Discussions from SIF http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php Sat, 19 May 2012 02:19:33 +0000 30 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1686 Anyway,no places near me I could go check them out at yet I am thinking of buying online the Crumpler 7 million dollar bag.
Hopefully it would hole the D7000 w/bracket,flash a lens or two in addition to the Oly OMD,flash 2 small lens,iPhone,misc.

Anyone use one of these? Like it? Is it lightweight?

Linda]]> Sat, 19 May 2012 02:19:33 +0000 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1686 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1685

So I got to the park early enough to snap away at things . . . but not early enough to avoid the overhead-light effects—too much contrast, deep shadows on people's faces and . . . well you know the drill. The overhead light seemed to go on and on for hours (it's the time of year), and looking at my take last night, very little was worth keeping.

The other point that I'm posting to share here is how tricky this little NEX-7 is to use in contrasty light. Also, I was using the 30mm f/3.5 macro, and I was getting lots of edge-sharpness drop-off. I have not been getting that when using the lens for close-ups. It looks like I will have to consider buying the Sony Carl Zeiss Sonnar T* E 24mm f/1.8 ZA, a rather expensive street lens (36mm view) that focuses to 6.5" so can be used as a quasi close-up lens. And no, I don't mind a little of that wide-angle look for food or objects. ]]> Fri, 18 May 2012 15:05:20 +0000 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1685 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1684
http://philipbloom.net/2012/02/01/the-art-of-lens-whacking-real-lights-leaks-and-ones-done-in-post/

Should work for stills. Wonder if my FDs will sit in the EF mount? Wonder if I can find them.....

Found the FDs. Too close to the mirror for my liking, and the Panasonic GF1 tells me to check the lens connection and won't fire.....]]> Fri, 18 May 2012 07:00:56 +0000 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1684 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1683
What I like:

Lots (and lots and lots) of room to crop. Quality is good enough that you can even uprez if you need to after cropping and still have excellent IQ.
In camera CA reduction. This combined with the tick box in ACR eliminates it completely. The camera knows which lens you are using and how much CA reduction is needed.
Smooth skies. At last, I get the skies I want. I rarely use Neat Image for anything out of the 5DIII, use it almost every image from the 7D.

What I am somewhat disappointed with:

Distortion (with the 24-105). I knew it would show up when I went to full frame, just didn't expect quite so much. I am having to consciously avoid using the widest angle of the lens.
Softness in the corners. (also with the 24-105). Ditto as above. It gets a lot worse if you use the auto fix in ACR for distortion. Now I just use the CA and vignetting fix and dial back the distortion compensation to zero.

I used the camera as a rental last month, entirely with the 100-400. Since I cropped almost every image, weaknesses of that lens tended not to show so much. Since I got my own, I took it to Normandy for a weekend. Weather was dull and overcast, so I took a lot of shop windows and food things and got to play a bit with slightly higher ISO. Last weekend we played tourist in Paris. Very bright and sunny. The first day I should have taken my ND grad filters out with me but I was lazy and got lighter skies than I would have liked. They can somewhat be recovered in post, but the filter is better. The second day was quite a challenge, since I took pictures from the top of a moving bus. I was surprised and pleased at how well it focused and how few soft images I had. I also tried the L setting for ISO (=50). That definitely helped with the skies.

For what it's worth, I set the camera up with single point with expansion for focus, and the full matrix for exposure. I also set the Auto Lighting Optimizer to On, dunno what if any effect it is having, but I suspect my shop windows are improved. You can set up a grid in the viewfinder, and since I consistently get wonky horizons I thought it would be a good idea. It helps, but I don't always see it and use it (especially on a moving bus!)

I haven't tried video with either this camera or the 7D. I would say it is highly unlikely that I will. To me, video is a whole different thought process and I can't switch back and forth.

Overall, I am delighted with the purchase. I was getting so incredibly frustrated with the 7D, and this is everything I hoped. I am still using the 7D, but will replace it at some point when a replacement shows up. Is the 5DIII worth what they are charging for it? It is for me, YMMV. I am going to have to get different lenses though, something to replace the 24-105. Tried both the 50mm and the 100mm macro to see if I could get on with fixed focal length and the short answer is I can't.

Louise]]> Wed, 16 May 2012 16:08:56 +0000 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1683 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1682 http://peopleimages.com/
Some useful analysis here that's worth a read:
http://www.microstockdiaries.com/yuri-arcurs-launches-peopleimages-com-the-ultimate-direct-sales-website.html]]> Tue, 15 May 2012 23:34:48 +0000 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1682 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1681 I know I can do it all in photoshop, but playing with these things is quicker and can inspire.

So I've also been playing with Nik Color Efex Pro 4 and Viveza 2. Due to the day job I can get these with a 50% academic discount. Just wondering if any of you guys have nice things to say about these two. I'm quite enjoying playing with the trials but I'm not sure I gain very much from the Nik software, but that could be down to my limited experience with it.]]> Mon, 14 May 2012 20:15:49 +0000 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1681 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1680
As yet I am still trying to get confirmation that these are for purely Getty sales, i.e. no historical ones from PL.

Anyone any more enlightened?]]> Mon, 14 May 2012 15:26:43 +0000 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1680 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1679 http://vzaar.com/videos/973860

Worth checking out the video (for some creative ideas, not to see my pic!) and there's more from the homepage here:
http://curve.gettyimages.com/

I have browsed it before but just came up with 4 good creative concepts looking over it again this morning. As a fan of the real-life snapshot aesthetic I found "post-authenticity" something to think about. And there's plenty of links to more places if your creative juices need some help.]]> Thu, 10 May 2012 18:50:35 +0000 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1679 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1678
A win for the photographer and Getty.All images will show the photo credit on the front watermark and the image leads to a direct sales path to the agency.

http://www.photoarchivenews.com/getty-images-new-watermark-gives-full-photo-details/

Linda]]> Wed, 09 May 2012 16:14:46 +0000 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1678 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1677 This segment aired on NBC/Chicago news tonight. If you carry a credit card and someone bumps into you or gets close and has one of these electronic devices,in a flash of 1 second he has snagged your complete credit card number..or your debit card number,passport,drivers license,health insurance card possibly too!

They make special wallets for cards now but once you take that card out anywhere,someone is probably going to be selling your credit card number for cheap!

http://www.nbcchicago.com/news/business/smart-money-rfid-electronic-pickpocket-150537225.html

Watch the quick news video.

I just purchased a couple of RFID Blocker card holders on Amazon. Appx $9 each.]]> Tue, 08 May 2012 07:11:09 +0000 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1677 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1676
In some situations it's better than my Nikon D7000!

I bought a Panasonic 45-200mm lens in the nick of time.Did not know I'd be getting a $150 instant rebate until 5/5/12.Lens cost $189 after the fact.
Also on the way 45mm 1.8,14mm 2.5 and the new flash which also has a video light.

I photographed a singer for a few shots with this camera and mostly with the Nikon. Hard to tell which shots were witch.
I'm very impressed.This also locks focus in dark areas where none of my P&S and many Nikon lenses have not been able to.I am not using the focus light.

Only complaint is no spare batteries are around yet.

This is so lightweight compaired to my DSLR. I think I can do many of my photo ops with this.


Linda]]> Sat, 05 May 2012 20:37:28 +0000 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1676 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1675
Monsoon did express an interest in my work when PSC collapsed, but they're now absorbed into Getty. I like some of the work on Arcangel but not sure it's great for much beyond book covers and thus not attracting so many buyers. I checked them out when Photoshelter Collection first collapsed, but was put off by poor returns from the photographers with them that I approached, and also the need for image exclusivity (some with over 500 images reported no sales - not good for exclusive images). But that was 3 years ago and I wondered if anyone here was now with them or has heard more recent good things, seen credits etc.

http://www.arcangel-images.com

What about Blend? Heard any good things? Worth raising the game for them? (Probably beyond reach for me).
I could offload my Alamy port onto Age. Anyone done that and found it worthwhile?

Probably just wasting everyone's time thinking out loud: maybe I'm in the right place already and more of the same is the way to go.

I am prepared to modify the style and content of what I shoot to some extent, but this is me on Getty at the moment:
http://www.gettyimages.co.nz/Search/Search.aspx?assettype=image&artist=Donald+Iain+Smith

Concern about my direction has been bugging me for some time so any random thoughts/comments appreciated.]]> Sat, 05 May 2012 19:19:19 +0000 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1675 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1674
Today a dozen teens went into a restaurant and stole the customers money and phones.
This happened today at lunchtime..Busy busy area,broad daylight!

I hope the police start having a presence,but after all the flash mob beatings and robberies along the lake last summer,it's doubtful the city has the funds for police to be everywhere.
But things like this will drive tourism and shoppers away.

News story below:

http://www.myfoxchicago.com/dpp/news/metro/flash-mob-robbers-hit-michigan-avenue-and-loop-businesses-20120502


I think my new Olympus OMD EM-5 might be a keeper(once I get some faster lenses) and I'll stick it in a pocket or a well worn purse when I go out and shoot.

Last weekend I left a major upscale hotel in that area and as I was walking to the bus 3 blocks away,people everywhere,there were a couple of guys I know were sizing me up as I stopped to take pictures with the Nikon D7000 and big lens.) I made a dash when I heard the motor of the bus getting closer and they couldn't have caught up with me even if they tried.


Do these things constantly happen in your area? I am getting so stressed out from all of this.
I am grateful I live in a safe and secure condo with cameras,security staff and in a good area but were starting to get crime here too.I've had to call 911 more than once when I hear noise in the alley and sometimes see someone breaking into a car that is parked there or vandalizing the older building behind us.


Linda]]> Fri, 04 May 2012 05:57:18 +0000 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1674 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1673
Anyway, after spending over $600 to rent camera, lens and extender from lensrentals for a week, I have just discovered that Canon will lend equipment to gold members. It appears the only cost is return shipping (probably around $70) and you are responsible for insurance if you feel it is needed. You get to try each piece twice, and you get to try it for up to two weeks.

Given that I was planning on renting at least two, possibly 3 lenses before buying when they finally get released, this seems like a very good deal for the cost of my $100 membership.

Louise]]> Thu, 03 May 2012 09:14:26 +0000 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1673 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1672

Can you please click for 4 stars so maybe it starts getting a bit of a buzz?

http://itunes.apple.com/us/book/dennis-tufano/id485122877?mt=11


Thanks!
Linda]]> Tue, 01 May 2012 07:47:38 +0000 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1672 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1671
Not getting much done as far as photographing outdoor activities,hope others have better weather.
Oh,we do have the NATO summit here in a few weeks.
I've had many calls from agencies and editors asking if I will be covering.
Uh...no.I plan on watching all possible mayhem on tv,not being anywhere near it!

I guess our street cams on top of the light poles will probably be the semi-official photo news gatherers.
Many of my friends with papers that have no choice but to cover it are really terrified of this event from what they've been catching on the news as far as how the police need to prepare. The photogs have not been giving any safety briefings or protective anything.
I hope this can be a peaceful event,yet it seems like past history of things shows otherwise.
At least G8 will not be happening here at the same time like it was initially planned.


Linda]]> Tue, 01 May 2012 07:45:00 +0000 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1671 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1670
Nikkor 16-35 f4
Nikkor 24-70 f2.8
(Sigma 24-70 f2.8 EX Macro - the old but good version) -> put up for sale
Nikkor 24-120 f4
Sigma 70-200 f2.8 EX HSM -> soon to be replaced with either the OS version or the Nikkor 70-200 f2.8 VRII

The 16-35 f4 and 24-120 f4 are my light travel set with the D300, but I somehow think I'm gonna miss the long end with the D700 (but gain of course on the WA side a lot).

The 24-120 f4 AND 70-200 f2.8 are definitely too much for travel. Therefore I am considering either the:

a) Nikkor 70-300 f4.5-5.6 VR (as a 2-lens setup to go with the 24-120 f4)
or
Nikkor 28-300 f3.5-5.6 VR (as a single-lens setup OR as a 2-lens setup to go with the 16-35 f4)

And I just can't make up my mind. I know the 28-300 has some issues at the corners at some zoom settings, even stopped down. And it's not really a 300mm if not focused at infinity. On the other end it's tempting to be able to have the range available in a single setup, even I loose on the WA end. But it has a 18" close focus capability at all zoom settings, but AF seems to be quite slow. And all my 77mm Filters will fit.

The 70-300 on the other hand seems not to be that much better IQ wise (or only marginal), but it's a true 300mm. And it's quite large (longer). AF is faster, but it has a 67mm Filter. Then, it's $300 cheaper.

Which one should it be????????????????????????????????????????????????????]]> Sat, 28 Apr 2012 20:02:03 +0000 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1670 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1669
I'm a bit unsure about this part of the fine print:

"Further, should you win the contest, you acknowledge that you will grant a license to FAA to display your image in our TV commercial. The TV license will last in perpetuity and is limited to one 30-second commercial that gets produced as a result of this contest." (my emphasis)

If the winning image is only to be used in one 30-second commercial why do FAA want a license in perpetuity?]]> Fri, 27 Apr 2012 10:44:20 +0000 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1669 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1668

http://www.dpreview.com/news/2012/04/25/Nikon-EN-EL15-battery-recall

Linda]]> Thu, 26 Apr 2012 15:26:14 +0000 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1668 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1667
This is made up of 8 sales to USA for "personal use" prices ranging from 0.02 to 0.09. There is one to Japan, use unspecified, for 32.45. One for "internal company use", no country given, one year, for 5.10, and the last two for unspecified use to South Korea of 9.21 each. (all amounts gross, and GBP)

Those "personal use" sales look exactly like Alamy's Novel Use (which I am not in), and altogether too much like microstock, not that the rest are much better.

Some of my Getty prices have been low, but these are much worse.

Louise]]> Tue, 24 Apr 2012 12:47:07 +0000 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1667 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1666
They have $100 off today is the last day.

I downloaded the demo but hae not had time to play with it.
Anyone using it? Pros/Cons?

Linda]]> Mon, 23 Apr 2012 18:21:41 +0000 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1666 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1665
This week when I got here after using my U2410 in Houston for the past 6 months I immediately noticed a dramatic difference. The print seems mushy and everything seems somewhat pale and soft. It is in need of calibration, but I decided to spend a bit of money and a new U2410 is on the way.

I did wonder though, do LCD monitors start to lose something when they get old? I know that the Samsung my Mum has, which must be at least 10 years old although it was good in its day, is looking pretty awful for images now.

Mostly I am wondering what to do with this old monitor, if they deteriorate I might as well call the trash pickup for it, otherwise I would tuck it into a cupboard on the off-chance it might be useful one day.

Louise]]> Sat, 21 Apr 2012 16:10:33 +0000 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1665 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1663
I have also just discovered I have one of the adaptors that lets you have your camera plugged into the mains while you clean the sensor or whatever.

PM me with your mailing address if you are interested.

Louise

PS: USA, Canada or Europe does not matter, I can post them pretty much anywhere.]]> Sun, 15 Apr 2012 16:20:02 +0000 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1663 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1662

Tony]]> Thu, 12 Apr 2012 10:56:31 +0000 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1662 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1661



Andy

]]> Tue, 10 Apr 2012 15:23:34 +0000 http://www.stockimagingforum.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1661