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#1
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Help Choosing Canon 20D Setup (Body, lenses, flash, etc)
Hello group. I am after advise on buying a Canon 20D setup, for a non
professional enthusiast. Situation: I am considering upgrading from 35mm to digital because I hate changing film at crucial points, and also feel very restricted from experimenting with film as much as digital. Another thing I hate is that sometimes there is a film in my camera half used, when I want it developed. Also, I am PC literate and am pretty familiar with Photoshop, so it would make sense to go digital. Until now I have fought the need because I didn't think DSLR's were capable of competing with 35mm SLR's on the functions they provide, especially lock up, and start-up times. So, what do I go for? Body: I am considering either a Canon 20D, or Minolta 7D, but the Canon seems to have more spec. for the price, is available now, and has been tested by users already. Nikon D70 is cheaper, but accessories are more expensive. Also, the specs still don't match the 20D. Therefore, I think I will be going for a 20D if anything. 20D 'Normal' Lens Choices: I am torn between the 17-55mm lens, and the 17-85 Image Stabiliser lens. The main reason is NOT because one is a image stabiliser lens, but because for the greater focal length which will allow for more flexibility in 'normal' use without changing lenses. Any recommendations? 20D Telephoto Lens Choices: Again, I am torn between two lenses. The choices are between the 75-300mm USM, and the 75-300 Image Stabiliser lenses. The thing is, I have never had a problem with blur when shooting at 300mm on non image stabiliser lenses in the past. But, with a digital 35mm equivalent of 480mm, maybe the Image Stabiliser lens would be the better choice. Or, would it be better to just a tripod and not hand hold? Any recommendations? 20D Flash Choice: I am also torn between two choices. The choices are between the 420EX, and the 550EX. The 550EX has more manual controls, etc, but is big, heavy, and needs a lot of understanding to get the most from it. It also works better with 45 point autofocus, but the 20D only has 9 AF points, so it would be a bit wasted. Power wise, the 550EX is only about 1/2 a stop behind the 420EX. (BTW, 580EX is another choice, but is the same as the 550EX, except minor alterations to make it more efficient for digital users). Any recommendations? Media Storage Choices: I have decided to go for 2GB (Approx. 220 RAW photos). The choices are between the IBM/Hitachi 2GB Microdrive, and an equivalent fast CF card. The Microdrive seems to be better value for money in this respect. Any recommendations? Conclusion: Bear in mind that money is hard to come by, so I do not want spend it unnecessarily, as I am not a pro making money from the photos. Also, another alternative would be to stick with my 35mm setup until prices come down and DSLR's become better value for money. After all, spending this amount will not really compensate for the processing and developing costs. Although will have more benefits. Cheers for your help. |
#2
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"A" wrote in message ... Hello group. I am after advise on buying a Canon 20D setup, for a non professional enthusiast. Situation: I am considering upgrading from 35mm to digital because I hate changing film at crucial points, and also feel very restricted from experimenting with film as much as digital. Another thing I hate is that sometimes there is a film in my camera half used, when I want it developed. Also, I am PC literate and am pretty familiar with Photoshop, so it would make sense to go digital. Until now I have fought the need because I didn't think DSLR's were capable of competing with 35mm SLR's on the functions they provide, especially lock up, and start-up times. You are definitely ready to go digital! So, what do I go for? Body: I am considering either a Canon 20D, or Minolta 7D, but the Canon seems to have more spec. for the price, is available now, and has been tested by users already. Nikon D70 is cheaper, but accessories are more expensive. Also, the specs still don't match the 20D. Therefore, I think I will be going for a 20D if anything. I have a 300D and it's a great camera. The 20D is a lot better. The Minolta might be just fine, too. 20D 'Normal' Lens Choices: I am torn between the 17-55mm lens, and the 17-85 Image Stabiliser lens. The main reason is NOT because one is a image stabiliser lens, but because for the greater focal length which will allow for more flexibility in 'normal' use without changing lenses. Any recommendations? If you can afford the 17-85, go for it. 20D Telephoto Lens Choices: Again, I am torn between two lenses. The choices are between the 75-300mm USM, and the 75-300 Image Stabiliser lenses. The thing is, I have never had a problem with blur when shooting at 300mm on non image stabiliser lenses in the past. But, with a digital 35mm equivalent of 480mm, maybe the Image Stabiliser lens would be the better choice. Or, would it be better to just a tripod and not hand hold? Any recommendations? I have the IS version and get shots without a tripod that would be impossible (for me) to get otherwise. 20D Flash Choice: I am also torn between two choices. The choices are between the 420EX, and the 550EX. The 550EX has more manual controls, etc, but is big, heavy, and needs a lot of understanding to get the most from it. It also works better with 45 point autofocus, but the 20D only has 9 AF points, so it would be a bit wasted. Power wise, the 550EX is only about 1/2 a stop behind the 420EX. (BTW, 580EX is another choice, but is the same as the 550EX, except minor alterations to make it more efficient for digital users). Any recommendations? The 420EX should be fine unless you need some of the exotic features and the higher output of the 550EX. Also, you might want to look at the Sigma 500 DG super. Media Storage Choices: I have decided to go for 2GB (Approx. 220 RAW photos). The choices are between the IBM/Hitachi 2GB Microdrive, and an equivalent fast CF card. The Microdrive seems to be better value for money in this respect. Any recommendations? Personally, I'd never buy a Microdrive. 1GB CF cards give a fair bang for the buck. Conclusion: Bear in mind that money is hard to come by, so I do not want spend it unnecessarily, as I am not a pro making money from the photos. Also, another alternative would be to stick with my 35mm setup until prices come down and DSLR's become better value for money. After all, spending this amount will not really compensate for the processing and developing costs. Although will have more benefits. Only you can decide. |
#3
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Hi A
You only live once What's a couple of bucks on a system like that? Personally I'd run with the Canon and apply a serious bit of chinese wrist burn to your retail outlet Ask to see the manager - lay down the spec then negotiate If you get fed up with it in a few months time - just ship it over to me :-) Aerticus ps - you will not thank me for this now b-u-t in the long run you'd be better of with Photoshop CS (enrol at a night school - anything at all that will allow you to qualify for the academic version of the full CS suite from Adobe. Your free time for the next few years has now evaporated) A "A" wrote in message ... Hello group. I am after advise on buying a Canon 20D setup, for a non professional enthusiast. Situation: I am considering upgrading from 35mm to digital because I hate changing film at crucial points, and also feel very restricted from experimenting with film as much as digital. Another thing I hate is that sometimes there is a film in my camera half used, when I want it developed. Also, I am PC literate and am pretty familiar with Photoshop, so it would make sense to go digital. Until now I have fought the need because I didn't think DSLR's were capable of competing with 35mm SLR's on the functions they provide, especially lock up, and start-up times. So, what do I go for? Body: I am considering either a Canon 20D, or Minolta 7D, but the Canon seems to have more spec. for the price, is available now, and has been tested by users already. Nikon D70 is cheaper, but accessories are more expensive. Also, the specs still don't match the 20D. Therefore, I think I will be going for a 20D if anything. 20D 'Normal' Lens Choices: I am torn between the 17-55mm lens, and the 17-85 Image Stabiliser lens. The main reason is NOT because one is a image stabiliser lens, but because for the greater focal length which will allow for more flexibility in 'normal' use without changing lenses. Any recommendations? 20D Telephoto Lens Choices: Again, I am torn between two lenses. The choices are between the 75-300mm USM, and the 75-300 Image Stabiliser lenses. The thing is, I have never had a problem with blur when shooting at 300mm on non image stabiliser lenses in the past. But, with a digital 35mm equivalent of 480mm, maybe the Image Stabiliser lens would be the better choice. Or, would it be better to just a tripod and not hand hold? Any recommendations? 20D Flash Choice: I am also torn between two choices. The choices are between the 420EX, and the 550EX. The 550EX has more manual controls, etc, but is big, heavy, and needs a lot of understanding to get the most from it. It also works better with 45 point autofocus, but the 20D only has 9 AF points, so it would be a bit wasted. Power wise, the 550EX is only about 1/2 a stop behind the 420EX. (BTW, 580EX is another choice, but is the same as the 550EX, except minor alterations to make it more efficient for digital users). Any recommendations? Media Storage Choices: I have decided to go for 2GB (Approx. 220 RAW photos). The choices are between the IBM/Hitachi 2GB Microdrive, and an equivalent fast CF card. The Microdrive seems to be better value for money in this respect. Any recommendations? Conclusion: Bear in mind that money is hard to come by, so I do not want spend it unnecessarily, as I am not a pro making money from the photos. Also, another alternative would be to stick with my 35mm setup until prices come down and DSLR's become better value for money. After all, spending this amount will not really compensate for the processing and developing costs. Although will have more benefits. Cheers for your help. |
#4
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A wrote:
Hello group. I am after advise on buying a Canon 20D setup, for a non professional enthusiast. Situation: I am considering upgrading from 35mm to digital because I hate changing film at crucial points, and also feel very restricted from experimenting with film as much as digital. Another thing I hate is that sometimes there is a film in my camera half used, when I want it developed. I am not sure you have really great reasons to changing, but that is your choice. Also, I am PC literate and am pretty familiar with Photoshop, so it would make sense to go digital. Until now I have fought the need because I didn't think DSLR's were capable of competing with 35mm SLR's on the functions they provide, especially lock up, and start-up times. I agree. I now own a 20D So, what do I go for? Body: I am considering either a Canon 20D, or Minolta 7D, but the Canon seems to have more spec. for the price, is available now, and has been tested by users already. Nikon D70 is cheaper, but accessories are more expensive. Also, the specs still don't match the 20D. Therefore, I think I will be going for a 20D if anything. I chose the 20D in part due to the specs, but also due to the fact that much of my Canon equipment would carry over. I did not really research the Nikon line, although I have nothing bad to say about them. 20D 'Normal' Lens Choices: I am torn between the 17-55mm lens, and the 17-85 Image Stabiliser lens. The main reason is NOT because one is a image stabiliser lens, but because for the greater focal length which will allow for more flexibility in 'normal' use without changing lenses. Any recommendations? The 17-55 is a very versatile lens. Remember than that 55mm is equal to about 88mm. For me that works very well. Of course I already had the 24-85mm lens so I have a good coverage for other situations that the 17-55 might not cover. It all depends on your personal usage. That 24-85 does well for most of my sports work. The 17-55 is a good general use lens. BTW the 17-55 is not quite as sharp as the 24-85, but is well wroth the cost. Maybe you will want to get it to start with, based on the cost alone. 20D Telephoto Lens Choices: Again, I am torn between two lenses. The choices are between the 75-300mm USM, and the 75-300 Image Stabiliser lenses. The thing is, I have never had a problem with blur when shooting at 300mm on non image stabiliser lenses in the past. But, with a digital 35mm equivalent of 480mm, maybe the Image Stabiliser lens would be the better choice. Or, would it be better to just a tripod and not hand hold? Any recommendations? I have not had any problems with my 75-300 USM, but if I did not own it, I would likely go for the IS lens. 20D Flash Choice: I am also torn between two choices. The choices are between the 420EX, and the 550EX. The 550EX has more manual controls, etc, but is big, heavy, and needs a lot of understanding to get the most from it. It also works better with 45 point autofocus, but the 20D only has 9 AF points, so it would be a bit wasted. Power wise, the 550EX is only about 1/2 a stop behind the 420EX. (BTW, 580EX is another choice, but is the same as the 550EX, except minor alterations to make it more efficient for digital users). Any recommendations? Not from me. I have not used flash much in recent years, so I have limited my flash to the built in flash so far. I will be reading replies to this question however. Media Storage Choices: I have decided to go for 2GB (Approx. 220 RAW photos). The choices are between the IBM/Hitachi 2GB Microdrive, and an equivalent fast CF card. The Microdrive seems to be better value for money in this respect. Any recommendations? I chose two 1 GB cards. About the same cost and with two cards if one goes bad, you are not dead. I some situations, it means you can continue to shoot while your assistant downloads the other card. Conclusion: Bear in mind that money is hard to come by, so I do not want spend it unnecessarily, as I am not a pro making money from the photos. Also, another alternative would be to stick with my 35mm setup until prices come down and DSLR's become better value for money. After all, spending this amount will not really compensate for the processing and developing costs. Although will have more benefits. Cheers for your help. -- Joseph E. Meehan 26 + 6 = 1 It's Irish Math |
#5
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" Media Storage Choices: I have decided to go for 2GB (Approx. 220 RAW photos). The choices are between the IBM/Hitachi 2GB Microdrive, and an equivalent fast CF card. The Microdrive seems to be better value for money in this respect. Any recommendations? You want the fastest card available; right now that's the Sandisk Ultra II cards. I buy the 1GB models - same price per GB as the 2GB models, but more protection against "accidents" (i.e. not keeping all your eggs in one basket, should something bad happen to a card). You do not necessarily want the fastest card available. But you should give the above advice serious consideration. I use a 4gb Hitachi Microdrive in my 10D when on vacation. However, when I am shooting local sporting events like triathlons, I need speed. If you are shooting landscapes, you don't really need a superfast write speed. If you are shooting events where you will actually fill your buffer, then get a fast card [or if you will be shooting at high elevations where you can't use a Type II card]. I haven't noticed much difference in READ speeds of the various cards that I use. The write speed of the microdrive is much slower than than the Type I cards. I assume the larger file sizes of the 20D will take a little longer to write on any give card than the 10D. Another consideration is that microdrives and IS use battery power. I cannot say how much effect this has, but when I use a microdrive in conjunction with an IS lens, it seems that the batteries do not last very long. If you choose the microdrive and the IS lens, you might want to also consider the battery grip and some extra batteries. Eric Miller |
#6
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Also,
another alternative would be to stick with my 35mm setup until prices come down and DSLR's become better value for money. You pointed out your best alternative. Right now, there is no better value in digital than a slightly used version of yesterday's news. The 10D is going for less than $950, and I recently paid $612 for a very nice D60. Let someone else take the brunt of the initial cost, and make yourself the beneficiary of their dire need for the latest & greatest. For folks who can afford the newest, great. For the rest of us, keep in mind that just a few years ago, the D30 was THE hot item. You can have one today for a fraction of the cost. |
#7
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With all respects, if you are bothered having film half used in your camera,
then spending four figures on new equipment you may not use that much may be a mistake at the moment. Prices are coming down all the time. I'd stay put until you couldn't afford NOT to buy one. By the way, the Nikon D70 has a 1/500th sync speed against Canons 1/250th. |
#8
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"A" wrote in message ... Situation: I am considering upgrading from 35mm to digital because I hate changing film at crucial points, and also feel very restricted from experimenting with film as much as digital. Another thing I hate is that sometimes there is a film in my camera half used, when I want it developed. Also, I am PC literate and am pretty familiar with Photoshop, so it would make sense to go digital. Until now I have fought the need because I didn't think DSLR's were capable of competing with 35mm SLR's on the functions they provide, especially lock up, and start-up times. Go Digital. Just my opinion but film and processing cost help make the digital solution much more affordable. Body: I am considering either a Canon 20D, or Minolta 7D, but the Canon seems to have more spec. for the price, is available now, and has been tested by users already. Nikon D70 is cheaper, but accessories are more expensive. Also, the specs still don't match the 20D. Therefore, I think I will be going for a 20D if anything. I happen to agree with you choice... Canon. I shoot with a 10D and feel it is a great system so of course I'm biased. 20D 'Normal' Lens Choices: I am torn between the 17-55mm lens, and the 17-85 Image Stabiliser lens. The main reason is NOT because one is a image stabiliser lens, but because for the greater focal length which will allow for more flexibility in 'normal' use without changing lenses. Any recommendations? I have a 28-300 Sigma for all around vacation shooting and goofing around. Not an EX but its ok. For pro work (sports) I shoot with a 50-500 EX Sigma. I would love to own the Canon glass but.... just can not afford it right now. 20D Telephoto Lens Choices: Again, I am torn between two lenses. The choices are between the 75-300mm USM, and the 75-300 Image Stabiliser lenses. The thing is, I have never had a problem with blur when shooting at 300mm on non image stabiliser lenses in the past. But, with a digital 35mm equivalent of 480mm, maybe the Image Stabiliser lens would be the better choice. Or, would it be better to just a tripod and not hand hold? Any recommendations? Again Sigma EX lens are less expensive and good image quality. 70-200 f2.8, 100-300 f4, 80-400 f4.5-5.6, 50-500 f4.5-5.6 all in $800-1000 range. 20D Flash Choice: I am also torn between two choices. The choices are between the 420EX, and the 550EX. The 550EX has more manual controls, etc, but is big, heavy, and needs a lot of understanding to get the most from it. It also works better with 45 point autofocus, but the 20D only has 9 AF points, so it would be a bit wasted. Power wise, the 550EX is only about 1/2 a stop behind the 420EX. (BTW, 580EX is another choice, but is the same as the 550EX, except minor alterations to make it more efficient for digital users). Any recommendations? Being a frugal type of guy I have a Sigma 550 DG Super. Full e-ttl. Media Storage Choices: I have decided to go for 2GB (Approx. 220 RAW photos). The choices are between the IBM/Hitachi 2GB Microdrive, and an equivalent fast CF card. The Microdrive seems to be better value for money in this respect. Any recommendations? I use 2 1gig CF cards, I'm told the microdrive uses more battery. Each card hold about 300 pics at the highest jpg setting about 4 megs per pic. Conclusion: Bear in mind that money is hard to come by, so I do not want spend it unnecessarily, as I am not a pro making money from the photos. Also, another alternative would be to stick with my 35mm setup until prices come down and DSLR's become better value for money. After all, spending this amount will not really compensate for the processing and developing costs. Although will have more benefits. You might want to consider the 10D... prices are comming down now that the 20D is out. Since you can preview all your pictures before paying for prints and you have no film cost and no processing cost... you might save more than you think. Good luck in your upgrade. Ed |
#9
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"A" writes:
Hello group. I am after advise on buying a Canon 20D setup, for a non professional enthusiast. Situation: I am considering upgrading from 35mm to digital because I hate changing film at crucial points, and also feel very restricted from experimenting with film as much as digital. Another thing I hate is that sometimes there is a film in my camera half used, when I want it developed. Also, I am PC literate and am pretty familiar with Photoshop, so it would make sense to go digital. Until now I have fought the need because I didn't think DSLR's were capable of competing with 35mm SLR's on the functions they provide, especially lock up, and start-up times. Note, there is the flip side about needing to change a memory card at crucial points. One of the prosumer cameras (Panasonic FZ20) I give negative marks to because the memory card slot is on the bottom, and I would have to disassemble the camera from the flash bracket to change memory (and this summer, I was photographing an event and did have to change memory cards fast). So, what do I go for? Body: I am considering either a Canon 20D, or Minolta 7D, but the Canon seems to have more spec. for the price, is available now, and has been tested by users already. Nikon D70 is cheaper, but accessories are more expensive. Also, the specs still don't match the 20D. Therefore, I think I will be going for a 20D if anything. 20D 'Normal' Lens Choices: I am torn between the 17-55mm lens, and the 17-85 Image Stabiliser lens. The main reason is NOT because one is a image stabiliser lens, but because for the greater focal length which will allow for more flexibility in 'normal' use without changing lenses. Any recommendations? 20D Telephoto Lens Choices: Again, I am torn between two lenses. The choices are between the 75-300mm USM, and the 75-300 Image Stabiliser lenses. The thing is, I have never had a problem with blur when shooting at 300mm on non image stabiliser lenses in the past. But, with a digital 35mm equivalent of 480mm, maybe the Image Stabiliser lens would be the better choice. Or, would it be better to just a tripod and not hand hold? Any recommendations? The chepaer 75-300IS has a reputation for being soft at 300mm. 20D Flash Choice: I am also torn between two choices. The choices are between the 420EX, and the 550EX. The 550EX has more manual controls, etc, but is big, heavy, and needs a lot of understanding to get the most from it. It also works better with 45 point autofocus, but the 20D only has 9 AF points, so it would be a bit wasted. Power wise, the 550EX is only about 1/2 a stop behind the 420EX. (BTW, 580EX is another choice, but is the same as the 550EX, except minor alterations to make it more efficient for digital users). Any recommendations? Media Storage Choices: I have decided to go for 2GB (Approx. 220 RAW photos). The choices are between the IBM/Hitachi 2GB Microdrive, and an equivalent fast CF card. The Microdrive seems to be better value for money in this respect. Any recommendations? The one concern is the microdrive is a miniature disk drive, and is somewhat more fragile than the fast CF card. Depending on your needs, you might either consider multiple cards and/or a portable storage device (battery operated disk drive that has media slots and can copy media cards in the field, though most devices are limited in terms of copying speed and battery power). -- Michael Meissner email: http://www.the-meissners.org |
#10
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gerry wrote:
With all respects, if you are bothered having film half used in your camera, then spending four figures on new equipment you may not use that much may be a mistake at the moment. Prices are coming down all the time. I'd stay put until you couldn't afford NOT to buy one. By the way, the Nikon D70 has a 1/500th sync speed against Canons 1/250th. But I've had half-used film in my FE2 for probably years now, and have used the digital all the time. (It's easy to 'process' a 'half used' memory card..) I really ought to shoot off that film, but just automatically pick up the digital, especially since I'd have to get down to a shop to drop it off and pick it up etc. I'm not sure I agree on the OP's comment that accessories are more expensive for Nikon than Canon. The lenses are likely to be more than the body for either camera, and the Canon lenses seem to cost more across the board. If she makes her choice and buys good Canon or Nikon gear, then she could upgrade the body later and still use the lenses. If he avoids the EF-S/DX, he could even use them on a film 35mm. The only money she'll be wasting would be the difference between the body now and the body later. So maybe a cheaper D70 [waiting for the next generation] or a 10D could be an idea. -- Ken Tough |
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