Greentoe Blog

All posts tagged camera reviews

Canon5DSCanon fans eagerly awaited the arrival of the 5DS and were not disappointed. This camera series is touted as the world’s best DSLR for nature, landscape and portrait camera available. The Canon 5DS provides some great new features that have Canon lovers drooling.

The body of the Canon 5DS weighs in at 29.81 ounces or 1.86 pounds with dimensions of 6 inches by 4.6 by 3.0. It has a 3.2 rear LCD screen and 100% viewfinder coverage. It comes with the LP-E6N battery that has more capacity than the older LP-E6 batteries but they will work just fine with the 5DS.   This is a pixel peepers dream with 50 MP and it shoots 5 frames per second or 3 in silent mode.

The Canon 5DS presents an As-Shot, In-Finder Cropping with 1.3 crop that greys out the sides to clearly show the crop.   Flicker synchronization that shoots through flickering light by automatically timing the shutter release to the lighting. The bulb timer is all new that helps program exposures up to 100 hours, great for long exposure night shots. Time-lapse movies is not a new feature but in the Canon 5DS it can be programmed to save the exposures in a time lapse movie instead of having to use outside software.

More new features include fine detail picture control that lowers contrast and uses in-camera sharpening to show super fine detail without being over sharpened. The viewfinder has more dark LCD overlays to help during shooting with exposure, metering, AF and more. The 5DS also contains a dedicated motor for the mirror system with the ability to program still shots while running video. The programmable quick screen has been revamped to bring bigger and better viewing.

The things missing from the Canon 5DS is automatic distortion correction like other Canon’s have. The 5DS lacks the processing power to make the corrections on the fly. It is also lacking eye controlled focus found in the EOS3. While the 6,400 ISO range is sufficient that is the limit compared to other models that have significantly higher ISO settings into the 100,000 range.   This model also sucks up juice faster than the old 5D models so having an extra battery on hand may be important.   There is no Wi-Fi, GPS or built in flash.

As for the performance, this is one fine camera. That 50 MP really shows up in the photos. Autofocus with face recognition works really well even if it is a little bit slow to respond.   Shooting at high ISO is remarkable with very little to no noise but the 5DS will limit ISO to prevent bad pictures. The in camera noise reduction works exceptionally well keeping the shots sharp from edge to edge. As for sharpness that 50mp really pays off with unbelievable detail and crispness to photos in all situations and lighting.

Overall the Canon 5DS is one of the best DSLR’s on the market and has Canon lovers and pixel peepers chomping at the bit to get their hands on it for the 50MP shooting.

Set your price on a new Canon 5DS on Greentoe. Click here.


sony_ilce7s_b_alpha_a7s_mirrorless_digital_1044728The Sony Alpha a7S Mirrorless Digital Camera is a full frame sensor mirrorless camera making it the smallest and lightest full frame camera with interchangeable lenses in the world. The Alpha A7S is a 24.3 megapixel camera with embedded phase-detect AF that takes the weight out of the mirrored DSLRs without losing the exacting quality.

The A7S resembles the old school 35mm film cameras. Simple in design but solidly built the body measures 5 inches long by 3 ¾ inches high with an amazing 2 15/16th inch thick. It weighs in with battery and card at 1pound 1 ounce.   Sony stepped up to the plate with the A7 line making it Wi-Fi compatible with almost any operating system. It shoots at 5 frames per second with shutter speeds of 1/8000th of a second to 30 seconds with an ISO range of 100-409,600. It comes with both auto and manual focus. The LCD is a nice 3’ tiltable design that is easy to see even in the harshest of light. One beauty of the A7S is the ability to accept almost any lens with a third-party adaptor. It will easily take the old but true manual focus lenses as well as all the new lenses available.

The highly customizable internal menu system is logical and easy to navigate if not slightly overwhelming in the sheer number of functions, 46 in total and settings. The external dials and settings are extremely convenient therefore using the internal menu is not often needed.

It is repeated over and over that the A7S is not suitable for fast action shooting and performs best for stills or moderate action shots like an animal running versus a soccer ball zipping across a field. Another common complaint is the noise of the shutter more than likely not suitable in quiet environments. The A7 is an E-mount with a full frame sensor and the E-mount lenses don’t work well unless in crop mode and can cause vignetting thus using the lens adapter and other lenses makes for a better option.

The image quality of the Sony Alpha a7S Mirrorless Digital Camera is excellent. The details are sharp, nice colors and accurate exposure. The kit lens is more of a problem than the camera and it is suggested to use your own lenses and disregard the kit one. There are reports of losing skin tone and detail on portraits but it is not enough to not shoot portraits with the A7S. The A7S performs well in low light up to the 1600 ISO range. Beyond that noise creeps in. The onboard noise reduction also is lacking and better to be handled in post processing.

Overall the Sony Alpha a7S Mirrorless Digital Camera has an extremely excellent image quality, a dazzling array of functions and settings, a top-notch view finder, Wi-Fi capabilities and is adaptable for a wide variety of lenses.   On the down side, the kit lens is not on par with the camera itself, the battery life is quite short lived requiring a second battery, it is not great with high speed action shots and the shutter is noisy. It is a great field camera for the weight, size and technology.

Make an offer on a new Sony Alpha a7S now. 

 


Written By Guest Blogger Arsalan Uljamil

As a person accused of spending way too much time and money on photography, I’m usually the one that my friends and family reach out to when they are planning to get a new camera. They are either graduating from their phone camera or looking to upgrade their current camera to a better one but surprisingly almost all of them have the same thought, that if they get a DSLR their pictures will magically transform from snapshots to masterpieces. A few of them in their wisdom even went to the big box store and bought the the Nikon/Canon DSLR with a kit lens and after shooting for few days in “P” (Professional ? 🙂 ) mode wondered why their pictures are no better than before or in some cases even worse.

I think this is a very common misconception that the only way to get better pictures is to get a DSLR and this was probably true few years ago but with the advancements in sensor and processing technologies there are a lot more options nowadays. These include large sensor point and shoots, bridge and mirrorless cameras. Following are some my pick for each category.

Point and Shoot (P&S) Cameras:

Thanks to cell phones cameras this category is about to suffer the same fate as the Dodo but there are still few cameras that are keeping this category alive and kicking.

Sony RX100 III

As the name implies, this is the third camera of Sony’s RX100 line up that is packed with the usual host of features like 1″ 20.1 megapixel sensor, 3″ tilting screen, Wifi and NFC but he crown jewel is the integrated pop-up EVF.

Sony RX100 III is currently my favorite point and shoot camera because it not only has all the features that I look for in a camera but and it produces amazing results but also because it does all this while still remaining pocketable. This camera not only outputs good quality jpegs but also has an option for RAW output for people who like to have full control over their pictures.  You can find my complete review of the camera here.

Photo1.jpeg Panasonic LX100

If it wasn’t for the the RX100 III’s small form factor and tilting LCD LX100 would have been my choice of point and shoot camera. It features a large 4/3 sensor coupled with fast 24-75mm (35mm equivalent) f1.7 – f2.8 lens, 3″ fixed LCD screen, EVF, Wi-Fi, NFC and hotshoe.  LX100 features multi-aspect sensor that produces 12.1 megapixel photos. On the video side, Panasonic LX100 is currently the only point and shoot camera in the market that can record high quality 4K videos.

Panasonic LX100 is a joy to use and it is definitely a camera made for people who prefer manual controls as the camera features direct control for aperture, shutter speed and exposure compensation. Other functions can be controlled via custom buttons. LX100 does not feature the traditional PASM dial but it can be put into complete auto by setting up both Aperture ring and shutter speed dial to “A” position.

PanasonicLX100.jpegRicoh GR

Most people have probably never heard of this camera as it is not as mainstream as the Panasonic or Sony but people who want DSLR quality in a pocket camera are well aware of the awesomeness that Ricoh GR brings to the point and shoot genre. Unlike the other two cameras mentioned above it does not have many bells or whistles and does not even have EVF or Wi-Fi but what it does have is an amazing 16.2 megapixel APS-C sensor mated with a sharp 28mm (35mm equivalent) f2.8 prime lens. Though I would have preferred a more traditional 35mm focal length.

GR has the largest sensor out of all the P&S camera (same sized sensor as Nikon D5500 mentioned below) mentioned in this list and still it manages to be pocketable. GR produces jpeg that are balanced but the color tend to be on the muted side so I prefer shooting raw and then editing according to taste.

RicohGR.jpegSony RX1 / RX1R

When it comes to point and shoot cameras (though it can in a category of its own) Sony RX1 is the king of the hill featuring 24 megapixel Full Frame sensor with an amazing 35mm f2.0 Carl Zeiss prime lens. Like the Ricoh GR, RX1 does not have any bells and whistles to distract the photographer away from what can simply be described as the ultimate photography machine. Both RX1 and RX1R are identical cameras except for that the later one does not have a Optical Low Pass Filter (OLPF) so (in theory) it is capable of producing even sharper pictures.  Sony RX1 is without doubt not only the best point and shoot but also the most expensive. At the eye watering $2800 (as for 6/1/2015) is not your mama’s P&S but if it’s the ultimate picture quality you require without dealing with inter-changeable lens cameras, this is your ONLY option.

The only two improvements that I would really like to see in the next generation of this camera is a built-in EVF and a tilting LCD.

SonyRx1.jpeg

Bridge Cameras:

As the name implies bridge cameras are in between P&S cameras and DSLR/Mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras. Though this segment is also seeing a decline in sales it as not as bad as P&S category because it has a niche of high megapixel and high zoom range that appeals to people looking for a compact camera for wildlife or outdoor photography.

Sony RX10

Sony RX10 is the elder brother of RX100 and features similar processor and 20.2 megapixel 1″ sensor but in a large body featuring 24-200mm f/2.8 (35mm equivalent) lens. Camera has a 3″ tiltable LCD on the back. This camera made similar waves in the bridge camera market like the RX100 did in the P&S market. Before the Sony RX10 there have been other cameras in the market that featured a fixed f2.8 lens (like Panasonic FZ200) but they had smaller 1/2.3″ sensor.

RX1 not only produces excellent 20.2 megapixel stills, it also has the ability to record full HD videos in 60 and 24p. RX10 also features similar host of connectivity options like the rest of Sony camera which includes Wifi, NFC etc. The combination of large 1″ sensor and good zoom range makes RX10 a very capable travel camera.

SonyRx10DSLR.jpegPanasonic FZ1000

Panasonic FZ1000 is the Panasonic’s answer to Sony RX10. Though It features similar 20.1 megapixel 1″ sensor as the RX10 Panasonic added a lot of features that makes it even better choice than the RX10. First of all it has Leica branded 25-400mm f/2.8-4 (35mm Equivalent) lens and even though it is not constant f.28 like the Sony it provides double the zoom range. Secondly, it has fully articulating screen and to top all that Panasonic also added the ability to to record 4K QFHD video at 30 fps. Panasonic FZ1000 also features the DFD (Depth From Defocus) technology that was first seen on the Panasonic GH4. This enables super-fast focusing. The fully articulating LCD is very helpful for video recording and shooting from various angles.  The only thing that I miss in this camera is the awesome implementation of touch screen that Panasonic has done on it’s micro 4/3 cameras.

If I was in the market for a bridge camera FZ1000 would have definitely been my first choice.

PanasonicXZ100.jpegNikon Coolpix P900

If you are OK with giving away some of the IQ of RX10/FZ1000 in favor of ridiculous amount of reach then look no further than the Nikon Coolpix P900 that features a humongous 83x zoom that ranges from 24-2000mm (35mm equivalent).  Unlike RX10 and FZ1000 Nikon camera features the traditional 1/2.3″ sensor that produces 16 megapixels images. It can also record full HD (1920 x 1080) video in multiple frame rates. It also offers a cool 120 fps video recording mode but the resolution is restricted to 640 x 480p. Like other cameras in this category P900 also features an EVF and host of connectivity options like Wi-Fi and NFC but it the only camera to feature built-in GPS.

On the image front P900 produces good results (for the sensor size) but don’t expect it to compete against cameras with larger sensors (especially in low light) but what it does cannot be replicated by other larger sensor bridge cameras. With its massive 83x optical zoom range, it is an excellent wildlife and birding camera. If you mostly shoot outdoors in good light then Nikon Coolpix P900 is definitely worth checking out.

Note: Due to massive demand for the camera, it is currently not available anywhere in the US but Nikon is expected to ship out more cameras in the coming months.

 TopofMirrorlessCamera.jpeg

 

Mirrorless Cameras:

I’m a big fan of mirrorless cameras as they offer the most options when it comes to camera and sensor sizes. From the tiny 1/2.3″  all the way up to full frame  you can find a mirrorless camera to suit your needs. Over the years I have used many mirrroless cameras including Micro 4/3, APS-C and full frame one and they all have their strengths and weaknesses. If portability and quality is your main goal then nothing beats micro 4/3 cameras and lens but on the other hand if you want the absolute IQ of a full frame camera you can find that in mirrorless as well, though you’ll most likely lose the portability and lightness that usually associated with mirrorless cameras.

Fuji X-T1

Without doubt Fuji X-T1 is one of my most favorite camera out of the bunch that I’ve used. It’s a perfect combination of retro styling with modern soul. Fuji X-T1 features 16 megapixel sensor with a Fuji’s proprietary X-Trans color filter on top that gives Fuji output a unique look. Couple that with the ever expending Fuji’s lens line up and you’ve got a perfect image making machine that is just a joy to use.

Fuji X-T1 features 0.5″ 2,360k-Dot 0.77x OLED Viewfinder that is hands down the best and biggest EVF that I’ve used in any mirrorless camera. It is bright and provides very details view of the scene. The only issue I’ve found with it is that in very low light it becomes very grainy but unlike other EVFs it does not lag.   Other than the EVF there is also a run of the mill 3″ tilting LCD on the back.

Unlike other mirrorless camera the most unique feature X-T1 is that there are external dials for shutter speed, ISO and exposure compensation and in addition to this almost all Fuji lenses feature an aperture ring (except for XC series lenses). Fuji X-T1 also has wifi functionality but no NFC. It does not have a built-in flash but one is provided with it so you can attach it to the hotshoe.

Fuji X-T1 produces one of the best out of camera jpegs that I’ve ever seen from any camera. Coupled that with various film simulation modes and there is hardly any need to do any post processing or shooting RAW. On the negative side, the video from this camera (in fact any Fuji camera) is just plain horrible with lots of artifacts and moire. You are better off shooting video with one of the newer phones than this camera, it is that bad.

Fujifilmx-t1.jpegSony A7 II

When Sony released the original Sony A7 back in 2013 it created a big stir in the camera industry because it was the first ever auto focusing full frame mirrorless camera.  In the end of 2014 so unveiled the follow up of A7 camera which was an evolution of the original. It featured the same 24 megapixel full frame sensor but body design was changed to incorporate a better grip and more custom functions. The biggest update that Sony A7 II brought was the inclusion of IBIS (In Body Image Stabilization) which meant that any lens that is attached to the camera will become stabilized. This single feature alone made A7 II an instant hit with the people who had a large collection of legacy lenses or people who prefer using light weight manual legacy glass.  Other than the IBIS, A7 II also brought some improvements in the AF department and overall camera performance.

I currently own Sony A7 II and use with some few manual lenses. Thanks to the focus peaking, magnified view and stabilization manual lenses are a joy to use Sony A7 II. Sony A7 II features built-in EVF, 3″ tilting LCD, Wifi and NFC. Unfortunately, it neither has a built-in flash nor one comes with it so if that should be one of the first accessories you should get with it.

The biggest issues with Sony A7 series (FE mount) is the lack of native lenses. Though Sony is working hard to bring out new lenses there isn’t a lot of choice out there, if you want native AF lenses. This issues can somewhat be mitigated by using A-Mount (Sony/Minolta mount) with an adapter. This opens up a lot more choices but due to the adapter the camera system isn’t as small as it is with native lenses. Also, the adapter (Sony LE-EA4) has it’s own AF module and is based on SLT technology so it completely by passes Sony A7 II’s native AF module.  On the other hand, if auto focusing is not important, you have a lot more options and you can use almost any lenses from any manufacture with the help of cheap adapters. This include lenses from Nikon, Canon, Leica, Contax, Zeiss, Olympus etc.

SonyA72.jpegOlympus OM-D E-M1

With the availability of large sensor mirrorless cameras available in similar (and cheaper) price range it is difficult to recommend E-M1 based on the ultimate IQ but as a system Micro 4/3 delivers the best portability, lens and body options than any other mirrroless system in the market. I started my photographic journey with Micro 4/3 and through out the years I’ve kept many Micro 4/3 cameras and E-M1 is without doubt was one of the best.

Olympus advertised E-M1 as a “Pro” camera and rightfully so. It features a magnesium alloy body that is dust, splash and freeze proof. It features the typical 16.3 megapixel sensor found in most Micro 4/3 bodies. It also has built-in EVF, a 3″ tilting touchscreen LCD along with the host of connectivity features including Wifi. E-M1 is probably the only camera that was built from ground up to provide better focusing with the legacy 4/3 lenses. Though I’m not sure if there is a very big number of them out there but it did open up a lot more high end lens possibilities for the Micro 4/3 users.

Even though the OM-D E-M1 has the smallest sensor out of the mirrorless cameras that I have on this list, it is no way incapable of producing exceptional results.  In good light it produces results that are on par with the rest of the camera but in low light it does lag behind a bit compared to the others. Like Fuji, Olympus jpegs are really nice as well (though I prefer Fuji ones) but if you want the most out of your 16 megapixel images, it is better to shoot RAW specially in low light situation where excessive noise causes lack of detail and other issues.

Like other recent Micro 4/3 cameras Olympus E-M1 is the fastest focusing mirrorless camera out of all cameras in this list and it is the only one that has touchscreen. Also, this camera is one of the most customizable camera that I’ve ever used. You can customized almost all aspects of the camera down to which way the dials should rotate for changing settings.

One of the biggest advantage of Olympus E-M1 over the other mirrorless cameras is the massive lens library that Mirco 4/3 format offers. Everything from pro level f2.8 zooms to fast f1.2 prime lenses, pancake and power zoom lenses Micro 4/3 has it all.

OlympusOMD.jpeg

DSLR Cameras:

Using a DSLR is a new thing for me as I’ve been shooting mirrorless cameras since I started photography but as I get more comfortable with seeing the world from a window (OVF) instead of a TV (EVF) and learning to expose correctly without the instant feedback of WYSIWYG EVF/LCD, I’m really enjoying the benefits it offers over the mirrorless systems.

Nikon D750

Considered to be one of the best DSLR that Nikon has produced in a long time, Nikon D750 feature 24.3 megapixel full frame sensor that outputs amazing results in both good and low light. This is Nikon’s first DSLR to feature a 3.2″ tilting screen and built-in Wifi. The camera also offers excellent 51 point auto focusing system that works marvelously for static subjects as well as tracking moving ones. On the video front it offers multiple options included 1920 x 1080p at 60 fps and unlike the cheaper D6xx model it also has power aperture feature (you can change aperture during video recording without existing the Live View).

This is the first DSLR that made me switch from my long term mirrorless systems and from what I’ve read on the forums, I’m not the only mirrorless user who was pulled to the “dark side” by Nikon D750. I currently also own the Sony A7 II that has the same sensor as the D750 but thanks to Nikon processing I’ve found that D750 produces better results specially in low light and when it comes to auto focusing speed, accuracy and operational speed there is simply no comparison Nikon D750 is better in every way.

NikonD750.jpegNikon 5500

Though Nikon D5500 is an enthusiast level model it is the most technology filled camera model that Nikon has produced. It features an excellent 24.2 megapixel sensor as the D7100/D7200 with no low pass filter that results in exceptionally sharp pictures. Mated with the excellent 39 AF system D5500 is a very capable camera to capture both static and moving subjects. D5500 is Nikon’s first camera to feature fully articulating 3.2″ touch screen that is perfect for video recording and taking pictures from various angles. It also has built-in Wifi but no NFC.

Unfortunately, not everything is rosy as Nikon continues its trend to purposefully exclude certain functions from the lower end bodies to sell more expensive ones. For example even in this day and age when almost all similarly priced (and even cheaper cameras) have built-in support for controlling off-camera flashes D5500 does not have it. Also, there is no power aperture or the ability to fine tune AF. So if your lenses ever need fine tune, you’ll have to send them to Nikon (along with the camera). Similarly, there is built-in Wi-Fi but no NFC, even though D7200 offers both.

With that said, don’t let the negatives scare you away from a very capable camera that offers excellent image quality and enough modern feature to make any camera enthusiast happy.

Nikon5500.jpeg

Conclusion:

I’m sure I’ll get a lot of complaints from my photographer friends because I did not include their favorite camera in the list but just to reiterate that I complied the above list based on my hands on experience with most of the cameras and my research. I haven’t included excellent cameras like Sony A6000, Nikon D7100/D7200, Panasonic GH4, Panasonic GX7, Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II and others because I don’t have any personal experience with them but they are all excellent cameras as well and should be included in everyone’s list of new camera research.

With that said, depending on what level you are as a photographer you’ll find a camera in the above list that will suit your requirements. For beginners, I would highly recommend getting a bridge or a mirrroless camera as it would not only be easier to use compared to DSLRs but will also help in learning photography (especially with the WYSIWYG EVF/LCD).

Set Your Price on a New Camera and Greentoe will Negotiate with the Retailers For You: www.greentoe.com


Alex Munoz is a lifestyle and fashion photographer as well as a happy Greentoe customer.  Check out this hands-on walk-through he did of the HD PENTAX DA 645 28-45mm F4.5 ED AW SR:

 

 

Make an offer on the HD PENTAX DA 645 28-45mm F4.5 ED AW SR

To learn more about Alex and view some of his work, visit his blog:

http://www.alexmunoz.net/

If you’d like to be a guest blogger here, please email ceo at greentoe dot com.


 

OverviewCanon 7D Mark II

As an upgrade from its predecessor, the Canon EOS 7D Mark II blazes past quite a few competitors by offering some of the fastest fps and auto-focus for its price. In fact, the camera forgoes increased shooting resolution to focus on speed, allowing photographers of any experience level to capture anything they desire—especially fast paced action.

If you’re looking for a camera that keeps up with your subjects, this is it. You might find yourself using this camera in ‘special situations,’ such as those requiring more power to keep up with the action. That makes it a rather situational camera, since it does lack amenities that most casual users recognize in DSLRs nowadays.

The lack of amenities may make this camera a bit difficult for complete beginners to use. Experienced users, however, will get a camera that has the power to keep up with literally anything.

Key Features: A ‘blazing fast’ auto-focus system. Shoots 10 frames per second. Weatherproof and built exceptionally tough in order to withstand most scenarios.

Features At A Glance

  • 20.2MP APS-C CMOS Sensor
  • Dual DIGIC 6 Image Processors
  • 3.0″ 1.04m-Dot Clear View II LCD Monitor
  • Full HD 1080p/60 Video & Movie Servo AF
  • Dual Pixel CMOS AF with Live View
  • 65-Point All Cross-Type Phase-Detect AF
  • Native ISO 16000, Extended to ISO 51200
  • 10 fps Shooting at Full Resolution
  • Built-In GPS Receiver & Digital Compass
  • Magnesium Alloy Body Construction

Pros

  • The Canon EOS 7D Mark II has a fast auto-focus and also continuously shoots 10 frames per second. Its FPS makes for a good camera for capturing fast paced or spontaneous action, such as what’s found in sports or wildlife.
  • The camera also has great build quality and can withstand most conditions. Its chassis also has remarkable weather sealing, making a perfect outdoorsy DSLR camera.
  • Face Detection mode actually detect faces ‘very accurately.’
  • The Canon EOS 7D Mark II produces great image quality with a high ISO range. Video quality is 1080p at 60 frames per second.
  • Dual-Pixel AF outputs smooth focus for 1080p 60 fps video footage, allowing users to essentially shoot video ‘like a camcorder.’ Its high ISO range also produces finely detailed photos and video.
  • The Canon EOS 7D Mark II also has a 65-point cross-type Auto-Focus System, considered one of the fastest of its class.

What People Don’t Like

  • The Canon EOS 7D Mark II ultimately has less dynamic range than its APS-C sensor competitors.
  • Soft video doesn’t have enough detail despite smooth focus feature.
  • The Canon EOS 7D Mark II’s live video shooting sometimes undergoes a prolonged screen blackout during live view shooting sessions.
  • The fixed rear LCD screen isn’t a touchscreen LCD like most of its competitors.
  • The camera doesn’t have integrated Wi-Fi connectivity.
  • The Canon EOS 7D Mark II’s SLR-based design features a viewfinder that doesn’t show images or video as they would be captured.

Why Should You Buy Canon EOS 7D Mark II DSLR Camera (Body Only)?

Some would balk at the idea of getting an entirely new camera to shoot different scenarios, but most camera enthusiasts, professionals and interested beginners know the deal by now. The Canon EOS 7D Mark II is a great camera to get if you’re looking to shoot faster paced scenarios like sports or spontaneous wildlife.

The camera’s features make it rather situational for shooting fast paced action, since it’s not the most well equipped camera for casual users. Its high FPS output and accurate auto-focus sensor alone make it best suited for fast paced action.

Make an offer


Overview sigma_311101_50mm_f_1_4_dg_hsm_1045458

Although larger and more expensive than similar lenses, the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens is a perfectly servicable lens suited for art applications and shooting scenarios where more manual precision may be required. At the time of its release, it was considered one of the better auto-focus 50mm prime lenses on the market.

This lens produces great images with refined sharpness, minimal abnormalities and very little distortion. It’s also great to use if shooting out of focus backgrounds, thanks to the elements that work hard in its camera. Its multifaceted lens elements help it output content most expect of Sigma lenses.

Features At A Glance

  • Compatible with Canon EF cameras
  • Aperture Range: f/1.4 to f/16
  • Measures 3.36 inches by 3.93 inches, weighs 1.79 pounds
  • One Molded Glass + Three Special Low Dispersion Aspherical Elements
  • Compatible with 35mm and Full-Frame Digital Sensor formats
  • Focal Length: 50 mm
  • Refined Auto-Focus allows more accurate auto-focus
  • Super Multi-Layer Coating reduces glare and ghosting

Key Characteristics

Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens is compatible with Canon EF cameras. This standard length lens is specifically designed for high optical performance by utilizing its refined components.

The lens possesses a large 85.4mm diameter with a floating system that helps correct vignetting, ensuring peripheral brightness is maintained within images.

This Sigma lens is constructed using Thermally Stable Composite material and traditional metal, affording this lens better precision and versatility in all sorts of temperatures.

Its 9-blade circular diaphragm helps the camera produce great-looking out of focus images.

Lens includes a brass bayonet mount for better accuracy and durability.

Key Features

Four elements comprise this lens’ image refinement system – one molded glass aspherical element and three Special Low Dispersion glass elements. All components help reduce the appearance of sagittal coma flare and chromatic abnormalities, producing high quality image quality and sharpness as a result.

Lens elements have been treated with a Super Multi Coating, which helps reduce glare and ghosting, producing better high quality color fidelity and contrast.

The Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens Hyper Sonic AF Motor features a highly optimized Auto-Focus algorithm. As a result, the lens produces a smooth, fast and silent auto-focus performance. AF Motor also features a full time manual focus control for fine precision through turning the lens’ focus ring when needed.

Fully compatible with optional Sigma USB Dock to fine tune lens characteristics and also updating its firmware.

Pros

  • Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens is specifically designed for high optical performance by utilizing its refined components. Best suited for shooting art-related scenarios, due to its optical performance.
  • One molded glass aspherical element and three Special Low Dispersion glass elements do a lot of the lifting work in producing high quality images, along with the lens’ other essentials. They help reduce image abnormalities and produce high quality image quality and sharpness as a result.
  • Large 85.4mm diameter lens with floating system maintains peripheral brightness within images.
  • Thermally Stable Composite material and traditional metal affords this lens better precision and versatility in all sorts of temperatures.
  • The Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens Hyper Sonic AF Motor produces a smooth, fast and silent auto-focus performance. AF Motor also features a full time manual focus control allow for fine precision.

Cons

  • The Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens doesn’t have finely tuned image stabilization when compared to competitors. Chromatic abnormalities may crop up in images at certain settings.
  • The lens isn’t reinforced against the elements like competitors, so it may be tricky to use in different environments.
  • This Sigma lens is heavier and more expensive than similar lens of its class.

Why Should You Buy Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens for Canon EF?

The Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens is a great lens for certain applications, most notably art-related applications. It’s not, however, the best lens for situations where a lot of dust or moisture may be, since it’s not weatherproof. Users of full frame cameras will enjoy this lens simply because it possesses a decent aperture range that outputs very sharp images. For its price, it’s a great alternative to similar cameras of its class.

Make an offer


Product Review: Nikon D750 DSLR Camera Nikon750

Overview

Full-frame photography is now well within the reach of consumers—and the Nikon D750 DSLR camera is probably the first recommendation most people will get if they’re serious about the craft.

As a Nikon DSLR, you can expect quality right out of the box. Unlike its counterparts, this camera boasts better functionality in its internal systems, which reflects how well it outputs both photos and video. It shoots both video and images exceptionally fast and smooth without compromising image quality. Its Wi-Fi connectivity also makes it pretty accessible from most places, even if it can’t be entirely controlled with a smartphone.

Key Features: A 24.3MP CMOS sensor, plus a fast Expeed 4 processing engine. Continuously shoots at 6.5 frames per second. Outputs 1080p HD @ 60 frames per second maximum videorecording.

Features At A Glance

  • Full frame CMOS sensor @ 24.3MP + Fast Expeed 4 processor
  • Continuous shooting mode shoots 6.5 frames per second
  • 1080p HD @ 60 frames per second maximum video recording
  • Pro Video feature set – Power Aperture and Auto ISO produce smooth video transitions
  • ISO Range: Auto, 100 – 12800, expands to 50 – 51200
  • Auto-Focus Technology
  • Built-in flash
  • Dual card slots for SD/SDHC/SDXC memory
  • Wi-Fi connectivity with WT-5a + UT-1 Communication Unit

What People Like

The Nikon D750 DSLR is Wi-Fi Friendly – it features built-in Wi-Fi connectivity with a WT-5a + UT-1 Communication Unit.

The camera shoots relatively fast, outputting up to 6.5 frames per second.

The camera is built with a compact, lightweight uni-body that’s easy to hold. The LCD screen is also relatively ergonomic, featuring a tilted Vari-angle display.

Its Pro Video features allow users to shoot near professional quality video. Video can be recorded in both compressed or uncompressed file formats. Manual controls for ISO range, shutter speed and aperture makes video recording much more versatile than competitors.

Power Aperture and Auto ISO make for smoother exposure transitions for content shot by the Nikon D750 DSLR.

The Nikon D750 DSLR has a high megapixel sensor: a 24.3MP full frame sensor. As a result, the camera outputs great image and video quality. Video outputs in 1080p HD at 60 frames per second max.

What People Don’t Like

Tilting Vari-angle display doesn’t actually work as intended, according to users, and works more like screen tilting than a truly ergonomic moving screen.

The Nikon D750 DSLR’s maximum continuous shooting rate outputs only 6.5 frames per second.

The camera’s SLR viewfinder doesn’t show images as it would be captured. It also tends to ‘slightly overexpose’ images or video.

The Nikon D750 DSLR’s raw continuous shooting doesn’t last as long as expected.

Its Live View features aren’t as refined as competitors.

Smartphone controls are relatively limited, despite Wi-Fi connectivity.

Why Should You Buy Nikon D750 DSLR Camera (Body Only)?

If you’re serious about upgrading your photography game, the Nikon D750 DSLR is an excellent body to buy first.

Beginner professionals start with camera like these when they’re considering getting into the photography biz—so, if you’re in the same boat, this camera is a great choice. It’s also excellent for hobbyists who want their pictures and video to come ‘out right the first time.’

Make an offer


Canon 5d Mark IIIIf you hang out with photographers for any amount of time, you will find many have a love affair with their Canon 5D Mark III. Like a crown jewel straight from the royal house, the Canon 5D is a full frame SLR still shot camera able to shoot HDR video.

The Canon 5D Mark III is the latest in the Canon 5D line up and successor to the 5D Mark II.   The 5D Mark III has been seriously upgraded from its predecessor with dual slots for CF and SD cards, locking exposure mode dial and the ability to program a huge number of settings and functions. Other changes are the ISO 50-102,800 expansion, 6 fps (frames per second) for continuous shooting and a 61 point Auto Focus system.

Canon listened to the customers and made changes to the menu system on the Mark III. Not unlike the Mark II or other cameras in the Canon line, the Mark III menu added a tab to help manage the AF system with a variety of pre-sets. The biggest change to the menu is it is more orderly based on that consumer feedback. Items that were often used before like mirror lockup and took digging to get to have floated up to the surface making access to that function easier and natural to find.

The DIGIC 5+ processor is said to be 17 times stronger in the Mark III vs. that of the Mark II. This has made for vast improvements in shutter and viewfinder lag as well as a reduction in operating noise or shutter noise. In addition the 61 point auto system is an extremely welcomed addition.   Having a stronger processor has opened a new world of flexibility for taking pictures with more points of focus allowing for greater variety in post processing.   The reviews of the new auto focus system are great across the board for portrait and landscape photographers alike.

The dual card system allows for raw images to be stored on one card and jpeg on another, freeing up valuable space for more photos. The battery is the same as the Mark II but doesn’t have the same duration, due to the DIGIC5+ processor. Despite this the Canon 5D Mark III is easily capable of 600-700 photos per battery.

The Canon 5D Mark III is the newest in the Canon 5D line but in reality includes many features of the 7D and 1D X lines. Canon pulled out all the stops and made an excellent professional camera with improvements in menu, auto focus, processor and card storage by listening to customer feedback, making the Mark III a diamond in the crown of Canon products.

Make an offer