contrast.
I have kind of a novice question as far as PP goes. So originally I started a couple years ago with lightroom to do all my PP with and it worked great but now that I have cs6 with camera raw. I don't see why you need LR, you basically can do everything in camera raw that you can in LR. Do any of you guys use PS and LR together for your work flow?
I have both, and almost never use LR. Scratch the almost...now that I'm not shooting weddings any, longer I never use it. It was useful for culling and making general adjustments to >1000 images at a time, but I vastly prefer the workflow with Camera Raw and PS.
Obviously just one gal's opinion. I know there are some here who feel the opposite. You'd have to pry Lr from their cold, dead fingers.
Obviously just one gal's opinion. I know there are some here who feel the opposite. You'd have to pry Lr from their cold, dead fingers.
I know you guys are talking about FULL PS. But...I have Elements and LR has WAY more sliders and controls than Camera Raw in Elements. Maybe that's one of the bigger differences from full PS.
I don't know what elements has, but here's a screenshot from Raw:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/moxiephotos/11839473784/http://www.flickr.com/photos/moxiephotos/11839473784/ by http://www.flickr.com/people/moxiephotos/, on Flickr
Each tab opens up more options - if you want to see what they have, let me know and I'll make more screen grabs. I think they're pretty similar. ("They" being Raw and Lr, not Raw and Elements - no idea how they compare!)
http://www.flickr.com/photos/moxiephotos/11839473784/http://www.flickr.com/photos/moxiephotos/11839473784/ by http://www.flickr.com/people/moxiephotos/, on Flickr
Each tab opens up more options - if you want to see what they have, let me know and I'll make more screen grabs. I think they're pretty similar. ("They" being Raw and Lr, not Raw and Elements - no idea how they compare!)
Would you recommend using a mouse when editing photos (PS Elements) on a MacBook Pro? I'd think it would offer a little more control than the trackpad.
When I purchased the 70D it came with a free copy of Photoshop Elements. While it is not the most in-depth photo editing software, it's at least an introduction to the process and a step up from iPhoto.
When I purchased the 70D it came with a free copy of Photoshop Elements. While it is not the most in-depth photo editing software, it's at least an introduction to the process and a step up from iPhoto.
I have kind of a novice question as far as PP goes. So originally I started a couple years ago with lightroom to do all my PP with and it worked great but now that I have cs6 with camera raw. I don't see why you need LR, you basically can do everything in camera raw that you can in LR. Do any of you guys use PS and LR together for your work flow?
I don't know what elements has, but here's a screenshot from Raw:

CameraRaw Screenshot.jpg by MoxiePhotos, on Flickr
Each tab opens up more options - if you want to see what they have, let me know and I'll make more screen grabs. I think they're pretty similar. ("They" being Raw and Lr, not Raw and Elements - no idea how they compare!)

CameraRaw Screenshot.jpg by MoxiePhotos, on Flickr
Each tab opens up more options - if you want to see what they have, let me know and I'll make more screen grabs. I think they're pretty similar. ("They" being Raw and Lr, not Raw and Elements - no idea how they compare!)
correction - you don't even need the XMP file - all you need is the metadata saved to the RAW file (which happens automatically if you make any edits - you can also perform this manually by choosing "Save Metadata") - once you do this, when you open the file in Camera RAW the supported settings will be in place.

Honestly, I think my biggest mental block with Lr is that I find importing/exporting files to be burdensome. It's silly, really, but it's one more step. Completely worth it for large projects, but for silly little things that I do day to day, or even for smaller portrait sessions, it just never flowed for me as well.
Wait..what was the question?
Incidentally, I learned you can do that with Bridge as well, once you've adjusted a file in Camera Raw! Another reason I no longer use Lr.
I can see why. Honestly, it's all I know - I haven't had a desktop in about 6 years. I think most would agree with you. 
Right. I don't think there's much difference at all, the two are just laid out a bit differently.
Honestly, I think my biggest mental block with Lr is that I find importing/exporting files to be burdensome. It's silly, really, but it's one more step. Completely worth it for large projects, but for silly little things that I do day to day, or even for smaller portrait sessions, it just never flowed for me as well.
Wait..what was the question?

Right. I don't think there's much difference at all, the two are just laid out a bit differently.
Honestly, I think my biggest mental block with Lr is that I find importing/exporting files to be burdensome. It's silly, really, but it's one more step. Completely worth it for large projects, but for silly little things that I do day to day, or even for smaller portrait sessions, it just never flowed for me as well.
Wait..what was the question?

yeah, good point about Bridge. I never got into using it just because of Lightroom, but it does offer that cataloging function and batch capabilities similar to LR. Bridge came out in 2005, LR came out in 2007. Bridge would likely have been more popular if it wasn't for LR.
Also, not sure about RAW but in LR you have the ability to import/create presets. There are some really creative/skilled people who have created some really nice presets for LR.
Want to hear something funny? I currently have LR1.4.
Want to hear something funny? I currently have LR1.4.










I was thinking you and Jup were both pretty bonded to Lr.