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Forum: Photographic Industry and Professionals
4 Days Ago
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Articles by veteran Dave Etchells are interesting, insightful, and well presented. I enjoy his interviews.
Sadly, but unsurprisingly, the DPR comments section brings out the usual cynicism and FUD.
I think that Mr. Etchells is associated with DPReview these days (as a contributor), so it makes sense that he would publish his piece there. The article doesn't seem to be 'sponsored' by Ricoh Imaging.
- Craig
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Forum: Photographic Industry and Professionals
6 Days Ago
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You may be correct. In my local camera club (100 members, mainly 'older'), we hold five photo competitions each year. Of the some 600 images presented this year, I can't think of one for which a highly-advanced camera was required. The acclaimed images show the photographers' skill, including selection of subject, light, composition and timing.
Since the invention of photography, there have been notable innovations, such as
- Creation of the negative
- Film roll for multiple exposures
- 35-mm camera
- Colour photography
- Point-and-shoot compact film cameras
- Automatic exposure control
- Autofocus
- Digital camera
- Phone cameras
- The Selfie
Many of the current advances in cameras (or lenses) are not introducing fundamentally-different concepts or features. We still hold a discrete item to our eye -- a camera -- that has a lens and some way of viewing a scene.
What will the future bring? What should the future bring? Most of us, who are not product designers or inventors, are not visionaries. It's easier to suggest, say, a higher frame rate or finer autofocus than it is to dream of a new photography 'paradigm'.
- Craig
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Forum: General Talk
04-14-2024, 03:34 PM
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Interesting thread. A few random thoughts...
Conditioned to Spend?
Reminds me of a leadership course I took, in which we explored Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, which he introduced in his 1943 paper, A Theory of Human Motivation.
1. Physiological needs: air, food, water, shelter, sleep
2. Safety needs: personal security, health
3. Love and belonging: friendship, community, connection
4. Esteem: respect, recognition, prestige
5. Self-actualization: desire and ability to achieve one's full potential, become the best that one can be.
The most basic needs -- physiological and safety -- are inherent in humans. The others may be important or not, depending on individuals. In our capitalist, currency-based society, spending (money) is necessary to achieve the basic needs. I suppose one could avoid spending by foraging for food and drinking from a clean stream, but these solutions are hardly practical for most humans.
Consumerism?
Occasionally, I may receive a gift card to Starbucks Coffee. I'm quite amazed by the high prices of their products -- especially when compared to my mid-morning home-made 25-cent coffee and 15-cent muffin -- and even more so by the long queues and busy cafe, which seems populated mainly by young patrons. How do they afford $10 for a frequent drink and snack?
IMO, yes, we're inundated with invitations to spend. That's what advertising is all about. Then there are the slightly-less in-your-face subliminal pitches -- you NEED this 20 FPS, gnat-AF camera... how could you possibly take good pictures with your old piece of gear-driven gear that's five years old? Fear of Missing Out?
We can live without
I'm reminded of a Pentax Forum post of a few years ago:
Mend and Make-do
Likewise. My engineering education served me well, financially and with interesting projects. I never became rich in the Canadian government public service, but our family had comfort.
I'll usually try to make or mend things around the house -- minor plumbing and electrical jobs that don't require permits, woodwork, mortar, appliances (minor and white goods), etc. Saves a ton of money. Glad to have my basement workshop. And, our quality sewing machine was one of the best items we bought after we got married.
OT
Finally, about the BBC. I often depend on BBC online (or CNN) for coverage of unfolding world events. Our own Canadian Broadcasting Corp (CBC) radio is pretty good for documentaries, music, and current affairs.
Enough for now. I'm off to check the Shipping Forecast for the conditions in Dogger. ;):) Seriously, though, there's something to be said for the longevity, consistency, and calm of the Shipping Forecast, in the age of consumerism.
- Craig
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Forum: General Talk
04-06-2024, 04:13 PM
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Mixed up with the sweatshirts?
Hope it works out! Sometimes, sweet deals come our way.
- Craig
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Forum: General Talk
04-06-2024, 03:46 PM
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An accidental 'Add to Cart'? Oh, those finger twitches.;):)
- Craig
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Forum: Travel, Events, and Groups
04-05-2024, 08:29 AM
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Welcome to Canada!
Montreal can be very pretty when it snows.The snow won't stick around long.
Monday looks promising.
- Craig
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Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion
03-31-2024, 10:53 AM
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I have a Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG Macro HSM II, Lens ID '8 16'. It works on my K-3 Mark III in both Viewfinder mode and Live View mode.
Note that some copies of this lens may have the lens ID of '8 255', which also identifies certain other Sigma lenses. Lenses with this ID may not work properly.
Some info on the lens firmware and ID tag is discussed here: Sigma No Longer Offering Firmware Updates for Some K-mount Lenses - PentaxForums.com
- Craig
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Forum: Pentax News and Rumors
04-01-2024, 02:50 PM
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Of course. Silly me. :o
- Craig
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Forum: Pentax K-3 III
04-01-2024, 10:10 AM
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Unset removes an assigned function from its numbered 'slot' (1-5), so that slot will be unused.
- Craig
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Forum: Pentax News and Rumors
04-01-2024, 11:37 AM
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Will the J- version come in different exotic woods?
- Craig
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Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion
03-26-2024, 10:54 AM
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It's true. My K-3 Mark III makes me itchy to get out and take a rash of pictures on a photo hike. If I don't wear sturdy footwear, I might get blisters on my feet. ;):lol:
(sorry, couldn't resist)
- Craig
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Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion
03-26-2024, 09:33 AM
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I agree. As has been discussed in numerous other threads concerning environmental protection, the manufacturer is not entirely clear, and even misleading in certain cases.
For example, for the K-3 Mark III, one has to dig deeper to find this item in the FAQ:
"Q.
If the water resists lens set with K-3 Mark III, can it be used in the rain?
A.
When an AW- or WR-series lens* is mounted, the K-3 Mark III and its lens forms a remarkable digital imaging system totally resistant to demanding environmental factors. However, it is not recommended to use these units in the rain for long time. When you are going to shoot in the rain continuously, it is recommended to use with rain cover etc.
*AW：All Weather, WR：Water Resistant.
*Seals have been placed around the joints and the operating parts, however when exposed to moisture, there is a possibility for water to pool. So, if it gets wet wipe up as quickly as possible. About the lens, it is also recommend especially when zooming etc. to wipe up any moisture immediately."
Interesting recommendations concerning using a rain cover, wiping up moisture quickly, and taking extra care when zooming lenses. Of course, the claim about the "total" resistance to environmental factors is questionable.
- Craig
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Forum: Travel, Events, and Groups
03-25-2024, 10:38 AM
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Just as a side note, although arson caused some fires, nearly three-quarters of the wildfires in British Columbia in 2023 had natural causes (mainly lightning). After September 2023, most of the fires in BC were caused by humans (accidental or deliberate). In Alberta in 2023, the majority of fires were human-caused (60%), with around 10% attributed to arson.
- Craig
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Forum: Pentax DSLR Discussion
03-24-2024, 11:58 AM
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In such a situation, my wife would have snapped an ok shot of me setting up, texted the image to our kids, and received replies even before I pressed the shutter! And her picture would have been pretty good. ;):)
When my wife and I are out somewhere on an excursion, I'll almost always just bring my camera and the DA 18-135. I'll get decent shots of the outing, but I don't expect great images. She'll wait around patiently, or continue to amble slowly on the trail or street. Sometimes, she'll take pictures with her phone, some of which we've printed and mounted in small frames (while my images remain in their hard-disk dormitories).
- Craig
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Forum: Travel, Events, and Groups
03-24-2024, 01:39 PM
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Despite the exchange rate advantage for the USD, I'd recommend tipping in Canadian currency. It would save the recipient the hassle of going to a bank, and they'd be able to use Canadian cash immediately.
- Craig
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Forum: Travel, Events, and Groups
03-24-2024, 07:05 AM
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Hi @madison_wi_gal, I was just reading a news item concerning a potential severe wildfire season in British Columbia and Alberta. Like last year, the current winter has been relatively dry and warm, so officials are expecting fire conditions similar to last year, which saw a record number of acres destroyed as well as heavy smoke.
Just a suggestion to monitor wildfire developments in the BC interior and the Rockies, including Canmore, Banff and Jasper.
There are a number of good websites, including the following:
Fire information and updates - Banff National Park
Wildfire status | Alberta.ca
Home - FireSmoke.ca
- Craig
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Forum: Pentax DSLR Discussion
03-24-2024, 12:23 PM
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It's often difficult to fully know how another person is using their camera under various scenarios. However, it seems that the M50 Mark II performs well for the OP -- without drama, as they say -- so a recommendation might be to simply use the Canon.
- Craig
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Forum: Pentax DSLR Discussion
03-24-2024, 11:04 AM
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It can be very frustrating when a camera system makes things difficult, especially when it's compared to other brands/models.
The K-5 was introduced in 2010, so it's now a 14-year old model. It followed the K-7, and was the first generation in the K-5 series. Of course, the K-5 series was followed by the K-3. I've used the K-5, K-5 II, K-3 II and K-3 Mark III. I've noticed progressively significant improvements in a variety of areas, including metering, autofocus, responsiveness, and the user interface. I was happier with the K-5 II than its predecessor. The K-3 Mark III works very well for me, although most of my subjects are fairly static. The AF has progressed significantly, and the metering is almost fool-proof.
I think many K-5 or K-5 II users would comment very positively on that camera's superb imaging sensor.
I wonder if comparing the K-5 DSLR to a 2018-vintage M50 mirrorless is reasonable? Certainly, the technology is newer and the mirrorless implementation offers, in general, better autofocus and tracking. I recall that I was not totally happy with my K-5's metering, and also needed to develop some rules of thumb for preventing underexposures when there was a patch of sky.
Another thought is the K-5 may not be the best camera for your use cases. If your subjects are mainly moving, then a mirrorless kit might suit better. Alternatively, a change in technique might help.
Smartphones certainly have good cameras these days, and offer certain advantages in terms of simplicity and ease of use and portability. However, they're not particularly great in some settings.
- Craig
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Forum: General Photography
03-24-2024, 06:05 AM
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To me, accompanied photo outings are a chance or opportunity to be with friends or photo mates -- it's a time to socialize. It's a different sort of activity, compared to being alone,say, in a tranquil forest or while on a personal photo hike.
When I'm on a photo club outing with a dozen other members, folks typically concentrate on their shots without much interference. As we wander around the location, folks get dispersed but we'll soon cross paths. There's not a lot of chatter, but occasionally someone will feel obliged to give instructions on that 'special' subject they just shot. That's to be expected, I guess. On the other hand, sometimes there is something to be learned from the more advanced photographers in the group.
Sort of like meeting up with a friend for coffee. That's quite different than sitting quietly at the kitchen table savouring a coffee in silence while reading a magazine or newspaper.
- Craig
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Forum: General Talk
03-23-2024, 05:51 AM
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Me too. The level of knowledge and depth of experience of forum members here is amazing. Always something to learn every day.
Well, I do own a quality torque wrench and a 'breaker pipe'.
- Craig
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Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion
03-22-2024, 03:55 PM
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Of the two, I own only the DA* 300mm. I can say without hesitation that this lens has always yielded technically-excellent images on my photo outings. I don't use it a lot, but it's a dependable performer, even wide open. I don't have any concerns with it. I shoot mainly static or slow subjects, and its autofocus works fine for me. IMO, it's a great lens.
Don't know about the DA 300 and aircraft shots. A photo club acquaintance uses a Sigma 150-500 HSM on a Pentax K-3 II, and gets very good results at airshows, I'd say.
The DA* 300 has a fairly short minimum focus distance (magnification 0.24x), so it can be useful for close-up pictures in the garden or on a forest hike.
Sounds like you're torn between higher optical quality and longer telephoto range and zoom coverage. At an additional cost, would a Pentax 1.4x teleconverter on the DA 300 give you sufficient reach?
As an aside, to prevent its SDM from seizing up, I exercise the autofocus on the DA* 300 monthly.
- Craig
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Forum: General Talk
03-12-2024, 01:38 PM
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I recognize that Canadian site.
Perhaps use the chat function to see if they'll shave a wee bit off the price. And they're usually pretty good about price matching. :lol:
Free shipping at least?
- Craig
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Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion
03-18-2024, 06:18 AM
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Oh my, those are nice! What a sweet little lens.
I had dropped it from my "wish list" because I have a DA 20-40mm Limited, but now I have second thoughts.
- Craig
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Forum: Pentax K-3 III Monochrome
04-13-2023, 08:25 AM
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Several things strike me about the new Monochrome, other than the camera itself.
First, Ricoh Imaging's engagement with their Pentax 'fans'. They sought inputs and ideas -- albeit mainly from a Japan-centric community -- and responded with a real commitment. The Monochrome camera is a reality.
Second, Ricoh Imaging is demonstrating a practical positive example of their new "workshop-like" manufacturing method.
Direct orders for the Matte Black version have already exceeded their expectation. I imagine that the product team is pleased!
Finally, their openness to feedback has been underscored by a direct response from Shigeru Wakashiro, Product Planner in the Pentax Division, to a query from @kwb: March 17 Article on Pentax Film Project - Page 9 - PentaxForums.com. This was related to the film camera project, but I think it reflects the positive and open nature of the Pentax Division generally. How cool is that?
- Craig
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Forum: General Photography
03-16-2024, 07:35 AM
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Sad news when printing operations are shuttered, especially when you've worked there. Sign of the times, I guess.
Likewise, I prefer the printed page. Online sources offer a glut of information, which usually requires sifting and curating by the reader. Just this morning, I tried to get insight into an exterior stain product -- the manufacturer's technical sheets were useful but I also wanted to read about users' personal experience. The long and deep online rabbit hole (i.e., forums and comments) revealed everything from "it's a great product, just apply two coats" to "apply only one coat" to "the product is cr*p."
I recently received a gift subscription to Popular Mechanics -- a magazine that I grew up with in my teens. It's still pretty good, but issued only six times per year. I wonder how many younger folks read the print edition now.
Edit: I just noticed in Popular Mechanics a full-page ad for a kid's book -- "the Big Little Book of Awesome Stuff," containing 300 wild facts, fun projects, and amazing tricks, including "hilarious pranks to pull on your friends." Hopefully it also includes a few slightly-risky activities to encourage (mis)adventure.
- Craig
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