NEW NIKON D70 DSLR OUTFIT w/18-70mm Lens - NEED ADVICE?

[brbrown]

Hello Everyone,
I think, after reading many articles and reviews, I have decided on the New Nikon D70 DSLR Outfit w/18-70mm DX Nikkor Lens. I still have many questions though, being this is my FIRST digital.

1) In everyones opinion is this a good all around camera and one a beginner could learn and become adequate with in a reasonable timeframe?

2) This sounds like a very good all around lens which comes with the outfit but is it going to be good for aquatic photography or will I still need a macro lens to supplement?

3) I am STILL confused on all of this USB Flash Drive, Compact Flash Cards (Types I and II), Quick Disk Plus, and so on.... What do I really need to purchase? I was looking at the Dane-Elec 1 Gig Compact Flash Card and it seems to be about the best deal for the money but I am still confused on this topic....Please give advice as to what accessories such as this I REALLY need.

Thanks to all for any advice and/or input which might help to clear the mud,
Bryant

[ccplim]

Hi Bryany, the D70 with kit lens sounds like a great combo but seriously, I have not tried them before [smilie=oops2.gif] IMO, the 18-70mm will be more suitable for general usage rather than aquatic photography. A macro lens will still be a better choice if your budget allows.

If you are going for the D70, the Compact Flash card is the one that you need to get. USB flash drive and Quick disk are for usage on PCs rather than camera.

[brbrown]

ccplim,
Thanks a lot for your reply, it helps clear things up with the memory cards. There are so many different kinds I didn't know which one to get.

I was also figuring I would need a macro lense for good close up aquatic pictures. Do you know if Nikon make a good macro lense for the D70?

Thanks again for your help,
Bryant

[ccplim]

You are welcome Bryant. That's an easy one since Nikon only uses compact flash and that I have been using one. Nikon do have a good macro lens (105mm macro f/2.8). Alternatively, you can also go for the Tamaron 90mm macro f/2.8 or Sigma 105mm macro f/2.8.

[brbrown]

ccplim,
Man, you must have ESP. I was just getting ready to send a meesage to you about macro lenses and you named 2 of the one I was looking at. Here are the links with the specs but there is a big difference in price and I didn't see a lot of difference in the specs. Could you look at these links and see if there is enough difference between the Nikon lens and the Sigma lens to pay that much difference in price? If not, I was thinking of going with the Sigma. Here are the links w/prices and specs.

Nikon $519.95:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=NavBar&A=getItemDetail&Q=&sku=36856&is=GREY&si=spec#goto_itemInfo

Sigma $369.00:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=NavBar&A=getItemDetail&Q=&sku=148530&is=USA&si=spec#goto_itemInfo

Also, as far as Flashes go:

The Nikon SB-800 Speedlight:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=NavBar&A=getItemDetail&Q=&sku=300467&is=GREY&si=spec#goto_itemInfo

-OR-

The Sigma EF-500:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=NavBar&A=getItemDetail&Q=&sku=224960&is=REG&si=spec#goto_itemInfo

Is the Nikon worth paying that much more than the Sigma? Or, do I need a different flash altogether?

I found one of the Nikon D70's and I am going to put it on layaway tomorrow until I get a check which I am waiting on.

Thank you very much for all of your help,
Bryant

[ccplim]

Ha ha Bryant, well, I do not have any ESP [smilie=lol.gif] I am just being straight in pouring out my answers.

I noticed that you are looking at the manual Nikon lens instead of the AF version. Guessed the one below are the correct ones that you should be looking at.

Nikon AF macro lens (1)
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=66988&is=GREY

Nikon AF macro lens (2)

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=66988&is=USA

From what I have read previously, the glass for both lenses are more or less the same but in terms of focusing speed, the Sigma appears to be on the better side. Nevertheless, we will be using manual focus most of the time in aquatic photography. So it's up to you which one you really want to go for. Do note that these two lenses can be use as a portrait lens too.

I personally have not tried these two lenses before so I can't really give you too much comments about their performance.

You might be interested to check out some of their reviews below.

Nikon
http://www.photo.net/nikon/105-micro/
http://www.fredmiranda.com/reviews/showproduct.php?product=66&sort=7&thecat=12
http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/105af.htm

Sigma
http://www.fredmiranda.com/reviews/showproduct.php?product=134&sort=7&thecat=13
http://www.photozone.de/2Equipment/reviews/sigma105.htm

Regarding the flashes, SB-800 appears to have much more features on top of the Sigma. Ask yourself if you really need those features. I for once will go for the SB-800. Why??? Though I may not need those features at this moment, I might need it in the future. Furthermore, since we are using digital, there's no harm trying out all these. Who knows we might discover some new techniques [smilie=laugh.gif]

Last but not least, you might want to take another look at this D70 review (http://www.imaging-resource.com/PRODS/D70/D70A.HTM).

[brbrown]

ccplim,
Now I really do think you have ESP, I had JUST found the Imaging-Resource.com review website yesterday! [smilie=bowdown.gif] WOW!

Also, I am glad you pointed it out on the lens. I definitely meant to pick the AF lenses instead of the manuals.

This is a lot of GREAT information you provided me with and I GREATLY APPRECIATE ALL OF YOUR HELP! It has helped me to keep from making some beginner mistakes. I just flat overlooked the mistake with the lenses and I would have bought the wrong ones. Plus all of these links really help too.

I wish I had ALL the money in place right now to just go pick all of this up but I am going to have to put it on layaway for a couple of months until I can get it all. But, it will definitely be worth the wait when I do get it.

Thanks so much again for all of your help,
Bryant

[ccplim]

Don't mentioned that Bryant. We are all here to share our knowledge. Maybe you are just plain lucky that I am a Nikon user and that I have been reading on these sites pretty often. [smilie=laugh.gif]

I know it's tempting to go out and get all the the stuffs right now but do take it one step at a time. These are all expensive equipments and careful decisions have to be made. In case you are not aware, I have been eyeing some Nikon glasses for years but till today, I have not make my way to buy them yet.

[brbrown]

ccplim,
Yes this is really expensive equipment but I am like you, I had rather get one GOOD piece at a time instead of buying a bunch of junk all at one time. I would like to start with the D70 outfit which comes with the one lens and then add my macro lens and a good flash as money will allow. Then, maybe someday get a good tele and wide angle lens. But, mostly I want to make pictures of my fish so I need the macro lens and some good lighting first. I emailed B&H Photo to see if they allow you to put stuff on layaway but if they don't I will just save in my savings until I get the money for the extras and add on as I can.

When I do finally get my new camera I will probably have to pick your brain for the secrets you have learned from using your Nikon. [smilie=biggrin.gif]

Thank You Again for all of your help,
Bryant

[ccplim]

Talking about the wide angle, I have been reading on the Nikon and Sigma for months and still couldn't make up my mind on which on to get [smilie=oops2.gif]? They both have their good and bad points and it's all these that have been holding on to my decision. And now, I have to look into the Sony F828 and Nkon Coolpix 8700 as my gf is interested in getting one [smilie=doh.gif]

Well, err....... I am not actually a pro and I am also pretty new to digital cameras AND aquatic photography. But then, I will try my best to help and learn at the same time (that's why we are here right?).

[brbrown]

ccplim,
From the pictures I have seen which you took, YOU ARE AN EXPERT in my opinion. [smilie=bowdown.gif] I found this package at Wolf Camera but I am not sure about the (2) Sigma lenses which comes with it. When you get time, will you look at the package and see if you think this is a better deal -OR- stick with the package which has the (1) 18-70mm DX Nikkor Lens.

Here is the link to the package with the (2) Sigma Lenses.
http://www.wolfcamera.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=10101&catalogId=10001&langId=-1&productId=13132052&catTemplate=13001422

By the way, you have to go all the way to the bottom of the page for the lens specs.

Thanks again for your time,
Bryant

[ccplim]

Thanks Bryant! My skills are not that good yet. There are many people out there which are far better than me.

IMHO, if you do not need to have big prints, the package from wolfcamera is good enough as it covers almost the entire range for day to day usage. Nevertheless, for my personal preference, I will go for the original package with the 18-70mm because of the 18mm wide angle range(I have an old 28mm lens but I found that it is no longer "wide" when used on a DSLR).

I managed to found a site where they have some samples taken with both lenses (and many more). You might be interested to take a look at the results.

http://www.pbase.com/cameras/sigma

[brbrown]

ccplim,
Man this is an awesome link which you provided. They really have some nice fish photos as well.

Now I am really confused because the two Sigma lenses made some really nice pictures and with the edition of a good macro lense and flash I would have a nice all around setup, but on the other hand, the Nikkor lens with a nice macro lens and a good flash would also be a nice setup.

If you were me, starting from scratch, which way would you go?

1) The camera with the (2) Sigma Lenses, a macro lens and a flash.

-OR-

2) The camera with the 18-70mm Nikkor lens, a macro lens and a flash.

Now I have put the pressure on you! HA HA [smilie=biggrin.gif]

Thanks again for your help,
Bryant

[ccplim]

Now, if I am a beginner starting from scratch, high chance that I will go for option 1.

Why?!

As I have mentioned earlier, the two Sigma lenses covers almost the entire range for general shooting. You can quickly get into actions without having to worry about buying more lenses (at least for awhile), especially after you have spent so much on them. Also, if you are not very particular about the lightings (for general photography), you will be able to live with the built in flash of the D70 until you save up enough for a better one.

Any objections? [smilie=lol.gif] [smilie=mf_tongue.gif]

[brbrown]

ccplim,
Option 1 is the one I was favoring along with added a Sigma macro lens and the Sigma flash.

Sorry it took so long to reply, but for some reason the forum is not notifying me when I get a response even though I put a check mark in the box to be notified.

Thanks again,
Bryant

[DarthV]

I'd seriously think about getting the d70 with the kit lens... that's the #1 factor why I'd think about going for the d70 over the d-rebel. It is a very good quality lens for the money... the price difference between just the body and with the lens is very small...and with the difference, you can't find a better lens than what comes with the kit.

"covering the ranges" might sound good in theory, but I think once you start using the camera, you'll start to appreciate having the correct lens for what kind of photography you are doing. You might actually find that you like to shoot photos in lower light situations, that's where a nice fast prime lens would come in handy... having a 28-70mm plus a 70-200mm in theory would cover all kinds of shots, but the 28-70mm might have a very small aperture at 70mm and wouldn't work well in low light (slow focusing and longer exposure times needed). There are all kinds of pluses and minuses for each lens...and until you know what they are, just trying to get a nice spread of lens might just be wasting money.

You can always find new nikor, sigma and tamron lenses on Ebay, so trying to work out a deal with a camera company for the d70 + lenses and extra might not actually save you money in the long run. I'd probably lean towards buying the d70 with the kit lens and then maybe either a large aperture 50mm prime (or 50mm macro, if you can find one) or maybe something like the sigma 70-300mm APO super macro II lens. Both options would be well under $200US. Take your time and learn what equipment you need...the kit lens should do you quite well at first. Take a course on SLR photography...then decide on lenses after you know what you need. Then again a 1.8/f 35 or 50mm prime lens would be very cheap, so you could go out and get one for $70 and be very happy with it no matter what type of pictures you will be taking.

[brbrown]

DarthV,
This is a very good point. I know the lens which comes in the D70 kit is a very good one and will probably meet most of my general needs except macro. Then, as you said, I could get a good macro lens which is what I will use most of the time for aquatic photos.

Do you have any suggestions for a VERY GOOD macro lens for the D70?

I was considering this one from Sigma. When you have time could you look at the specs. and let me know what you think about it?

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=192441&is=USA

And, maybe this Sigma for a Zoom Telephoto lens-

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=163660&is=REG

Thanks for the help,
Bryant

[benny]

The Tamron 90 mm macro is one of the sharpest around, although the build quality does not exactly match the optical quality. Available in both Canon and Nikon mount as well, depending on which DSLR you choose.

On a separate note, these kit lenses are cheap because it's a marketing plan to lock consumers into a particular system. Once you get deeper into photography, most of the time, you will outgrow these lenses. As for the addition 70mm on the Nikon kit lens, it's no real advantage (given the price consideration). One can easily crop the 6 MP image to a 70mm perspective and still be able to print a very detailed 8 X 10 inch print at the local photo lab.

For the same amount of money, I rather get a 18-55 and 50 mm F1.8 to go with the camera. At least when I need some critical sharpness, I have something to fall back on.

Cheers,

[DarthV]

I'm taking a good hard look at the Sigma Super Macro II as one of my first lenses... does both zoon and macro. It will compromise on both compared to prime macro and other zoom lenses, but for the price, it's a good lens. Tamron has a very nice 100 or 105mm macro available as well, but I think it's a little more than the Sigma.


Benny, yes just getting the body would be an idea for someone that is already experienced with SLR photography and know what they need, but for people like brbrown and I, the kit lenses are very good places to start. You don't get much of a price break by buying just the bodies... and definitely not if you don't already have glass for whichever brand of camera you go with. The $100US or less, for my situation, is worth it just to have a starting point... I know I'll outgrow it, but I think it's not a bad price to pay for a starting lens.


DarthV,
This is a very good point. I know the lens which comes in the D70 kit is a very good one and will probably meet most of my general needs except macro. Then, as you said, I could get a good macro lens which is what I will use most of the time for aquatic photos.

Do you have any suggestions for a VERY GOOD macro lens for the D70?

I was considering this one from Sigma. When you have time could you look at the specs. and let me know what you think about it?

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=192441&is=USA

And, maybe this Sigma for a Zoom Telephoto lens-

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=163660&is=REG

Thanks for the help,
Bryant

[ccplim]

The Tamron 90 mm macro is one of the sharpest around, although the build quality does not exactly match the optical quality. Available in both Canon and Nikon mount as well, depending on which DSLR you choose.

Tamron 90 mm macro, one of the best macro lens around in terms of optics.

[benny]

Benny, yes just getting the body would be an idea for someone that is already experienced with SLR photography and know what they need, but for people like brbrown and I, the kit lenses are very good places to start. You don't get much of a price break by buying just the bodies... and definitely not if you don't already have glass for whichever brand of camera you go with. The $100US or less, for my situation, is worth it just to have a starting point... I know I'll outgrow it, but I think it's not a bad price to pay for a starting lens.

DarthV,

Perhaps I was misunderstood. I DO recommend the kit lens as a great start out kit with the new digital SLR.

However, I would recommend the Canon 300D kit over the Nikon D70 kit as the 20 mm difference in the telephoto end is not really that significant. The difference in price can be invested in a very sharp 50mm F1.8 lens, which you will always find useful, even you have acquired a few other lenses.

Cheers,

[DarthV]

We musta crossed some wires :)

Actually, here in Canada, I can get the 300d + kit lens (and some extra goodies) and probably the sigma 70-300mm APO super macro II and a 50mm 1.8 lens for the price of the Nikon D70. So it's definitely the route that I will be taking!

[brbrown]

Hey Guys,
I opened my Father's Day card Sunday and there it was, an order form where my wife had placed the order for my new Nikon D70 outfit with the 18-70mm DX Nikkor lens. I almost fell out of my chair. Boy what a Father's Day gift! Now, I have to save for a real good macro lens, a good zoom telephoto lens, a good flash and a nice memory card and reader. I am supposed to get my new camera on or around July 2nd.
[smilie=an9.gif]

Thanks,
Bryant

[DarthV]

Sweet gift! You made off like a bandit. :)

I just picked up a Rebel last night at a local camera shop...they pretty much pricematched one of the better online deals that I've seen in Canada.

[meriadoc]

Go with the sigma 105mm macro - far nicer quality than the tamron, slightly longer lens also - which would put you further away from the fish, and therefore the fish may not move around as much (well, away from you)

I myself have my eye on the sigma 180mm macro - not for fish shots, but for hummingbirds and also insects - they get less fidgety when there's more space between me and them :)

don't get a zoom lens with macro - true macro is 1:1, and even 1:2 - most of the 'macro' features on zooms are 1:4 if you're lucky - most around 1:6 or 1:7.

if you don't want to spend all the big $$$ on the nikon lenses, sigma lenses, especially the EX series get more bang for your buck.

Also, the professional CF cards from Lexar come with a card reader - I've got two readers at the moment - if I get another 1gb card, I'll have three readers. ;)

-- L

[brbrown]

DarthV,
Yeah, I couldn't be more happy. I actually couldn't believe she did that. I guess she got tired of me bugging her every day. ha ha


meriadoc,
Here is the list of accessories I am looking at adding, a little at a time probably.

1) CF card or microdrive:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=301964&is=REG

-OR-

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=302869&is=REG

2) Macro Lens:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=192441&is=USA

3) Zoom Tele Lens:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=207360&is=USA

-OR-

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=192446&is=USA

4) Flashes:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=300467&is=USA

-OR-

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=263430&is=REG

These are the main accessories which I would like to get started with and add a few more goodies as money will allow. Of course, it will take a while to get all of these but I definitely want to start with a good memory card, a good flash and a very good macro lens and then build up from there.

Let me know what you think,
Bryant

[meriadoc]

yup, that sigma 180 is on my list also - thankfully I work at a camera store = staff discount!!

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE Do not get a microdrive - one of the worst things you could do - they're cheap, and have been known to break if you look at them funny. Lexar's professional series CF cards (the brown ones) come with a card reader, and also have data recovery software on the CF card to install on your PC (don't do what I did and format the CF card before installing said software on your PC)

Seriously, in my canon manual for my rebel it actually says avoid moving or bumping the camera if you use a microdrive and it is writing to the drive as you can damage the data. Those things are just so fussy to use...

The compact flash cards have no moving parts, where the microdrives do (think micro hard drive), and thus are pretty fragile. I'd only ever use a microdrive for non-essential shots - but even then I'd prefer going the CF card route over a cheaper MD.

As for the zoom lenses - not having nikon equipment, I can't offer much advice when it comes to their vibration reduction lenses as they haven't been making them (thus haven't had as much time to refine them) as much as canon have with their Image Stabilization (IS) lenses. But if you want to go the Vibration reduction, sigma also have a 80-400 OS (Optical stabilization) lens - which is about $1200 or therabouts (that is a canon mount lens price, not nikon)

if you have any more questions, feel free to ask away [smilie=biggrin.gif]

[brbrown]

meriadoc,
Is this the Lexar CF card which you are talking about? I saw the Image Rescue software which is included but I didn't see where it included the reader.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=NavBar&A=getItemDetail&Q=&sku=294348&is=REG&si=inc#goto_itemInfo

I had just read an article about some of the problems you mentioned with the microdrives. I'll stay away from them.

Thanks,
Bryant

[benny]

The Nikon SB-800 is a better flash of the 2 you selected in terms built and quality (price is another issue totally of course). The Sigma EF 500 DG feels flimsy and does not take knocks too well. Also, in cases of extended use (in aquatic photography for example), there is a tendency for the light diffusion panel to burn out, causing a brown stain on it and practically render it useless (unless you like a brownish tint when you use your flash). One of my friend had already send this model in twice to replace the panel.

Cheers,

[benny]

As for CF cards, get those high speed ones since your Nikon D70 can use the Write Acceleration technology in the Pro series Lexar CF cards. I believe now, the 80X write cards are already in the market, together with the 40X version that's currently on sale. Sandisk's equivalent of the high speed card will the the Extereme or Ultra II series. These 2 brands are the most trusted for a good reason.

As for card reader, the Lexar CF cards comes with a dedicated reader that will read only Lexar cards. This is because the driver for the USB card reader is on the CF card and not on the reader itself. This means that you will not be able to access any other non-Lexar CF cards. Kind of tie you in to buying only Lexar cards and you can read any non Lexar cards your friends might pass you. Sandisk actually sells a very good USB "All in one" card reader. You might want to consider that instead. I'm currently using these type instead of dedicated format readers.

Also, these cards are solid state type I CF cards, unlike the microdrive, which is a type 2 CF card that contain a microdrive with moving parts. Failure rate for the microdrive will be much higher, write speed will be slower and data rescue can be a pain.


As for lenses, the sky is the limited (or in this case, your pocket). Very often, we get side tracked as there's a gadget geek in every guy and we want them all. If you examine your shooting pattern and requirements, you normally use only 1 or 2 lenses. Very few people need the reach of a 500mm, unless for birds/wildlife photography.

Cheers,

[brbrown]

benny,
Thanks for your replies. I just ordered the SanDisk Ultra II 1G CF card and the Lexar card reader with the Firewire.

As for the zoom telephoto lenses, the main reason I wanted a good zoom tele lens is exactly what you stated. I like to make a lot of wildlife photos and some are at quiet a distance. Which lens would you recommend for this. I was looking at the following:

1) http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=192446&is=USA

2) http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=207360&is=USA

OR COULD I GET BY WITH THIS CHEAPER ONE?

3) http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=WishList.jsp&A=details&Q=&sku=163660&is=REG

Thanks again for your help,
Bryant

[loupgarou]

the sigma 50-500

if you're crazy to carry a 2ft long lens around the sigma 300-800

--
as usual when buying lenses, make sure you don't get any lemons.

the sigma 50-500 is a sharp sharp lens, go check out dpreview for samples. search for "bigma" which is its nickname.
there is nothing bad with the sigma 50-500 except
a) it could be faster, but if you're going outdoors, you're shooting at f8-f11 anyway.
b) it could have IS. which would make me so happy.

you may want to get a carbon fibre tripod if you venture into the wilderness, cos weight is always an issue

[brbrown]

loupgarou,
Actually because of some health problems I am having, one thing I was considering is making or purchasing a mount which will attach to my truck window and set up at my farm to try to capture the critters at a distance, this is one of the main reasons I wanted a lens which would make good sharp pictures at long distances. I am just not able to track them down like I used to be. Also, I have 4 different box-blinds built at my farm where I can sit in and watch for them to come to the food plots and watering holes. I thought I could load all of the equipment on the 4-wheeler and haul it to these blinds and wait for them to come to me. I had rather shoot them with a camera now as with a gun. I will also check out the other lens which you have suggested.

Thank you very much,
Bryant

[ccplim]

the sigma 50-500

if you're crazy to carry a 2ft long lens around the sigma 300-800

--
as usual when buying lenses, make sure you don't get any lemons.

the sigma 50-500 is a sharp sharp lens, go check out dpreview for samples. search for "bigma" which is its nickname.
there is nothing bad with the sigma 50-500 except
a) it could be faster, but if you're going outdoors, you're shooting at f8-f11 anyway.
b) it could have IS. which would make me so happy.

you may want to get a carbon fibre tripod if you venture into the wilderness, cos weight is always an issue

That's true man! IS function. Any one from Sigma reading this? [smilie=lol.gif]

[ccplim]

loupgarou,
Actually because of some health problems I am having, one thing I was considering is making or purchasing a mount which will attach to my truck window and set up at my farm to try to capture the critters at a distance, this is one of the main reasons I wanted a lens which would make good sharp pictures at long distances. I am just not able to track them down like I used to be. Also, I have 4 different box-blinds built at my farm where I can sit in and watch for them to come to the food plots and watering holes. I thought I could load all of the equipment on the 4-wheeler and haul it to these blinds and wait for them to come to me. I had rather shoot them with a camera now as with a gun. I will also check out the other lens which you have suggested.

Thank you very much,
Bryant

This might be suitible for you though I feel it might be unstable for heavy lens. [smilie=oops2.gif]

Window mount (http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/product/standard-item.jhtml?id=0006873710123a&navCount=0&cmCat=srchdx&cm_ven=srchdx&cm_ite=srchdx)

[meriadoc]

sigma 70-200 f2.8 with a 2x teleconverter - brings it to 140-400 f4.0 lens....

pretty good really - nice fast lens at the shorter lengths, then a moderately fast lens at the 2x length!

[meriadoc]

outfit your overall arsenal with something like this:

- 50mm/85mm prime for portraits
- superwide (good quality) zoom for landscapes or interesting wildlife photography
- telephoto zoom for wildlife work or interesting landscapes
- macro lens.

My arsenal is gonna look something like this when finished :

Prime :
- Canon 50mm 1.8
- Canon 17-40 f4.0L or Sigma EX 12-24
- Canon 28-135 IS USM
- Canon 70-200 f4.0L, f2.8L (if I can raise the money for that) or sigma 70-200 f2.8 with 2x teleconverter
- Canon 100-400 IS USM
- Sigma 180mm macro / canon 100mm macro (can't afford the 180mm L macro from canon ;) )
and maybe, maybe a 400 or 300 mm prime.

Course, that depends on how much I work, and how much I get paid ;)

First on my list though is a new telephoto because that is what I use the most of.

-- L

[brbrown]

ccplim,
Thanks very much for the link to the window mount, that is exactly what I was talking about.

meriadoc,
As for the 2X teleconverter, will the Nikon TC-201 2x Teleconverter for AIS Lenses : http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=WishList.jsp&A=details&Q=&sku=38013&is=USA work with the Sigma Zoom Telephoto 70-300mm f/4-5.6 APO Zoom Macro Super II Autofocus Lens for Nikon AF-D http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=WishList.jsp&A=details&Q=&sku=163660&is=REG as it does with the Nikon Zoom Telephoto AF Zoom Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.0-5.6D ED Autofocus Lens http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=WishList.jsp&A=details&Q=&sku=149607&is=USA? I was thinking I read somewhere that the 2X teleconverter would only funtion properly on lenses with an f/2.8 but it recommends this teleconverter for the above listed Nikon Zoom Telephoto AF Zoom Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.0-5.6D ED Autofocus Lens. Does this also mean it would bring this lens to 140-600 f/8.0 and if so, how well will it perform?

I hope I did not make this all confusing.

By the way guys, without any studying of the camera so far, this afternoon I popped the battery in, inserted a cheap Lexar 4X CF card I picked up at the store and put the lens on. I then walked over to one of my aquariums with the camera on fully auto and only the pop-up flash, snapped off 6 or 7 shots, and had better quality shots than I have ever had using my film SLR. This camera is absolutely UNBELIEVABLE!!! I can't wait until I get the correct lenses, a good flash, my go CF card and do some studying on the operation of the camera. I might actually come out looking like a decent photographer just because of the equipment.

Thanks to all of you SO MUCH for all of your help, I really appreciate it more than you will ever know.
Bryant

[meriadoc]

If it were me, I'd get a teleconverter that is made by the same manufacturer as your lens to make sure that it is fully compatible.

Personally, I much prefer the Sigma lenses over the brand name (canon) basically because they just seem to be a little better - and more readily available.

Now, sigma DO have an Image stabilisation lens, the 80-400 OS (optical stabilization) lens. Don't know the price offhand though

We've sold alot more D70s the past few months, but thats because they're new. We've got sample prints from both the rebel and the D70, but straight out of the camera, the color and clarity (using the same lens on each) seems to be that little bit better from the canon than the D70.

Of course, a good quality lens will also help with the color, sharpness and contrast of the image.

But personally, I'd only use a 2x teleconvertor (and even a 1.4x) on a lens that either an f2.8 or f4 - because of that light loss. I love shallow depth of field - especially with animal portraits. Research research research before dropping alot of money on a lens that you may regret later on.

For some reviews on certain lenses : http://www.fredmiranda.com/reviews/ is always a good site to check out - most of the people there are pros, and know what they're talking about.

[benny]

Bryant,

Looking at the few posts above, I would recommend that you get the Sigma 50-500 or the 300-800 if you are shooting birds and small animals from the car. Any less than that will not give you the reach you are looking for. And on a bright sunny day, you can even add a 1.4 X or 2 X teleconverter.

The 70-200 F2.8 with a 2 X teleconverter will not give you enough reach for small birds and animals. I can't even shoot a sunbird at 8 ft distance without heavily cropping the picture.

Oh...make sure you get a good car/window mount that can take the weight of your new equipment. Take note of "creep" from the weight of your equipment on the tripod mount.

Lastly, as you fire away in your car, you might want to consider using 2 CF cards and 1 portable storage device so that you can offload your CF card while you shoot on another.

Cheers,

[brbrown]

benny,
I own a 55 acre farm which is loaded with all kinds of wildlife like deer, wild turkey and other large animals not to even mention all the pretty birds. It is about 1/3 open fields and about 2/3 woods so in the open areas some of the shots may be up to 200 yards away. That is why I was wanting the 50-500mm lens, I haven't looked at the 300-800 yet but I will check it out too. I found a good deal on the 50-500 though, less than $1000. I have had many health problems lately, in fact I was at my heart specialist all day today, so I am very limited rught now to what I can do. That is why I was thinking it would be a good idea to get a good lens like this where I could either set in my truck or I actually built some box blinds where I can set up my equipment in and wait for the wildlife to come out in the open areas to feed. ccplim gave me a link for a car window tripod mount but I will have to see if it is heavy-duty enough to support the weight. My main lens I want first of course, is the macro lens for my aquatic photos but then I definitely want to get a real good zoom tele lens. If I get the 50-500 can I still use it for portraits and some general photography? I guess with the 300-800 i would be limited on that wouldn't I?

Thanks again and I will MOST definitely talk to everyone before purchasing the zoom telephoto lens but I think I have decided for sure on the 105mm instead of the 180mm for the macro. This lens, the SB-800 flash and some more batteries is what I am going to concentrate on buying first, within the next couple of months I hope. Money is going to be tight for a while as my custom filter arrives tomorrow, but it is already paid for, for my 312 gallon saltwater tank. But, I still have the lighting, sand, live rock and some misc. items for it yet to buy. I can't wait to make some pictures of those saltwater babies, MEGA good colors.

Anyway, I could keep rambling on because after I shot my first few pictures today I am very excited to get up and get started tomorrow.

Thanks again for everyone's help,
Bryant

[benny]

I own a 55 acre farm which is loaded with all kinds of wildlife like deer, wild turkey and other large animals not to even mention all the pretty birds. It is about 1/3 open fields and about 2/3 woods so in the open areas some of the shots may be up to 200 yards away.

[smilie=ohmy.gif] And you never have to leave your home for a session! WOW!!!!!! How I envy you.

If I get the 50-500 can I still use it for portraits and some general photography? I guess with the 300-800 i would be limited on that wouldn't I?

If you can manage the long lens, you can use it for general photography, but most people will find a 28-70 mm much more user friendly in terms of handling. Imaging trying to shoot a picture at 50mm with that "big momma" zoom!! For posed portraits with the camera mounted on tripod, you won't have much of a problem. Just make sure your tripod and tripod head can hold up without slipping.

Cheers,

[DarthV]

So you've had the new camera since the weekend, where are some sample shots? :)

[ccplim]

I was thinking it would be a good idea to get a good lens like this where I could either set in my truck or I actually built some box blinds where I can set up my equipment in and wait for the wildlife to come out in the open areas to feed. ccplim gave me a link for a car window tripod mount but I will have to see if it is heavy-duty enough to support the weight.

Bryant, the window mount that I have given to you have a high chance of not able to support the 50-500mm. I actually wanted to show you another one but the price of it is slightly on the high side and also, you will need to purchase a ballhead for it.

[brbrown]

So you've had the new camera since the weekend, where are some sample shots? :)

DarthV,
No I just got the camera late Wednesday afternoon, but yesterday I was at the doctor all day. I did snap a few shots late yesterday with everything on auto mode. I will try to make some better ones this afternoon and get them posted. Even the ones I took yesterday turned out better than ANY aquatic fish I ever took with my film camera. Man, this is called a DSLR but from what I saw yesterday it is also a "Point and Shoot". Also, please don't expect professional photos though because I am very much a beginner. In fact, Wednesday is the very first time I have even picked a digital camera up at all. I would like to read a little today and and do a water change on two of my tanks and then I will try to get some decent pictures posted by late this afternoon. Just remember though I am ONLY a beginner so don't expect too much.

ccplim,
If you would not mind sending me the link for the more expensive window mount I would really like to take a look at it.

Also, I am supposed to talk to Adorama today. They have my Rebel G and equipment. I sure wish the would make me an offer to where I could afford to go ahead and get my macro and flash or the macro and the 70-300mm lens but I am afraid they will probably just insult me. I have over $1000 in all of that equipment and I am not going to just give it to them. There is absolutely not one mark anywhere on any of my equipment. I baby it very much. If they don't offer me much I will just keep it for a back-up and give it to my son for his first equipment.

Thanks to all of you and I will try to post some pics this afternoon/evening.

Bryant

[ccplim]

ccplim,
If you would not mind sending me the link for the more expensive window mount I would really like to take a look at it.
Bryant

Here (http://www.kirkphoto.com/supports.html#windowmount) you go buddy. The expensive stuff.

[brbrown]

WOW!!!! That would buy a nice lens. But, now I know how they are made I have a buddy who I might can get to make me one and he usually only charges me for the material. Those are really nice mounts.

Thank you very much for the link,
Bryant

[ccplim]

WOW!!!! That would buy a nice lens. But, now I know how they are made I have a buddy who I might can get to make me one and he usually only charges me for the material. Those are really nice mounts.

Thank you very much for the link,
Bryant

Don't forget that you will also need a ballhead for that.

[brbrown]

ccplim,
I know this is really a dumb question but what exactly is a ballhead?

I am getting ready to post some pictures in a little while if I can figure out how. I was going to look to see if there is a particular size limit for posting and if so then I will hae to figure out how to resize them.

By the way, is there a way to clean all the photos off of a CF card after you have loaded them to your computer without having to delete the individual photos one at a time?

Thanks,
Bryant

[meriadoc]

there should be a card format option in your camera

[benny]

Here's an example of one of the better ball heads around. This one uses the Arca Swiss quick release plate system.

http://www.photo.net/photodb/image-display?photo_id=2372571&size=lg

More details here. (http://www.photo.net/bboard/q-and-a-fetch-msg?msg_id=008IPQ)

This is a typical 3 way pan head from manfrotto (or bogen in some markets)

http://www.manfrotto.com/fileindexednew/module2/item/file0000935.gif

For versatility on longer lenses, the lens mounted on ballhead via the tripod color is the best option.

For deleting files on the CF cards,


1. If in your computer, just go to "Edit" on the top, pick "select all", press delete.

2. If in your camera, use the erase all function.

Do not re-format your CF card over and over all every time you want clear the card.

Hope that helps.

Cheers,

[brbrown]

benny,
Thanks a lot for that information.

Well, it has taken me ALL night but here is the thread to my first few pictures:
http://aquatic-photography.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=1252

Also, you will be able to view more of them in the future at my new website at:
www.picturetrail.com/brbrown

I am NOW going to bed!

Thanks SOOO much for everyone's help,
Bryant

[ccplim]

I know this is really a dumb question but what exactly is a ballhead?

By the way, is there a way to clean all the photos off of a CF card after you have loaded them to your computer without having to delete the individual photos one at a time?

This is how the ballhead look like. It's fixed between your tripod and camera. (http://www.kirkphoto.com/ballheads.html)

As for youor CF card question, just download all your pictures onto your computer, once you confirm that the pictures are okay, just perform a format from your camera and you are ready to go.