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Forum: Digital Processing, Software, and Printing 03-07-2008, 08:37 AM  
PS Elements 6... no instruction book?!
Posted By DigiNoob
Replies: 8
Views: 3,397
I was just looking into this very same book and was shocked to see it marketed by Adobe! That's a bit of a poor tactic in profiting, as your assessment is exactly what I thought... this is a complete manual marketed separately. IMHO, Adobe would have been more honest in their business if they had just up'd the price of Elements 6 by $30 and include the 'manual', rather than letting the consumer buy the software, then say "If you REALLY want to learn all the features, here's the manual you can buy for $30"!

I'm even more mad at Adobe now! :mad:

Thanks everyone for the other suggestions. I'll try to review all of these from my local library and select the best one (other than Adobe's, as they aren't getting any more of my money) to buy!
Forum: Digital Processing, Software, and Printing 03-06-2008, 06:37 AM  
PS Elements 6... no instruction book?!
Posted By DigiNoob
Replies: 8
Views: 3,397
I just purchased Photoshop Elements 6 with excited anticipation to start learning what editing software can do for my photos, when lo and behold, no instructions! :mad: Sure, it's got a "Getting Started" guide but with so many features, I need details, examples, and explanation of each!

Anyone else purchase PS Elements? If so, all you received was the getting started "overview" (which looks more like a sales brochure explaining WHAT you can do, not HOW you can do it)? :confused:
Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion 02-10-2008, 09:56 PM  
Pentax Lens series question
Posted By DigiNoob
Replies: 7
Views: 4,014
Thanks all! Good info! Links bookmarked even!

=)

p.s. just a thought... it would be nice if the Lens Database here in this forum had brief descriptions after the series name. A great resource, regardless.
Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion 02-10-2008, 07:59 AM  
Pentax Lens series question
Posted By DigiNoob
Replies: 7
Views: 4,014
OK... this has probably been asked before and I did try to do a search, but my search argument is not working. I've also browsed the Lens Database, which is good for details of each lens, but what I cannot find is "what is the difference between the SERIES of the Pentax lenses?"

I imagine 'M' is completely manual, and I am guessing that 'DA' and 'D FA' are the newer lenses for digital cameras, but what are the differences between 'A', 'F', 'FA', & 'FA J'?

I've found a "PENTAX smc P-FA 50mm F1.4" which if I read the database correctly, is an excellent all-purpose lens that is fast enough for me to take pictures of dimly lit conference rooms (I go to sci-fi conventions and the 'star guest panels' are not well lit except for the stage they are sitting on). Anyway, the cost for this lens new is $184 but I also find the same lens in an F series for a little over $200 (albeit different vendor). I would imagine FA trumps F, correct?

Thanks!
Forum: Monthly Photo Contests 10-23-2007, 04:31 PM  
Poll: Contest Poll Contest #13 Runoff
Posted By DigiNoob
Replies: 35
Views: 9,988
I chose number 2. To be honest, I do like them all, even number 3 (which to me looks more... "industrial"), but there was just something about number 2 I liked that I could not put my finger on until someone else mentioned it... the color! Odd how all the buildings take on a goldish hue as if every contractor coordinated the color of the buildings. I know... it has more to do with lighting and probably even filtering, but I think that's why I like it the best. Those little green ringlets lit up on some of those buildings were a curiousity I liked as well, and the reflection on the water cinched it for me. Number 6 came in a very close second for me, personally. I think due to the water reflection.
Forum: Photographic Technique 10-08-2007, 12:37 PM  
Blue Light At Night with FA 50 f/1.4
Posted By DigiNoob
Replies: 5
Views: 2,383
I like #1 the best. I like how that first one is close-up and in sharp focus with the others in the background being out of focus. Very abstract. I really like that one! (#8 is too close to #1 to differentiate between.)
Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories 10-03-2007, 02:41 PM  
need recommendations for a bag
Posted By DigiNoob
Replies: 22
Views: 5,126
Here are some pics with a couple of views with a 12 inch ruler for perspective.
Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories 10-03-2007, 02:20 PM  
need recommendations for a bag
Posted By DigiNoob
Replies: 22
Views: 5,126
... as promised, I wanted to give my impressions of the bag.

The Bottom section is generously sized for a single camera bag, with removable dividers that can pad your DSLR with standard lens attached and perhaps 2-3 extra lenses at best. The opening side of the bag has rounded corners making the two forward compartments too small for a lens, but are suitable for my PictBridge and other cords, spare batteries, etc.

On the outside of this section are two fair size pockets that can hold a man's wallet, perhaps a few filters, small camera manual, etc. There are snaps that when 'undone', expand the pocket a bit. Both of these pockets are on top of a zipper comparment that is a bit larger than a paperback book but not as thick.

The top part of the bag is a pretty nice sized compartment that serves as the 'lid' for the bottom section (i.e. the top hinges on one side and when unzipped, folds back to reveal the camera area. I noticed there is an internal zipper for this top section so when you are not using this as a camera bag, you can unzip this 'floor' to the top section and remove the camera dividers to use as a larger back pack. Decent feature. Oh, the zipper that accesses the camera section has some overlap material to shield the zipper from the elements. Access to the top section is via a zipper and a couple of velcro pieces. The zipper stops where the velcro starts but the velcro'd area really is not large enough to gain access to the top section without unzipping part way so I think this may be to have something hang out like maybe a water tube or some sort of lanyard (not real sure why they didn't just have it zip all the way). On the front of the top section is another pocket large enough for a walkman, iPod, etc and even has a nice 'outlet' for the cord in case you want to store the iPod while wearing the pack and listening to headphones.

The nylon material is reasonably thick, the strap and back are reasonably padded, there is a cell phone pocket on the strap, albeit small. If you got an older Nokia or other large phone, it'll probably be real snug! The strap has a quick release. There are some misc. straps that make the pack look military and there is even a cheapy compass on one of them. May be able to attach a tripod with this strap but I have not tried that.

I'm pleased with the pack overall. It's a good camera tote back for some general lite hiking or walking (what I purchased it for) but too small to pack a spare set of shoes, a shirt, etc. so I wouldn't recommend this for a full hike or camping. Seems pretty rugged!
Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories 09-28-2007, 12:21 PM  
need recommendations for a bag
Posted By DigiNoob
Replies: 22
Views: 5,126
Naneu Pro is currently not producing the Echo sling-bag as they are reengineering the strap (lengthening for larger frame users) and upgrading the nylon material from about 900mil to 1600mil (according to a rep at Nanea). They expect the newer version to be offered about mid-December but will probably raise the sugg. retail from $65 to $70-75.

I'm a bit into instant gratification, however, and found that Cord Camera (Cord Camera) still has some available and got it for a very reasonable $50 with free shipping! Never dealt with Cord before but they got a 10 out of 10 on 'reseller ratings' and they were very cordial and helpful when I called to confirm they actually do have some in stock!

Anyway, I ordered one and thought I'd share this info in case anyone else following the thread was considering this as an option. I went ahead and ordered one today and will give my review of this bag once received.

Thanks everyone for the suggestions and feedback!
Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories 09-27-2007, 07:37 AM  
need recommendations for a bag
Posted By DigiNoob
Replies: 22
Views: 5,126
OK... I don't mean to dominate this thread, despite my starting it, but as I looked further at the Naneu Pro line, I found some more impressive options!

The Naneu Pro Sierra (and the larger Tango) are messenger type bags that not only holds DSLRs but also hold laptops, magazines (and my autograph notebook!) and looks like a soft-side briefcase. HOWEVER, one great feature of this messenger bag is that it has a shoulder strap that can be tucked away or pulled out to use like a sling pack! This thing is totally awesome looking and the versatility of using as a briefcase or a sling pack makes this a top runner, in my opinion! The reviews I have read on Naneu bags were nearly all positive as well!

Check this one out as well as it's larger brother, the Tango! Sierra Messenger Bag - Modern Messenger Bags & Laptop Computer Bags for Traveling Professionals - Military Ops Series | NaneuPro.com

Boy, talk about making a decision tough! I'll be getting one of the Nanea Pros, just deciding which one is going to be tough! Toss up between the Sierra and the Echo!
Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories 09-27-2007, 04:58 AM  
need recommendations for a bag
Posted By DigiNoob
Replies: 22
Views: 5,126
BINGO! This 'Echo' is exactly what I had in mind! And at a retail price of about $65US, not a bad price, either! I've saved their website in my Favorite Places and will probably be purchasing it soon. I'll give a review when I've had the chance to look it over!

Thanks, Dave!

[edit] Hey! Their Bravo bag is a larger and nice two-strap option with a tri-pod strap system! (Military Ops - Bravo - Naneu Pro | Camera Bag & Laptop Case Solutions)
Forum: Photographic Technique 09-26-2007, 02:13 PM  
And the Difference is ?
Posted By DigiNoob
Replies: 15
Views: 4,767
I just went through this. I went online to purchase from BestPriceCameras as $249 was indeed the lowest price for K100D but it's a bait tactic. You will not get that camera at that price as when you decline the optional accessories they try to sell you, the camera then becomes conveniently out of stock! I ended up going with Beach Camera as it was the lowest price WITH a good customer rating! Their free ground delivery of 7-9 working days took only 3 days, by the way! I highly recommend Beach Camera and warn against BestPriceCameras!
Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories 09-26-2007, 01:32 PM  
wireless infared remote (good deal inside)
Posted By DigiNoob
Replies: 52
Views: 13,318
So without the half-press, no auto-focus? Were the ones you DID take with the single press of the button "out of focus"?!

Also a K100D user. I was debating on one of these myself. For the other models mentioned, including Pentax's own, how does it focus without the half-press? Or do you have to focus first, then step in and use the remote? If that's the case, why not simply use the timer?
Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories 09-26-2007, 01:09 PM  
need recommendations for a bag
Posted By DigiNoob
Replies: 22
Views: 5,126
Yeah, I saw that one. I kinda had my heart set on some sort of sling pack, but the ones I found were camera equipement only. I need one I can shove my autograph notebook in as I'll be using this pack for my sci-fi conventions.

I saw some nice Lowepro CompuDayPacks Lowepro - CompuDaypack that were ideal except they are a full backpack with two straps. It's got a bottom section for the camera equipement, and the top for various what-nots and a section for a laptop that can hold a small notebook.

Outside of getting that one and giving up on the "sling" option, I've considered taking some density foam and my dremmel tool and making my own camera section for my Eddie Bauer Sling Pack (or I could get this CompuDay pack and remove one strap, and relocate the bottom end of the other to criss-cross to convert it to a sling pack). Both sound like too much trouble if there's a product like that already out there!
Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories 09-25-2007, 01:56 PM  
need recommendations for a bag
Posted By DigiNoob
Replies: 22
Views: 5,126
I'd like to find a sling pack that has a specific storage area that can hold a K100D and a zoom lens, as well as another section for a few non-camera related items, without getting something monstrous. Quick release on the strap would be helpful.

Any suggestions?

Thanks!

p.s. K100D came in today! I'm pretty pleased with the deal I got at Beach Camera and they delivered (with free shipping, I may add) much sooner than the 7-9 business days they claimed. It was actually 3 business days!
Forum: Film SLRs and Compact Film Cameras 09-18-2007, 02:51 PM  
35mm Film Advance error
Posted By DigiNoob
Replies: 2
Views: 2,488
Ooops! "Errors" as in forum errors, not camera errors?! My bad! Since this was an error, I thought I WAS posting in the correct category.
Forum: Film SLRs and Compact Film Cameras 09-18-2007, 10:41 AM  
35mm Film Advance error
Posted By DigiNoob
Replies: 2
Views: 2,488
I have a Pentax ZX-50 35mm camera that still works fine except for the film advance. Many of my pictures some out with overlapping frames (i.e. some of frame #10 will appear to one side of frame #9). This happens more often with the last half of the film roll, regardless of how many frames per roll. :mad:

Any idea what the issue could be? If so, is it financially worth fixing or will I have to invest $200 in repairs for a camera worth less than that now? (Speaking of which, anyone know what the going price for a used ZX-50 is?)
Forum: General Talk 09-18-2007, 10:26 AM  
Very dissapointed in a Fuji
Posted By DigiNoob
Replies: 13
Views: 3,089
I must admit, I almost fell prey to the "more mp is better" syndrome, myself. I originally ordered the K10D 10mp SLR but that order went awry. As I was still investigating the pros and cons of various DSLRs, I stumbled onto the fact that the K100D 6mp could go up to ISO 3200, as opposed to 1600 with the 10mp model. Since I was looking for a good DSLR that could photograph in dimly lit conference rooms, and not enlarge past a standard photograph, the 6mp with 3200 ISO is actually a better camera for my purpose.

I imagine for every educated photographer out there, there are probably 10 or more ignorant ones, myself included, that are driving the market to go "more pixel"!
Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories 09-17-2007, 05:37 AM  
160gb memory card!!!
Posted By DigiNoob
Replies: 11
Views: 2,929
Well, that battery IS rechargeable! I have an ac/dc charger and a car charger. I've owned my current iPod for over 2 years and it still recharges fine. Furthermore, you can buy battery/installation kits to replace the batteries yourself. One of my coworkers replaced his with one he bought on eBay. My response of the potential of loosing photos with a completely dead battery is that if you're noticing your 8 hour iPod battery isn't holding but an hour or two charge, you may not want to risk it.

For those pointing to the Wolverine as an alternative, first, I've not heard of that before so that sounds like a viable option. Second, I was thinking of the iPod for this as a multipurpose tool (i.e. If you have an iPod for music handy when your SD card fills up, it'd be nice to offload the photos to the iPod you already have. I suspect such a cable to do so is cheaper than this Wolverine but I may be wrong. Anyone got details on this thing, including price?
Forum: Photographic Technique 09-16-2007, 09:04 AM  
rebate problems
Posted By DigiNoob
Replies: 57
Views: 8,705
2 things...

Stewart is correct. The rebate program creates an interest bearing short term account to offset the cost of actually rebating the money to the purchaser. In addition, these companies bank on those consumers not following thru with the rebates, or not following thru accurately. A great majority of rebates are never even claimed.

2nd, I read somewhere (I think the Pentax website) that Pentax recently changed their rebate processing company. Perhaps that is adding to the issue.

I've been burned on rebates before to the point where I probably get carried away. When I do a rebate now, I get everything together including the addressed and stamped envelope with UPC on top of the paperwork stapled, and then I take a picture of the entire 'package' to demonstrate I had everything together and ready to go.
Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories 09-16-2007, 08:41 AM  
160gb memory card!!!
Posted By DigiNoob
Replies: 11
Views: 2,929
Well, not really, but I've been thinking...

Apple is coming out with a new 160gb iPod and if you already are familiar with iPods, you know they can work as a storage drive, holding JPEGs and even other data (I wonder about RAW files).

Anyway, I'm wondering about the feasibility of a pict bridge/iPod interface cable (if one does not already exist)! Wouldn't it be cool if you could carry around one of these new iPods in your camera bag and when your memory card fills up, hook the pict bridge to your iPod and move your images from the camera to the iPod and have your mem card ready for more?!

Just getting the ol' creative juices flowing! Feel free to post thoughts, both pro and con!
Forum: Photographic Technique 09-15-2007, 09:40 PM  
Places to Photograph!
Posted By DigiNoob
Replies: 27
Views: 9,283
Columbus, GA:

1) Callaway Gardens (especially 'Fantasy In Lights' during Christmas)
2) Coca Cola Space museum
3) Ft. Benning Infantry Museum
4) President Roosevelt's Little White House
5) Stone Mountain (also check out the automobile/juke box museum there)
6) Atlanta Aquarium
Forum: Photographic Technique 09-15-2007, 09:27 PM  
rebates
Posted By DigiNoob
Replies: 4
Views: 2,592
Arpe is right but in the event you do have a contact in the US that you can use, here is the actual link to the pdf rebate form:

http://www.pentaximaging.com/files/scms_docs//2007_08_Summertime_DSLR_Rebate.pdf
Forum: Welcomes and Introductions 09-15-2007, 09:21 PM  
What's in a name?!
Posted By DigiNoob
Replies: 8
Views: 1,171
Yeah, Eric mentioned reseller ratings so I checked those out. That's what alerted me to cancel my order and contact my bank to not authorize this transaction against my VISA. They've been closed for a few days so haven't had the chance to scam... er, call me yet!

My order is now with Beach Camera for a K100D. Expecting delivery around the 25th.
Forum: Welcomes and Introductions 09-14-2007, 07:16 AM  
What's in a name?!
Posted By DigiNoob
Replies: 8
Views: 1,171
Thanks Eic and Special K for your warnings on my purchase, and Eric, especially for the resale ratings website! After checking out the vendor I ordered from, I've read where there are around a hundred or more people who spoke of horrific experiences with Best Camera Prices dot Com. Apparently, they advertise tremendously low prices but then send you a confirmation stating that they need you to call to confirm shipping address. Once you call, they tell you that the item you purchased has no batteries, cables, software, etc... the stuff that comes standard with even the body kit alone. They then try to sell you those items that turn your bargain into a price higher than most other places. If you turn these 'extras' down, you'll never get the item you purchased at that price.

Based on what I read, I confirmed that they had not yet posted my purchase with VISA and so I quickly put my card on hold to prevent this activity. I suspect that y'all (yes, that's a legit word here in the south) have saved me a great deal of headache! Thank you!

Now... back to the drawing board! The K10D is probably going to be out of my budget now so I'll probably be looking at purchasng the K100D. Also from what I read here, the K100D may offer less white noise anyhow.
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