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NeoGAF Camera Equipment Thread | MK II

It's hard to find good apples to apples comparisons, but for whatever reason FF also tends to look sharper even with quite mundane lenses. Perhaps more so because of the low noise at base ISO.

The reason being that full frame has a lower pixel density on the sensor, so the glass itself needs to be less "sharp" in order to... uh, be sharp.

I'm sure there's a write up, but basically 24MP on a full frame has larger pixels than 24MP on an APSC, so an APSC is sort of "magnifying" the lens a bit making the lenses appear less sharp. It's *technically* just as sharp as on full frame, it's just that then the sensor outperforms the lens. You'd see the same shit on like the A7R/II, at 100%.
 

Mr. Hyde

Member
I'd honestly get an 18-35 Art lens if I were you it covers you in the wide end as well it's honestly a really good lens. I mean I know I was screamed at for suggesting stuff in I think the photo thread, but a bag full of primes isn't always the best option. You take that and I think the 50 and 85 to an event and you should be fine as long as you don't need a 70-200.

I think if I decide to get a non prime art lens, I might go with the new 24-35 F2 Art. It's not 1.8 like the one you mentioned, but it supports full frame so it will be compatible when I do transition over. It's a b it more expensive but it seems like a strong lens for a lot of purposes.
 
I think if I decide to get a non prime art lens, I might go with the new 24-35 F2 Art. It's not 1.8 like the one you mentioned, but it supports full frame so it will be compatible when I do transition over. It's a b it more expensive but it seems like a strong lens for a lot of purposes.
What is the focal length on that in Canon math (cause I know you have a crop sensor)? I'm just trying to make sure you have access to the wider angles cause you never know if you're going to need a large group shot. I had to do a rather large group in my first event...would've been impossible at 30 and above. Sometimes you can only back up so far.
I really have to find some kind of grip for the Canon 60D but the one from canon is expensive on Amazon UK.

I'm looking to order the last things before my travel, so have these in my basket at the moment: Canon lens hood, dual-battery charger and a new camera bag.

But I would really love the Canon 50mm f/1.8 II lens.
For the grip try checking Ebay. Do you find yourself shooting vertical a lot by any chance?
 
My indecision will be the death of me.

During the shipment of my first camera Nikon I have somehow been coerced by a friend into going for Canon 70D instead.
Now I have to return that refurb package just as I receive it (to Buydig). I just hope I won't get hit by huge restocking fees.

I guess I'm a Canon folk now. I am ECSTATIC though.
 

Pachimari

Member
For the grip try checking Ebay. Do you find yourself shooting vertical a lot by any chance?

I can see myself using it a lot for portrait photos, both in a studio here, but also just around people.

During the shipment of my first camera Nikon I have somehow been coerced by a friend into going for Canon 70D instead.
Now I have to return that refurb package just as I receive it (to Buydig). I just hope I won't get hit by huge restocking fees.

I guess I'm a Canon folk now. I am ECSTATIC though.

Nice get, and congrats!

I'm also looking at a Canon 70D or 80D.
 
My indecision will be the death of me.

During the shipment of my first camera Nikon I have somehow been coerced by a friend into going for Canon 70D instead.
Now I have to return that refurb package just as I receive it (to Buydig). I just hope I won't get hit by huge restocking fees.

I guess I'm a Canon folk now. I am ECSTATIC though.
What Nikon did you get initially? I'd honestly try both out and see what works for you instead of just going Canon cause your friend coerced you into it.
I can see myself using it a lot for portrait photos, both in a studio here, but also just around people.



Nice get, and congrats!

I'm also looking at a Canon 70D or 80D.
Just make sure your new camera is a good bit improved over the 60D you already have. I'd honestly just go with the 80D, but I'm just not the hugest fan of the button layout of those cameras. I can use the 60D my job has fine, but I just prefer the button layout of my 7100 over it. I didn't think I'd like having a grip, but I do now, It's nice having a back up battery in there and it makes portrait shooting a lot easier cause adjusting the settings is just easier. Plus the added weight gives the camera a bit more stability.
 
My indecision will be the death of me.

During the shipment of my first camera Nikon I have somehow been coerced by a friend into going for Canon 70D instead.
Now I have to return that refurb package just as I receive it (to Buydig). I just hope I won't get hit by huge restocking fees.

I guess I'm a Canon folk now. I am ECSTATIC though.

It's basically shopping between Camrys and Accords.
 
Nice get, and congrats!

I'm also looking at a Canon 70D or 80D.
Thank you. I was also oogling at the new 80D. Seems they've addressed all the weaknesses of the 70D!

What Nikon did you get initially? I'd honestly try both out and see what works for you instead of just going Canon cause your friend coerced you into it.
It was a D3300. Yes, I think I'd better try it before I do return it, but I was thinking it'd be best to keep the package intact after all. I'll probably stop by a store and see it.
D3300 was definitely the wiser choice for my wallet (considering cost/performance, and usable kit lenses) but I can see myself upgrading very soon to a mid-range. I guess I'm just wanting to buy a Canon, having borrowed Canons before (5D and some rebels).
 
Thank you. I was also oogling at the new 80D. Seems they've addressed all the weaknesses of the 70D!


It was a D3300. Yes, I think I'd better try it before I do return it, but I was thinking it'd be best to keep the package intact after all. I'll probably stop by a store and see it.
D3300 was definitely the wiser choice for my wallet (considering cost/performance, and usable kit lenses) but I can see myself upgrading very soon to a mid-range. I guess I'm just wanting to buy a Canon, having borrowed Canons before (5D and some rebels).
D3300 is super entry level and isn't in the same league as the 70D from the specs, or at least from what I'm seeing. The Nikon has a higher MP sensor, but I've never really liked the entry level Nikons. I'd at least look at a Nikon D5500 if I were you since it's a pretty good entry level Nikon that's also on par with the 70D specs wise. Check to see which costs more. The 5500 also has a full motion screen like the 70D Canon.
 

Tablo

Member
The XE-2 with the 4.0 firmware is much improved, so I think you'll be alright

Nice. Debating keeping my 1.4 or selling it and getting the f/2

Uhhh thanks but nevermind I went to a camera store, tried out the Xpro2, love at first grip. Canceled the 35mm f2 order cuz u get 100$ off it if its in an Xpro2 bundle.
So now I'm just trying to rationalize blowing 2000$ on that t.t
 
Uhhh thanks but nevermind I went to a camera store, tried out the Xpro2, love at first grip. Canceled the 35mm f2 order cuz u get 100$ off it if its in an Xpro2 bundle.
So now I'm just trying to rationalize blowing 2000$ on that t.t

Go broke and order the silver version you will be the hottest photog in town.
 
Just bought the Sigma 2.8 70-200 OS brand new from ebay for less than $600.
2h73RFh.gif
 

Rentahamster

Rodent Whores
My indecision will be the death of me.

During the shipment of my first camera Nikon I have somehow been coerced by a friend into going for Canon 70D instead.
Now I have to return that refurb package just as I receive it (to Buydig). I just hope I won't get hit by huge restocking fees.

I guess I'm a Canon folk now. I am ECSTATIC though.
Coerced? Lol. What's the story behind that?
 
How is the kit lens on the A6000? I've got a 10 year old DSLR that is just too clunky and mirrorless is the way to go these days.

Looking to get an a6000 or the a6300, but I'm not sure if I want the kit lens. Mostly taking some photos of scenery/buildings or occasional street photography. No portraits or anything like that.

Thanks!
 

Ty4on

Member
How is the kit lens on the A6000? I've got a 10 year old DSLR that is just too clunky and mirrorless is the way to go these days.

Looking to get an a6000 or the a6300, but I'm not sure if I want the kit lens. Mostly taking some photos of scenery/buildings or occasional street photography. No portraits or anything like that.

Thanks!

It is wider than most kit lenses, but most impressions of the 16-50 are negative.

I think the worst thing with the E mount is the lack of a good standard zoom lens. Even the expensive 16-70mm isn't very impressive which makes it hard to justify the high price tag. The 16-50mm is at the very least compact and cheap.
 
It is wider than most kit lenses, but most impressions of the 16-50 are negative.

I think the worst thing with the E mount is the lack of a good standard zoom lens. Even the expensive 16-70mm isn't very impressive which makes it hard to justify the high price tag. The 16-50mm is at the very least compact and cheap.


Any alternative lenses, or a good 1-2 combo of lenses that would have me covered for most general "out and about" shooting?
 
My god event photography mean full fucking frame, holy shit. Colleges give no fucks for proper lighting, not a single fuck at all. Plus I need a flash or a battery pack for my current flash so I can crack off a series of shots faster.
 
How is the kit lens on the A6000? I've got a 10 year old DSLR that is just too clunky and mirrorless is the way to go these days.

Looking to get an a6000 or the a6300, but I'm not sure if I want the kit lens. Mostly taking some photos of scenery/buildings or occasional street photography. No portraits or anything like that.

Thanks!

It's a fine lens to kick around with if you're an amateur photographer. It's easy to use. It's not the sharpest lens around the block, but I've taken some of my favorite photos with it.





 
Coerced? Lol. What's the story behind that?
Lol. Just a bit pf sarcasm for my friend who is very good with words.

Picked up the Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 as my first lens today. It will replace my 18-55 kit lens as I'll be selling it
Still can't believe it was $219 (!!!) new on Amazon.
 

Rentahamster

Rodent Whores
Lol. Just a bit pf sarcasm for my friend who is very good with words.

Picked up the Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 as my first lens today. It will replace my 18-55 kit lens as I'll be selling it
Still can't believe it was $219 (!!!) new on Amazon.

What did he say that convinced you to switch to Canon even though you already bought Nikon? You could borrow his gear or something?
 
What did he say that convinced you to switch to Canon even though you already bought Nikon? You could borrow his gear or something?

Haha, It wasn't actually that one brand was better than the other, ofc. It was just based on deals available and the way 70D is versatile enough to handle just about everything. it seems like a good spot to be for a long-term purchase.

Yeah my friend offered his 18-135mm for cheap - which would've worked great as my walk around and learning lens. I found the Sigma deal so I ended up not taking it.
 
Lol. Just a bit pf sarcasm for my friend who is very good with words.

Picked up the Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 as my first lens today. It will replace my 18-55 kit lens as I'll be selling it
Still can't believe it was $219 (!!!) new on Amazon.
That's actually a pretty good lens, granted I haven't used it since I got the Sigma Art 1.8 18-35. People say you can't do much with it, but I've been able to do a lot of stuff with it.
 
I shoot primarily landscape/nature, portraits of my kids, and also recently bird photography at 12-15ft owing to a new bay window and feeder outside of it. Have been shooting a Nikon D40 forever, with the old 55-200 f/4-5.6 (focus control on portraits) and 18-55f/3.5-5.6 DX lenses. It's still a great, reliable camera, but I'd like to finally upgrade to full-frame and buying lenses as investments. No limit on budget, but trying to decide between the 610 or 750. Arguments either way? Was planning on starting to acquire lenses such as the 50mm/f1.4 and perhaps the 70-200 f/2.8. Thanks.
 

Radec

Member
I shoot primarily landscape/nature, portraits of my kids, and also recently bird photography at 12-15ft owing to a new bay window and feeder outside of it. Have been shooting a Nikon D40 forever, with the old 55-200 f/4-5.6 (focus control on portraits) and 18-55f/3.5-5.6 DX lenses. It's still a great, reliable camera, but I'd like to finally upgrade to full-frame and buying lenses as investments. No limit on budget, but trying to decide between the 610 or 750. Arguments either way? Was planning on starting to acquire lenses such as the 50mm/f1.4 and perhaps the 70-200 f/2.8. Thanks.

Why not go for the Nikkor 24 1.4g as well? Or the Sigma 20 1.4
 

Ptaaty

Member
I shoot primarily landscape/nature, portraits of my kids, and also recently bird photography at 12-15ft owing to a new bay window and feeder outside of it. Have been shooting a Nikon D40 forever, with the old 55-200 f/4-5.6 (focus control on portraits) and 18-55f/3.5-5.6 DX lenses. It's still a great, reliable camera, but I'd like to finally upgrade to full-frame and buying lenses as investments. No limit on budget, but trying to decide between the 610 or 750. Arguments either way? Was planning on starting to acquire lenses such as the 50mm/f1.4 and perhaps the 70-200 f/2.8. Thanks.

Save your $ and get the 50mm f1.8 first. If you want/need a 70-200 f/2.8 you will know it, that is a massive and very expensive lens for just walking around...but very much a staple.

For the bodies - troll techbargains or the like and wait for a deal. Sensors are the same between D600, D610 and D750 (the later looks better if you shoot jpeg though). So you are paying for other things...better AF, bigger battery, wifi, articulating screen, faster shooting, etc.

If they are at all close, D750.

Finally - I will tell you about my favorite lens, the 105mm Mico Nikkor VR (f2.8). These can be had for about $600 used or $850 new. I love it because it shoots nice portraits, plenty fast enough with nice bokeh and opens up the world of close/macro.

That said, if you shoot a lot of short tele and have no interest in macro, get the 85mm 1.8G. No VR, but basically one of the sharpest lenses made.
 
I shoot primarily landscape/nature, portraits of my kids, and also recently bird photography at 12-15ft owing to a new bay window and feeder outside of it. Have been shooting a Nikon D40 forever, with the old 55-200 f/4-5.6 (focus control on portraits) and 18-55f/3.5-5.6 DX lenses. It's still a great, reliable camera, but I'd like to finally upgrade to full-frame and buying lenses as investments. No limit on budget, but trying to decide between the 610 or 750. Arguments either way? Was planning on starting to acquire lenses such as the 50mm/f1.4 and perhaps the 70-200 f/2.8. Thanks.
You really don't need a 2.8 70-200 unless you're doing a lot of headshots, shooting indoor event, or doing a lot of wedding photography. You can save some money by looking for an F4 70-200, saves weight too. From what I can gather the 750 is a clear step up above the 610. The main draw for my is the much better autofocus system and I heard it's better in low light.
 
You really don't need a 2.8 70-200 unless you're doing a lot of headshots, shooting indoor event, or doing a lot of wedding photography. You can save some money by looking for an F4 70-200, saves weight too. From what I can gather the 750 is a clear step up above the 610. The main draw for my is the much better autofocus system and I heard it's better in low light.

Thanks. As I mentioned I shoot a lot of portraiture of the kids and some nature, stuff like this. Good point on the weight, one of the nice things about the D40 is how small and light it is, so you don't balk at taking it places, and heavy glass could mitigate against that.

Re: bodies, I prefer the simplicity of the 610's (e.g. the display armature won't break) but the 750 has better AF and ISO which is the primary question I suppose--how much will I notice that. I was also surprised to see the 750 is actually slightly lighter than the 610, at least according to Nikon's site.

Re: lenses I took Ptaaty's advice for the time being and have just bought the 50mm f1.8 while I'm vacillating on the body.
 
I think I'm done with my SLR. My wife and I bought an entry-level Nikon 6 years ago that served us really well - we ended up buying a fixed 35mm lens that we've used exclusively for the last several years.

The lure of mirrorless is too strong. Just need to sell off the kit and then I'm in.
 
Thanks. As I mentioned I shoot a lot of portraiture of the kids and some nature, stuff like this. Good point on the weight, one of the nice things about the D40 is how small and light it is, so you don't balk at taking it places, and heavy glass could mitigate against that.

Re: bodies, I prefer the simplicity of the 610's (e.g. the display armature won't break) but the 750 has better AF and ISO which is the primary question I suppose--how much will I notice that. I was also surprised to see the 750 is actually slightly lighter than the 610, at least according to Nikon's site.

Re: lenses I took Ptaaty's advice for the time being and have just bought the 50mm f1.8 while I'm vacillating on the body.
The 50 1.8 is a great lens. It was my go to lens till I got the Sigma 1.8 18-35 art lens. Now the 50 is more situational is good for head shots and something where you need a touch more reach since it's 75mm on crop sensors. Is the 750 display really that fragile? Yeah since full frame is on your mind just invest in full frame glass. Since you do portraits look into the Nikon 1.8 85mm since it's pretty much industry standard for that.
 

Herbs

Banned
Got my first piece of Leica gear. Couldn't pass up a 50mm Summilux type 2 for $1,000. Don't have body for it but will use it adapted to my X-Pro2/XT-1. Damn.
 

ShowDog

Member
Well I just picked up an rx100iii for a two week vacation I've got coming up to Thailand. I dont want to haul my m4/3 gear around 24/7 or risk having it stolen and that stuff honestly wouldn't perform as well without a significant investment anyways. I was able to net a used one with 4 dead pixels on the lcd for $430.

Even if I get back into m4/3 I think I'll still end up using this more often if starting a family later this year goes as I hope it does. Can't beat the front pocket.
 

Karsha

Member
How's nikons 17-55 2.8 DX? It seems i can't find real reviews on it and the prices are ridiculous for a DX lens so I was wondering how the quality is?
 

Ty4on

Member
How's nikons 17-55 2.8 DX? It seems i can't find real reviews on it and the prices are ridiculous for a DX lens so I was wondering how the quality is?
Look at used lenses. Its value has collapsed on the used market with prices around 500$.

It's an old lens and probably not as sharp as Sigma's 18-35mm. Does otherwise seem like an OK lens, but really overpriced at its full price.
 

vern

Member
Well I just picked up an rx100iii for a two week vacation I've got coming up to Thailand. I dont want to haul my m4/3 gear around 24/7 or risk having it stolen and that stuff honestly wouldn't perform as well without a significant investment anyways. I was able to net a used one with 4 dead pixels on the lcd for $430.

Even if I get back into m4/3 I think I'll still end up using this more often if starting a family later this year goes as I hope it does. Can't beat the front pocket.

Love my rx100i. It's a great camera. Be sure to bring some photos from Thailand to the photo gaf thread. Which cities are you going to? I loved Chiang Rai the most when I was there but admittedly I didn't get around to too many places.
 
How's nikons 17-55 2.8 DX? It seems i can't find real reviews on it and the prices are ridiculous for a DX lens so I was wondering how the quality is?
Expensive and big with no VR. I use Sigma's 17-50 OS instead of that. It's fine, but it's no 18-35 Art. Both have their uses, but the 18-35 rarely comes off my camera.
 

Ptaaty

Member
Thanks. As I mentioned I shoot a lot of portraiture of the kids and some nature, stuff like this. Good point on the weight, one of the nice things about the D40 is how small and light it is, so you don't balk at taking it places, and heavy glass could mitigate against that.

Re: bodies, I prefer the simplicity of the 610's (e.g. the display armature won't break) but the 750 has better AF and ISO which is the primary question I suppose--how much will I notice that. I was also surprised to see the 750 is actually slightly lighter than the 610, at least according to Nikon's site.

Re: lenses I took Ptaaty's advice for the time being and have just bought the 50mm f1.8 while I'm vacillating on the body.

The D750 is a really nice body, I am starting to consider selling my D600 for one. The AF is definitely better on the D750, but like I said the sensors are the same even if the D750 will process jpegs better and has a wider range. I have extremely limited uses for an ISO over 4000.

The D750 has a number of other advantages over the D6XX and you could just leave the screen in place. As someone who shoots macro/close sometimes I wish I had the option.

Getting the 50mm now is a good path. This gives you an OK portrait lens for now (approximation of getting an 85mm later) and a great normal length when you move to FF. Pretty much best bang for the buck. Its my goto for general shooting, especially available light / kids indoors / etc.

Depending on your budget, the 24-85mm VR really isn't that bad. It is fairly sharp, gets you the coverage in focal lengths, can be found dirt cheap second hand, and is lightweight. Check out some reviews - it gets panned for being a "kit lens" but there are few if any better kit lenses out there for any platform. Essentially as good as the 24-120mm F4 (this last point made only on reviews/others opinions, I haven't used this lens)
 
How is the kit lens on the A6000? I've got a 10 year old DSLR that is just too clunky and mirrorless is the way to go these days.

Looking to get an a6000 or the a6300, but I'm not sure if I want the kit lens. Mostly taking some photos of scenery/buildings or occasional street photography. No portraits or anything like that.

Thanks!
It's very useful as it makes the a6000 almost pocketable. It makes it easy to bring the camera with you on a more regular basis.
 

ShowDog

Member
Love my rx100i. It's a great camera. Be sure to bring some photos from Thailand to the photo gaf thread. Which cities are you going to? I loved Chiang Rai the most when I was there but admittedly I didn't get around to too many places.

We'll be hitting up Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Sukhothai, and Ayutthay. Gonna visit the Great Wall on a short stop in China on the way back too.
 
Just bought this bag to be my travel bag for my events. It's pretty spacious given the size. managed to fit my 70-200 2.8, 2.8 17-50, 1.8 18-35 attached to the camera and my 1.8 50G into it and my flash in a side pouch. Heavy, but it's such a sturdy bag, thing barely deforms with all that stuff in it.
 

Sec0nd

Member
Quick question: I've got a (film) shoot tomorrow and they've got a Canon 50mm 1.4 to use. I've just got a Zeiss 50mm 1.4 from some people who never used it. Just going by brand and price I assume the Zeiss is a step up from the Canon lens.

Would it be worth bringing my own Zeiss 50mm? Or is the difference minimal?
 

brerwolfe

Member
Quick question: I've got a (film) shoot tomorrow and they've got a Canon 50mm 1.4 to use. I've just got a Zeiss 50mm 1.4 from some people who never used it. Just going by brand and price I assume the Zeiss is a step up from the Canon lens.

Would it be worth bringing my own Zeiss 50mm? Or is the difference minimal?

Unless they're paying you for it I'd just minimize risk of anything happening to it and use their lens.
 

Ty4on

Member
Quick question: I've got a (film) shoot tomorrow and they've got a Canon 50mm 1.4 to use. I've just got a Zeiss 50mm 1.4 from some people who never used it. Just going by brand and price I assume the Zeiss is a step up from the Canon lens.

Would it be worth bringing my own Zeiss 50mm? Or is the difference minimal?

Specifically what lenses are they?

If they're EF-mount (and the Zeiss lens isn't the Otus) I'd just use the Canon lens. It's maybe a little softer, but you get AF. Most 50mm f1.4 lenses use a similar optical formula and won't be that different in terms of raw sharpness. That has changed with the newest designs like the Otus and Sigma's Art lens and the Leica F2 APO-Summicron.
 

dw.og

Member
Hey guys I need help on what camera to get. I'm debating between the Sony RX100 III/IV, the Sony a6300, Sony a7, or Fujifilm's X100T.

The X100 series is really appealing to me. I just wish it did video better. It seems like a lot of people that are into photography have a very capable point-and-shoot (like the RX100 series) and then something more powerful as their main camera. This was sort of the dilemma I was hoping to avoid but it seems like finding a nice middle ground might be rare.
 
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