Post by: MLHSN on October 14, 2014, 10:34:12 AM
I was looking at this Pentax because of it's durability while hiking.
http://www.costco.com/Pentax-K-50-Weatherproof-DSLR-Camera-2-WR-Lens-Bundle.product.100071823.html (http://www.costco.com/Pentax-K-50-Weatherproof-DSLR-Camera-2-WR-Lens-Bundle.product.100071823.html)
What kind of extra weight am I looking at for basic DSLR camera gear?
Also, have any of you tried using a telephoto lense instead of a spotting scope?
Post by: boneaddict on October 14, 2014, 10:39:53 AM
You basically cant go wrong with the two flagships in the industry, Nik and Can. Anything else would be budget oriented and a risk. IMO
Post by: MLHSN on October 14, 2014, 12:45:24 PM
I was looking at the Pentax model because it's in my price range and weather proof. Do you know of a comparable Nikon or Canon? I'd kind of like it to be somewhat durable.
Post by: TheHunt on October 14, 2014, 12:49:56 PM
I also purchased a waterproof sleeve which I need on the wet side to protect the camera and lens. It is always something to buy...
Post by: boneaddict on October 14, 2014, 03:45:08 PM
Post by: boneaddict on October 14, 2014, 03:46:13 PM
Post by: MLHSN on October 14, 2014, 05:09:01 PM
I also need to start taking videos while the kids are young and I thought it could double as a camcorder since they all take video these days.
Post by: boneaddict on October 15, 2014, 12:59:21 PM
Post by: huntnphool on October 15, 2014, 01:13:37 PM
How do you carry your gear? I notice a lot of hikers wear a chest pack. I tried that for a year for odds and ends stuff but found the bouncing against my chest got annoying. I'm trying to think how to carry everything when you have a GPS, Binos, camera bag all on the chest.
I was looking at the Pentax model because it's in my price range and weather proof. Do you know of a comparable Nikon or Canon? I'd kind of like it to be somewhat durable.
Don't buy new and stick with either Canon or Nikon :twocents:
Post by: MLHSN on October 15, 2014, 06:44:47 PM
Post by: huntnphool on October 15, 2014, 06:48:48 PM
Any suggested used models of Nikon or Canon then? I was originally looking at the megapixel's and thought I could get a different brand with more megapixels cheaper but Nikon and Canon sounds like the consensus.
Dont get caught up in the "megapixel" hype, it's actually more important to have a larger/quality sensor.
I don't use Nikon so would not know a good starter model, a good Canon to start with would be a 40D, you can pick up bodies for $250-$300.
Post by: Bean Counter on October 15, 2014, 08:35:06 PM
You might consider waiting until Black Friday and what not. I bought my 6D last fall around that time and the camera still costs more if you buy it today even though digital cams tend to have 3-5 year product life cycles anymore.
Put your neck strap in the fireplace and don't think twice. I use a wrist strap when carrying my camera. If you're going to be humping mountains with trekking poles you should probably consider backpacking it and maybe using a sling.
Post by: Bean Counter on October 15, 2014, 08:41:44 PM
Any suggested used models of Nikon or Canon then? I was originally looking at the megapixel's and thought I could get a different brand with more megapixels cheaper but Nikon and Canon sounds like the consensus.
My 6D is a 20MP camera and gives me 25-26MB raw files. Good way to fill up a hard drive in a hurry. I wish it were just a 12 megapixel. Anything beyond 8-10MP is for show and marketing unless you're shooting aerial surveillance and need to stand 12 inches from a large print.
I love my cameras performance because of the full frame sensor. Full frame sensor means larger photo sites which means more light collection and less noise in images. Sometimes I shoot at ISO 12,800-16,000 and the results are amazingly good.
Post by: Payne on October 15, 2014, 10:31:34 PM
Between a camera purchase and lenses. I would spend more of or your money on a great lens.
Post by: MLHSN on October 16, 2014, 10:44:20 AM
I haven't really done any research on the sensors. I'll have to take a closer look on those.
Any expanded advice on the displays? Someone mentioned not wanting an LCD screen versus a "full" screen. What was meant by this?
Post by: Holg3107 on October 16, 2014, 10:58:53 AM
http://www.huntfishnw.com/index.php?topic=908.0 (http://www.huntfishnw.com/index.php?topic=908.0)
Post by: KFhunter on October 16, 2014, 01:59:59 PM
Thanks for that link, I bookmarked it :tup:
Post by: MLHSN on October 16, 2014, 06:08:50 PM
Post by: timberghost72 on October 16, 2014, 09:08:39 PM
Post by: huntnphool on October 16, 2014, 09:26:57 PM
Bean Counter mentioned some great sites to visit on the web, POTN and DPreview. Some other ones I like also are fredmiranda.com and bobatkins.com. These should give you lots of info in your decision along with all the great advise from the guys here. I shoot 99.9% of the time using the view finder and not the LCD screen but one thing to consider depending on what you like to photograph or future interests is an articulating LCD screen. I have a 60D which is a decent body but when I was shopping around I saw that it had an articulating screen and thought to myself I'd never use it. But since photographing more I found a few times to where I could not get into a postion to use the viewfinder or straight on the LCD view and that articulating LCD screen came in real handy. Just something to think about. It also protects the screen when turned in and hanging around your neck. I like my 60D alot and it takes great photos but one aspect I'm finding is action shots are not very good and I can't seem to get very good shots. It could just be the user (me) but I feel the autofocus speed is lacking a little. The only time I shoot action really is just of my daughter playing or in dance and gymnastics. Good luck with the ton of info to research. :twocents:
What lens are you using for those action shots?
Post by: biggfish on October 16, 2014, 09:56:31 PM
Post by: timberghost72 on October 16, 2014, 10:08:27 PM
Bean Counter mentioned some great sites to visit on the web, POTN and DPreview. Some other ones I like also are fredmiranda.com and bobatkins.com. These should give you lots of info in your decision along with all the great advise from the guys here. I shoot 99.9% of the time using the view finder and not the LCD screen but one thing to consider depending on what you like to photograph or future interests is an articulating LCD screen. I have a 60D which is a decent body but when I was shopping around I saw that it had an articulating screen and thought to myself I'd never use it. But since photographing more I found a few times to where I could not get into a postion to use the viewfinder or straight on the LCD view and that articulating LCD screen came in real handy. Just something to think about. It also protects the screen when turned in and hanging around your neck. I like my 60D alot and it takes great photos but one aspect I'm finding is action shots are not very good and I can't seem to get very good shots. It could just be the user (me) but I feel the autofocus speed is lacking a little. The only time I shoot action really is just of my daughter playing or in dance and gymnastics. Good luck with the ton of info to research. :twocents:
What lens are you using for those action shots?
I only have 2 lenses right now. 17-55 f2.8 IS and 70-200L f4 IS. For the most part I use the 70-200 but thinking back it's probably 50/50 on which one I use. It seems like I have the most problems with action shots of people. Cars, bikes, and various other action type shots are pretty good but people I just can't seem to get right. I don't shoot too much of these so more practice is definitly needed.
Post by: huntnphool on October 17, 2014, 12:08:16 AM
Bean Counter mentioned some great sites to visit on the web, POTN and DPreview. Some other ones I like also are fredmiranda.com and bobatkins.com. These should give you lots of info in your decision along with all the great advise from the guys here. I shoot 99.9% of the time using the view finder and not the LCD screen but one thing to consider depending on what you like to photograph or future interests is an articulating LCD screen. I have a 60D which is a decent body but when I was shopping around I saw that it had an articulating screen and thought to myself I'd never use it. But since photographing more I found a few times to where I could not get into a postion to use the viewfinder or straight on the LCD view and that articulating LCD screen came in real handy. Just something to think about. It also protects the screen when turned in and hanging around your neck. I like my 60D alot and it takes great photos but one aspect I'm finding is action shots are not very good and I can't seem to get very good shots. It could just be the user (me) but I feel the autofocus speed is lacking a little. The only time I shoot action really is just of my daughter playing or in dance and gymnastics. Good luck with the ton of info to research. :twocents:
What lens are you using for those action shots?
I only have 2 lenses right now. 17-55 f2.8 IS and 70-200L f4 IS. For the most part I use the 70-200 but thinking back it's probably 50/50 on which one I use. It seems like I have the most problems with action shots of people. Cars, bikes, and various other action type shots are pretty good but people I just can't seem to get right. I don't shoot too much of these so more practice is definitly needed.
Are you shooting manual or auto modes?
Not trying to derail the thread, I'm sure the OP is taking notes on all the info.
Post by: Bean Counter on October 17, 2014, 06:40:41 AM
What do you guys think of "mirrorless" cameras like the Canon EOS M?
Mirrorless cameras are nice and compact, but can't match a DSLR for speed and versatility. I also happen to like how a DSLR feels in my hand. When a camera is too small it's tough to navigate the controls quickly.
Post by: timberghost72 on October 17, 2014, 08:14:10 AM
Bean Counter mentioned some great sites to visit on the web, POTN and DPreview. Some other ones I like also are fredmiranda.com and bobatkins.com. These should give you lots of info in your decision along with all the great advise from the guys here. I shoot 99.9% of the time using the view finder and not the LCD screen but one thing to consider depending on what you like to photograph or future interests is an articulating LCD screen. I have a 60D which is a decent body but when I was shopping around I saw that it had an articulating screen and thought to myself I'd never use it. But since photographing more I found a few times to where I could not get into a postion to use the viewfinder or straight on the LCD view and that articulating LCD screen came in real handy. Just something to think about. It also protects the screen when turned in and hanging around your neck. I like my 60D alot and it takes great photos but one aspect I'm finding is action shots are not very good and I can't seem to get very good shots. It could just be the user (me) but I feel the autofocus speed is lacking a little. The only time I shoot action really is just of my daughter playing or in dance and gymnastics. Good luck with the ton of info to research. :twocents:
What lens are you using for those action shots?
I only have 2 lenses right now. 17-55 f2.8 IS and 70-200L f4 IS. For the most part I use the 70-200 but thinking back it's probably 50/50 on which one I use. It seems like I have the most problems with action shots of people. Cars, bikes, and various other action type shots are pretty good but people I just can't seem to get right. I don't shoot too much of these so more practice is definitly needed.
Are you shooting manual or auto modes?
Not trying to derail the thread, I'm sure the OP is taking notes on all the info.
I shoot 80% Av, 20% full manual and with sports Tv or Av and I adjust for shutter speed. I shoot 100 ISO almost exclusively (sometimes 200) and us tripod unless there is lots of light to hand hold. but for sports at least 800 ISO. I never use auto unless I want a test shot.
Post by: Don Fischer on October 17, 2014, 12:59:41 PM
I don't care for the lens that it come's with, the Pentax. The 55-200 just a bit short for me. I'd rather an after market 70-300 in place of the 55-200.
Post by: Don Fischer on October 17, 2014, 01:25:43 PM
Post by: Netminder01 on October 27, 2014, 03:48:54 PM
Post by: Wazukie on October 27, 2014, 07:04:22 PM
Post by: MLHSN on October 28, 2014, 06:51:56 AM
What are some of the reasonably priced, decent quality brands I should look at for lenses of different mounts? Someone mentioned Sigma and Tamron being ok brands. Any other suggestions?
Post by: Wazukie on October 28, 2014, 08:15:50 AM
Always remember when shooting wildlife, that the key is being able to get close to the wildlife. A 500mm 0r even a 1000mm lens would be nice, but you still need to get as close as possible. I was amazed at how far away a bull elk looks through a 500mm lens when that bull is 300 yards away.
have fun.
Post by: Bean Counter on October 28, 2014, 08:55:21 AM
F/1.4.
If you're a decent hunter who has been doing it for a while , you've likely learned the adage that you get what you pay for with your optics. Should lenses be any different? I have a couple of $1,000 canon lenses and yes in one sense that's a lot of money, but honestly when you compare high end binoculars to mid range camera lenses you can see the bargain you get with lenses.
If $1,000 for a telephoto lens with weather sealing and image stabilization makes you want to heave, just consider what expensive glass is really like. Here's a Leica for $10,000 that is fixed focal length and doesn't have Image stabilization--and doesn't even auto focus! http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/586190-REG/Leica_11_602_50mm_f_0_95_Noctilux_M_Aspherical.html (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/586190-REG/Leica_11_602_50mm_f_0_95_Noctilux_M_Aspherical.html)
Post by: huntnphool on October 28, 2014, 09:07:05 AM
Post by: Wazukie on October 28, 2014, 09:19:30 AM
Agree, stick with glass that is the same brand as the camera you choose.
That's the glory of going Nikon, the ability of using the older, yet quality f/mount fixed focal length lens. $1,000 is pretty cheap for a lens. Find what is right for you, not what is right for someone else. It's like choosing a guitar, what works for someone else, probably won't work for you. Just like a pair of good jeans, Joe's pants probably ain't goin to fit ya. Decide what brand and body you want, rent some lenses for a weekend, go shoot and see if it works for you. If you like the lens you rented, go buy it.
Post by: Alchase on October 28, 2014, 11:54:23 AM
http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/ISO-12233-Sample-Crops.aspx?Lens=787&Camera=453&Sample=0&FLI=4&API=0&LensComp=833&CameraComp=453&SampleComp=0&FLIComp=0&APIComp=0 (http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/ISO-12233-Sample-Crops.aspx?Lens=787&Camera=453&Sample=0&FLI=4&API=0&LensComp=833&CameraComp=453&SampleComp=0&FLIComp=0&APIComp=0)
Post by: Bean Counter on October 28, 2014, 12:59:39 PM
Post by: Don Fischer on October 28, 2014, 04:32:22 PM
I've heard nothing but good about Pentax and would consider it for its reputation for durability and weather proofing if you're considering serious outdoor work. Hit up some of the forums on Photography on the Net or DPreview with questions.
You might consider waiting until Black Friday and what not. I bought my 6D last fall around that time and the camera still costs more if you buy it today even though digital cams tend to have 3-5 year product life cycles anymore.
Put your neck strap in the fireplace and don't think twice. I use a wrist strap when carrying my camera. If you're going to be humping mountains with trekking poles you should probably consider backpacking it and maybe using a sling.
At trials I carry a camera around a lot. The strap that come's with them works, can't say one other thing about it. Recently I saw a Nikon shoulder harness for binoculars. I got one and tries it. Super but I could do without the bouncing with the elastic. Going to get another one of these days and put new straps on with nylon strapping. Oh yes, I also put split rings on the camera where the strap attaches. asy on and easy off. Camera hangs in front just above my belt line.
Post by: MLHSN on October 29, 2014, 12:15:17 PM
Post by: MLHSN on October 29, 2014, 01:16:30 PM