DSLR Problems!

[John D]

Originally Posted by JackBD95

how is a shutter speed of four stops slower good!?

Hi Jack,

There is know doubt you are trying to learn and several of us are trying to help but that in its self appears to be leading towards more confusion and misunderstanding. Like Mike (Lancashire Lad) said earlier it would be better if you read some worthwhile material on DSLRs, lenses and the associated basics with regards to their use and various settings/options which can be applied. There are several very good websites which contain excellent tutorials and many books on the subject, which could lead you towards a better understanding of what can be a rather complex subject.
We all had to learn and many of us are still learning. It all takes time. I would suggest you don't buy anything until you fully understand what you are about to invest in. Photography equipment can be very expensive. Make sure you know what you really need before you buy.

John D

Zenfolio | John's Wild World

[John D]

Originally Posted by JackBD95

hahaahaVERY FUNNY

do you think an eos 500d and a sig 120 400 would be any good for bird shooting!?

Hi Jack,

I don't think Jim was being funny (if that is what you are referring to). I think you will learn that your FEET can at times gain much more than a very expensive lens.
You will need more than a DSLR and expensive lens to get good images of birds and wildlife. They only help!
You would get a reasonable detailed (not cropped) shot of say a Blue Tit with a 400mm lens from a distance of around 5 to 6 metres.
Yes FEET can be very important as in stalking, to get a bit closer to the subject.
This again is something we all must learn if we are to make the most of our equipment and associated investment.
John D
Zenfolio | John's Wild World

[squishy]

The 4 stops slower is telling you that you can supposedly shoot at shutter speeds 1/16 as fast as normal.

I think most reviewers say it doesn't actually do four stops, more like two stops, but that's still 1/4 of the shutter speed.

This means that if you have to handhold in a situation where you can't get enough light, you should be able to get sharp shots at the necessary slow shutter speeds. But if you're photographing moving wildlife, then you need reasonable shutter speeds anyway.

[Jim Ford]

Originally Posted by John D

Hi Jack,
I don't think Jim was being funny (if that is what you are referring to). I think you will learn that your FEET can at times gain much more than a very expensive lens.

You're right!

A long lens - say 500mm still generally produces a disappointingly small image of many far away or nearer but small subjects. It's always far better to get as close as possible to the subject.

Jim

[Boddie]

Originally Posted by Jim Ford

You're right!

A long lens - say 500mm still generally produces a disappointingly small image of many far away or nearer but small subjects. It's always far better to get as close as possible to the subject.

Jim

Genius

[agooday]

In case it helps, in terms of lenses for Canon EOS

Just gone back to basics and upgraded from Sigma150-500 OS to a 400mm non IS prime (canon L series). Got to know the Sigma well, and happy with many of my shots (red kites, reed bunting, safari). But, on my 50D, with the 15Mpix and 1.6 crop, initial images at 400mm significantly sharper than the 500, as you'd expect from a prime. Works well with my Sigma 1.4 TC. My flickr stream has photos with the Sigma (the majority), a day spent with the 400mm IS f2.8, and I'm just beginning to post some shots from 400mm f5.6. Same photographer, (though improving each month) different lens, so might be a good place to compare. Exif data is available on all. I don't regret buying the Sigma, and the tripod needed to get sharp pics, but think I'll get some amazing shots with the new lens...


Some of my best shots with each: (only had the 400mm f5.6 1 day, but still...)

If anyone would like more feedback on these lenses, happy to give my thoughts.

Sigma 150-500, reed bunting | Flickr - Photo Sharing! (tripod)
Sigma 150-500, Red Kite | Flickr - Photo Sharing! (handheld)
400mm f2.8 IS, Gull Walking on Wave | Flickr - Photo Sharing! (slight crop) (bean bag)
400mm f5.6, Moorhen | Flickr - Photo Sharing! (handheld)