I struggled with 8 gig on my laptop for too long. I upgraded to 16 gig and couldn't be happier. The benefits/cost was a no brainer for me.

Changed all my cameras to BBF 2 years ago and never looked back. I love it!

I agree, what a great source of knowledge from a great group of photogs. I appreciate everyone's input.

I agree, what a great source of knowledge from a great group of photogs. I appreciate everyone's input.

I appreciate your input. It will help in my decision process. Thank you!

Thank you! Your input helps a lot.

Thanks for your input Longshadow. I've never used a quality pan & tilt. I've always used a ball head. Do you have specific need for one over the other?

Thinking about replacing my Camera/tripod quick release. My current release use's a thumb screw to secure the camera, but I find it inconvenient. I would like to hear what others are using. My camera is a D810 and I don't have any large heavy lenses. Something in the $ 100 range or less would be good.

For anyone that is planning a trip to the Palouse, make sure to stop by Palouse falls. You won't regret it. The best time is in the spring when the water flow is at a maximum. The attached photo is from the public domain and will give you and idea what it's like.

(Download)

I use the D810 and my go to lens is the Sigma 24 - 105 f4 Art. For a longer lens I use a Nikon 70-300. I have others, but those seem to fit most of my needs.

Obviously I don't know your motivation for purchase and return. But after spending years in the retail business, I can give some insight as to some of the reasons for a restocking fee. First off by law, the returned item cannot be sold as new so the fee is to cover the loss the company suffers from having to discount the returned item. Also it is common for people that only need something for a short period, to purchase and return something, rather than rent it for a few days. Restocking fees right or wrong are sometimes in place to keep people from using a item for a week or two with no intention of keeping it.

Sharpshooter, One thing you may want to consider is that the person picking up the tab for the photographer and wedding is most likely what you refer to as an "old control freak". That old control freak will also form an opinion as to the service the photographer provides and make recommendations to other old control freaks that will be paying the tab for their daughters wedding. Just something to think about and yes I am one of those "Old control freaks" you speak of.

Nice photo, exceptionally sharp. My only issue is my eyes keep going to the sharpness of the bark. Maybe it's just me but I'd like to see the bark a little softer bringing the attention to the bird. Overall though it's very well done. Thanks for posting.

Just a quick thought, are you formatting your cards on your desktop computer or your camera? I had a similar problem once when I formatted the card on my computer. Now I format on the camera and haven't had a problem since. I'm not saying that's your problem, just something to think about. Good luck!