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Posts for: Mochaman
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Mar 13, 2018 18:12:44   #
EDH1943 wrote:
Another fine local camera store closed. Could not compete with the big boys; Amazon and B&H.


Wow.... I just bought a D500 and other items from them a few months ago.... sad... it was becoming my new 'toy store'!

Small brick and mortar stores are being devoured by on-line shopping - the change is inevitable..... "Alexa, order some ....", "Alexa, where did I leave my glasses??!!"
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Feb 1, 2018 20:32:51   #
Gspeed wrote:
Hello there - moving my photos from Aperture to Lightroom Classic and I apparently need an external hard drive. My current photos take up about 284GB so I'm thinking a 1TB external hard drive should do the job. Can you recommend a manufacturer that is of good quality? Thank you, Eileen


Another 2 cents: I have been using Western Digital(WD) 'My Book' and 'My Passport' USB drives for years with excellent results - see link
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?Ntt=wd%20my%20passport&N=0&InitialSearch=yes&sts=ps
However, I'll echo these comments a) don't put 'all your eggs in one basket'.... b) never assume that 'basket' lasts forever.
Every 3 to 4 years I'll 'retire' a good, working back-up drive for something new, and maintain no less than one secondary back-up of the primary back-up.
Yes, this can be confusing and time consuming, but consider the alternative
With that said, there are several good products suggested by others here, as well as suggestions on setting up a system of backing up your valuable photos, data, etc. on a regular basis.
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Jan 6, 2018 18:06:03   #
truetexan wrote:
I need to get a new tripod. I have seen and am interested in the tripods with the center column that can be removed and rotated to various degrees for "side type" shots or low angle for macro shots. How many hogs use these type and are they really pretty functional, stable, or is it another sales "gimmick". I keep flipping back and forth between a good sturdy tripod and one that could function if a side extension was available. I shoot D5200, nikkor 18-55 kit, a tamron 70-300, and a nikon nifty fifty. Any experienced comments will help...Thank's Ya'll !!
I need to get a new tripod. I have seen and am int... (show quote)


Hi,
I don't know if you have seen this thread, http://www.uglyhedgehog.com/tpr?p=8481046&t=502574 started by Kreb's Cyclist, but it came at a time when I was on the fence about Sirui, Manfroto, Vanguard, and Benro.

Advice from HOG community is excellent - many tips and pointers to consider before plunking down your cash. Comments regarding articulating center column are accurate - it absolutely destabilizes the tripod - counter weights are your best bet against "Mr. Bill Syndrome" .... however, you'll have added functionality.

My suggestions, after recently purchasing a Benro FGP-28C(GO+), are: set a budget, but expect to exceed it a bit. Next, think about the type of photographs you take and possible new directions you'd explore. Next, your gear compliment and the heaviest combo you'd use on the tripod.... THEN add the weight of tripod and head, you'll be traveling around with.
As already indicated, you may come to the conclusion that one tripod does not fit the bill.

In my case - in my opinion, as a relative 'Nube' with interests in wildlife/birding, ground - tabletop, and landscape, I chose Benro for it's flexibility, relative light weight considering max height w/o extending center column, articulating center column.... and it's relative sturdiness (my post: http://www.uglyhedgehog.com/tpr?p=8489651&t=502574 ).

Knowing I could not afford an RSS or Gitzo, set my upper limit .... only time will tell if this works for all my needs.

Happy hunting!
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Dec 27, 2017 08:26:10   #
rmalarz wrote:
That's quite nice. I've seen those, but have never liked the smallish end resting on the table. That just looked too unstable.
--Bob


Wait a bit.... at CES they'll be announcing the new "DS" version mug..... along with a 600mm size.... in camo color! ;-D
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Dec 24, 2017 16:01:34   #
imagemeister wrote:
Yes, come back to us when the honeymoon is over !



As I said: "I'm happy with these choices, however, as with any product, time and continued use will tell the full story."

Happy Holidays!
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Dec 24, 2017 12:56:56   #
Kreb's Cyclist wrote:
Glad to hear that my question was relevant. The thing I don't like about my Vanguard is that there is no way to adjust the leg swing tension. So, if it loosens up you're left with a leg that flops around. Their warranty however, is excellent. They sent me a brand new one when mine had that issue along with the breaking white plastic parts inside the legs.


Hello again.
Santa has arrived... along with my Benro FG28C GO+ tripod and Acratech GP-SS ball head.
I'm impressed with build quality and functionality of both items... and therefore very happy with my decision to go with these products - aided by input of 'The HOG' community.

BENRO: Sturdy, solid build; easy to setup & collapse; folds to 19.5" with head attached; about 4.5 lbs total weight.

Articulating center column is a plus - used this feature already and would not have been able to obtain that shot without it. **Caveat - once column is horizontal/ angled, center of gravity is no longer distributed over the legs making for unstable conditions - adding your camera/lens exacerbates this - expect to add counter balancing weight. Benro includes a hook that screws into the opposite side of column.

Tripod height + ball head: legs fully extended w/o column extended, perfect with camera mounted (ball head adds 3.75"). At tripod maximum height + ball head of 69", camera is high enough where I need to use D500 articulating screen (I'm 5'8"; eye height of 5'2") ..... works for me!

Monopod - 1 leg + center column ("some assembly required, batteries not included" ;-)) a PLUS!

Tripod includes a well made, padded carry bag and strap, tripod 'sock' and bag with 3 spiked feet, weight hook and HEX key.

One immediate, although minor improvement - replace separate foot pads and spikes with integrated pad and spike.... a few twists and spikes are ready to go..... so simple!

ACRATECH GP-SS Ball Head: Well made, easy to use. I really like rubberized knobs. Functions as stated in advertised videos. Ball head tension and locking knobs work well with D500 + 24-70mm lens, how well this functions with larger lenses - TBD.
Rotating mounting plate to vertical provides gimbal function - *make sure your camera/lens combo is balanced.... or at the very least, do not release camera without making sure tension is properly set!!!

I'm happy with these choices, however, as with any product, time and continued use will tell the full story.
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Dec 18, 2017 23:29:26   #
Kreb's Cyclist wrote:
Glad to hear that my question was relevant. The thing I don't like about my Vanguard is that there is no way to adjust the leg swing tension. So, if it loosens up you're left with a leg that flops around. Their warranty however, is excellent. They sent me a brand new one when mine had that issue along with the breaking white plastic parts inside the legs.


Yes, absolutely relevant .... i think we're all learning. I pulled the trigger on benro & acratech products, so expect me to share my views on these. Just can't afford top tier gear- but know there are less expensive alternatives that work for( in my case) the amateur.
Good luck in your selections!
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Dec 18, 2017 20:31:42   #
Kreb's Cyclist wrote:
HI, Anyone familiar with Benro tripods? I'm thinking about the SystemGo Plus, which has the center column that can be pulled up and rotated into any position. I have a Vanguard tripod that can do that but I'd had issues with it and it has annoying quirk of not allowing the swing tension of the legs to be adjusted. I'm familiar with the Manfrotto 055 but that can only be locked into a horizontal position. Thanks for any info.


Wow... what a timely thread, thanks! I'm practically at the same decision point as you.... and just about to post a similar question to "The Hog".
I've narrowed down the field to Benro FGP-28C(GO+) , Manfrotto 055 and Vanguard Alta Pro 2+.
Juggling between overall carry weight, load weight, max height w/o center column... AND an articulating center column, Manfrotto drops to the bottom of the list, with Vanguard right behind it.

Because I'll be using a large lens (200-500mm on D500), Benro load weight provides sufficient leeway for add- ons, and it's a good match for the Acratech GP-ss ball head I'm considering. I like the fact that the Acratech is actually "two heads in one" .... it functions as a ball and gimbal head. The 'GP-ss' model is pitched as a compact ball head compared to larger "GP" ball head, and the "-ss" model 2" base diameter will mate well with Benro 1.9" base. The only down side is my need to extend the center column a few inches to avoid crouching.

Thanks to you, and the Hog, I have my answer. BTW, B&H has a 'holiday saving' discount on Benro model till end of December.
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Nov 25, 2017 10:38:15   #
rydabyk wrote:
KEH EX+ rating, yea or nay? Looking at a Canon 70-200L, it seems awful inexpensive to me. How do y'all feel about KEH and their rating system?

THANKS!!!


First, I'm returning to 'serious' photography after 29 years... making me an 'Amateur Re-tread'(my term) - overwhelmed but enthusiastic at the technology and the pictures to come!
After joining this forum and posting my 'decision conundrum' questions, I've received detailed assistance and support from several members here, keeping me focused..... YOU ALL ROCK - thanks!

I just purchased a Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8 G ED IF AF-S lens with E+ rating from KEH. Lens, hood & pouch are cosmetically 'E+' - they appear to be brand new!
As others have commented on their purchases, KEH rating system is conservative. In keeping with their advertised pricing policy, my cost is close to, but less than 40% off retail - I'd say this is a win-win! KEH gives you 14 days for full refund, beyond that, a store credit.

Here's what I don't know:
1) Since the lens arrived before my new D500 (ordered/purchased locally in NC) I can not comment on the quality of the lens glass and full functionality. Once the camera arrives, camera store owner/professional photographer has offered to run it through the paces. It so happens this store owner recommended KEH as well - although he has a case full of used and new lenses - that says a lot!

2) CUSTOMER SERVICE: Jury is still out... partly my fault - as follows:
ME: Like most of us, my email in-boxes are inundated with, well you know. Add travel to the mix = many missed messages, etc. One message, a "Welcome to KEH" with a 7 day, percentage discount for first order .... totally missed until AFTER this purchase, a $75+ loss ..... GRRRRRRR!
KEH: Since order had been processed, sales rep could not apply discount. After some discussion he passed my issue and dismay to CS Manager.... who passed it "upstairs"..... that took place this past Wednesday.

I totally understand this is on me, however, as a brand new customer .... with many purchases ahead, I asked for 'good faith' store credit only - equal to discount I would have received.
To date, no email or phone call. As this is the most busiest time of the year, I'll give KEH the benefit of the doubt and hope to hear from them this coming week - hopefully Santa will be generous!

my 2 cents, good luck to you!
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Nov 21, 2017 07:36:19   #
Bill_de wrote:
...and found it.


Wonderful shot! Looks like he just finished a little meal?

I just ordered my first DSLR- Nikon D500. Your 200-500mm Lens is NEXT on my list!!
However I did buy https://www.nikonusa.com/en/nikon-products/product/camera-lenses/af-s-nikkor-24-70mm-f%252f2.8e-ed-vr.html used from KEH - it comes with 1-year warranty (KEH holiday special). While I won't be able to catch that Kingfisher.... I'll have fun trying!

Thanks for the inspiration!
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Nov 15, 2017 21:24:58   #
dyximan wrote:
I'm not very good at posts go straight from JPEG's I have light room and Photoshop but don't really know how to use them yet


Well... that makes 2 of us! :-/
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Nov 15, 2017 20:27:18   #
dyximan wrote:
I too am probably going to buy the D500 here soon. For me primarily because of its superior buffer capabilities over the others, as I enjoy birding. And I find that when I do share my photos it's very seldom from the camera directly


Good luck to you as well. We'll be sharing notes although my learning curve will be much steeper..... RTFM!
Do you use LR for post?
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Nov 15, 2017 20:10:17   #
dyximan wrote:
I have always been a big fan of renting and have done so through borrowlenses. It gives me an opportunity to try each and the difference between four days and a week rental is very little pricewise. but you can learn a great deal get a feel for the camera. Also I found a YouTube or video about Camera prior to my rental so I could understand if dials and functions. Made it easier to use when I got it in hand, and I could practice a bit before I took it out for my trial run.


dyximan,
Thanks, I will check out your suggestions.
AFTER visiting the only local brick and mortar camera store within 150 miles of Wilmington, NC, the owner redirected me to the local Best Buy which just revamped it's camera section - I found a Nikon D500 and Canon 80D (no 7D MII yet). With no 'allegiance' to either brand, I felt Nikon had a slightly better feel in my hands and to the controls. I could go with either body, however Nikon's specs edge out Canon 7D.
Weighing all the information from these posts with several video blogs by Northrup, Matt Granger, Steve Perry and others, I feel the Nikon D500 will be my choice.
My focus on internal wifi - from either brand was - as Rob (rmalarz) put it (paraphrasing)- "had nothing to do with the photographic capabilities of the camera itself".... end of story- concentrate on the important stuff - echoed by many.
The last time I spent time in a 'real' camera store was 1988 - the original 47st Photo in NYC - so after 29 years w/o handling any camera of substance, I'll be overwhelmed regardless of what I choose at this level. Difference now, I have the time and willingness to work through it .... and I'll have a lot of help.

THANK YOU to the Ugly HedgeHog community for all your assistance and support. With Black Friday around the corner, followed by Christmas, you should be hearing from me!

-Mochaman
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Nov 14, 2017 13:07:41   #
PHRubin wrote:
Quick note. I can turn Wi-fi off on my 80D to conserve the battery.


Thanks.... I'll be sure to check if Nikon D500 can do the same - the ability to turn on/off wi-fi should be a non issue... especially if battery life is important (DUH!!).... but stranger things have happened.
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Nov 14, 2017 11:42:46   #
dyximan wrote:
I have rented both of the above mentioned cameras and the one thing I think you may have forgotten to mention or may not be as much of a concern is the burst rate and the buffer. Although the frames per second is relatively close the Canon has a much smaller buffer 20 to 30 photos before it begins to slow down where as the Nikon pushes 200. Also is your concern about the Wi-Fi to be able to transfer to your phone while out and about, or can you wait to get home put them on your computer and transfer them that way.
I have rented both of the above mentioned cameras ... (show quote)


Hi Dyximan,
Burst rate and buffer - you are absolutely correct and several others have said the same - THANK YOU! Easily overlooked by an amateur(moi), this spec is the primary reason for buying a fast burst rate in the first place... DUH!
WiFi- limited and IMHO excessively power hungry. My primary reason - to remotely monitor subject area and trigger shutter. Transfer pics to phone for sharing - limited, transfer files - no.
My knowledge base is growing - important items that are patently obvious to those in the know, had escaped me... but you can teach this 'old dog' new tricks..... eventually.
I asked to be 'enlightened' - the contributors to this forum, like yourself, have certainly done that! My next step is to find a local establishment to view and narrow down various models.
thanks........
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