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Author Topic: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???  (Read 4854 times)

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WFP

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[Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« on: May 20, 2009, 08:58:25 AM »

OK, now that we have a trailer, and the additional room that comes with it, we can upgrade to a DSLR.  Looking for advice and comments.  At the moment, I have two on my list for consideration:

Nikon D90
Canon EOS Rebel T1i

My old "wet" camera was a Canon A-1 that I got back in college, 25 years ago and loved it and still have it....gathering dust with a slew of accessories.  Lately, been using the Canon SD850IS and it has been very reliable.  Our old Sony DSC P200 was not so reliable...nor was the second one...so we went with the Canon.

Things that matter to me:
Reliability
Media compatibility, SDHC is used in the SD850 and the Zumo...want to continue that path.
More fast action from the back of the bike (sports-like) than portrait quality.

/Bill
« Last Edit: May 20, 2009, 10:24:07 AM by WFP »
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #1 on: May 20, 2009, 10:32:50 AM »

I have a Canon 40D and love it.  It can use most of the older Canon lenses and the pics are tack sharp.  At 6.5 frames per sec. you can really shoot some cool action pics.  I am just learning how to shoot in manual and really like what the camera has to offer.  It is a bit bulky but that is the sacrifice to pay for a sharper shooting camera as well as the ability to change out the lenses.  I can't nock the Nikon's because I have several friends how have them and love them and they take great pics too.

A great place to check out cameras is B&H photo.

Not sure if this helps but when you are spending this kind of money I understand getting all the info you can.

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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #2 on: May 20, 2009, 11:57:13 AM »

I dunno, but for riding with my very limited storage, I use a Sony W300, which is about the size of a deck of cards. It takes pretty good pics, everything from close up portraits to nice landscapes, and fits in my shirt pocket with room to spare.

Certainly wouldn't do professional level stuff or real distant zooms, but I used to have a mid-sized camera and just got tired of lugging the thing around.
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #3 on: May 20, 2009, 02:47:49 PM »

Bill when V was out here in Cali for the Ride Like a Pro I got a chance to see and use her Nikon D-60.  She also told me about a great price that Costco has on the D-60 that also included two different lenses and the bag for less than she paid for the camera.

Check out the Nikon D-60.  It's the smallest DSLR and does a great job with a lot of features.  It shoots up to 3 frames per second.  http://www.nikonusa.com/Find-Your-Nikon/Product/Digital-SLR/25438/D60.html

Here's a link to the package I got but if you buy it at the store it comes with a camera bag with a bunch of extra compartments......  http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11379867&search=Nikon D60&Mo=1&cm_re=1_en-_-Top_Left_Nav-_-Top_search&lang=en-US&Nr=P_CatalogName:BC&Sp=S&N=5000043&whse=BC&Dx=mode+matchallpartial&Ntk=Text_Search&Dr=P_CatalogName:BC&Ne=4000000&D=Nikon D60&Ntt=Nikon D60&No=1&Ntx=mode+matchallpartial&Nty=1&topnav=&s=1
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #4 on: May 20, 2009, 03:11:45 PM »

Canon Rebel Xsi - 18-55mm + 55-250mm IS lenses.

I shoot all my website photos with it!!

Read lots of reviews b4 taking the plunge...
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #5 on: May 20, 2009, 04:52:50 PM »

Bill, keep something in mind when considering any "package" deals on cameras.  Seemingly great prices for combination packages usually aren't that great.  Eveyone pays attention to the spec's of the camera body and studies almost not at all the spec's of the glass in the bundle.

A great camera body with poor or average glass will get you average imagery.  A decent body with good (or better) glass will get you good images.  Good lenses are analagous to good speakers.  Good radio + cheap speakers = cheap sound.  Average stereo + good speakers gets you pretty good sound.  Same with lenses and camera bodies so long as the bodies are even average (by contemporary standards) or better.
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #6 on: May 20, 2009, 05:11:51 PM »

Thanks all, really appreciate it and keep 'em coming.

Don, I already am experiencing scope creep....If I go with the Canon, I have already told Anne the price of the 28-300 Zoom lens...OUCH!  But, you know me well enough to know I want it.  For Anne on the back, the stock 18-55 will be fine.

/Bill

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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #7 on: May 20, 2009, 05:54:18 PM »

WFP,

    Also remember that if you go to or use a camera store.  If you buy in a kit you still can trade up lenses.

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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #8 on: May 20, 2009, 05:58:56 PM »

Nikon D300... :2vrolijk_21:

And Twolane gives great advice about lenses!    :2vrolijk_21:
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #9 on: May 20, 2009, 06:57:37 PM »

Thanks all, really appreciate it and keep 'em coming.

Don, I already am experiencing scope creep....If I go with the Canon, I have already told Anne the price of the 28-300 Zoom lens...OUCH!  But, you know me well enough to know I want it.  For Anne on the back, the stock 18-55 will be fine.

/Bill



We share that pain.  I often ride with one of the SLR or DSLRs slung.  But the really good or specialty glass doesn't ride that way.  Too easy to bonk something.  So a nice (but not major-babe-equivalent) lens is all that goes riding.  Average to good bodies can be had for less than good glass.  Camera gear is almost as much of a $sinkhole$ plaything as bikes :huepfenlol2: .
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #10 on: May 20, 2009, 08:38:43 PM »

I have the D90 and love it. You’ll have no problems taking photos from the back seat. It even has a program mode that works great for that.
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #11 on: May 22, 2009, 01:41:34 PM »

Bill...the D90 just came out and uses the same CMOS type sensor as the D300, plus it has a video mode that actually works fairly well.  I had a D200 and recently moved to a D300 for the better sensor type.  I tend to stay with the "pro" type bodies because they are more weather resistant, dust proof, built of magnesium alloy, etc, etc.  The D90 is a great camera from all reviews I've been reading.  And, their "kit" lenses are actually pretty good glass, though not in a "pro" shell.  Nikon's 18-55 and 55-200 are tack sharp and not expensive.  Another alternative lens that kind of does it all is the Nikon 18-200 DX with Vibration reduction....the VR even has an "active" mode which is meant to be used in a car or vehicle.  It's practically the only lens you'd ever need, no matter what.  Add the new Nikon 10-24 DX and you've got everything in the world covered, but you'll have $1600 invested in lenses with those two.  If you want to shoot low light action shots, you're going to have to pay some bucks to move to something like a 70-200 2.8 DX VR...fantastic lens, but it's about $1800.  The 18-200 goes for about $700.  The other kit lenses I mentioned are the least expensive option, and they have some sharp glass in them, with excellent reviews by people who do this stuff for a living.

Also, Nikon has just released a D5000....you might want to check that one out as well...it'll be less expensive than the D90.  Nothing against Canon at all, but I'm Nikon all the way.  One reason for that is lenses they made back in the 60's will still work (though you lose some functions), but they will still mount and meter.  Whatever you get, make sure the lens has Vibration Reduction (Nikon) or Image Stabilization (Canon) as it will allow you to get shots handheld that you normally would not be able to get without significant blur.  The D90 has a FAST autofocus, so that's not going to be a problem.  Like Don said, you can sink some serious money in this stuff, so think it through and choose what you think will cover the situations you find yourself in.

If you want a high end Point and Shoot type camera, take a look at the Canon G10...it has a lot of the functions of a DSLR and an equivalent lens of 28-140.  It's built like a tank as well, and has control knobs instead of digging through menus to get where you want to be.

For some good advice, check out www.kenrockwell.com  He has a layman's writing style in reviewing equipment.

Check out my two websites for some images I've taken through the years with Nikon gear, and I'm just getting started with posting galleries.

www.terrycrainphotography.com
www.terrycrain.imagekind.com

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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #12 on: May 25, 2009, 12:42:02 PM »

Thanks a bunch for your comments Terry.  I've visited your website and can see that you know from where you speak......very nice photography!

I've heard the comments about the Nikon (all the Nikon lenses over the years work with this body) from a professional photographer when we were in Reno a few weeks ago.  Although I'm far from being a professional, I continue to learn things about this camera almost daily.  Some of the things I'm learning is quite by accident (how'd I do that?)......just playing with it.  

I'm also very impressed with the battery life of this camera.  It's one of the features that Nikon promotes.  I charged the battery before we left home five days ago.  I  accidentally left the charger plugged in at home but I can't tell you how many photos we've taken, edited, deleated and downloaded what is left.  I'm very impressed with the battery life!

The kit that I got has a couple of the lenses that you mention.  All in all, from your persepctive, looks like I got a pretty good bang for the buck.  At my age, I can't imagine photos being any sharper than they are  (eyes just aren't what they used to be).......unless you're going to blow them up to life size or try to compete with the hubble telescope. :nixweiss:

Again, thanks a bunch for your comments! :2vrolijk_21:

Bill, let us know what you end up with. :nixweiss:
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #13 on: May 25, 2009, 01:39:43 PM »

JC...you are exactly correct.  The newer Nikons like the D90 have a tremendously long battery life compared to just 2 or 3 years ago.  Canon is the same.  Most "pros" pick a brand and stick with it forever.  My personal preference is Nikon, but I think Canon has the edge in point and shoots.  And even if you just take medium to large jpeg photos, you can do prints up to A3 (13x19) with excellent results.  Bump it to large jpegs or RAW captures and you can do 23x32 or even 32x48, but you'll need a couple of 8GB cards to get 600 photos in RAW format.  In large jpeg, the 8GB card will hold hundreds of photos.  Cards are cheap right now, so get the fastest ones...the write speed is so fast the average person will never even notice any lag time, even in RAW.  And get good cards, like Lexar or SanDisc which will hold up over time and not corrupt your images.  Always format the cards after downloading the photos....every time.  This will ensure the cards stay "clean" and never corrupt the new data captured.  It's just a good housekeeping habit to get into.  And ALWAYS purchase the camera brand batteries, NEVER off brand or cheaper imitations.  The name brands are built tougher....these things can explode in the charger, and some of the off brands have been known to do so, so pay the few extra bucks for the good ones.  There are some nasty chemicals in these batteries, and you don't want to be exposed to them.

The consumer lenses, in most cases, are really very good now...it's just the guys that use the lenses every day, in harsh conditions, that really need the "pro" lenses.

You certainly have some great things to take photos of out in your part of the world, so have fun!  We'll make it out there one of these days!
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #14 on: May 25, 2009, 02:44:31 PM »

I have the D90 (got it for Christmas) and got the Costco package (D90, 18-55mm and 55-200mm kit lenses, and bag).  The battery life is phenominal on this camera!!  We took it on our latest trip for 10 days and I didn't have to charge it once, took abot 400-500 pictures, and still had over half the battery life left.  I run the camera in fine JPEG (10 megapixels) mode and will get about 2.5k pictures on a 16gb SDHC card.  The D90, if you put it in full auto, is virtually a point and shoot camera.  Autofocus is extremely fast and quiet, and the VR (vibration reduction) feature will let you take about two additional "f stops" in low light conditions without a tripod.  This is probably one of the most versatile cameras I've ever owned.  It's gives me all the creativeness that my old 35mm cameras did, but with the modern convenience of being able to review and reshoot pictures as necessary and take as many as you want without worrying about how many pictures you're paying for in development costs that you really don't want.  By knowing that I've got 2.5k worth of pictures on an empty card, I'm not concerned with how perfect the shot has to be...I'll take as many shots of a subject I feel necessary and one of the resultant pictures will usually be what I want.  I'm seriously considering getting the Nikkor 70-300mm VR zoom (About $600) or the Tamron 18-280mm VC zoom (About $625).  I've taken some pictures with the Tamron, and was very impressed with the quality of the pictures.  The thing I like about theTamron, is if your restricted for space, the Tamron can be the one, and possibly only lens you would need to have.  I haven't decided yet, but I'm leaning heavily towards the Tamron.  (Plus the Tamron is made in Japan where the Nikkor kit lenses are made in China now. :( )  You can't go wrong with the D90 or possibly look into the new D5000 (kind of a "tweener" of the D90 and the D60).  I've got nothing against Cannon, they make great cameras, but like Terry, I'm a Nikon fan.

   :devil:
« Last Edit: May 25, 2009, 02:46:43 PM by RedDevil »
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #15 on: May 25, 2009, 02:56:40 PM »


I'm seriously considering getting the Nikkor 70-300mm VR zoom (About $600) or the Tamron 18-280mm VC zoom (About $625).  I've taken some pictures with the Tamron, and was very impressed with the quality of the pictures.  The thing I like about theTamron, is if your restricted for space, the Tamron can be the one, and possibly only lens you would need to have.  I haven't decided yet, but I'm leaning heavily towards the Tamron.


When I started my kid sister down the DSLR path a few years ago got her started with Nikon (though I'm sure it was only then an entry level price consideration and had nothing to do with her not then being able to raid my good lenses ::) ).  Last Christmas she was wanting a lens that would "do just about everything" and she'd need to go about anywhere in as limited a space as possible.  Looked over a few and got her the Tamron.  She loves it.  No complaints at all.  I've only used it a couple of times so can't say a lot personally.  But those limited impressions seemed good too.
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #16 on: May 25, 2009, 03:17:30 PM »

I have the D90 (got it for Christmas) and got the Costco package (D90, 18-55mm and 55-200mm kit lenses, and bag).     :devil:


How much Charlie?

 :nixweiss: :nixweiss: :nixweiss:

  SBB
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #17 on: May 25, 2009, 06:11:08 PM »


How much Charlie?

 :nixweiss: :nixweiss: :nixweiss:

  SBB

With tax, it came to just a touch over $1300.  I thought it was a very good deal.

  :devil:
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #18 on: May 25, 2009, 06:12:47 PM »

With tax, it came to just a touch over $1300.  I thought it was a very good deal.

  :devil:


Thank you sir!

   SBB

    :2vrolijk_21:
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #19 on: May 25, 2009, 06:22:01 PM »

When I started my kid sister down the DSLR path a few years ago got her started with Nikon (though I'm sure it was only then an entry level price consideration and had nothing to do with her not then being able to raid my good lenses ::) ).  Last Christmas she was wanting a lens that would "do just about everything" and she'd need to go about anywhere in as limited a space as possible.  Looked over a few and got her the Tamron.  She loves it.  No complaints at all.  I've only used it a couple of times so can't say a lot personally.  But those limited impressions seemed good too.
the Tamron impressed me.  Very solidly built lens and has low dispersion glass.  Seem to have excellent edge-to-edge quality from about 35mm up to 250 mm, with very slight edge distortion at 18-35 and 250-280mm.  Not very noticeable at all, unless you were really looking for it.  I liked the lens, just need to save up the sheckles to get one.

   :devil:
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #20 on: May 25, 2009, 07:19:00 PM »

the Tamron impressed me.  Very solidly built lens and has low dispersion glass.  Seem to have excellent edge-to-edge quality from about 35mm up to 250 mm, with very slight edge distortion at 18-35 and 250-280mm.  Not very noticeable at all, unless you were really looking for it.  I liked the lens, just need to save up the sheckles to get one.

   :devil:

She's had no complaints at all about it Charlie.  And it's physically small too.  Shorter than some competitors when stored.  A nice one-size-fits-all piece for a day-to-tay walking around lens :2vrolijk_21: .
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #21 on: May 25, 2009, 07:52:35 PM »

That's one of the reasons I'm considering it.  This makes a good all-around shooting lens, giving a 15x magnification factor and very good to excellent pictures.  Knocks down carrying two or three lenses all over the place.

   :devil:
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #22 on: May 25, 2009, 07:57:35 PM »

That's one of the reasons I'm considering it.  This makes a good all-around shooting lens, giving a 15x magnification factor and very good to excellent pictures.  Knocks down carrying two or three lenses all over the place.

   :devil:

They offer a similar piece with a Canon mount.  I keep thinking very strongly about getting one for the day-to-day stuff to use on the day-to-day D40.  Might even play with it on the 5D-MII to see it can keep up with that body when needed for things special or with a higher degree of difficulty.
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #23 on: May 25, 2009, 08:02:13 PM »

They offer a similar piece with a Canon mount.  I keep thinking very strongly about getting one for the day-to-day stuff to use on the day-to-day D40.  Might even play with it on the 5D-MII to see it can keep up with that body when needed for things special or with a higher degree of difficulty.
I've read reviews online about it, and it's gotten good reviews and relatively high praise for a "lower priced" lens.  I think the versatility of one lens being able to do what it does is it's greatest selling point.  The only really negative thing I've heard about it is that if you carry the camera where the lens is vertical, make sure you put the zoom lock on, or "park" the lens at 18mm, otherwise its own weight will cause the lens to extend out to it's maximum.  Minor glitch for such a versatile lens I think.

   :devil:
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #24 on: May 25, 2009, 08:03:31 PM »

I've been reading the reviews on the Tamron and overall, it reads very good.  I am concerned about speed of auto focus.

Still looking and evaluating.  Canon has a leg up but nikon's rep is top notch also.

/Bill
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #25 on: May 25, 2009, 08:07:10 PM »

Bill,
I don't think you could go wrong with either brand to be honest.  I looked at the Cannon and the Nikon, compared the two and the Nikon edged out because of the HD video over the Cannon and the fact that I'm somewhat biased towards Nikon.   ::)

   :devil:
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #26 on: May 25, 2009, 09:29:29 PM »

I've read reviews online about it, and it's gotten good reviews and relatively high praise for a "lower priced" lens.  I think the versatility of one lens being able to do what it does is it's greatest selling point.  The only really negative thing I've heard about it is that if you carry the camera where the lens is vertical, make sure you put the zoom lock on, or "park" the lens at 18mm, otherwise its own weight will cause the lens to extend out to it's maximum.  Minor glitch for such a versatile lens I think.

   :devil:

That's true.  It will do that.  Both in its current trim and in the last model of the same lens that has been superceded by the version more intended for use with digital cameras.  My sis's new one does on her Nikon.  I do have the older version of the same lens that I picked up for less than a hundred bucks on eBay a couple of years ago.  Often use it with the 35mm SLR when just out farting around.  It does the same thing.  The lens gets an erection if you let it hang down.
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #27 on: June 10, 2009, 11:37:07 AM »

OK, now leaning towards the D90 after handling both it and the Canon for more than 30 seconds....

Looking at the Nikon 18-200 3.5-5.6 VR lens for back of bike use.

/Bill
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #28 on: June 10, 2009, 09:20:57 PM »

OK, now leaning towards the D90 after handling both it and the Canon for more than 30 seconds....

Looking at the Nikon 18-200 3.5-5.6 VR lens for back of bike use.

/Bill

TC is the guru to speak to Nikon glass.  Hopefully Toby hasn't pecked through his skull and he'll be able to login and give some good advice.



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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #29 on: June 10, 2009, 09:42:23 PM »

TC is the guru to speak to Nikon glass.  Hopefully Toby hasn't pecked through his skull and he'll be able to login and give some good advice.



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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #30 on: June 11, 2009, 01:11:38 PM »

Bill....you will not be disappointed with the D90.  It has many of the functions of Nikon's "pro" model D300, and since it is a newer release, has a few extras like video capability.  The image sensor is virtually identical to the pro model, and may be just a bit better regarding processing the image, depending on what file type you choose to shoot.  Memory cards are cheap right now, and many have nice rebates, so I would recommend getting a couple of 8GB, high speed cards made by either Lexar or SanDisc.  The higher speed cards allow the camera to write data faster so there is no lag time when shooting multiple shots in sequence.  There are cheaper cards out there, but IMO those two brands are the best and most reliable.  With the two 8GB cards, you will be able to get over 600 images, even if you shoot them in RAW (largest) format.  If you shoot in Jpeg large, you'll be able to get well over 1,000 images on the two cards.  On the back of the bike, Jpegs will do 90% of the time.  For scenic shots, the RAW format will record more detail in the highlights and shadows.  The D90 is capable of many things, so there will be a learning curve involved to utilize all the functions, but you can also just pick it up and shoot with it if that's what you want to do.  It doesn't HAVE to be complicated, but I would recommend playing with the camera and figuring out what kind of settings you like and set them up in the "my menu" so they are easily accessible without digging through layers of menus to get where you want to be.  The D90 has an outstanding LCD and it can also be used in "live view", like a point and shoot without a viewfinder.
Regarding the Nikon 18-200 VRII...it is a great all purpose lens, and IMO, superior to third party lenses in it's class.  You will likely use the lens more in the 18-135 range, which is where it is at it's best.  At 200, it's just a little soft, but nobody but an expert would be able to tell the difference in anything other than a very large print (larger than 13x19).  The VR will allow you to get shots that you normally would not be able to get with a non VR lens.  It is also a very fast autofocusing lens because it is an AF-S lens.  You will be happy with it...Nikon has sold nearly 1 million of these lenses, so they must have done something right. I am a firm believer in putting a protective filter on all my lenses, but please do not cut corners on this item.  I personally use B+W skylight or clear filters with their MRC coating which ensures that the filter will not degrade the image quality you are paying for with the Nikon lens.  Hoya is also a good brand.  I'm not a big fan of Tiffen.  You'll pay from 70-100 bucks for a good filter.  A polarizer would be a good thing to have as well, for use off the bike....again, don't scrimp on that glass either.  I get almost everything from B&H Photo in New York...they are reputable and have good prices.  Good luck, and enjoy your new camera!
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #31 on: June 11, 2009, 02:02:31 PM »

Thanks Terry!

Appreciate the filter guidance...need to add that to the list!

I should have a new camera next week.

/Bill
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #32 on: June 14, 2009, 06:32:40 PM »

Camera arrived Friday!

Took a ride with Anne on the back taking some pics on Saturday...a couple of observations:

1.  Had trouble auto-focusing when moving...changing to action mode on the lens seemed to help
2.  Anne is worried about losing lens cap...will buy a couple of spares
3.  Anne found it a little heavy, but she said she would get used to it
4.  the lens hood hurts when it pokes you in the shoulder at unexpected stops


That said, I really love the camera...handles well when off the bike.  Pretty easy to set many of the major features that I want as defaults.  I splurged and also bought the SB900 flash.  I have a Lumedyne recycler for my Canon's Vivitar flash...I wonder if there is a cable for my new one? I also grabbed a few extra memory cards, batteries as well as a few other extras...but now feel I NEEEEEEED the GPS option!

I have had a Cullman tripod for many years and decided to try their Magic two tripod that stores nice and flat.

I am worried that I will miss a faster lens when indoors.  On my A1, I had the 50mm f1.4.  That said, the flash should take care of that concern.  Even the built-in one works well.

Later, Bill
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #33 on: June 14, 2009, 08:39:28 PM »

Camera arrived Friday!

Took a ride with Anne on the back taking some pics on Saturday...a couple of observations:

1.  Had trouble auto-focusing when moving...changing to action mode on the lens seemed to help
2.  Anne is worried about losing lens cap...will buy a couple of spares
3.  Anne found it a little heavy, but she said she would get used to it
4.  the lens hood hurts when it pokes you in the shoulder at unexpected stops


That said, I really love the camera...handles well when off the bike.  Pretty easy to set many of the major features that I want as defaults.  I splurged and also bought the SB900 flash.  I have a Lumedyne recycler for my Canon's Vivitar flash...I wonder if there is a cable for my new one? I also grabbed a few extra memory cards, batteries as well as a few other extras...but now feel I NEEEEEEED the GPS option!

I have had a Cullman tripod for many years and decided to try their Magic two tripod that stores nice and flat.

I am worried that I will miss a faster lens when indoors.  On my A1, I had the 50mm f1.4.  That said, the flash should take care of that concern.  Even the built-in one works well.

Later, Bill

Hey with all this discussion...Let's see some pictures?

 :2vrolijk_21:
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #34 on: June 14, 2009, 08:55:05 PM »

Had to reduce size so really wont help much
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #35 on: June 14, 2009, 08:57:01 PM »

same caveat
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #36 on: June 14, 2009, 10:57:44 PM »

It would appear that you are off to a good start...Enjoy the view...
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #37 on: June 15, 2009, 03:32:25 PM »

Glad you're liking the new camera, Bill.  On the autofocus issue, you might also try playing with the autofocus configuration switch, giving the camera fewer options to focus on.  The action mode is for riding in a car or on a bike, so that should help as well.

Nikon makes a couple of nice 50mm lenses in either 1.4 or 1.8...both are excellent and not all that expensive for Nikon glass.

The SB900 is an awesome flash unit, plus you can use the on board flash as a commander and the SB900 as a wireless slave, with all controls in camera operating everything in iTTL.  If you really want to get creative with flash, get an SB600 (cheaper), as a yet another light source which will also operate wirelessly.

A couple of other things you might want to take a look at:  http://www.upstrap-pro.com/   Very grippy shoulder strap...it will NOT slip off your shoulder when walking around with the camera...get the quick detach model for when you don't want the stap on there.  Also:  http://www.ultimatebouncecard.com/   I know you got some stuff with the SB900, but this bounce is really easy to use and packs flat.

Sample of SB600 with this bounce card...flash compensation -2.  18-200 VR lens.  Tough lighting situation.
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #38 on: June 15, 2009, 05:02:17 PM »

Strap looks great!

I already am eyeing the new (and cheap at $199) Nikon F1.8 35mm lens that nobody has in stock.

/Bill

Glad you're liking the new camera, Bill.  On the autofocus issue, you might also try playing with the autofocus configuration switch, giving the camera fewer options to focus on.  The action mode is for riding in a car or on a bike, so that should help as well.

Nikon makes a couple of nice 50mm lenses in either 1.4 or 1.8...both are excellent and not all that expensive for Nikon glass.

The SB900 is an awesome flash unit, plus you can use the on board flash as a commander and the SB900 as a wireless slave, with all controls in camera operating everything in iTTL.  If you really want to get creative with flash, get an SB600 (cheaper), as a yet another light source which will also operate wirelessly.

A couple of other things you might want to take a look at:  http://www.upstrap-pro.com/   Very grippy shoulder strap...it will NOT slip off your shoulder when walking around with the camera...get the quick detach model for when you don't want the stap on there.  Also:  http://www.ultimatebouncecard.com/   I know you got some stuff with the SB900, but this bounce is really easy to use and packs flat.

Sample of SB600 with this bounce card...flash compensation -2.  18-200 VR lens.  Tough lighting situation.
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #39 on: July 31, 2009, 09:23:12 AM »

Strap looks great!

I already am eyeing the new (and cheap at $199) Nikon F1.8 35mm lens that nobody has in stock.

/Bill


Just got the 35mm F1.8 in the mail yesterday...too late for our western trip but now am really thinking I need an ultra wide angle also...so the Nikon 10-24 is topping the chart...but I have spent a lot recently and may have to wait...or just not tell Anne that it is new but part of the original purchase...and damn...the D300S is just coming out...but I do not need a second camera ...yet...

/Bill

.  Add the new Nikon 10-24 DX and you've got everything in the world covered,
« Last Edit: July 31, 2009, 09:24:51 AM by WFP »
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Re: [Motorcycle] Camera Advice???
« Reply #40 on: August 23, 2009, 10:22:15 AM »

I have a Canon EOS 20D, and take this on trips.  (Have a Sony DSC T-90 on RAM mount while traveling).

I am planing on a upgrade to Canon EOS 5D Mark II full frame, only thing that has made me
hold off is none of my EFS lens will work on the 5D! $$$$$ :(
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