Second Body for me!

[NickCantle]

Hey guys,

Something I've been pondering over for a while- I've had my Bigma for a while now and I'm still shooting with my Sigma 105mm when I can. The thing is, I can't go for a day out without having to do lots of lens changing- I cringe at the thought of exposing the sensor and the lens elements. Just the way that luck falls for me that I see a beautiful orchid, so I've got the 105mm on to get the shot and then a Kestrel flies over my head gracefully and low, and I've no time to change. So I figured the best thing for this is to get myself a second body.

In terms of how my thoughts are running, I'm looking to keep the 400D specifically for smaller lenses like the kit lens (should I ever want to use it) and the Sigma 105 and I've been looking at a decent camera such as a 40D to have permanently attached to the Bigma. I mean it would make sense wouldn't it? 6.5fps of the 40D would be perfect for the Bigma and its bird forté.

Could I have some thoughts and perhaps wisdom on the combination? What is the 40D like? Would it be adequate?

TIA and and comments much appreciated

Nick

[GerryNick2]

Hi Nick

The 40D is a very nice camera and likely to meet all your requirements. I took the same line, upgraded to the 40D thinking the 30D would make a useful second body. Problem is I got to liking the 40D so much the 30D rarely now comes out and I still change lenses just as frequently. The sensor cleaning on the 40D is very good, despite frequent lens changes have not had a speck of dust on the sensor since I purchased it back in January and after 5000+ images.

Gerry

[Tormentil]

I would like to the same. I used to be a bit paranoid about swapping lens and getting dust on the sensor, I think I'm a bit blase about it know. Que ser sera.

It's just a matter of convincing HiD, that I need the 40D and I've more chance of winning the lottery.

[glsammy]

The 40D is a lovely camera. I now much prefer it to my 20D. I was going to have my large lens on the 40D, with my macro lens on the 20D, but the large screen and live view function is so good I've swapped them the other way round, at least for now.
One thing to take note of. The auto sensor cleaning is next to useless. I've just had to buy some fresh cleaning fluid and dabs as once I was shooting around F16-F20, the muck just about filled the frame.

[GerryNick2]

Originally Posted by glsammy

One thing to take note of. The auto sensor cleaning is next to useless. I've just had to buy some fresh cleaning fluid and dabs as once I was shooting around F16-F20, the muck just about filled the frame.

I am surprised Graham, compared to the 30D for me the sensor cleaning on the 40D has got to be the best thing since sliced bread. After 5000+ shots and numerous lens changes I cant find even a hint of dust.

Gerry

[glsammy]

Originally Posted by GerryNick2

I am surprised Graham, compared to the 30D for me the sensor cleaning on the 40D has got to be the best thing since sliced bread. After 5000+ shots and numerous lens changes I cant find even a hint of dust.

Gerry

I can only say what I've experienced. My sensor was bad. I've done quite a few lens changes.
It only showed once I'd started taking macro shots, hence using apertures of F16 etc.

Here's an example:



You'll need to click on the image to see the worst. OK I accept that it's not exactly filling the frame, but it's bad enough!

[Words]

Nick, I'm on just about the same curve. Plan to get the 40D to go with my 400D when I pluck up the nerve to spend more dosh on my 'little hobby' .

As for the sensor cleaner on the 400D, I'm not hugely impressed with it. I just clean the image afterwards now. I should do a proper clean at some point (will probably get a kit before I slap the 105 macro on it for good).

[Steve S]

Originally Posted by NickCantle

The thing is, I can't go for a day out without having to do lots of lens changing- I cringe at the thought of exposing the sensor and the lens elements. Just the way that luck falls for me that I see a beautiful orchid, so I've got the 105mm on to get the shot and then a Kestrel flies over my head gracefully and low, and I've no time to change.

The likelihood of having the wrong lens on your camera body at any given time is directly proportional to the number of lenses you own.

Steve.

[NickCantle]

A very valid point there Steve! Thanks for all of the opinions and posts on the topic. I'm pretty sure now that this is going to be an essential part of kit. I learned a long, long time ago that guitarists will never be completely happy with their gear, driving fanatics will always want a new exhaust, the lasses always want new underwear or dresses, and us photographers will never run out of things to add to our kit It's the way of a hobby!

I shall take the plunge for the 40D over the next couple of weeks. For God's sake don't tell my mother though! I'll keep you all posted regarding the situ' so you can check back to see progress.

FAO Words; Your 'little hobby' has created some amazing images mate, so I think that's justification enough

[HowlinWolf]

I would suggest that a second body should be the same model as your main camera. Control layout will be the same, and menus called up in the same sequence, etc.

I use two D200's for this reason alone, and it has proved its worth many times over in the field when situations begin to change rapidly, as essentially it is the same camera in my hands, with a different lens attached.

HW