MK5 Golf GTI
General => Photography Section => Topic started by: RedRobin on September 13, 2010, 06:34:53 pm
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I've been using a compact Fuji FinePix 200EXR for about a year, possibly longer, and many moons ago used professional Nikon and then Canon film cameras. I recognise and accept the limitations of my digital 200EXR and am extremely pleased how I can always pocket it and so be able to get a shot. In June I built a small wildlife pond in my garden which already supports a wide range of wildlife as I do not manicure it and don't think that there is such a thing as a weed. As I think my "RR's Wildlife Portfolio" thread illustrates, the FinePix is quite good in Macro mode but I miss the ability to set a speed and let the aperture automatically settle in correct exposure - I can do this in Manual mode but it's not accurate enough and I've seen no values inbetween f:3.5 and f:9! Furthermore, the Autofocus can be awkward and tends to evaluate over all the image instead of a tight centrally aimed spot. It's zoom power is also limited.
I'm not in a hurry to change camera but am looking ahead and thinking I might like a Leica compact. I don't mind spending up to around £650 if I get what I need.
A member here, andrewparker, has suggested the Panasonic Lumix GF1 and I think that it has a Leica lens. Does anyone here have experience of such cameras, please?
:drinking:
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If you want manual focus/aperture/speed and a Leica lens the best option is a Leica X1, but it's about twice your budget. It's a brilliant camera though, with a fast prime 24mm lens and a huge sensor for such at small camera (APS-C sensor). It's about a third of the size of the Leica M that I carry around, if you remember how big that is - I can bring that to the meet. It also has the options (unusual for a prime-lensed Leica) for automatic focus/aperture/speed or any combination of the three.
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm5.static.flickr.com%2F4008%2F4365376482_d6af25d25b_z.jpg&hash=806426fd6bad9d8c6dbb08788b02eca8bea24985)
Some pics taken by it (randomly from flickr)
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm3.static.flickr.com%2F2466%2F4334682231_00271096d1_b.jpg&hash=727d21446ee48f822a382ace2af7c6fba57d5d9f)
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm5.static.flickr.com%2F4017%2F4618760111_41e5d287e7_b.jpg&hash=b29f05a5932652bbf5be29f378cc9c59a8241509)
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm5.static.flickr.com%2F4006%2F4425896114_55598e0522_b.jpg&hash=69e3693af153be9fb455345eb5df32596258fa5d)
Another option is a micro four-thirds camera like the Lumix GF1 that andrewparker suggested. There's a few Leica lenses available for it, but the sensor isn't as big as the APS-C sensor in the X1. It is about half the price though. I've not used one before, but I don't think it has a manually-settable aperture or speed, but you can manually focus the lens through an electronic viewfinder.
Just some thoughts. I'd spend the extra on the X1 myself (having played with one, it is a seriously lovely and beautiful piece of kit), but I'm a bit less sensible with my money than some :happy2:
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Just some thoughts. I'd spend the extra on the X1 myself (having played with one, it is a seriously lovely and beautiful piece of kit), but I'm a bit less sensible with my money than some :happy2:
....I'm rather like you when it comes to spending money (mine as well as anybody else's) - I usually lock Captain Sensible in the garden shed and ignore his screaming - It's why I changed my order from a grey Mk5 Golf TDI to a throbbin red GTI.
The Leica X1 sounds as if it does exactly what I'm seeking and is a good compact size so I never leave it at home - Could be a camera I never need to change in the future. Hmmm... Perhaps I don't need to mod my car any further!
[Goes off to Google "Leica X1"..................]
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I've read reviews that suggest the GF1 is a better camera than the X1, regardless of cost. It's shortcomings, particularly it's operational speed (worth bearing in mind if wildlife photography is being shot) would certainly rule it out for me.
This is a great review - http://craigmod.com/journal/gf1-fieldtest/ (http://craigmod.com/journal/gf1-fieldtest/)
Another option is a micro four-thirds camera like the Lumix GF1 that andrewparker suggested. There's a few Leica lenses available for it, but the sensor isn't as big as the APS-C sensor in the X1. It is about half the price though. I've not used one before, but I don't think it has a manually-settable aperture or speed, but you can manually focus the lens through an electronic viewfinder.
The settings are essentially exactly the same as on a dSLR, so you have independent control over shutter speed, aperture etc, and fully manual focus through the lens barrel.
My Dad has the GF1 and it is seriously good. I use a Nikon D300 at work, and my personal camera is a Nikon D90, however my next travel camera is almost certainly going to be a GF1.
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As of tomorrow Robin my new hobby starts. I have been bitten by the photography bug as well, and my DSLR arrives tomorrow, i have spent a few weeks researching and i am very excited now waiting for it to arrive tomorrow. There is a lot too learn, even learning to operate the camera is going to take a while. But the more research i do, the more i am getting drawn in.
I found this, how to link, incredibly useful in understanding how to manually operate a camera. I think it will be months before i even have a basic understanding of photography, but bring it on i say. I can't wait. :jumpmove:
Link : http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=414088
My choice of camera has been the Canon 550D, because it has HD video as well, which is perfect for capturing my Son growing up. :pomppomp:
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^^ Beware, photography can be as harsh on the wallet as your car!
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^^ Beware, photography can be as harsh on the wallet as your car!
Tell me about it, i have already had to buy lots of accessories and i haven't even got a decent lens yet. :grin:
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Nice read TC. I really enjoyed reading books by a guy called Bryan Peterson, particularly Understanding Exposure.
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x2! What's it with all these expensive hobbies :laugh:
I've read reviews that suggest the GF1 is a better camera than the X1, regardless of cost. It's shortcomings, particularly it's operational speed (worth bearing in mind if wildlife photography is being shot) would certainly rule it out for me.
This is a great review - http://craigmod.com/journal/gf1-fieldtest/ (http://craigmod.com/journal/gf1-fieldtest/)
The settings are essentially exactly the same as on a dSLR, so you have independent control over shutter speed, aperture etc, and fully manual focus through the lens barrel.
My Dad has the GF1 and it is seriously good. I use a Nikon D300 at work, and my personal camera is a Nikon D90, however my next travel camera is almost certainly going to be a GF1.
That's a great review you linked to, incidentally - I particularly like:
About halfway through the trip I realized something strange was happening — the people I photographed were looking me in the eyes. Indeed, they could see my eyes! I had spent so long traveling with a DSLR strapped to my face that I had forgotten about true eye contact.
For better or worse, a camera without a viewfinder is less intimidating. You are no longer half-human half-camera. You're all human with a tiny play thing in your hand.
I notice this a lot with my M, which is why I prefer using it to my 5dII. Definitely <3 rangefinder cameras over viewfinder cameras.
For what it's worth, dpreview rated the X1 very slightly higher than the GF1, but concluded that largely because of the huge price difference, the GF1 made much more sense. I guess the thing to do is to have a play with both (I know at least two places in London that have an X1 in stock Robin) and see what your preference is.
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Nice read TC. I really enjoyed reading books by a guy called Bryan Peterson, particularly Understanding Exposure.
Just ordered this big fella. Thank you kindly. :happy2:
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I'm a Nikon guy and currently running a D90 with several lens' :evilgrin:
God damn expencive hobby though :ashamed:
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Thankfully though if stuff is well looked after it generally never loses value. I recently sold a 10 - 20mm Sigma lenses for more than I bought it for 3 years ago.
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Nice read TC. I really enjoyed reading books by a guy called Bryan Peterson, particularly Understanding Exposure.
Now why doesn't that surprise me Big Man!
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Nice read TC. I really enjoyed reading books by a guy called Bryan Peterson, particularly Understanding Exposure.
Now why doesn't that surprise me Big Man!
Guilty
Not in a bad way though. :ashamed:
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I've just finished watching telly: "The Trouble With The Pope" followed by "Dragons' Den" followed by "The Inbetweeners", oh and the first 5 minutes of "The Gadget Show" with a hot blonde presenter Pollyanna(?) :drool:.... And I'm about to read this review of the X1:
http://www.photographyblog.com/reviews/leica_x1_review/
Some great info posted here :drinking:
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"The Gadget Show" with a hot blonde presenter Pollyanna(?) :drool:
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Fe394%2Fnoname_777%2FPW46.jpg&hash=28d38bcc9ecade5dfa988ea22b4072ee5b67f244)
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Or (https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pollyannawoodward.com%2Fimages%2Fgallery%2F3.jpg&hash=e45fe7a26f5e8c56969fc0aa9724ae3bf96d6601)
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I found this, how to link, incredibly useful in understanding how to manually operate a camera. I think it will be months before i even have a basic understanding of photography, but bring it on i say. I can't wait. :jumpmove:
....I've always thought, and said, you've got a natural talent, TC - You've got an eye for composition and communication and colour. As far as technicality is concerned, all photography involves is a balance between light and time: A large lens opening (small f-value) + a short exposure time (shutter speed) = a small lens opening (large f-value) + a long exposure time (shutter speed).. But each has different properties such as the focus depth of field and ability to freeze motion.
The great thing about digital photography is that you can experiment and learn what does what without the costs of film processing and printing. :happy2:
Once you've bought the gear, photography needn't be expensive unless you have to invest in enough gear to offer professional services - But then it can earn you money. I was primarily a graphic designer and art director who occasionally sold my own photos but knew my limitations and hired specialist professionals or selected from commercial photo libraries.
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Or (https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pollyannawoodward.com%2Fimages%2Fgallery%2F3.jpg&hash=e45fe7a26f5e8c56969fc0aa9724ae3bf96d6601)
....Ooooh! I DO like that photo! Makes me want to warm my hands under her cuddly woolly. Just proves a girlie doesn't have to take off all her clothes to look sexy.
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From my understanding Robin its now more of a triangle. ISO - Shutter speed - Aperture.
Once TC reads the correct books he will see this. I think Bryan Peterson explains it best when he says for every photo there are at least 6 correct exposures and based on the 'message' you are conveying you will pick accordingly :happy2:
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I'm a Nikon guy and currently running a D90 with several lens' :evilgrin:
God damn expencive hobby though :ashamed:
....Nikons (2 bodies plus several lenses) is what I used to do but got fed up lugging it all around. The Canon EOS 1's are good too but that was pre-digital although I did get lent a top of the range Canon digital SLR and loved it.
Nowadays my pics are totally amateur but I shoot nearly every day and enjoy it. Hence my desire for something quality but with plenty of manual control options and very importantly compact for keeping handy 24/7.
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My choice of camera has been the Canon 550D, because it has HD video as well, which is perfect for capturing my Son growing up. :pomppomp:
looking forward to your thoughts on this TC as this is my preferred DSLR as the Nikon didn't quite do it for me and i've always been an eos fanboy :happy2:
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From my understanding Robin its now more of a triangle. ISO - Shutter speed - Aperture.
Once TC reads the correct books he will see this. I think Bryan Peterson explains it best when he says for every photo there are at least 6 correct exposures and based on the 'message' you are conveying you will pick accordingly :happy2:
....You're absolutely right. Nowadays the ISO is a variable whereas in conventional film you were stuck with the ISO of the film you loaded - I haven't got used to that yet. I was trying to keep it simples for peanut-head our esteemed fellow TC so he wouldn't be put off. But he sounds like wild horses wouldn't stop him!
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Yay go TC :party:
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My choice of camera has been the Canon 550D, because it has HD video as well, which is perfect for capturing my Son growing up. :pomppomp:
looking forward to your thoughts on this TC as this is my preferred DSLR as the Nikon didn't quite do it for me and i've always been an eos fanboy :happy2:
....It's always been a close thing between Nikon and Canon SLR's - Very little to choose from in lens quality but Nikons stronger build and well established among pro's. Nikon rushed into autofocus and digital whereas Canon took their time and like Shimano vs Campagnola (bicycle racing), they started again from scratch and analysed the whole ergonomic aspect extremely well and are now equal if not preferred.
Leica have always been the numero uno for lens quality but we're in danger of getting scientific. Makers like Sigma have obviously got better - They used to be crap! (by comparison).
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I love DP review (http://www.dpreview.com/) as a resource. Their indepth reviews are amazing. The camera search where you look by features is okay. Not brilliant but enough to help you.
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^^^^
Thanks, stealth :happy2: - I've just been reading the DP reviews about the Leica X1 and Panasonic GF1 - Excellent info.
I think the Leica has the edge for quality and simplicity of operation - Very tactile and intuitive, but the GF1 runs close and is considerably cheaper. The Leica appears to be slow but does that matter for my usual kind of photography. I've a feeling that the Leica is the sort of camera I would become very familiar with and keep very long term and still be satisfied but that I might be tempted to update/replace the Panasonic as I am with my FinePix. The Leica looks more compact too - I really do carry a camera most of the time.
As cmdrfire says, a test drive is needed - Just like buying a car.
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Thanks to stealth's link to the DP review site, I've been discovering a bit more and including about my FinePix 200EXR. So I've changed some settings and have also discovered it's got a digital zoom extension! I'm going take my time deciding what's next and anyway I need the new iMac first!
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And then you need to decide, Aperture or Photoshop...........
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And then you need to decide, Aperture or Photoshop...........
I'm not really sure you can compare Aperture to Photoshop.
I'd personally recommend Capture One by Phase One for processing RAW files.
http://www.phaseone.com/en/Software/Capture-One-5/5-Overview.aspx (http://www.phaseone.com/en/Software/Capture-One-5/5-Overview.aspx)
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And then you need to decide, Aperture or Photoshop...........
I'm not really sure you can compare Aperture to Photoshop.
I'd personally recommend Capture One by Phase One for processing RAW files.
http://www.phaseone.com/en/Software/Capture-One-5/5-Overview.aspx (http://www.phaseone.com/en/Software/Capture-One-5/5-Overview.aspx)
....Glad to see it's Mac compatible!
What about Adobe's Lightroom? - It's bundled free with the Leica X1:
DP Review of Lightroom3: http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/AdobeLightroom3/
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And then you need to decide, Aperture or Photoshop...........
I'm not really sure you can compare Aperture to Photoshop.
I'd personally recommend Capture One by Phase One for processing RAW files.
http://www.phaseone.com/en/Software/Capture-One-5/5-Overview.aspx (http://www.phaseone.com/en/Software/Capture-One-5/5-Overview.aspx)
Well I guess in professional terms no, as aperture doesnt do everything photshop will, but I am currently comparing and deciding which best suits my needs for amateur corrections, and so far photoshop isnt winning as its too un-intuitive. I had my first 10 minute play with CS5 last night and it isnt even obvious how to increase the image size to fit the screen, something even iphoto does with a single click..... :fighting2:
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Yeah, Lightroom is excellent - it's what our in-house photograph swears by.
Photoshop has grown to be (and has been for longer than I remember to be honest) far more than just a image editor. I'd certainly never choose it for that sole purpose. There are three programmes already mentioned here that are far more suitable.
Beauty of Capture One is that you can shoot straight to the software, so it's great for studio work. It's also very intuitive, and actually quite cheap.
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I obviously dont want to get this thread off topic from RR camera discussion, but it looks like capture One is designed for RAW images is this true or are they just advertising it as dealing with RAW? Andrew you seem to have a professional experience I dont have an SLR (Lumix TZ8) and want to be able to correct and enhance photos, what would you run on a MAC thats going to be intuitive but still have all the features?
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I obviously dont want to get this thread off topic from RR camera discussion, but it looks like capture One is designed for RAW images...........
....It's all good information as far as I'm concerned and options for using RAW is very relevant to camera choices. :happy2: Please continue..
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I have never had a 'proper' camera before and a couple of weeks ago got a Lumix G2, almost immediatley I realised I am a complete idiot and have no idea how to use it, I just use the stupid button (Intelligent Auto) and think perhaps I just liked the colour :ashamed:
Now obviously I am not going to take any responsibility for my stupidity, this time I'm going to blame Ian, Lee & Co for posting such good photos and making me think it was easy :wink:
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Foo163%2Fneilmelvin%2F1-21.jpg&hash=1e90b260123dad6d9b217ea68a4a4a5bcd218fc9)
However your never to old to learn and I'm not one to shy away from a challenge, so next Monday morning at 09:00 I'm going back to school, I've enrolled at a local collage for a course on Digital Photography.
I've had my name stitched onto my clothes labels and got out my old school satchel :signLOL:
Neil
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Neil.....we all have to start somewhere! None of you ever saw the first pics i took with my D40x at Oulton Park (was GT's / VW Cup races).... they were just hilarious to say the least :signLOL: :signLOL:
but its all about practicing and knowing what ISO/Aperture/Shutter/F Stops etc etc does to pictures. Thing about having a DSLR as you just have to play and practice with it...hence i caught on with Time Attack/EDC (lucky really) and managed to have 2 years of 'Tog passes to use and take zillions of pics.
I have a good friend who also gave me handy tips along the way (he's a semi pro wedding togger now) and it seems there's some serious dedicated toggers on here too who can give good advice and stuff.
and the main thing is, have fun whilst taking pics! The moment u snap a nice clean pic...it'll all be worth it. :happy2:
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I obviously dont want to get this thread off topic from RR camera discussion, but it looks like capture One is designed for RAW images is this true or are they just advertising it as dealing with RAW?
Yes, Capture One is predominantly a RAW file processor, though you can open and process other image file types. I guess if you're serious about photography and shoot with a dSLR then you'll be shooting RAW, and Capture One is what I'd recommend to process RAW files. I haven't worked with a professional photographer recently who hasn't used Capture One.
Andrew you seem to have a professional experience I dont have an SLR (Lumix TZ8) and want to be able to correct and enhance photos, what would you run on a MAC thats going to be intuitive but still have all the features?
If you're au fait with Mac software then I'd probably suggest you look at Aperture. The reason it didn't work for us is the way it organises images in libraries, which just doesn't make sense in our studio environment. It's my main criticism of iPhoto too.
I wouldn't rule out Lightroom either. I used the beta version years ago and wasn't impressed but I hear good things about it now. I guess the answer is to download the free trials and have a play - open the same image in each programme and see what you get out of it.
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cheers andrew thanks for the advice. I will be giving as many a trial before I part with my hard earned, I have already got the photo shop trial underway but just finding it a bit challenging to get into from scratch. And im just discovering the issue with libraries with iphoto and I assume aperture getting the photos out again is difficult.
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And im just discovering the issue with libraries with iphoto and I assume aperture getting the photos out again is difficult.
That's my experience of it. I see iPhoto as more of a media manager, with basic editing capabilities. Aperture is obviously far more advanced when it comes to editing, but it's still not simple to just open up an image, process it, then save it out where you specify*.
* I have only used Aperture 1 so things may have changed. I may download the trial and see what's new in Aperture 3.
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^^^^
What about Adobe Bridge which is part of the Adobe Creative Suite? I find it quite a good library system and it can be directly accessed from within Photoshop, InDesign, etc.
Photoshop has developed over 20 years and is now far more than just a photographic editing application. Apps like iPhoto are essentially for non-professionals and are much simpler.
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Im having a play with PS at the moment, im getting on a bit better with the second attempt, does any one have a link to basic instructions of what all the different setting adjustments do? As in if you want to try and correct shadow in a picture due to the light source being behind the object you would change the exposure, levels or use the curve function. Seems to be so many ways to achieve different affects :confused:
just having a little play with bridge, first impression seems to be it just indexes your original files rather than merging them into a single large file, but that just an initial impression RR.
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Sorry to add to this again RR, but thought you might appreciate the subject matter of my photoshop experiment, this firendly bird hangs out on the beach between Padstow and Stepper point.......
first is the original camera output and the second is my corrected image using the curve adjustment:
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Flh5.ggpht.com%2F_4kAgpBiQyvk%2FTI_vVG4BFQI%2FAAAAAAAAALg%2F5aG1FNK25WE%2Fs640%2FP1000616.JPG&hash=e18b1674a60de4cf11fbd66860cc5e669b298c97)
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Flh4.ggpht.com%2F_4kAgpBiQyvk%2FTI_vUl76eEI%2FAAAAAAAAALc%2FpmlRcVoHbzc%2Fs640%2FP1000616%2520copy.jpg&hash=183ad9b54a61717eab6e1f872ae78edc7f929584)
And bridge only indexes your files based on metadata to allow you to search for images more easily so seems completely different to the way iphoto works which seems to take an itunes approach to your photos, taking the file management away from the user.
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That's my experience of it. I see iPhoto as more of a media manager, with basic editing capabilities. Aperture is obviously far more advanced when it comes to editing, but it's still not simple to just open up an image, process it, then save it out where you specify*.
I have aperture 3, and if i can operate it, then it must be simple. :smiley:
You can import straight from your camera to aperture, or just import from iphoto into a projects folder. Then its just one click to start editing the pic. Once you have finished your edit, you just have to drag it into the folder of your choosing.
I have copied all my folders into aperture, which gives me a nice option of a list of folders, were i can simply one click to edit from, or drag and drop to organise.
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Ftomashandmilly%2FDaft_stuff%2FScreenshot2010-09-14at230141.png&hash=ab2b8097206cd3a7c276b81da45cda8ed4b74e1a)
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@ Rich:
Huge improvement :happy2:. Those Robins get everywhere!
@ TC:
Aperture looks and sounds very typically Apple at its best - Well considered, intuitive interface, and enjoyable to use.
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@ TC - So are you saying that in Aperture what you do is add your photos to the library, edit them very much like you would in iphoto (but obviously with all the extra features) and then you can just drag the photos out of the Aperture screen to a finder window to save them as separate image files? And can you select multiple images at once? Also I guess this approach will copy the image and therefore double the HDD space used?
They do get everywhere, and this one was particularly tame and loved bread...
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Also I guess this approach will copy the image and therefore double the HDD space used?
....I think that the original image file will remain in the folder depths out of sight. After editing any image file we always use additional HD space. However, some apps such as Adobe InDesign apply your work by proxy like an alias. Adobe Photoshop too, giving you the options to Save or Save As or Save Copy.
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I have aperture 3, and if i can operate it, then it must be simple. :smiley:
You can import straight from your camera to aperture, or just import from iphoto into a projects folder. Then its just one click to start editing the pic. Once you have finished your edit, you just have to drag it into the folder of your choosing.
I have copied all my folders into aperture, which gives me a nice option of a list of folders, were i can simply one click to edit from, or drag and drop to organise.
Don't get me wrong, the way it organises libraries within the programme is very straightforward. However to use an image you must first import it into Aperture. If you're working with the yield of a two day shoot, say 20Gb of RAW data, then you're duplicating that data. It's very easy to organise folders within the programme but accessing these folders from outside Aperture, by multiple users is very difficult (even impossible).
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However, some apps such as Adobe InDesign apply your work by proxy like an alias.
This is the problem for me, use of the image outside of Aperture. Sure it's possible, but it adds to the management time. The workflow isn't efficient - Aperture without the media management would be great.
I should note that I'm talking purely from the perspective of use of the program in a professional environment with a team of designers all having to access the image files. For the average consumer it's a very good application.
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I should note that I'm talking purely from the perspective of use of the program in a professional environment with a team of designers all having to access the image files. For the average consumer it's a very good application.
....Exactly. Aperture and iPhoto (especially) are aimed very much at the 'average', or shall we say 'non-professional', user.
I have been working for Adobe (unpaid but very willing) as a pre-release tester on their Creative Suite since version one but took time out this last year. IIRC (hoping I don't have to shoot you after telling you this) Adobe were developing a universal access/networking/editing system, very much aimed at professionals. Adobe Acrobat Professional already follows that principle. I intend to rejoin the development (I get free software!) when I eventually get my new Mac.
I suggest what's missing from the market, and the camera hardware designers have at last recognised it, is software suitable for 'semi-professionals' or those 'amateurs' with a serious addiction and talent (like some of us here). Having said that, I haven't experienced either Aperture or Adobe Lightroom.....YET!
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IIRC (hoping I don't have to shoot you after telling you this) Adobe were developing a universal access/networking/editing system, very much aimed at professionals. Adobe Acrobat Professional already follows that principle.
Yeah, I think that was quite widely known, but the industry reception to the idea wasn't great as far as I remember. It would certainly be interesting but I haven't heard anything about it for a long time.
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Ok i think i understand now, how to expose the pics properly in manual mode, and the six available exposures available, using F/stops, in each pic depending on the style of photo you want. Even though i do this very slowly at the minute, it is becoming a more natural step.
Trying to get my head around focus and depth of field at the moment so i trotted off to the park with Marley, and a bloody big camera round my neck. :ashamed:
The basic lens that came with my kit is very limiting, when trying to get a large depth range of focus, though with somebody who knows what they are doing i am sure they could do a lot better than me.
I wanted to get one pic with just marly in focus, and one pic with a full depth of field focus.
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Ftomashandmilly%2FCanon_550D_pics%2FIMG_0272.jpg&hash=3a4743418b53b60ae213773658e146a0f407bbdf)
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Ftomashandmilly%2FCanon_550D_pics%2FIMG_0271.jpg&hash=50a8c432e0fda2bb210571f67a9ed2439dfd6de2)
I couldn't really get either of my choices nailed, as Marley woke up after only a few attempts. :sad1:
I have since read that i need to use a really small aperture for full depth of field, somewhere around F16,F22 Thanks to Hedge for recommending a great book. :noteworthy: I will be trying again to see if i can improve this.
Here is a pic a Marley as he woke up, it came out really sharp. :smiley:
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Ftomashandmilly%2FCanon_550D_pics%2FIMG_0284.jpg&hash=3a75dfdcd67166299dab04cdde001009b6d248d6)
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last pics ace mate he looks like he just made a mess in his pants :signLOL:
cute kid mate :smiley:
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It's normally impossible to get decent drop focus with kits lenses.
The easiest way to think of it is with a smaller f-number more of the image in front of and behind what you are focusing on will be sharp and in focus. That depth of focus gets smaller and smaller the higher the f-number.
Oh, and a high f-number is something like F2.8, and a low f-number is something like F22. When you're experimenting with aperture I'd leave the camera in aperture priority mode so you're allowing it to determine the shutter speed. One less thing to worry about and you're less likely to end up with washed out images.
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For example, and a great excuse to post a photo of my little boy, this shot was taken with an aperture of f2.8.
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fsphotos.ak.fbcdn.net%2Fhphotos-ak-snc4%2Fhs631.snc4%2F59125_466953939883_773254883_6599656_5925840_n.jpg&hash=809f6ce6d22b979d1dbdd5757761173b8ed546f4)
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Ok i think i understand now, how to expose the pics properly in manual mode, and the six available exposures available, using F/stops, in each pic depending on the style of photo you want. Even though i do this very slowly at the minute, it is becoming a more natural step.
Trying to get my head around focus and depth of field at the moment so i trotted off to the park with Marley, and a bloody big camera round my neck. :ashamed:
The basic lens that came with my kit is very limiting, when trying to get a large depth range of focus, though with somebody who knows what they are doing i am sure they could do a lot better than me.
I wanted to get one pic with just marly in focus, and one pic with a full depth of field focus.
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Ftomashandmilly%2FCanon_550D_pics%2FIMG_0272.jpg&hash=3a4743418b53b60ae213773658e146a0f407bbdf)
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Ftomashandmilly%2FCanon_550D_pics%2FIMG_0271.jpg&hash=50a8c432e0fda2bb210571f67a9ed2439dfd6de2)
I couldn't really get either of my choices nailed, as Marley woke up after only a few attempts. :sad1:
I have since read that i need to use a really small aperture for full depth of field, somewhere around F16,F22 Thanks to Hedge for recommending a great book. :noteworthy: I will be trying again to see if i can improve this.
Here is a pic a Marley as he woke up, it came out really sharp. :smiley:
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2Ftomashandmilly%2FCanon_550D_pics%2FIMG_0284.jpg&hash=3a75dfdcd67166299dab04cdde001009b6d248d6)
TC, i think the pics would be a lot better without the sodding great black background around them! haha!
glad to see youve taken the plunge and got the 550d. its a great camera, and you have a good eye for composition too, much better than mine!
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I ain't afraid of no DoF!
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^^ Nice vignette :wink:
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It's normally impossible to get decent drop focus with kits lenses.
The easiest way to think of it is with a smaller f-number more of the image in front of and behind what you are focusing on will be sharp and in focus. That depth of focus gets smaller and smaller the higher the f-number.
Oh, and a high f-number is something like F2.8, and a low f-number is something like F22. When you're experimenting with aperture I'd leave the camera in aperture priority mode so you're allowing it to determine the shutter speed. One less thing to worry about and you're less likely to end up with washed out images.
I know when in AV mode the camera finds the correct shutter speed for the pic, but its just as easy in full manual as the light meter aligns up when correct, this is helping me remember which one is correct for the corresponding aperture. I have read that i need a decent size zoom lens or macro to get creative focus like your great shot. :happy2:
I am happy for the moment just trying to learn how to get the full depth of field. :happy2:
TC, i think the pics would be a lot better without the sodding great black background around them! haha!
Jay do you mean the border that i put on with photobucket.
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I know when in AV mode the camera finds the correct shutter speed for the pic, but its just as easy in full manual as the light meter aligns up when correct, this is helping me remember which one is correct for the corresponding aperture. I have read that i need a decent size zoom lens or macro to get creative focus like your great shot. :happy2:
I am happy for the moment just trying to learn how to get the full depth of field. :happy2:
Tthe best way to improve your photography is to learn the limitations of your own kit, so you're doing it right as far as I'm concerned. Rather than buying a decent zoom lenses (because you'll pay a fortune for one that'll go down to a decent aperture) I'd suggest buying a 50mm F1.4 lens. Canon do a good one for £250 - £300.
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maybe? i dont know how the black borders got there but they would be better if they weren't so thick mate ;) would look a bit more subtle and suit the mood of the pic better
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I know when in AV mode the camera finds the correct shutter speed for the pic, but its just as easy in full manual as the light meter aligns up when correct, this is helping me remember which one is correct for the corresponding aperture. I have read that i need a decent size zoom lens or macro to get creative focus like your great shot. :happy2:
I am happy for the moment just trying to learn how to get the full depth of field. :happy2:
Tthe best way to improve your photography is to learn the limitations of your own kit, so you're doing it right as far as I'm concerned. Rather than buying a decent zoom lenses (because you'll pay a fortune for one that'll go down to a decent aperture) I'd suggest buying a 50mm F1.4 lens. Canon do a good one for £250 - £300.
:happy2: I have been looking at these, pretty much decided that a nifty fifty is next on the list, followed by a wide angle lens. :happy2:
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm4.static.flickr.com%2F3652%2F3380274431_72aaec1651_b.jpg&hash=056073a7a9fcbba469e1568479939f9c7ff45a4e)
You have great skills. That is a tremendous picture. :noteworthy:
maybe? i dont know how the black borders got there but they would be better if they weren't so thick mate ;) would look a bit more subtle and suit the mood of the pic better
I put on the thinnest ones i could. They only look tiny on my putter. :chicken:
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its no biggy mate, and at the end of the day, its only my opinion, and if you like it, fair does :drinking:
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@ TC:
The great thing about taking digital pics is that it doesn't cost like roll film does/did. So you can afford to shoot as much as you like and experiment and consequently learn what results in what. It's like DSG: There's a learning curve but it becomes fluid and natural. The rest is talent involved in recognising the moment to capture in a pic, and you've already mastered that, TC.
The control of depth-of-field focus and my wonderfully compact camera's limitation of such control, is what started this thread.
[This thread has become a hot subject :happy2:]
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@ TC:
The great thing about taking digital pics is that it doesn't cost like roll film does/did. So you can afford to shoot as much as you like and experiment and consequently learn what results in what. It's like DSG: There's a learning curve but it becomes fluid and natural. The rest is talent involved in recognising the moment to capture in a pic, and you've already mastered that, TC.
The control of depth-of-field focus and my wonderfully compact camera's limitation of such control, is what started this thread.
[This thread has become a hot subject :happy2:]
for sure, and you get the instant feedback. If its not great, 3 seconds later, you could be reviewing a better shot ;)
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I put on the thinnest ones i could. They only look tiny on my putter. :chicken:
Cheers TC :happy2:. FWIW, I like black borders myself.
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i like them too....and every detailing pic i do has one, just not a big fat one!
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i like them too....and every detailing pic i do has one, just not a big fat one!
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Ah! i get you now. :happy2:
I would like the option to put on a thinner one, but Bucket is limited. I have been searching for a download for the mac, tried a couple and they were pance. What do you use Jay. :smiley:
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i use photoshop mate.
It might seem a bit complicated to get used to at first, but to use the basics of photoshop is a great skill to have mate.
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i use photoshop mate.
It might seem a bit complicated to get used to at first, but to use the basics of photoshop is a great skill to have mate.
I know i know, but as you know, my brain is the size of a walnut these days and i cant bring myself to learn photography and the complicated processing stuff at the same time. :grin:
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^ Thin black borders work to define the edge/extent of a pic when the background of pic surround is similar.
Jay's shot is a good example.
Otherwise, I think it best to judge each picture whether it benefits from a border or not and and how thick it is. I don't think it's a good idea to establish a blanket rule of having a border on every pic you take.
I use Adobe InDesign and can alter the weight and colour of any border but that's a fairly major app just for that. InDesign delivers all sorts of customisable border effects but is a graphic design app:
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2FRedRobin_05%2FRED_INK%2FPower_JC.jpg&hash=a63e5a618bc388c3edf82b781764f577f2d1ce4d)
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^ By pure coincidence those 2 pics go together quite well - It's JC's "naked" quote which does it!
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THats a nice pic RR, one you took yourself or one you edited :grin:
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THats a nice pic RR, one you took yourself or one you edited :grin:
....I'm having great difficulty working out which of the two pics you're referring to :wink: :laugh:
Unfortunately it's not shot in my bathroom and neither did I take the original pic of the babe - I did the image as a whole. However, she does look very like the 21yo singer I'm producing and working with... And seeing tonight :evilgrin:
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:chicken:
:signLOL: