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Newbie, New Camera
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Sep 11, 2013 06:36:07   #
wirepusher Loc: Coloma, MI
 
I want to purchase a new camera.

I take pictures of my family and some nature around here (live on Lake Michigan) and some while traveling.

I have pretty much settled on the EOS 60D. It looks like it will do what I need and is in my price range. I plan to get one of the default lenses and upgrade the lense later after I have some experience under my belt.

First question, any reason not to buy the 60D?

Second, which is the better all'round lense, the 18-55 or the 18-135?

Last, If I am am getting one filter which is better a UV or Polarized Filter?

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Sep 11, 2013 06:39:43   #
JR1 Loc: Tavistock, Devon, UK
 
Polarize

r is not for leaving on your lens it is for specific effects.

No reason not to get a 60d, some will argue the 70D is here and forget it costs twice as much without offering twice as much

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Sep 11, 2013 06:48:04   #
Lone-Rider
 
60D is a sold camera. For an "all around" lens on a crop body I would look at the EF-S 15-85mm lens over the two you listed.

Polarizer can be left on the camera, but will effect exposure (1/2-1 stop). It really is for outdoor use to optimize image in sunlight. But also works as ND to a certain degree, hence the reduced light transmission.

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Sep 11, 2013 06:50:06   #
sb Loc: Florida's East Coast
 
wirepusher wrote:
I want to purchase a new camera.

I take pictures of my family and some nature around here (live on Lake Michigan) and some while traveling.

I have pretty much settled on the EOS 60D. It looks like it will do what I need and is in my price range. I plan to get one of the default lenses and upgrade the lense later after I have some experience under my belt.

First question, any reason not to buy the 60D?

Second, which is the better all'round lense, the 18-55 or the 18-135?

Last, If I am am getting one filter which is better a UV or Polarized Filter?
I want to purchase a new camera. br br I take pic... (show quote)


The answer to most questions in life is: "It depends". The longer lens will weigh more and may require more light (if the f-stop number is higher), but obviously gives you more range. UV and Polarizer are two different filters for different purposes, so it really isn't a question of one or the other. Most people cover their expensive lens with something to protect it - most often a UV filter. But many here argue that by doing so you are covering expensive glass with a piece of cheap glass, and they use nothing for general photography. Of course, the UV filter will help bring out details of the sky during the daylight hours. A polarizer cuts light by 2 f-stops or so, and so you only want to use that when you really need a polarizer - outdoors in broad daylight usually.

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Sep 11, 2013 06:52:55   #
wirepusher Loc: Coloma, MI
 
Hmmm, so you do not leave the filter in? I as kind of thinking of it as also some level of protection for the lense.

Yea, I looked at the 70D. The newest thing does have an attraction. Seemed that the real improvements were around taking motion pictures (don't know if that is the right term). Since that is not really what I am going to do with the camera, I did not want to spend the extra $$.

As you can tell I am new to this. Thanks for the advice.

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Sep 11, 2013 07:01:38   #
nitrophil Loc: Dayton, Ohio
 
Re; Your filter question, get both. Leave the UV on to protect the front element of the lens, then use the polarizer as needed.

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Sep 11, 2013 11:55:12   #
Bruce with a Canon Loc: Islip
 
I shoot the 60D and the 18-200 lens rarely ever comes off.
I believe in lens hoods for protection, unless I need a polarizer or ND filter or if I shoot macro.
A clear filter is good for protection, a UV filter is a film hold over. Sensors have filters on them.
Nothing wrong with the 18-55 or 28-135 lens.

For general utility I p-refer the 18-200.;

HUGE TIP Look for FACTORY REFURBS or used gear from reputable houses KEH, Adorama, B&H etc.
I bought a 1D Mk II for under 400 bucks and it rips 8.5 frames per sec. Great for what I need. (8 MP Sensor)

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Sep 11, 2013 12:16:07   #
StephenVL Loc: Los Angeles, USA
 
What are you expecting to achieve with a filter. UV filters were great for film cameras but not needed on digital cameras. Electronic sensors are much less sensitive to UV light than film.
If you want a filter for protection of the lens then get a good multicoated clear filter. I use the Hoya pro 1 digital filter.
A polarized filter can help in some lighting situations, but in most situations it will reduce light without adding much. A cheap polarizing filter can reduce image quality.
I am not against using filters, but only add glass between you and the picture for a specific goal or purpose.

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Sep 11, 2013 13:09:51   #
MagicMark
 
wirepusher wrote:
I want to purchase a new camera.

I take pictures of my family and some nature around here (live on Lake Michigan) and some while traveling.

I have pretty much settled on the EOS 60D. It looks like it will do what I need and is in my price range. I plan to get one of the default lenses and upgrade the lense later after I have some experience under my belt.

First question, any reason not to buy the 60D?

Second, which is the better all'round lense, the 18-55 or the 18-135?

Last, If I am am getting one filter which is better a UV or Polarized Filter?
I want to purchase a new camera. br br I take pic... (show quote)


While some people don't use a UV filter to protect their lens, I do because cleaning the lens directly will ALWAYS scratch the lens eventually. I can throw away the cheap filter but it sucks to buy new lenses.

:|

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Sep 11, 2013 22:36:29   #
BillH Loc: Lancaster County PA
 
I shoot a canon 60D with several different lenses. Attached is a photo from a game the other evening under the lights. First time shoot football and using the 18-135. I'm not complaining. I don't think you cna go wrong with this set up. There is no pp to this photo - it is right off the camera.
Bill



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Sep 11, 2013 22:37:21   #
BillH Loc: Lancaster County PA
 
By the way I am not on the sideline, I am on the outside of the fence!

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Sep 12, 2013 00:09:18   #
SteveR Loc: Michigan
 
StephenVL wrote:
What are you expecting to achieve with a filter. UV filters were great for film cameras but not needed on digital cameras. Electronic sensors are much less sensitive to UV light than film.
If you want a filter for protection of the lens then get a good multicoated clear filter. I use the Hoya pro 1 digital filter.
A polarized filter can help in some lighting situations, but in most situations it will reduce light without adding much. A cheap polarizing filter can reduce image quality.
I am not against using filters, but only add glass between you and the picture for a specific goal or purpose.
What are you expecting to achieve with a filter. ... (show quote)


A good polarizing filter will reduce glare, and can also be used during bright daylight to reduce the amount of light as well as add color to the sky.

http://digital-photography-school.com/how-to-use-and-buy-polarizing-filters

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Sep 12, 2013 05:42:05   #
wirepusher Loc: Coloma, MI
 
Good info about the filter. Thanks.

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Sep 12, 2013 05:44:38   #
wirepusher Loc: Coloma, MI
 
Yea, I am leaning toward that lense. After I get used to the camera I can decide on another lense. If I need one at all. Thanks for the pic.

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Sep 12, 2013 06:28:23   #
derekandmee Loc: Queensland Australia
 
I use the 18-135 lens and its very good,get one and you won't be disappointed .

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