Post: #26

Read Ansel Adams books

Post: #27

(03-06-2018 01:42 AM)sterling_archer Wrote:  

(03-05-2018 05:30 PM)Volk Wrote:  

(03-05-2018 04:25 PM)sterling_archer Wrote:  Which would you recommend, A5000 or A5100? Regarding lens, what selection are we looking here?

Go by price, but obviously I'd go for the newer model if the cost difference is negligible.

For lenses, start with the 18-55 for E-Mount. From there it's up to what you prefer to shoot. If it's portraits pick a 50mm f1.8, if it is landscapes pick something shorter than 18mm but keep in mind those wide lenses are not usually cheap.

There's an extra advantage: you can get adapters and put all kinds of cheaper vintage objectives in front of that camera. All of them would be manual focus but the camera gives you focusing assists.

Oh, by the way, buy batteries, at least 2 or so. Mirrorless have two main disadvantages: They eat through batteries and have a bad habit of getting the sensor dirty.

A5000 is more affordable, either buying from ebay or from here in Cro, although as I said in the first post, our prices are at least hundred dollars higher.
What do you think of Canon M3?

I don't think Canon is as serious in investing in mirrorless as Sony is. M3 is a sideshow for Canon's cash cows: DSLRs and their high-end lenses. I personally would not go that route.

Post: #28

Photography has been my hidden passion for a while.

I own a Sony A7RII Full Frame Mirrorless and have a fixed 55mm FE lens. I guess I'm about $3,000 in as an investment, 35% of that being the one and only lens I own, plus a roto led travel light which does amazing lighting.

My focus is on nude portraits, bondage, gothic nurses, bokeh, and feminine women and I also only shoot at night.

You can start by taking courses on LYNDA for photography , photoshop, and lightroom, although I use capture one.

goodluck

Post: #29

(03-04-2018 09:46 AM)sterling_archer Wrote:  *snip*

I have been planning for some time to get into photography. It's a huge DHV, there are opportunities around me to make a side money from it (and probably even Game) but basically I would like to just do it. The fact that I recently finished college and will have access to better paid jobs around me makes that plan much easier to achieve. That being said, I am first looking at affordability and beginner friendliness...

*snip*

Full disclosure: I shoot this system, so I'm ever-so-slightly biased, but I strongly recommend Fuji mirrorless.

If you can afford it, definitely go for an X-T1, otherwise check out the X-T10. And get the XF 18-55 'kit' lens [not to be confused with the XC range of lenses which, whilst still very good - and cheaper - are lower quality and lack key features, such as an aperture ring].

In terms of value for money/bang for your buck, you'll be hard pressed to beat Fuji in general, and this combo in particular. Fuji glass is nothing short of superb and, while most 'kit' lenses are pretty shitty, even the XF18-55 is stellar. X-T1/X-T10 have been superseded in the product range by X-T2/X-T20, and Fuji have recently released a new 'flagship' camera [X-H1], with new 'T' models rumoured to be announced later this year, so it's a good time to be looking for used examples from the previous generation, as enthusiasts upgrade.

Single best piece of advice I can offer (whilst acknowledging that you intend to buy from eBay) is to pay a visit to a camera store or two, and actually handle the gear. Find out which feels best for you. Browse around, and pick up and play with a bunch of models, and see which fits. Point is, when taking pictures, you want the camera to get out of your way as much as possible. Tech specs, brand, sensor size - all that stuff - don't really matter if the thing is a nuisance to operate. You want something you can use fluidly. Obviously, you can learn to use anything well, but the fewer barriers to intuitive operation the better.

That's one of the things I like the most about Fuji cameras: the ergonomics. Most of the most important settings are adjusted by external, physical controls. It's old skool, and it's beautiful. No fucking about in menus - you can dial in your exposure without even having to switch on the camera. Can't tell you how good that feels - you have a real connection to the process. I bloody love it.

I'm also of the opinion that those external, physical controls are ideal for beginners. All those dials might appear intimidating at first but, so long as you have a basic grasp of what aperture/ISO/shutter speed mean, it's actually a really simple and direct way of modifying those settings. Fast, too.

As already mentioned in the thread, a great feature of mirrorless is you get to see your shot (in the EVF or on the rear screen) before you press the shutter. Makes getting the exposure/effect that you want an absolute breeze. Obviously, you can still meter in the traditional way, but you can essentially dial in the settings by what you see in the viewfinder. It's great!

The downside has also been brought up: mirrorless do have a voracious appetite for batteries. Depends on usage, of course, but I'll typically have three batteries on me for a session (one in the camera and two spares). That's often overkill, but if I'm shooting landscape I tend to compose using the rear screen, which consumes more power (plus I 'chimp' like a motherfucker) and if it turns into a long day, I will typically get through all of them.

Again, I'm heavily biased, so try out a variety of form factors for yourself. Fuji users tend to be fairly fanatical fanboys - and I'm no exception - but I contend that once you've handled the cameras, that mindset becomes easily understandable.

---

Nice to find a thread to which I might actually be able to add some value (instead of lurking most of the time), so I'd be delighted to answer any questions or help out in any way. For obvious reasons I'm not going to post identifiable/traceable stuff here, but feel free to PM, and I can share examples of work, then you can decide how much weight to give to my opinion. I'd rate myself as reasonably competent. Cheers!

Post: #30

(03-06-2018 04:04 AM)LINUX Wrote:  Photography has been my hidden passion for a while.

I own a Sony A7RII Full Frame Mirrorless and have a fixed 55mm FE lens. I guess I'm about $3,000 in as an investment, 35% of that being the one and only lens I own, plus a roto led travel light which does amazing lighting.

My focus is on nude portraits, bondage, gothic nurses, bokeh, and feminine women and I also only shoot at night.

You can start by taking courses on LYNDA for photography , photoshop, and lightroom, although I use capture one.

goodluck

Wow really? Why hidden passion if I may ask? Also, not related to equipment, how is your photography game, have you banged any of these women you shoot photos of?

Regarding Lynda, do you get for 30$ monthly access to all courses presented? Regarding equipment that is some serious camera. Makes sense if you are making good buck from photography.

Thanks.

Post: #31

@Huxley

Thanks for chiming in, I appreciate it. I am very glad that this thread delivers and I am sure it will be of help not just to me, but to the future photographers who lurk around here or may come later.

Now, regarding buying, I will definitely check out some cameras in person and even though I said I will buy from ebay, that could change if I get better access and offers in one of Croatia's shops.
On ebay Fuji X-T1 is at least 800$ which is well over my budget of 600$. X-T10 is slightly cheaper, going for about 700$ for just body. So in both cases I wouldn't afford it.

Since you are a Fuji fan, what do you think of X-A10 and X-E2? One of the stores around here offers silver and brown X-A10 with XC 16-50 II kit lens for equivalent of 720$. While being outside my budget I could pay in monthly payments (don't know english term for it). Exactly the same one with same lens is around 500$ when buying from ebay.

P.S.
I dig the Fuji retro boxy look of their cameras!

Post: #32

(03-06-2018 08:55 AM)sterling_archer Wrote:  @Huxley

Thanks for chiming in, I appreciate it. I am very glad that this thread delivers and I am sure it will be of help not just to me, but to the future photographers who lurk around here or may come later.

Now, regarding buying, I will definitely check out some cameras in person and even though I said I will buy from ebay, that could change if I get better access and offers in one of Croatia's shops.
On ebay Fuji X-T1 is at least 800$ which is well over my budget of 600$. X-T10 is slightly cheaper, going for about 700$ for just body. So in both cases I wouldn't afford it.

Since you are a Fuji fan, what do you think of X-A10 and X-E2? One of the stores around here offers silver and brown X-A10 with XC 16-50 II kit lens for equivalent of 720$. While being outside my budget I could pay in monthly payments (don't know english term for it). Exactly the same one with same lens is around 500$ when buying from ebay.

P.S.
I dig the Fuji retro boxy look of their cameras!

Most welcome, mate.

Yes, X-T1/10, brand new, are expensive, but keep an eye out for used bargains. I took a quick look on eBay UK, and you could get well kitted out for under £400 (which is about 450 Euros/USD 550). Most X-T10's I saw were significantly less than that, with most including lenses.

Anyway, regarding the X-A10 and X-E2, I haven't handled the A10, but I wouldn't have any worries about image quality - it'll definitely deliver. It does have its drawbacks, however. Not having a viewfinder, meaning you must use the rear screen under all conditions, would give me pause. No hotshoe either. I rarely use flash myself, but that's pretty limiting as well. It's a nice camera, but very basic. If you really got into your photography, you could find yourself outgrowing it quite quickly, or perhaps becoming annoyed at its limitations sooner than you'd like.

On the other hand, if you can find an X-E2 for a good price - get it! Friend of mine had (still has, I think) an X-E1, so I've actually used that one, and it's a lovely bit of kit. Far as I can tell, the E2 is a gentle, rather than radical, improvement on its predecessor. Again, really nice image quality, and the camera is well made and classy.

Didn't realise you liked the 'rangefinder-style' bodies, hence I only originally recommended the DSLR-like X-T1 and 10.

I have an X-Pro1 to complement my X-T1, and whilst, for me, the T1 has a marginal edge in ergonomics/handling (and is a bit speedier/more responsive), the X-Pro1 easily matches it in image quality. So, if the boxy retro style appeals, see if you can find an X-Pro1. Probably be difficult finding new ones these days but, again, don't overlook the used market. You can score some serious gear, representing tremendous value, there.

Also worth a look might be Fuji's official website. They often offer refurbished kit - with full warranty - at a decent price. For instance, on the UK site right now is that same X-A10 plus lens for £249. Equiv.: tree-fiddy USD/280 Euro.

---

Before anyone asks, no - I don't work for Fuji. But, with at least four, so far, personal acquiantances having bought their system on my recommendation, I should charge them a fucking commission...

Post: #33

When I checked out again, it seems that X-E2 and X-E1 are affordable only when used and just body. Also all these listings are from low repped sellers so I am not too much trustworthy. Same thing with X-T1, X-T10 and X-Pro1. That UK Fuji site has affordable X-A10 but I cannot seem to find if they are shipping outside UK and if so, how much is the shipping. I am sure Fuji is excellent brand but it is really too expensive whenever I look at them. I'll probably pass on them.

There is something about these mirrorless cameras that I find very appealing. They remind me of my old (and dad before me) Russian camera (film) that is now non functional. It was Zorki but I am not sure what model since I cannot find it anymore in the house. It looked exactly like this: https://cdn.tutsplus.com/photo/uploads/l...eras/6.jpg
So you get why I like for example silver/black combo. But that doesn't mean I wouldn't ever buy DSLR. I am weighing all options before me.

Post: #34

@Volk

I mentioned Canon EOS M3 and you said that you would not go that route. But what about M100? It is editor's pick for best camera under 500$ at DPreview.

Post: #35

(03-06-2018 12:58 PM)sterling_archer Wrote:  @Volk

I mentioned Canon EOS M3 and you said that you would not go that route. But what about M100? It is editor's pick for best camera under 500$ at DPreview.

I don't know much. The sensor looks fine but I saw a picture and I'm not sure about the ergonomics. Then again, I'm still not sold on Canon and their mirrorless line.

If I were to start and preferred a mirrorless camera, I'd go for Fuji or Sony. My dream camera is in fact a Fuji XPro2 and if money were not an issue I'd go right for that one.

Post: #36

May I ask what do you have against Canon, or to better form question, what do you not like on them?

Post: #37

(03-06-2018 02:00 PM)sterling_archer Wrote:  May I ask what do you have against Canon, or to better form question, what do you not like on them?

They've got without doubt some of the best lenses in history but I'm not sold on their sensors. They are known in photography to play safe and close to their strengths and their strength has never been mirrorless cameras. Their forte is high-end DSLR that can perform great on action and sports.

Post: #38

What Canon DSLRs would you recommend?

Post: #39

(03-06-2018 04:39 PM)sterling_archer Wrote:  What Canon DSLRs would you recommend?

T7i, 750D are the Canons my friends have used.

Post: #40

I bought all my material second hand, from a journalist and photographer who sells his camera when he buys a more recent one. I got my first (Pentax ist-D) in 2011 then I got a Pentax K-x in 2013 and finally a Pentax K-7 in 2015. I'll probably stick to Pentax if I ever buy another one, even a brand new, because it's possible to use the lenses, the remote command, filters, etc. from my previous purchases.

A beginner can buy a book like "Digital Photography for Dummies" to start. I got one with an DVD in 2011 and I learned a few useful tricks.

Also, when you are membre of a forum for photographers, even if you are a pure amateur, there are always more experienced people willing to help you.

Post: #41

I misread the title as 'Getting into pornography - how to start, what to get?'

Tbh, slightly sad we don't have a datasheet on that yet.

Post: #42

I'm not sure how I feel about cameras without EVF (electronic view finders). How do you shoot in sunny conditions? Its hard to see LCD screens at certain sun angles. I have't played around with polarized sunglasses though.

Post: #43

(03-06-2018 12:42 PM)sterling_archer Wrote:  When I checked out again, it seems that X-E2 and X-E1 are affordable only when used and just body. Also all these listings are from low repped sellers so I am not too much trustworthy. Same thing with X-T1, X-T10 and X-Pro1. That UK Fuji site has affordable X-A10 but I cannot seem to find if they are shipping outside UK and if so, how much is the shipping. I am sure Fuji is excellent brand but it is really too expensive whenever I look at them. I'll probably pass on them.

There is something about these mirrorless cameras that I find very appealing. They remind me of my old (and dad before me) Russian camera (film) that is now non functional. It was Zorki but I am not sure what model since I cannot find it anymore in the house. It looked exactly like this: https://cdn.tutsplus.com/photo/uploads/l...eras/6.jpg
So you get why I like for example silver/black combo. But that doesn't mean I wouldn't ever buy DSLR. I am weighing all options before me.

Checked, and the UK shop ships only to the UK, unfortunately. There is an EU portal and Croatia section, but I couldn't find a store. Sorry about that.

Best of luck with the research and your photographic journey - keep us updated.

Post: #44

(03-06-2018 10:18 PM)Genghis Khan Wrote:  I misread the title as 'Getting into pornography - how to start, what to get?'

Tbh, slightly sad we don't have a datasheet on that yet.

Oh God.

Post: #45

(03-06-2018 11:34 PM)kbell Wrote:  I'm not sure how I feel about cameras without EVF (electronic view finders). How do you shoot in sunny conditions? Its hard to see LCD screens at certain sun angles. I have't played around with polarized sunglasses though.

Sony's have both an EVF and an OVF. You can use both. I use the OVF for changing my ISO, aperture and Shutter speed in the sunlight but usually stick with just the EVF at night.

Post: #46

(03-06-2018 11:34 PM)kbell Wrote:  I'm not sure how I feel about cameras without EVF (electronic view finders). How do you shoot in sunny conditions? Its hard to see LCD screens at certain sun angles. I have't played around with polarized sunglasses though.

I read numerous times that entry level mirrorless suffer from these problems. I don't think that I should worry about this as a beginner though.

Post: #47

Can someone explain what is the deal with viewfinders, i.e. difference between electrical and optical? Also, for what they say something akin to "you will get what you see" and what image does LCD screen actually show?

Post: #48

(03-07-2018 02:57 AM)Huxley Badkin Wrote:  Checked, and the UK shop ships only to the UK, unfortunately. There is an EU portal and Croatia section, but I couldn't find a store. Sorry about that.

Not an issue if you use this: https://www.forward2me.com/

Costs about 40 pounds for shopping service + DHL shipping to Croatia, but is reliable and fast. I've used them to order stuff of various values and sizes 5 times so far and it's been flawless every time.

Post: #49

(03-07-2018 03:37 AM)sterling_archer Wrote:  Can someone explain what is the deal with viewfinders, i.e. difference between electrical and optical? Also, for what they say something akin to "you will get what you see" and what image does LCD screen actually show?

Kind of like the difference between watching TV and looking out the window...

An EVF (Electronic View Finder) presents, via a screen, what is essentially a live feed from the sensor. So, what the sensor sees, you see. That's why you get the WYSIWYG effect. Whatever exposure setting you have dialled into the camera will affect the image displayed, and represent the image you'd capture if you pressed the shutter. So, if under-exposed, the display would be dark, and if over-exposed, you'd see a washed-out image. Set the correct exposure, and you'll see a more accurate picture of the scene.

Though, btw, you can usually disable this 'preview' function, for instance if shooting with studio strobes.

An optical viewfinder simply transmits the light directly, same as if you were using, say, binoculars or a periscope. With some of the Fuji cameras, you'll look straight through a little window. A DSLR will bounce the light entering the lens off a mirror and through a prism to show you what you're pointing the camera at. These will usually have overlays to assist with focus and display settings and so on.

Good, detailed explanation of the Fuji system on the X-Pro1 here.

Post: #50

Thanks. What is the delay mentioned that occurs in EVFs and is it really a hassle compared to OVF?

Btw, I sent you an PM.