5 comments about Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III 21.1MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only).

1. Excellent tool for the professional photographer. As a pro with years of experience using 1D series cameras, moving up to the 1Ds was effortless but extremely rewarding. Was making money off of prints from the camera within 72 hours. Build quality and image quality is exceptional. Responsiveness for action sports is accurate, fast and very reliable. Even in low light situations where I am using it at ISO 3200 and f2.8 and wider so that I can use shutter speeds at 1/500 and 1/1000 in high school gymnasiums and pools. So far, studio shots have been blowing me away with the image clarity, contrast and color - especially with L series lenses. Just wish I didn't have to pay the price of a used small car for it and it's impact on increasing my equipment insurance.



2. This is the best 35mm digital SLR I have ever used. The portability of a DSLR with the image quality of P22 maybe even P32 back and with out the hassle. Highly recommended for the Canon user that can afford to make the jump. Kudos on shipping as well, got it a day early, was one of the first - thanks.



3. When Dell sells this on occasion for $6,700, why spend $1,000 more here? Which goes to say that if Dell can sell it for $1,000 cheaper and still make money, why is this camera so expensive here and elsewhere? There's no doubt the camera is the best camera ever made but the price is too high. Shop around and save money.



4. It's definitely an improvement over the 1Ds Mark II, which means it's the best 35 mm format digital out there, period. Auto dust removal is a huge plus - FINALLY - and picture quality, especially noise suppression, is noticeably improved. Downside: Canon's firmware and software and control buttons and dials, which have always been needlessly convoluted and confusing, are, if anything, even MORE convoluted and confusing on this model than the Mark II. How anybody could screw up anything so simple so thoroughly is beyond me. Oh, and another thing - what they call ISO 100 is more like ISO 64 - just so you know. Overexpose everything a half or 2/3 of a stop to compensate. But after all that is said and done, it does make absolutely gorgeous pictures - nipping at Hasselblad's $35,000 medium format heels. Go ahead, mortgage the house and splurge - you won't regret it.



5. I have a 5D that has been moved to backup duty since acquiring this beauty. The problem I was having with the 5D was that many of my images were getting rejected by the stock agency I shoot for due to excessive shadow noise. I spent hours cleaning up noisy shadows in post, and still got some rejects. Not so with the 1Ds. It produces absolutely clean, perfect, huge files straight out of camera with little or no post work. Even when you turn on the extended ISO and crank it to "Hi" (essentially ISO 3200), The images it produces are just outstanding. It may be a bit big and heavy for the casual user, but pros shouldn't be bothered by it. It is actually not much bigger or heavier than a 5D with a battery grip installed. I like the live view when shooting macros on a tripod. It really helps get the focus just perfect. Battery life is awesome. I shot about 1800 RAW files over a 4 day shoot and still had juice left without charging. Bottom line, if you have the cash, and want the best camera this side of a hasselblad H3d-39, then go for it! You can see some images that I shot with this at my site [...] (the battleship was shot with this and the 16-35)

5 comments about Panasonic DMC-L1 7.5MP Digital SLR Camera with Leica 14-50mm Mega O.I.S. Lens.

1. I was lucky enough to get this camera from Amazon in December for $800. I don't understand people who say the picture quality is not superb because the lens is sharp as a tack. I have been shooting mostly HDR images on a tripod, the depth of field is incredible. The only things I have found lacking are the battery compartment door is flimsy, the shutter speed dial should have a lock, auto-bracketing should go to +/- 2 EV not just one and finally the RAW capture should not include JPEGS, it is a memory hog. Other than that, the controls, the fit and finish, everything about this camera is great. Until I can afford the Leica M-8, I am sticking with this.



2. considering that you can get the camera for much cheaper than what it originally was priced its a great bargain. You first get a DSLR with a live view, bounce flash and great analog controls then the 2.8 14-50mm (28-100mm equivalent) Leica lens with Mega OIS. And with the four-thirds system that is steadily gaining popularity you really cant go wrong.



3. I 've been taking pictures for 25 years with different cameras (OM 1O, EOS 10, LUMIX dmc-fz20, EOS 400d...) and I wanted something special for my 40's. This machine is absolutly perfect. Actually, this was design and created with Leica (this is exactly the same camera as the Leica Digilux 3). Some will say it's only a 7.5MP SLR camera! Indeed, but perfectly "adjusted". You can use Zuiko lenses which are great.
   I do recommand this Panasonic dmc-L1!



4. I bought this camera when Amazon had them for $799. I thought it would be a good camera to re-familiarize myself with manual controls and a higher degree of involvement with photography. I was also in love with the design and layout of the controls and the body.
   I will not get into an analysis of the pros and cons of this camera; there is enough information out there to provide anyone with a sense of how the L1 measures against the competition. I will however, contribute a few observations.
   
   Even though the viewfinder is dark and small, you adapt to it fairly well. I used the camera on a 4 day trip to Colorado and found it a lot better to manage than I initially thought.
   
   This camera requires patience and a willingness to try different things. If you just stick it in Auto, you miss the whole point of using this unique instrument. A tweak here, an adjustment there, and you are rewarded with rich, detailed and well balanced images.
   
   You will be stunned at the quality of images this camera produces. Outdoor shots are beautifully rendered, bokeh is quite good, and the 14-50mm Leica lens is a joy to use, albeit a tad unforgiving when the wrong settings are used.
   
   7 megapixels is more than most people need.
   
   Low light performance is really poor. The AF hunts and hunts, high ISO performance is relatively noisy (But why would anyone shoot above ISO800 anyway?) and the built in flash only works well at close range. One cool feature is the bounce-flash feature, which returns well lit and not washed out portraits, but only at a reasonable distance.
   
   I have a Nikon D300 SLR that I use for more professional applications. I however prefer to use the L1 as a walk around, fun camera. It behaves very much like an analog camera.
   
   Perhaps one shouldn't think of this camera's challenges as shortcomings, but of how far digital photography has advanced and even gone beyond film in performance and flexibility.
   
   As long as lighting conditions are good, this camera shines!



5. I love this camera. I've used Canons and Nikons in the past, especially D30s and D40s, and I much prefer using the L1. I almost always shoot manual, and find the actual, physical controls on this to be a great improvement over all the buttons on the Canon. The design/navigation of the menu is also the nicest I've seen on a digital camera (have also owned Sony and Fuji). Picture quality is outstanding. Plus, I admit I really like walking past people carrying their omnipresent Canons and Nikons, while I'm sporting a much rarer Lumix.
   
   The single biggest flaw with this is the viewfinder. It really is too dark - a problem common to many dSLRs which don't use pentaprisms like film SLRs. It can be worked around, but it's a real annoyance.
   
   Also, be aware that this is not a small, inconspicuous camera.

No comments about Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT 8MP Digital SLR Camera With 28-90mm Lens - Black.

5 comments about Olympus Evolt E-3 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera with Mechanical Image Stabilization (Body Only).

1. I LOVE this camera! The first thing I noticed about this camera was the feel of it in my hand. It was so comfortable, in spite of the weight, that I felt I could easily take pictures all day long in superb comfort. I have tried Canon and Nikon (obviously) and the grip felt compromised compared to the Olympus which was rugged and balanced. It felt like I was never going to drop it either - quite important.
   Soon after I bought it though, I noticed that the autofocus was getting less and less reliable until it packed up ALTOGETHER. I was upset as I wanted to take it with me to England but I had to get it fixed for another date soon after I returned from my trip. The people at Olympus were VERY helpful with 'diagnostics' via email and all that stuff. I had to send the camera back to their factory BUT I have to say that I was VERY impressed with the speed and efficiency that it was repaired (from first sending it to receiving it all took less than a week!) and it has performed flawlessly ever since (as you would expect I guess).
   I love the 'naturalness' and depth of the colours my E3 produces. The three different displays (veiwfinder, rear and top LEDs) are very clear and once used to, are quite logical and easy to understand. The focus time of the lenses is so fast and so reliable you sometimes have to be careful of using continual focus mode as it zooms in and out at such amazing speed it's quite bewilering. Single mode takes care of it so easily (or of course manual).
   I love the auto bracketing adjustments, and that it also does the same with flash too! The built in flash is great but the remote is even better!!
   I'm not experienced enough to go into details for the 'techhies' but the quality of photos speak for themselves and if it makes MY picures look great, then this has to be one TERRIFFIC camera! I would totally recommend it.
   If there was any criticism it would be the weight with the larger zoom lenses and the flash attached. It is quite heavy to say the least, but then that's why you have a strap to give your arms and wrists a break, right?
   Solid build, solid feel and superb results (anything less is MY fault!) give this a 10/10 for me!!



2. After purchasing the great 8080, the not-so-good E-300, and the amazing E-510, I thought I had finally finished purchasing my last camera for a while. I was completely wrong. After walking into the Calumet store in Oakbrook, Illinois, I simply couldn't help myself. I picked up the camera, attached my venerable 11-22mm wide angle, and completely fell in love. The feel was perfect. The ergonomics and control layout was a step above the 510, and the magnesium body felt solid as a tank. I had honestly thought about stepping up to the Canon 5D, but couldn't bring myself to put this camera down. It now goes with me wherever I go. Plus, I will never have to worry about a dirty sensor. Nuff said.
   
   I got a beautiful Leica/Panasonic 14-50mm lens from a guy on eBay, and that has become my lens of choice for most of my work. Although it is not weather-sealed like the 12-60mm, the price was right and the quality is outstanding. One thing I need to point out. This lens has image stabilization built in. I did a side-by side comparison with this system, and Olympus' own in-body stabilization. No comparison! The Oly system completely blows Leica's away. So much for "lens specific" IS systems being superior. I turn it off and keep it off. Bravo, Olympus! I see the other systems adopting your leadership in this regard.
   
   Thanks for a great system!



3. WOW... finally a camera that gives you the sharpness and quality you were always looking for. Five stars to Olympus, well done. The camera is a little bit bigger that previous E-series, a little bit heavier too, well built, very compact and robust, but most importantly feels very comfortable in hands. I'm very impressed by the results, great vivid colors, excellent sharpness, fast autofocus. Low light performance is superb especially with the awesome mechanical stabilization system, even with high ISO (quite a jump from previous E series). I am not a fan of LCD live viewing, but honestly it's of great help is some circumstances (like ground-level or night shots)... especially because you're able to see the changes on light and contrast as you change the values of your depth of field or aperture velocity... this feature allows you to adjust and achieve the right exposure before every shot (although the results are not quite accurate... the pre-shooting live image is pretty close to the actual result). Strongly recommended if you take photography seriously. Money well invested.
   
   Disavantages: strap is of poor quality... other than that very impressive camera.



4. After a lot of research and considering the 40d and the d300, who claim to perform a little better (?), this camera has something they don't have: Image Stabilization! This means lighter and smaller lenses. And if you add the excelent quality of Zuiko lenses, you got a winner by far. Just think about carrying canon's and nikon's huge, fancy and heavy lenses (if you want Image Stabilization) around in a trip, on long walks, and you'll know what I mean. If you want to get great shots and still enjoy your ride, this is the gear.
   Playing with the buttons and the menus is just a matter of getting used to, and taking shots with iso over 800 is not a daily thing.
   All in all, outstanding quality, lighter gear and top of the notch optics, makes this camera the one to beat!



5. First , I will say if you love the 4/3rds system then you will love this camera, it is by far the best camera to date in the system. Secondly, I must say that if you are a gear junkie, then this is a great system to get into--Olympus, in my opinion, makes the best lenses for digital imaginable.
   
   Now, why do I say, 'if you know how to use it?' The images produced by the E-3, and the E-1, have a film-like quality to them, an almost Leica quality. The color rendition of the E-3 image sensor is beautiful. And the noise it produces (all image sensors produce noise) is also quite lovely compared to other systems. But these qualities are only appreciable if the images have been exposed perfectly and in perfect, or nearly perfect light. So if you rely on your camera to manage exposure for you, if you don't know how to use exposure compensation, or spot metering, or even manual mode exposure, then this camera will force you to learn all about obtaining perfect exposure.
   
   Next, I must share with you the only major disappointment that I have in the camera. Yes, it has the fastest autofocus in the world with certain lenses, but more importantly, only in the right light, with the right subject. Much too often, the camera searches for focus far too long, or simply will not find focus at all. If you are a photojournalist or a sports photographer who relies on autofocus, then this is not the camera for you.
   
   Finally, you may be wondering why i give the E-3 five stars (I would give ten if Amazon would let me). Because, for the right photographer doing the right kind of photography, this camera is sublime. Its favorite use for me is travel photography, but it is outstanding for fashion, outdoor portraiture, studio work, wildlife (A 300mm f2.8--that's a 600mm f2.8 equivalent, WOW!), street photography, landscape and cityscape (check the 7-14mm f4 lens--the best wide-angle zoom manufactured by anyone), and the list goes on, just not fast-paced sports.
   
   So, I highly recommend the E-3 system, with the above caveats, to anyone as a primary system, and to everyone else as a system to supplement an existing Canon or Nikon system.

5 comments about Sigma SD14 14MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only).

1. Simply the best pixel-for-pixel image quality around. I have cropped well-composed and exposed shots, and printed the crops @ 13x19" (the largest my printer will make) with absolutely stunning results. The noise is non-existent @ ISO 50 and 100 with well-exposed shots. There are cameras out that give much faster fps, and more frills, but none that I have tried give the IQ and DR of the SD14. Thanks!



2. Yes, I own the camera. Tested it extensively in all modes. I am a professional photographer for many years, use all cameras, Hasselblads, 4X5 view, etc. Read many reviews, saw many tests. Interesting camera, for sure. So, I will start with image results, because that is the only thing that is truly important to a real photographer. And the images produced by SD14 are excellent, in RAW at 100 ISO. Results are still good in JPEG at 100 ISO, but tend to deteriorate a bit with 400 and 800 ISO. Please, don't shoot 800 ISO in daylight, very stupid, but some "professional" reviewers did just that. Even 800 film will have too much grain in daylight, don't expect digital to be different. Shoot 800 ISO in low light, what it was intended for, and you will get good usable results. Can blow up to 20X24 with very high quality. Make sure depth of field is sufficient, especially with 30mm/1.4 lens. Now the bad part. The camera is too slow for any fast work. That means forget about action photography and such. I was able to get 6 shots RAW at 100 ISO on HI quality mode, and then had to wait at least 10 seconds for next shot. Another 8 seconds to be able to take another single shot. Therefore, this camera is NOT suitable for any situation that requires continuous shooting in a moments notice. I won't get into technical details, read the specifications. Amazing thing was when I took heavily under/overexposed and otherwise terrible photos on purpose, shot in RAW, I was able to recover data and ended up with very usable photos, because RAW captures so much information, up to 400 ISO. Nothing wrong with a camera, it's just not for beginners. It's not a P&S. And it has one major limitation - low speed of operation, in every way - writing speed to memory, autofocus, etc. More suitable for fine art, landscape, studio, macro, portraits, and travel. Battery life is not bad if you use manual focus. I got almost 500 shots on one battery charge, 8gb card. I suggest a second battery if shooting more than 500 photos. The film-like quality of photographs and relatively low price alone are reasons to buy this camera for low operational speed use. That's unbiased opinion.



3. Sigma SD14 is a fabulous camera, capable of producing exceptional, vivid and professional quality photos that can impress your friends, but it has several shortcomings.
   
   I have used this camera for three months and took over 4000 pictures with these four Sigma lenses: 30mm f1.4, 50mm f2.8, 18-200mm OS and 70-300mm APO. I also have the Canon Rebel XT and Nikon D40 systems.
   
   SD14 works great when there is a lot of light, like shooting pictures during daytime outdoor or inside a well-lit studio. Without sufficient lighting, pictures can be dark and grainy. On the other hand, Nikon D40 produces better indoor pictures.
   
   If you are upgrading from a point and shoot camera and have less than a thousand dollars to spend, I suggest you get the Nikon D40 with its kit lens and the AF-S 55-200mm VR lens. Number of megapixels does not matter, but the sensor size does. D40 has the same sensor size as D300!
   
   If you don't look at price tags when you shop, then the Canon 1Ds is for you. It'll cost you ten grands when you include a couple of L lenses and flash speedlights.
   
   SD14 is not an all purpose camera. It is suitable as a 2nd camera to an entry level or prosumer DSLR cameras. It let you take artistic and lively pictures to wow your friends without breaking the bank.
   
   Pros:
   1. Wow quality photos. Picture colors are absolutely amazing.
   2. Camera relatively cheap.
   3. Sigma professional lenses much cheaper than the Canon and Nikon counterparts.
   4. Great for taking still subjects such as portraits, flowers, architectures and landscape.
   
   Cons:
   1. Slower auto focus when compared to the Canon and Nikon systems.
   2. Metering less accurate when compared to the Canon and Nikon systems.
   3. Battery life relatively short (150/250/400 photos for SD14/Rebel XT/D40).
   4. Some Sigma lenses haves quality control issues. I had to return the 30mm f1.4 lens because of back-focus problem. It has worked fine after the exchange. Sigma USA customer support is friendly.
   5. Camera system crashes a bit too often. Need to restart and waste 2 seconds every time.
   6. Slower burst rate. Not suitable for shooting birds or race cars unless you are really good.



4. I am a long-time Sigma digital camera user. I have used an SD9 in my fine-art photography business for four years. When the SD-14 came out, I was figuring out how to budget for the $1500 purchase price of the new body, when its price started dropping. Imagine my surprise when I found it on AMAZON for a third of its original price!
   The camera has had lukewarm to lousy reviews, largely because the reviewers of digital cameras want a camera to shoot at ASA 5000 at 8 frames per second. Of course they never show us any of the fabulous images they've shot under those conditions.
   The Sigma is an honest camera, at ASA 100, 200 or 400, it shoots beautiful files with its unique Foveon chip. Printers, who reproduce the images I shoot, love my files because they are so clean and free of digital artifacts.
   The increased file size from the SD9 is very welcome and Sigma has always had the best software in the business. Sigma lenses test out as fine as anything made by Canon or Nikon, and are, at times, superior.
   My only complaint comes from the fact that an AC converter is not sold with the body. My SD9 came with one. Sigma will gleefully sell me one for $135, an outrageous price for a $35 dollar item.
   The new Sigma is faster, has a bigger screen in the back, has a pop-up flash, a PC connection for external flash and is a joy to use.
   At this price, and while they last, there is no better deal in photography.



5. Don't let the price or the soothsayers and complainers even suggest that this isn't a great camera......it is simply different, and different in a better way! I came to this camera from a Nikon D2X primarily due to the high prices of Nikkor Lenses......and trust me, the Sigma SD14 for the price is the best value on the market today. Just don't plan on shooting JPEG's......even the Sigma literature will tell you that this camera and it's processor were designed for shooting in RAW mode. I am totally impressed with the results, the color, the clarity and the low light capabilities. The supplied software easily converts from RAW to JPEG and is easy to use once you get the hang of it......then you can do additional post-processsing with Adobe or other image software, The possibilities seem endless and the more I use it, the more I love it!

No comments about Nikon D700 12.1MP Digital SLR Camera with 24-120mm f/3.5-5.6G ED IF VR Nikkor Zoom Lens.

5 comments about Nikon D40 6.1MP Digital SLR Camera Kit with 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6G ED-IF AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor Lens.

1. This camera has a lot of great features. I bought this for my husband for Christmas and he takes it everywhere. It's a great SLR camera. Nikon has a great product here..the quality of the pictures are phenomenal. It's very easy to use and we're so glad we have it to take on our adventures.



2. I will begin by saying that I was very interested in learning more about photography so I bought the Nikon D40 to photograph the family and take occassional scenic photos. I received the camera, charged the battery for about an hour and then began taking the BEST pictures I had ever taken. (200 the first day) I did not change any settings...."auto" all the way. Right out of the box the camera is amazing.
   
   My wife wondered why I wanted a $500 camera and why I just HAD to have the 55-200 VR Lens for $240 more but now I think she would have paid double. With just under two days under our belts there are over 300 pictures on my SDHC card and we are hooked. I cannot say enough great things about this camera and I'm sure as I learn more about photography with a DSLR my opinion will only get better. This is a great investment for the beginning photographer or soccer mom!
   Would give 10 stars if I could!!!!!



3. I love my new camera! I am a beginner at taking pictures with an SLR camera. I upgraded from my digicam because the flash broke and I wanted a better quality picture of my two young children. The Nikon D40 is very easy to use...in fact, I haven't even opened the manual. I typically leave the setting on Automatic and my pictures have turned out great. I'm already interested in getting a different lense - one that has a greater ability to zoom, but I am definitely happy with this purchase.



4. Excellent photos, easy to use, comfortable to hold, and FAST! This is one great camera, especially for the price. For a little more than many mid to high-end point and shoots, this camera packs a lot of technology into it's small price tag. But for the beginning DSLR user, that technology works in the background so just set it to AUTO and fire away, and you've got the best pictures you have ever taken. You will wish you made the move from point and shoot to DSLR sooner! I did a lot of research before choosing the D40, and all the reviews seemed to point to this one as the best entry-level DSLR, and in the 7 months I have had this camera, I have not been disappointed. Thousands of pictures later, I echo many other positive reviews here - this is one of THE best electronics purchases I have ever made. So many people have asked about my camera after seeing my photos (quite a few have even asked if I am a professional photographer). Several have since bought their own D40s :)
   
   For me, one of the huge annoyances with a point and shoot is the time between shots - waiting and waiting for your camera to recharge the flash or write the data to the memory card. Not a problem with a DSLR. The D40 starts up quickly, is fast between shots, and allows you to take more photos without flash.
   
   In the beginning I used the "scene modes" and Auto, and Auto no Flash, but my interest in photography has grown since using this camera and I use the manal and semi-automatic modes now. This camera is great for BOTH casual and enthusiast users. Stick to AUTO and get great shots OR learn about photography techniques and delve into all of the camera's different settings for more difficult lighting situations, etc.
   
   Once you have your D40, if you find yourself getting interested in photography, you may want to collect some additional gear over time. Here is a list of some accesories I have acquired to use with my D40:
   
   LowePro Rezo 170 Camera Bag (Not ugly. Works great. Holds D40 plus camcorder or D40 plus flash, 2 lenses and room to spare.)
   
   Nikon SB-400 flash (Yes, you eventually want this. Small, lightweight and cheap. Saves your camera's battery power and recharges more quickly. Use it to bounce light off the ceiling for indoor photos. It looks so much better you will never use regular non-diffused front-on flash again. Get rechargeable AA batteries, I love the Sanyo Eneloops and I am slowly replacing all my AAA and AA batteries in the house with these).
   
   Nikkor 55-200mm VR zoom lens (Cheap, works great. Get the VR version, not non-VR version. Nikon sometimes does a $100 rebate with this lens when you buy the camera and lens at the same time. That makes it super cheap).
   
   Nikkor 50mm f/1.8 lens (This is getting repetive, but this lens is cheap. Great value. Amazing low light, no flash pictures. I love natural light and this lens is my favorite for those situations where you don't have that much light available to you. One big drawback is that it is Manual focus on a D40, but over time you learn. Get the Nikon HR2 lens hood to go with it).
   
   Nikon ML-L3 wireless remote (Cheap, works well. Easy way to take family group shots for your Christmas cards).
   
   Sandisk Ultra II Sd Card (Cheap, never had any problems with lost data. Transfer your images frequently to your computer and use your camera to reformat the card each time to minimize your chances of corrupt data or data errors).
   
   Sigma EX DG 52mm Multi-Coated UV Filter (No problems with this filter).
   
   One last thing, during my research I considered getting the Canon Rebel counterpart. To me the Nikon has several advantages - better menus (Canon's menu looks archaic and cheap in comparison), better selection of cheap lenses, flash and other accesories, better ergonomics, better color rendition, auto ISO. Both camera companies are great and both cameras are capable of nice photos, but the D40 is much easier to use, and at the time I bought it, cheaper. I am completely happy I went with Nikon over Canon, and now that I have more experience in the DSLR world I look forward to upgrading to a bigger, more complex D300/700 eventually. But I know will still use my little D40 as well!
   
   One more last thing, if you are still unsure and want to know how to use this camera before buying, you can check the Nikon Digitutor online videos:
   http://www.nikonusa.com/Assets/Digital-SLR/25420-Nikon-D40/Video/Digitutor/25420_d40_digitutor/eng/D40/index.html



5. I bought this because I wanted to capture my youngest boys' in action as they play football. I've been shooting their practices (using the Nikon 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED IF AF-S DX VR Zoom Nikkor Lens that I also purchased), and am thrilled!! Out of 200 shots, MAYBE one is blurred...I've got kids in full stride racing down the field and the quality is amazing. This isn't a $2000 camera, but for what I paid for it I am extremely pleased.

5 comments about Olympus Evolt E410 10MP Digital SLR Camera with 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 and 40-150mm f/4.0-5.6 Zuiko Lenses.

1. although i haven't had the camera very long, it seems to be user friendly.
   i have basically been using the preset modes.the night scene has worked very well. i have tried all the preset modes and i am very happy with them.we purchased the kit with the 2 lens,for distance i will need to
   purchase another lens the ones that came with it doesn't give me the
   distance that my 35mm did.hope to write another reviw after i have used
   the camera for awhile longer.



2. The shipment was received earlier than expected and was received in Excellent shape. The camera and lens produce excellent pictures. The manual is very clear to understand. I am very happy to have selected this camera outfit. Previuosly I used a Minolta SRT system for film. This compares very favorably. Thanks so much.



3. i always buy my gadgets on amazon and it never fails to meet my expectation. I bought this camera few weeks ago and i am so glad i did it. I'm not whiz on cameras but this particular brand is really a great deal, u got 2 lenses for a good price, what more to ask?. I am still figuring out the ins and outs of it,but i'd tell you that this camera is smart. Easy to use, worth the bucks. Good as a gift or for personal use. When u have one , you'll figure out yourself and fall into it.



4. Olympus Evolt E410 10MP Digital SLR Camera with 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 and 40-150mm f/4.0-5.6 Zuiko Lenses This is a great camera. Absolutely love the quality of pictures and the ability to use Auto features or get really creative and manually set features. I researched Consumer Reports before I bought a camera and this was a top 3; they were right. I got more for the money with Olympus. If I had a second opportunity to buy a SLR Camera I would buy this one again.



5. This camera is awesome. There is a lot to learn about it, though. I love the lack of shutter delay. The pictures are incredible. Great camera for the price. I got the camera as a packagae with 2 lenses.

5 comments about Canon EOS 30D 8.2MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only).

1. You cannot go wrong with this camera. With the 40D recently lowering in price and Canon preparing to release another model soon, I would expect to get this camera for a real deal from many retailers (e_tailers) in the near future. Camera functions are amazing and very similar to the 20D and 10D. Of course there are many newer features including the BIG pretty 2.5" LCD. For many, the 30D is sufficient which means you can save money instead of buying the 40D. Spend that hard earned money on optics...where it should go anyway!



2. I upgraded from the Digital Rebel XT to the 30D and am extremely happy that I did. Compared to the Rebel line, the camera is bigger and sturdier. The camera fits in my hands much better, and the magnesium body feels like it will last much longer than the plastic body of the Rebel.
   
   The shutter for this camera is also rated for 100,000 actuations compared to the 50,000 for the Rebel XT and 20D. The LCD screen is much larger also. I have not experienced any problems with dead pixels or coloration problems with the screen. The viewfinder is bigger and easier to see through than the Rebel as well.
   
   One of my favorite features is the wheel in the back as opposed to the 4 buttons of the Rebel. The wheel allows for quick changes to exposure compensation as well as much easier scrolling through the pictures when in the review setting.
   
   In a nutshell, if you are new to photography, are on a tighter budget and want to see exactly how interested you really are in Digital SLR's, I always recommend the Rebel XT or XTi. It is a great starter camera that wont break the bank. However, if you know you want a great camera or already have a Rebel, the 30D is a very nice upgrade. Personally, I think this camera is the best value for your money out there.



3. Canon EOS 30D, Bill Dubovsky, SI Business Trends, Bits & Bytes, Jan, 2007.
   
   Did You Know? Higher-end SLR (single lens reflex) digital cameras are now getting more affordable and user friendly...they're not just for professionals anymore. This month I will review the technology behind the digital SLR and specifically the performance of the Canon EOS 30D, about $1,300 with standard zoom lens.
   
   What is it? SLRs or single lens reflex digital cameras are becoming even more popular as their costs decrease. Once a replacement for film cameras for professional photographers, many digital SLRs can be purchased from about $500 and up. Some popular makes are: Nikon, Olympus, Canon, Pentax, Sony and even Kodak. According to market researcher NPD Group Inc, a digital SLR has an average holiday price of about $942. Baby boomers, brought up with film SLRs are flocking to the digital mode as they can afford the newer cameras and appreciate the difference in quality and performance.
   
   Digital SLRs create better photos for a number of reasons, including the larger size of the sensor (collects more light, faster and more accurate - especially in low light situations) and are much better in taking action shots. The superior optical quality of the larger lenses is also a major factor in getting crystal clear photos.
   
   The Canon EOS-30D, has 8-megapixel resolution and a 2.5 inch LCD, and it shoots continuously at 5 frames per second with a 30-shot buffer, so you don't miss the action shots of your kids, sports or wildlife. It's not too bulky or heavy and has good hand feel and balance. It provides good high-sensitivity photos which are crisp and not grainy and has image stabilization which reduces blur when using extended zoom.
   
   How it works: Folks with compact digital cameras know the frustration of shutter lag and the inability to frame your pictures accurately through the small LCD screen. Typically compact digital cameras take the photo a fraction of a second or so after you snap, often missing the action you wanted to capture. It's also hard to frame and focus with the smaller cameras smaller LCDs. With SLRs, you view the action directly through a viewfinder and actually look through the lens via a mirror that moves up when you press the shutter button. You get what you see. The viewfinder is also a blessing when you are in a bright light situation where the image on an LCD is hard to see due to glare.
   
   Other benefits to the advanced amateur include: saving film costs and not dealing with chemicals if you used to develop or print your own photos. If you choose to do your own printing and editing, there are many good programs that allow you to do some impressive work right on your Windows or Mac computer.
   
   In the past you would have to take and develop a whole role of film to see if you got the right shot. With digital photography, you can just take as many photos as you'd like and delete all except the "keepers." You won't have to pay for, or keep a large inventory of poor photos as you only keep and print the good ones. Unlike film, digital CF memory doesn't go out of date, and can hold hundreds of photos before you have to download them to your computer.
   
   What you need: Besides buying the camera kit, which should include the standard 18mm-55mm zoom lens, buy extra CF memory card. Most cameras don't come with a memory card. Additional accessories may include a heavier duty flash and/or a better quality lens. You will probably need a Mac or Windows XP computer with a USB slot for downloading the photos from the camera. The Canon comes with software for both Windows and MAC that is quite good and easy to use. While I have used the Canon software, I prefer to use iPhoto on the Mac.
   
   How to get it: Be careful about buying on-line. I saw a great deal on the Canon and bought it. I then had to call a number for delivery options and they told me I had to buy the battery charger for an extra cost (which would have brought the total price up to what everyone else was selling it for). I declined and asked them to send me exactly what was on the product description on their website. After much going back and forth, they told me they couldn't fulfill the order - they were out of the ones without the battery charger! I "Googled" the online company and found quite a list of disgruntled buyers - apparently they pull this routine all the time. Lesson learned - check out the on-line company before you spend any time with them. I immediately cancelled my order with them and bought the camera locally with no problem. You can watch for sales and rebates at consumer electronics stores for good deals or check with camera stores. Sometimes the camera is sold "body only" and you need to purchase the lens separately. This is good if you want to purchase a specific, upgraded lens of your choice.
   
   How hard is it to use? The automatic mode is very simple. You can learn to use in 10 minutes or less. The manual settings require a bit of reading and playing, but you can get some awesome results. The combination of digital photography and photo editing software are a great match.
   
   Findings: Not surprisingly, I love it. I have been an amateur photographer from my college days and grew up using Nikon and Nikomat 35 mm film SLRs. While they are heavy and clumsy by today's standards, they took great photos, mostly because of the control you had over shutter speed and f-stop as well as the great Nikor lenses. I find you can get the same control (if you choose) from the Canon EOS-30D along with a wide variety of Canon and other lenses. While the Canon EOS-30D is about the same size as the older film SLRs, it is much lighter. This camera has made me retire my film cameras.
   
   Pros: Convenience; not having to buy and store film, lighter camera, getting what you see, ease of use, professional results. The Canon EOS-30D also came highly recommended by my professional photographer friends. While I have been partial to Nikon, the earlier digital SLR models seemed to have had some mechanical defects, which took time to repair. However, I have not heard of any major shortcomings with the major SLR manufacturers' new models.
   
   Cons: Cost. They are more expensive than compact or viewfinder cameras. They are heavier and bulkier than compact cameras. You'll want accessories such as: additional or better quality lenses, heavy-duty flash, gadget bags, tripods and a host of other attachments. It's too big to keep in your pocket or purse to use for snap shots. I have also found the built-in flash to be weak - only good to about 10 feet. Good enough for snap shots. An upgraded professional quality Canon flash is about a $400 accessory.
   
   Bottom-line: In general, I am very happy with the feel, performance and results from the Canon EOS-30D and would recommend it to any serious amateur photographer.
   
   For more information: See the January 2007, Consumers Reports or Google for more information and user's comments. You can contact Bill Dubovsky at billdubovsky@gmail.com with your feedback, experiences and questions. As always, check with www.Amazon.com for user feedback and good, reputable deals.



4. I absolutely love this camera! If you are contemplating an upgrade from the Rebel digital series, go for it. My SLR voyage has been long, starting with a Canon T70. I went from that to a Canon Rebel G, then the Digital Rebel, then the 20D, and now the 30D. I don't think I will ever need to buy another digital SLR until I wear this one out. The shutter speed is brilliant. The ability to switch from manual to automatic is freeing---you don't have to worry about any setting. I'm very glad I bought this camera!



5. People can show off their Rebel tsi and say it has 12 megapixels, but you can show off your 30d and say, "mine's not cheap plastic." This camera is perfect for a semi-pro, student, or just about anyone who can afford it. I warn you not to buy it from DBROTH though. They scammed me out of 99.99 dollars worth of photoshop, and I'm still trying to settle it with them. The hi-speed shooting is great for my hobby of shooting skate pictures. I think my customer image is number 82 or something. If you want to use it for landscapes, you'll need to get something with a really wide angle, because of the 1.6 cropping factor. If you're into sports photography like me though, it just gives your telephoto zoom lens a little more reach.

5 comments about Nikon D300 DX 12.3MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-135mm AF-S DX f/3.5-5.6G ED-IF Nikkor Zoom Lens.

1. Everyone else has already covered the details, so I'll just add my voice to the chorus. Particularly, I am amazed at the photos shot at ISO3200 and the fact that you can get something truly usable at ISO6400.
   
   Also, the feel of it in your hands is terrific.



2. Nikon D300 is very good camera, but it took 3 weeks to ship the item to my place, poor package.



3. Instant on, immediate take when you push the shutter button, focuses instantly on what you want depending on how you set the focus area, and takes better pictures than my Maxxum 7 did. I currently use only one lens, the 18 - 200; but plan on getting another soon with faster aperture for fine work. I currently use mine for travel when backpacking; but also for pictures in the ER where I work. These I use for teaching purposes for the medical students who rotate with us. A very fine piece of hardware that works as advertised.



4. This is a fantastic camera. I upgraded from D200 and happy that Nikon made the D300. They have changed around many of the menu items I was use to from my D200, but that is worth the better quality when I shoot at higher ISO's. I higly recommend for any serious photographer.



5. Wading through instructions is tedious, but love the camera. I upgraded from a D-200, which I liked very much. Most detailed photos I've ever had. We'll know more after more trial photos.