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Olympus Evolt E520 10MP Digital SLR Camera with Image Stabilization w/ 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Zuiko Lens

admin — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 02:20:38 +0000

Olympus Evolt E520 10MP Digital SLR Camera with Image Stabilization w/ 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Zuiko Lens
by Olympus

List Price: ~~$699.99~~

Click here and click Add to cart to see price.

Average customer review:

Product Description

Olympus Evolt E520 10MP Digital SLR Camera with 14-42mm f3.5-5.6 Lens 262086 - (050332163973)

Product Details

Brand: Olympus
Model: E520 14-42
Dimensions: 4.00″ h x 4.00″ w x 4.00″ l, 2.25 pounds
Display size: 2.7

Features

10-megapixel CMOS sensor captures enough detail for photo-quality 18 x 24-inch prints
Lightweight ergonomic design; kit includes 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Zuiko lens
Enhanced in-body Image Stabilization with Supersonic Wave Drive technology
Face Detection and Shadow Adjustment technologies; Perfect Shot Preview
Compatible with CompactFlash Type I and II, Microdrives, and xD-Picture Cards (not included)

Editorial Reviews

Manufacturer Description

The new Olympus E-520 digital single lens reflex (DSLR) camera delivers brilliant images thanks to advanced technologies that help take the blur out. Industry leading Image Stabilization built into the portable camera body compensates for movement so that images are sharp and blur-free with any lens and even at slow shutter speeds. Autofocus Live View brings subjects into sharp focus on the camera’s HyperCrystal II LCD. Together, these technologies produce amazing results, along with the following features that further expand the DSLR experience:

In-Body Image Stabilization with Supersonic Wave Drive technology provides blur-free images when using any of the more than 30 digital-specific lenses;
Face Detection Technology targets and locks on faces to ensure they are in focus and blur-free for amazing portraits;
Shadow Adjustment Technology opens up detail in the shadows that other cameras would render too dark or underexposed while maintaining detail in the highlights; and
Perfect Shot Preview enables photographers to view and select White Balance and Exposure Compensation effects right on the LCD, and see how the image will look before they even capture it.

Evolt E520 Highlights

10-megapixel Live-MOS Sensor Get amazingly detailed, colorful and clear images with the 10-megapixel Live-MOS image sensor. This high-resolution sensor captures all the detail needed to make large prints, or even crop without losing detail. The E-520 sensor’s high dynamic range, accurate color rendition and low noise characteristics let you capture great images, even at high ISO settings.

Enhanced In-Body Image Stabilization For the first time, in-body Mechanical Image Stabilization has three modes for increased versatility. IS-1 mode for general shooting adjusts the sensor on both the X and Y axes to compensate for movement by the photographer so images stay sharp even at slow shutter speeds. To capture the motion of athletes and animals, and other moving subjects, the E-520 offers two specialized modes. IS-2 mode is ideal for capturing a racecar flying down the track, preserving the sense of motion while panning with the moving subject and holding the camera horizontally to dramatically portray the car’s high speed. For sharp images of moving subjects like a basketball player charging up the court, the IS-3 mode allows a photographer to hold the camera vertically while panning. The artistic effects of panning enhance the shot and render the player in sharp detail with blurred background.

The Live View Experience The portable E-520’s advanced autofocus Live View enables photographers to compose their images and bring them into sharp focus on the HyperCrystal II LCD — just like a point-and-shoot camera. By simply pressing the shutter button halfway, subjects come into focus on the LCD, so when the perfect moment occurs it is easy to compose, focus and capture sharp images while viewing on the LCD. Live View makes it possible to shoot upward from a low angle for dramatic composition, in close for detailed macro photos of an exotic insect, or over a crowd of people at a tennis tournament.

New and Improved HyperCrystal II LCD The E-520’s viewable HyperCrystal II LCD is the key to its Live View capabilities. While some LCD screens force photographers to squint to preview images in bright sunlight or a dimly lit room, the E-520 features a large, bright 2.7-inch LCD display that incorporates new technology. It also offers twice the contrast for better viewing in extreme light conditions, a larger color gamut that displays a greater range of color detail, and a 176-degree viewing angle.

Always Find a Face in the Crowd The E-520’s Face Detection reduces the chance of blurred subjects in photography by distinguishing between people’s faces and the background. It tracks up to eight faces within the image area even if people are moving and automatically focuses and optimizes exposure for sharp, brilliant portrait pictures.

In Sunshine or the Shadows, Never Miss a Detail Shooting scenes with shadows can be tricky because of the extreme contrast between dark and bright areas. The E-520 addresses this challenge with Shadow Adjustment Technology that compensates for extreme contrast and maintains visible detail in both the shadow and highlight areas of the scene. Now users can preview and capture images showing the shadow detail they saw. This feature is also available in the Edit menu after the shot has been taken.

Preview a Multitude of Possibilities Perfect Shot Preview enables users to preview and select from a variety of thumbnail previews of the photographic effects of white balance and exposure compensation adjustments live on the LCD before taking the photograph. It is an ideal way for novice users to learn about the effects of different photography techniques, visually, without having to scroll through menu options. With 20 preset scene-select modes for every imaginable shooting scenario from underwater photography to fireworks, and program, automatic modes and full manual controls, the E-520 offers a world of possibilities to photographers.

Experience Life under the Sea Olympus will offer the PT-E05 optional underwater housing for the E-520 to allow photographers to document the richness of life in the depths. Capable of reaching depths of 130 feet underwater, the housing will ensure that divers will not miss an image during their journeys to the abyss. Special underwater scene modes on the E-520 will assure that the camera is set up correctly for underwater use.

Wireless Flash Capability Sometimes wireless flashes can help photographers cast the best light on their subjects and capture great images. For this reason, the E-520 is compatible with the Olympus FL-50R and FL-36R wireless electronic flashes that are designed exclusively for digital photography. When these flashes are used in combination with the E-520, wireless multi-flash photography is possible. The E-520 can control up to three wireless flash groups independently, with multiple flash units in each group.

TruePic III for Image Clarity & Speed The 10.1-megapixel E-520’s TruePic III Image Processor produces crystal-clear photos using all of the pixel information for each image to provide the best digital images possible for every photo with accurate color, true-to-life flesh tones, brilliant blue skies and precise tonal representation in between. TruePic III also lowers image noise by one step to reduce graininess in images shot at higher ISO settings, enabling great results in low-light situations.

Dust Reduction System for Spot-Free Images Life moves too fast to spend time worrying about dust ruining the perfect image. Olympus’ proven Dust Reduction System produces spot-free photos with the exclusive Supersonic Wave Filter. The patented ultrasonic technology vibrates to remove dust and other particles from the front of the image sensor and captures it on a special adhesive membrane every time the camera is turned on. These spot-free photos liberate users from hours spent retouching photographs at the computer or sending their cameras back to the manufacturer to remove dust trapped inside.

Easy to Handle, Easy to Operate The E-520 is extremely portable, measuring 5.35 inches (width) by 3.6 inches (height) and 2.68 inches (depth), excluding protrusions, and weighing 16.75 ounces (body only). The new camera has a classic penta-mirror design that is light and compact enough to shoot with all day. It features a comfortable ergonomic grip to ensure that the camera fits snugly in the hand. Beyond its portable size, the E-520 has an expanded menu for greater control and buttons on the body for quick and easy direct access to the most common settings. Accepting both CompactFlash Type I & II, Microdrives and xD-Picture Cards, the camera provides a choice of data-storage options for enhanced flexibility, and it is possible to transfer image files from one card to the other right inside the camera.

100-percent Digital-Specific Lens for Sharpness and Rich Colors The E-520 outfit includes a compact, Zuiko Digital 28-84mm equivalent (ED 14-42 mm Four Thirds) f3.5-f5.6 lens that perfectly matches the imager so light strikes the sensor directly to ensure rich, accurate colors and edge-to-edge sharpness. Its 3x ED Glass zoom lens covers the range most frequently used in photography and weighs just 7.5 ounces, offering users an extremely dynamic, portable, everyday-use zoom. Close-ups as near as 9.84 inches (0.25 m) are possible throughout the zoom range. This lens is part of Olympus’ expanding line of 100 percent digital lenses — designed specifically for digital photography. Unlike other camera companies, Olympus does not rely on old film lenses, which often result in images with soft edges or other imperfections.

What’s in the Box

E-520 body, 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Zuiko lens, USB cable, video cable, Li-Ion battery pack (BLM-1), Li-Ion battery charger (BCM-2), shoulder strap, Olympus Master software CD-ROM, manuals and warranty card

Customer Reviews

A Great DSLR - Highly Recommended!
This is my first DSLR. I bought this and the Canon XSI at the same time and tried them both for a week. To make a long story short, I returned the XSI and kept the E520. It was just easier to take good pictures indoors, which is where I do most of my shooting. The Canon took more effort to produce good pictures. Plus I liked the interface of the Olympus more.

The XSI has a better viewfinder and a slightly better autofocus system but the Olympus image quality won me over in the end. Its white balance and exposure was just easier to get right than the Canon.

The key is to purchase a camera that you will use and the Olympus does that for me.

Happy I waited.
I am coming from an Olympus C-8080 and a Panasonic DMC-FZ18. Both of these are decent cameras, but not quite SLR quality. Also, the Panasonic is the worst macro camera I have owned. Since I was looking for more options with macro/closeup photography, I wanted a DSLR. My old SLR was an OM2n (back in the prehistoric camera days). I considered getting the E-510 or Nikon D60. Both are decent cameras, but after seeing pictures, decided to stick with Olympus and wait for the 520. I am glad I did!
I normally have a problem with a bit of camera shake and don’t use a tripod. I just shot 400 pics and not one bit of camera shake! I was surprised to find out that I didn’t even have Image stablization enabled. It is very easy to hold this camera steady. The lens and the viewfinder are crystal clear. I stongly suggest that you get the fastest CF card you can to record your pictures, and at least 4GB. I should tell you though, that I am shooting in both raw and fine jpeg format. This typically takes longer to write. The xd cards are too slow when shooting raw and fine jpeg. Another thing to make yourself aware of: Liveview does not seem perfected in any camera yet. It may take some time, but it is a bit bothersome, because there is a wait between recording photos when using Liveview. If you don’t mind using the viewfinder,or waiting about 2 seconds between pictures, it’s not a problem. Also, my battery compartment door seems to stick a bit. May need broken in, or it’s just tight.
On the plus side: I have only had this camera 36 hours and already feel totally comfortable with it. I have heard people say that it’s not user-friendly. I disagree with that statement IF: you have previously owned and used Olympus cameras. This camera isn’t that foreign when coming from Olympus. Yes, it takes getting used to the buttons a bit, and my thumb does accidentally hit a button, but heck, I haven’t even had the camera a couple of days. I also suggest that you buy the telephoto lens. Unless you shoot all wide-angle pictures, you will not be satisfied with this lens package. Regarding the Olympus lenses … Primo, very good quality for a zoom/package deal. Much better quality than I expected. I like my pictures to be as crisp as possible, with the lowest noise (who doesn’t?), so I have experimented with shutting noise reduction off and using software to reduce noise. The results were good in my test results. The scene modes of the camera are good. I haven’t used them all yet (I had to put the camera down and get some sleep sometime in the past 36 hours), but am impressed with face detection on, macro, night modes. The flash is fairly strong. I have never had a built in flash, which doesn’t give some type of red eye or blue eyes in dogs, this has not happened yet with the 520. Impressive, but I would suggest if doing closeup, that you diffuse the flash, or stand back a bit and zoom on the subject. REVISION: If you use the Macro nature mode, it seems to adjust the flash a bit. Also, if you like to experiment, play withe the “Vivid mode” a bit. I’m usually not a fan of modes, but in bright sunlight, my colors came out exactly as they should be.
If you are considering buying a more expensive camera and are NOT doing professional studio work, I would say; don’t waste your money. Get this camera, because you will be impressed. If you are doing studio work, I would still tell you to get this camera, but get a better lens. After all, it’s not always about the camera, but it is always about the lens. Anyone who has ever bought a no-name, camera-store “pushed on you” lens, knows what I am talking about.
When my next lens arrives, I will post more information under the “40-150mm Olympus zoom lens”. Highly recommend this camera!
REVISION: Today, I received the adapter to let me use my old OM-2N lenses. I bought a generic one through ebay and it works just fine. I attached my old Tamron 90mm SP macro lens and began shooting. First, be aware that everything has to be done manually. This may not be practical if you need speed when focusing, unless you have mastered, manual focusing. I find that I shake the camera more with the heavier, manual lens, but with practice, I think that can be overcome. In other words, if you own the old OM lenses and don’t have the money to get a new lens, buy the adapter and be prepared to make some adjustments.
If you have a flash/lighting system and a tripod, those adjustments will be lessened. I don’t think I would do this for the life of the camera, but I would use the old OM lens (especially if you have a high quality one), until I could afford a new digital lens. I also have the 40-150mm digital lens (the one they give in the package deals), and am very impressed with the quality. I have posted some pictures, so you can get an idea of what this camera can do. If you scroll over the pictures, you will see the pictures I shot with the old OM-2N lens. I didn’t make any revisions, so that you can get an idea of how the pictures come out of the camera (no photoshop).

A New Era in DSLR
I have done quite a lot of analysis before buying this camera, have used Nikon D40, D40x, D80, D200, Canon D350, D400, D450; but finally it was the Olympus E520 I fell in love with. I recently bought this camera in Hong Kong, when it wasn’t even released anywhere in the rest of the world yet.

Why did I like it? The ease of use, I have used a prosumer camera for a couple of years now, and was waiting for a camera with similar ease of use, and Olympus heard my prayers.

Technology wise, its one of the best FourThirds system in the market, this has enabled smaller lenses. The Live View is amazing (though I prefer using the optical viewfinder, my wife loves the Live view), it has Face detection and multi-point focus, all I can say is that it is the best as yet (the Canon D450 liveView is really bad), the kit lens is very good too, awesome wide angle. The assisted manual focus is extremely useful; the auto focus is super fast. There are multiple RAW file formats to choose from. The Sensor based Image stabilization works like a charm, better than the optical image stabilization. The playback features are the best, anybody would want to see the photos they clicked a but closer, it is such a pain to zoom the preview on the Canons and the Nikons, in this even my 7 year old niece can do it. The image quality, you might have seen them on the internet, its comparable to any of the professional cameras.

One small drawback i have noticed is the built in flash, its not as powerful as the Nikon, though we can increase the flash power, but the default setting is not as powerful as the Nikon.

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Canon EF 50mm f1.4 USM Standard & Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras

admin — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 16:12:51 +0000

Canon EF 50mm f1.4 USM Standard & Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras
by Canon

List Price: ~~$520.00~~

Click here to see the update price & new or used available.

Average customer review:

Product Description

The CANON EF 50MM f/1.4 USM is a standard lens featuring superb quality and portability. Two high-refraction lens elements and new Gaussian optics eliminate astigmatism and suppress astigmatic difference. Crisp images with little flare are obtained even at the maximum aperture. Max. Diameter & Length - 73.8mm x 50.5mm

Product Details

Brand: Canon
Model: 2515A003
Dimensions: 2.00″ h x 2.00″ w x 2.90″ l, .64 pounds

Features

50mm standard lens with f/1.4 maximum aperture for Canon SLR cameras
2 high-refraction lens elements and Gaussian optics help eliminate astigmatism
Delivers crisp images with little flare at the maximum aperture
Extra-small Micro USM focus adjustment and full-time manual focusing
Measures 2.9 inches in diameter and 2 inches long; 1-year warranty

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description
When accuracy matters, the Canon EF 50mm standard lens steps to the plate. The lens offers two high-refraction lens elements and new Gaussian optics, helping eliminate astigmatism and suppress astigmatic differences. As a result, the lens provides an image that’s extremely close to how your eye perceives a subject, making it excellent for portraits and images that require a natural depth of field. The lens even delivers crisp images with little flare at the maximum aperture. Compact and affordable, the EF 50mm is the only lens in the EF system to offer the extra-small Micro USM while still providing full-time manual focusing. As with all Canon lenses, the EF 50mm carries a one-year warranty.

Focal length: 50mm
Maximum aperture: 1:1.4
Lens construction: 7 elements in 6 groups
Diagonal angle of view: 46 degrees
Focus adjustment: Overall linear extension system with USM
Closest focusing distance: 1.5 feet
Filter size: 58mm
Dimensions: 2.9 inches in diameter, 2 inches long
Weight: 10.2 ounces

Customer Reviews

Buy the best tool for the job that you can
After researching this lense, I quickly decided to acquire it.

I must say I have a regret……….

That I did not grab it a LONG time ago!!

I’ve had the 50 for a couple months now,and it has not parted ways from my cam body at all..and after a rather large event this past weekend, where I was shooting w two cams, one w the 50 sans flash, & one w a 28-135 tele w’ flash….I ended up ditching most of the flashed pics,but am busily cranking out large prints of 3/4 of the pics acquired with the 50….

…………..

Something to think about while reading thru info/reviews….. I come across statements sprinkled thru-out various forums about people raving about their kit lense is good enough and look at the pictures they got with them,… and why anyone would ever spring for expensive glass is beyond their comprehension….

A little comparison.

Carpenter Joe builds houses w a $10 wood-handled hammer,a 12 inch ruler, and a shovel.

Carpenter Jim builds houses w a $50 composite hammer, a measuring tape and a power auger

Carpenter John builds houses w a $200 air powered hammer,a laser level, and a backhoe.

Their houses all get built,,,but I’ll leave you to decide who’s house is finished first, with straighter floors,ectect…

Tools may not make you a better carpenter ( or photographer ) but they sure can help!!!

….And really,,anyone who has ever built something with a hammer that sends shock waves thru their hand w’ each blow, and the head falls off after every 20 nails..vs the person using a airgun…one of those folks is going to enjoy their work a WHOLE lot more,,and that always helps improve workmanship and quality,,would’nt you think ?

Cheers

~Julius Kuziemski

I love this lens
After using the f1.4 for several months and then holding a friend’s f1.8, I am so glad I chose this lens over the f1.8. The USM is so quick and quiet, the bokeh is gorgeous… I have gotten several wonderful prints with this lens. If you can afford this lens over the 50mm f1.8 I would strongly recommend you make the investment.

great lens, great price
i was preparing to buy the L series lens for 3-5 times as much when a friend who owns both advised me to get this one. i have been using it every day and it has become my standard lens. the autofocus can be slow, and you need to make sure, at the f/1.4 setting, that you have your focus correct, because the depth of field is so thin, but with a little practice this creates the most amazing images. i have done portraits with it and my sitters all cannot believe how great the final product is. i strongly recommend this product.

Value for money
The 50mm 1.4 is a good value for the money. It shoots in less light than the 50mm 1.8 and is better all around. The focus is a bit more accurate and consistent, the contrast and color are more reliable as well. That should be no surprise though, you’re paying for an improvement over the 50mm 1.8. It still leaves something to be desired if you have L quality taste, but if you’re coming from the 50mm 1.8 you’ll find this a fantastic lens. I get 30 percent or so more keepers with this than the 50mm 1.8 due to more consistency in focus and cleaner more consistent color. If you own the 1.8 you should appreciate this as an upgrade, but if you own L glass you will probably find yourself wishing for something even better eventually. The AF is not really fast enough for great action performance in low light like the 85mm 1.8, but some will still shoot with it with a few less keepers and reach. The design is relative to it’s price so I can’t fault it for some of the extras that come with more expensive lenses. Still a useful lens until Canon upgrades the USM and FTM focus to the real deal in a value package. This lens is Canons only lens to supply FTM (full time manual focus) with a conventional focusing motor. Those that followed went to ring USM and perform slightly better for it. The 50mm 1.2L is Canon’s next step above the 50mm 1.4 and is several times more expensive, so the 50mm 1.4 will hold it’s own unless Canon does decide to give us an updated Mark II version or a 3rd party steps ahead of Canon to fill that gap.

Beautiful shots
I’m not a professional by any means, but I do love photography. I bought this lens after lots of consideration because of its qualities as a good macro lens and potential portrait lens.

This lens is so much more. Because of the relatively short distance necessary to create close shots, there is a sense of intimacy created in my photographs that has surprised me far beyond my original expectations.

Portraits do have the tendency to be fairly “in your face”, depending on the lighting, and again, depending on the lighting, the skin of your subject’s may be a little too “hi-def”, but I just attribute this to the macro-quality of the lens. Overall I have been really pleased.

The lens does tend to hunt a bit depending on the light, from my experience, but re-positioning of your own body fixes that.

I have this lens on my Canon K2– a 35mm camera, and used in combination with different types of films, the results can be spectacular.

Great buy!

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Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM Lens for Canon SLR Cameras

admin — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 15:57:06 +0000

Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM Lens for Canon SLR Cameras
by Canon

List Price: ~~$790.00~~

Click here to see the update price & new or used available.

Average customer review:

Product Description

This telephoto macro lens is capable of focusing to life-size (1X) without attachments. Although it replaces the EF 100mm f/2.8 macro lens, it is a completely new design. It incorporates a ring-type USM giving quiet, high-speed autofocus. The full-time mechanical manual focus gives very smooth manual focusing. For the first time in a 1X focusing telephoto macro lens, inner focusing is used.The lens length remains constant and a long working distance of 149mm makes worrying about getting too close to the subject unnecessary. Also, during focusing the front ring does not rotate making use of front-mounting accessories like macro ring lites simple and effective. “Three-group floating” focusing construction uses three independently moving groups, which holds focusing-related changes of aberrations to a minimum giving excellent image quality all the way from infinity to life size.

Product Details

Brand: Canon
Model: 4657A006
Dimensions: 2.13″ h x 2.13″ w x 2.99″ l, 4.00 pounds

Features

100mm macro USM lens with f/2.8 maximum aperture for Canon SLR cameras
Secondary diaphragm blocks stray light at f/2.8 for increased contrast
Ultra-sonic monitor provides outstanding autofocusing speed at all distances
3-group floating system for exceptional close-up performance; full-time manual focus
Measures 3.1 inches in diameter and 4.7 inches long; weighs 21.1 ounces; 1-year warranty

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description
Bring small things into full-sized view with the Canon EF 100mm macro USM lens. Macro lenses can uncover detail that would be impossible to detect by the eye and give new perspective to extremely minute subjects such as insects or the petals of a small flower, and this lens is no exception. The lens offers such features as a three-group floating system for exceptional close-up performance; a secondary diaphragm that blocks stray light at f/2.8, which increases contrast when shooting wide open; a ultra-sonic monitor (USM) that provides outstanding autofocusing speed at all focusing distances; a wide manual focusing ring with smooth action; and full-time manual focus even in AF mode. The first lens in its class to feature inner focusing, the lens carries a one-year warranty.

Focal length: 100mm
Maximum aperture: 1:2.8
Lens construction: 12 elements in 8 groups
Diagonal angle of view: 24 degrees
Focus adjustment: Inner focusing system with USM
Closest focusing distance: 1 foot (film plane to subject)
Filter size: 58mm
Dimensions: 3.1 inches in diameter, 4.7 inches long
Weight: 21.1 ounces

Customer Reviews

Satisfied
Good product, Upto my expectation, difficult to find by keywords but atlast found it, fits to my canon camera and wow on result. thanks for this deal

Amazing Lens.
Can’t say anything bad besides the slow focusing. But this is sharp. Awesome macro and tele capabilities.

Very Nice Macro
Bought this about 60 days ago and it’s been my primary lens since. This is by far the sharpest lens we have and with the biggest aperture. Just yesterday was at our daughter’s dance rehearsal and no flashes were allowed. I tried to use the 28-135 telephoto that came with the camera but it’s was just way too dark. Moved back a few rows and slapped on this baby and everything became so much brighter and I got some really good action shots at 1600 ISO. By the way, the Canon 40D is so good that 1600 ISO shots are useable.

As to the macro function, it’s great. For small insects you will need a monopod, a steady hand, and manual focus.

GREAT Macro!
This is one of my Targeted Purchases for Additional Lenses with my Digital SLR Camera (Canon XSi and XTi). Being FINALLY FREE (As an Empty-Nesting Retiree) .. I’ve gone back to College … and a selection of the courses are in Photography. The skills/techniques I am studying necessitated the purchase of a Macro Lens — and since this one Arrived .. WOW … I’ve gotten a LOT of use out of this one lens — everything from close-ups of the Spring Blooms to Insects/Butterflies and nature in all its wonderous glory. I LOVE it … but realize this — if you are photographing blooms — you MOST likely will be using MANUAL Focus — for the lens itself will zoom in and out (sometimes repeatedly) — trying to focus where IT wants to .. so if you want the BEST quality (based on your tastes), set it to MF and go for it!

Good for macro
This is a good lens for macro photography, but it is not without its shortcomings, and if your camera can use Canon EF-S lenses, you may want to consider the Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 MACRO USM lens. First, the 60 mm is considerably cheaper. Second, the 60mm lens has a circular aperture - the 100mm lens does not. Next, as the Canon website shows, the 60 mm lens has better MTF than the 100mm lens. Also, the 60 mm lens weighs about half that of the 100 mm lens. Finally, for portraits and other non-macro photography, the 60 mm length may be more convenient, and with its 2.8 aperture, the 60 mm lens can be used as a fast “normal” lens.
All that said, the 100 mm lens does take good macro photos, although it is not always easy. As with all macro photography, you need to close the aperture and use an external flash. The Canon macro ring light will cost you another $450. And, since a tripod is also usually needed, macro photography can become rather expensive.

One of my best lenses
this lens is fantastic. It is flexible, durable, and most of all, not wicked expensive for what you get. OK, so I found a better deal and got one for about $400 even, but if i knew the quality was this damn high, i would’ve paid $600 at circuit city in a heartbeat. Its kinda heavy and long, but i’m used to my Sigma 18-200mm zoom lens which is wider and heavier. The pictures ive taken are amazing. Only thing is, for some reason, with this lens your camera will try to make the image brighter by holding open the shutter longer at spots with normal light for other lenses. Also, there is a switch for a distance limiter, yet it doesn’t do anything different for me. Supposedly its better for taking pictures of things that are farther away. Did I mention that its great for a medium telephoto lens too? plus it only has a focus ring.

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HP Pavilion DV6810US 15.4″ Laptop (AMD Turion 64 X 2 Dual Core TL-60 Processor, 3 GB RAM, 160 GB Hard Drive, DVD Drive, Vista Premium)

admin — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 02:42:37 +0000

HP Pavilion DV6810US 15.4″ Laptop (AMD Turion 64 X 2 Dual Core TL-60 Processor, 3 GB RAM, 160 GB Hard Drive, DVD Drive, Vista Premium)
by Hewlett-Packard

List Price: ~~$1,022.00~~

Click here to see the update price & new or used available.

Average customer review:

Product Description

For those who want advanced digital entertainment capability coupled with leading-edge mobile performance and communication features, the HP Pavilion DV6810US Entertainment Notebook PC delivers! The DV2890NR has AMD mobile dual-core technology with 3GB of RAM enables you to use multiple demanding applications, such as photo editing, DVD burning and playing a game, at the same time. And control content from up to 10 feet away with the HP Mobile Remote Control that can be stored in the ExpressCard slot for convenience. Create custom laser-etched disc labels right in the drive for a personal or professional finish with LightScribe Technology. This notebook exists at the intersection of computing and entertainment with its 15.4″ High-Definition BrightView widescreen display, innovative entertainment and communication features. 15.4 diagonal WXGA (1280 x 800) BrightView Widescreen Display NVidia GeForce Go 7150M (UMA) with up to 1071MB Shared Graphics Memory LightScribe SuperMulti 8x DVD+-R/RW Drive with Double Layer 802.11B/G Wireless 10/100Base-T Ethernet LAN Bluetooth 5-in-1 Bridge Media Adapter - MMC, SD, MS, MS Pro, xD ExpressCard 54/34 Slot 3 x USB 2.0, Headphone out; Microphone-in, VGA, TV-Out (S-Video), IEEE-1394, RJ-11 (Modem), RJ-45 Approximate Unit Dimensions - 14.05 (W) x 10.12 (D) x 1.56 (H) Approximate Unit Weight - 6.06 pounds

Product Details

Color: Black/ Silver
Brand: Hewlett-Packard
Model: DV6810US
Dimensions: 1.56″ h x 4.53″ w x 14.05″ l, 8.10 pounds
CPU: AMD Turion 64 2 GHz
Memory: 3000MB DDR2 SDRAM
Hard Disk: 160GB
Processors: 2
Display size: 15.4

Features

Entertainment-centric notebook PC with widescreen 15.4-inch LCD and stylish high-gloss finish with wave imprint
64-bit 2.0 GHz AMD Turion 64 X2 TL-60 dual-core processor, 160 GB hard drive, 3 GB RAM (4 GB max), LightScribe dual-layer DVD drive
54g Wi-Fi (802.11b/g); Bluetooth; 10/100 Ethernet; Nvidia GeForce Go 7150 graphics (up to 1071 MB of available memory)
Connectivity: 3 USB, 1 FireWire, 1 VGA, 1 S-Video, ExpressCard 54/34, 5-in-1 memory card reader
Pre-installed with Windows Vista Home Premium (Service Pack 1); includes remote control

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description
Designed for fast access to your entire entertainment library, the HP Pavilion dv6810us notebook PC is a great choice for both families and business travelers on the go. The 15.4-inch high-definition BrightView display looks good even in direct sunlight, and you’ll enjoy movies or music in seconds with the external DVD or music buttons to launch HP QuickPlay (which bypasses the boot process). Control playback settings from up to 10 feet away with the included HP remote, then store it conveniently in the Express card slot. Easily manage your digital photo library and share with friends and family using the included HP Photosmart Essential software. This stylish laptop also features a high-gloss, durable HP Imprint finish with the Radiance pattern of concentric waves.

Optimized for mobile performance, it’s powered by the 2.0 GHz AMD Turion 64 X2 TL-60 dual-core processor, which offers 64-bit computing capability and higher throughput for simultaneous computing tasks. This notebook also features a 160 GB hard drive, 3 GB of installed RAM (4 GB maximum), 54g Wi-Fi connectivity (802.11b/g), 8x dual-layer DVD±RW drive (which also burns CDs), ExpressCard slot, Nvidia GeForce Go 7150M video/graphics card with up to 1071 MB of total allocated video memory, 5-in-1 memory card reader, and Bluetooth connectivity.

It comes preinstalled with Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium (Service Pack 1), which includes all of the Windows Media Center capabilities for turning your PC into an all-in-one home entertainment center. In addition to easily playing your DVD movies and managing your digital audio library, you’ll be able to record and watch your favorite TV shows (even HDTV). Vista also integrates new search tools throughout the operating system, includes new parental control features, and offers new tools that can warn you of impending hardware failures.

The Basics

Processor: The 2.0 GHz AMD Turion 64 X2 TL-60 processor offers a dual-core architecture, which delivers additional computing resources to help expand your PCâ€™s capabilities by providing higher throughput and simultaneous computing–increasing your performance by up to 80 percent. You’ll be able to perform multiple tasks such as digital rendering and gaming all while running virus scan or other background tasks seamlessly thanks to the innovative Direct Connect Architecture. And it’s designed to handle simultaneous 32- and 64-bit computing with no degradation in performance. You’ll enjoy long battery life thanks to the AMD PowerNow! power management technology, which delivers performance on demand and can extend system battery life up to 65 percent. And the AMD Digital Media XPress technology delivers stellar multimedia performance and playback on digital entertainment such as games, streaming video and audio, DVDs, and music.Each processing core has a 512 KB L2 cache (for a 1 MB total), and this processor can deliver up to a 1600 MHz system bus for lightning quick computing reflexes. (An L2, or secondary, cache temporarily stores data; and a larger L2 cache can help speed up your system’s performance. The FSB carries data between the CPU and RAM, and a faster front-side bus will deliver better overall performance.)
Hard Drive: The 160 GB hard drive (5400 RPM) offers enough to room to hold a digital audio library of over 26,000 songs and still have room left over for movies, games, and a large collection of software. This Serial ATA (SATA) hard drive also quickens the pace with a higher speed transfer of data–akin to Firewire and USB 2.0.
Memory: The 3 GB of installed RAM (PC5300, 1 x 2 GB, 2 x 1 GB) helps boost the amount of available video RAM that’s shared with this notebook’s video card. It also offers a top-of-class 667 MHz speed. This notebook has a 4 GB maximum RAM capacity (2 x 2 GB). To receive the faster data transfer benefits of the dual-channel DDR2 RAM, any RAM additions require memory modules of same capacity and clockspeed.
DVD/CD Drive: This multiformat DVD/CD drive is compatible with writing both DVD+ and DVD- disc formats as well as dual-layer (DL) DVD+/-R discs, which can store up to 8.5 GB of data. It features 4x DVD-R DL Write Once, 2.4x DVD+R DL Write Once, 8x DVD+R, 4x DVD+RW, 8x DVD-R, 4x DVD-RW, 16x DVD-ROM, 40x CD-R, 24x CD-RW, and 40x CD-ROM speeds.This LightScribe DVD±RW drive lets you laser-etch silkscreen quality text and images on to CDs and DVDs . Your software, PC and discs work together for a no-hassle way to burn just the labels you want. After you burn content, just flip the disc over, reinsert and burn your label–anything from a simple title to a full-disc work of art.
Keyboard & Mouse: This notebook has a 101-key keyboard and a touchpad with on/off button and dedicated vertical/horizontal Scroll Up/Down pad. It also includes two quick-launch buttons (HP QuickPlay Music and DVD).

Screen, Video & Audio
You’ll enjoy razor-sharp graphics and widescreen movies with the 15.4-inch WXGA high-definition screen, which displays an 18 percent larger picture than standard 15-inch screens and an improved contrast ratio. It has a widescreen resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels–perfect for watching DVD movies the way they were meant to be seen. Video is powered by the integrated Nvidia GeForce Go 7150M graphics/video card, which provides up to 1071 MB of total graphics memory as allocated by Windows Vista. It features NVidia’s PureVideo technology–which provides great picture clarity, smooth video, accurate color, and precise image scaling for video content–and full support for Microsoft DirectX 9.0 for stunningly realistic cinematic effects for all DirectX-compatible applications.The Altec Lansing speakers provide exceptional sound, and a pair of stereo earbud headphones with volume controls is included. You’ll be able to privately share enjoyment of multimedia with a friend via the dual headphone jacks.

Networking, Connectivity & Expansion
This notebook has an integrated 54g wireless LAN that’s fully compatible with 802.11b/g wireless networks. You’ll enjoy wireless connectivity to a wide range of peripherals with the built-in Bluetooth. It also includes a next-generation ExpressCard 54/34 card slot (replacing the PCMCIA slot), which lets you take advantage of thinner, faster, and lighter expansion cards for even more advanced wireless, networking, storage, and security features. It comes with the following external connectors:

3 USB 2.0 ports for connecting a wide range of peripherals–from digital cameras to MP3 players
1 FireWire (also known as IEEE 1394 or i.Link) port for connecting digital video camcorders and other peripherals
Video out: 1 VGA monitor port and 1 S-Video port for connecting to a TV or projector
1 ExpressCard/54 slot (also supports ExpressCard/34)
2 headphone jacks
1 microphone jack
1 Expansion Port 3 connector (for use with the HP xb3000 Expansion Base or the HP Notebook QuickDock)
1 IR receiver
5-in-1 memory card reader (Secure Digital, MultiMedia, Memory Stick, Memory Stick PRO, xD Picture Card)
10/100 Ethernet
56K modem (V.90)

Operating System
Windows Vista Home Premium is the operating system for users with advanced computer needs, and it includes all of the Windows Media Center capabilities for turning your PC into an all-in-one home entertainment center for watching DVD movies and accessing your digital audio library. You can also use Windows Media Center to record and watch your favorite TV shows (even HDTV) and to access new kinds of online entertainment content. Computers that include Windows Vista Home Premium and an auxiliary Windows SideShow display will also allow you to access key data even when your computer is off. It is also easier than ever to share files between other PCs in your household and to manage your laptop computer settings to more securely connect via Wi-Fi.

Every edition of Windows Vista provides the essential tools and technologies to help protect you whether you are browsing the Internet, connecting to a wireless network, or just reading e-mail. All editions of Windows Vista include new tools that can warn you of impending hardware failures long before you have lost any important personal data. And, all Windows Vista editions include parental control features that allow you to manage and monitor your family’s use of games, the Internet, instant messaging, and other activities.

Preloaded Software
Includes Microsoft Works, Microsoft Office 2007 Student and Teacher Edition (60-day trial), Muvee Autoproducer, Cyberlink DVD Suite, PC Recovery, HP PhotoSmart Essentials, and Symantec Norton Internet Security 2008 (with 60 days of Live Update).

Dimensions & Weight
This notebook measures 14.05 x 10.12 x 1.56 inches (WxHxD) and weighs 6.06 pounds.

Power
This notebook is powered by a 6-cell rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which offers up to 2 hours of battery life (dependent upon computing conditions).

What’s in the Box
This package contains the HP Pavilion dv6810us notebook PC, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, AC adapter, IR remote control, earphones, and operating instructions. It is backed by a limited warranty for parts and labor for one year from date of purchase as well as technical telephone assistance for one year. Software is also covered for 30 days from date of purchase.

Reduce your impact on the environment with this Energy Star-certified system and HP’s innovative take-back options, including trade-in, recycling and donation.

Customer Reviews

HP Pavilion DV6810US 15.4
Pretty good product and a reasonably good out of the box experience, which has more to do with Vista than it has to do with the machine itself. Very nice screen and good view-ability.

VERY VERY decent laptop
I purchased this product as a desktop replacement. I’ve had it for a few weeks now and it is great. It actually came with more than I expected. Great wide screen, mic, webcam, quick-key buttons for quick play, mouse pad disable option, all of the jacks and ports you need, quick on/off switch for wireless network card, decent speakers, dedicated cards, and more.

The only things that have been poor thus far is that my disk player would open itself randomly (it has been a little while since it last did that), and when installed Windows Live Messenger it began to restart itself as windows kept saying it was in a critical state every time it booted up. Thank heavens for safe mode and restart points! A bit of bloatware but there is no problem with uninstalling.

Overall, I highly recommend this well-rounded laptop to everyone in search of something perfect for the price.

Great Home Laptop
This laptop has great finish, screen, performance, and specs. You really enjoy it. Works great. I’m computer science engineer and has no problems to run my development environment, that is more “heavy” than usual home software or tasks.

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Guitar Hero: On Tour

admin — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 02:27:26 +0000

Guitar Hero: On Tour

by ACTIVISION

Platform: Nintendo DS

Price: $49.99

Click here to see the update price & new or used available.

Average customer review:

Product Description

Utilizing the revolutionary Guitar Hero Guitar Grip peripheral that fits snugly into the Nintendo DS, and a unique Guitar Hero pick-stylus; Guitar Hero: On Tour brings a new dimension to handheld gaming and gives fans the ability to shred along with their favorite tunes with complete portability. It allows gamers to take the rock-solid Guitar Hero experience wherever they go. The soundtrack features the most diverse set list of master tracks ever offered in a Guitar Hero game, including classic rock, alternative and pop favorites. Fans can prove their shredding skills on the most diverse set list of master tracks ever offered on a Guitar Hero game, including classic rock, pop and alternative favorites such as Nirvana, OK Go and No Doubt

Product Details

Brand: ACTIVISION
Model: 400009415834
Released on: 2008-06-22
ESRB Rating: Everyone 10+
Platform: Nintendo DS
Dimensions: 2.00 pounds

Features

Included is the 4-Button hardware peripheral which fits smoothly into the DS
Shred to new tunes
Choose from 4 different gameplay modes
Rock out with six characters including two rockers that are exclusive to the DS version
Pick from a vast collection of Gibson guitars and musical venues

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com

Handheld gamers can now unleash their inner rock star with Guitar Hero: On Tour for Nintendo DS. You can enjoy the unique Guitar Hero experience and show off your shredding skills with a diverse set of tracks that encompass classic rock, alternative and pop hits. The game comes with the revolutionary Guitar Hero Guitar Grip that fits into the DS and brings new thrills to handheld gaming.

Key Features

Includes Guitar Hero: On Tour, Guitar Grip controller, Guitar Grip skin sheet, Guitar Grip strap and Guitar Hero keychain
Choose from six awesome characters and unlock five new venues
Outfit your character in various styles and select the axe color of your choice
Rock out to master tracks featuring songs popularized by Nirvana, OK GO and No Doubt
Specifically designed for the unique capabilities of the Nintendo DS

Synopsis

Guitar Hero: On Tour offers gameplay that is easy to play yet difficult to master. Jam to your favorite tunes in Career mode and keep improving your skills. Join together with other players in Co-op mode using a local wireless network, or battle another player in a duel using new Battle Items — blow into the microphone to extinguish pyrotechnics that go wrong, or use the touch screen to autograph a crazed fan’s shirt.

Unique Nintendo DS Capabilities
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Rock Out to Popular Songs!
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Customer Reviews

I lovers this game
I just got this game a few days ago, and although its a bit tricky to get the hang of at first, i got used to it pretty quickly. It is extremely fun and addicting. I love the fact that i can take it anywhere!! I do wisht they had more songs, but with the song selection they do have, i love a lot of them. I definatly reccomend this game to guitar hero lovers everywhere!!

Fantastically Fun for All Ages
Guitar Hero On Tour brings the fun of Guitar Hero strumming to the Nintendo DS. I am really amazed at what they packed into this small handheld unit, even with its few quirks.

The game comes with a four-button attachment that lets you push the buttons, much as on the guitar controller for the larger consoles. The unit is made for the DS Lite, and tells you to unscrew parts if you have a regular DS. To test this, we tracked down a small screwdriver (a normal one won’t fit) and unscrewed the screws. Then one of the screws wouldn’t screw back in on the regular connector. After some fiddling I finally had to tape that screw down in place to get it to work. Not a great sign.

On to gameplay. It’s a little awkward to hold your hand around the DS unit and get your fingers onto the buttons. One of the very first screens that appears is a warning about hand cramps - to only play for short periods of time! Hah, how many gamers do that? I see a LOT of cramped hands in the future for this game. If your hand isn’t JUST the right size, it will be too long, too short, too fat, too thin for this setup. They could have included various foam inserts or something to help out.

On to gameplay. There are five venues with five songs apiece, and four difficulty levels. I whipped through easy in a few hours, no problems. I then popped into the free-play mode to test out songs on the harder levels. I only started running into any trouble once I hit expert. Now, I’ve been playing all the other games for quite some time, so I’m well versed with button pushing. I imagine newbies will find the easy levels challenging. Those of you who are Guitar Hero fans, though, know that you’ll have to wade through a fair amount of non-challenging gameplay to get up to the more fun levels.

The songs? Here you go: Do what you want, All the small things, Spiderwebs, Are you gonna be my girl, We’re not gonna take it, All star, Breed, Jesse’s Girl, Hit me with your bst shot, This love, Heaven, Helicopter, China grove, Rock and roll all nite, What I want, Jet airliner, Black magic woman, Stray cat strut, La grange, Youth gone wild, I don’t wanna stop, Anna molly, Knock me down, Pride and joy, I know a little.

What’s funny about these games is how different people love and hate different songs. Some people might say “I really hate playing XXX and YYY!!” while someone else would say “The only reason I play is to sing along with XXX and YYY!” So they have to do their best to balance the songs out. For example, I really love La Grange, Stray Cat Strut, Pride and Joy and This Love. That’s just me. I’m sure other people hate those songs Something for everyone!

Ironically in most guitar hero games it’s the fingering I have to work on in the hard songs - but here the strumming was killing me. I never have problems strumming!! Getting the little pick to “strum” on the screen would always either miss the right screen area or hit the main screen when I was trying to tag the star power area. I didn’t feel like screaming at the mic to activate the star power (which is muffled under your hand).

Also, the DS unit is moving wildly while you’re strumming unless you hold it down against something - in my case I held it against my stomach. Anything solid will do.

The DS speakers are a bit tinny, but it sounds much better through headphones. Invest in a good pair to enjoy the music. Not Bose stereo quality sound, but it’s still quite fun.

It’s also quite intuitive. I sprang the Kiss song on my boyfriend who is a guitar player and had played the console games, but had never seen this DS version before. I didn’t give him any instructions at all. He didn’t blink an eye and played right through the song with almost a perfect score, figuring out immediately how to play and strum. The only thing he didn’t get was activating the star power - he was shaking the DS unit

Highly recommended for pretty much anyone. The gameplay is easy to figure out, the songs are fun, and you can take it anywhere. Yes, the console versions are better with the full guitar, and the larger song lists, and better sound quality - but remember, this is specifically portable. For a portable version I don’t know that they really could have gotten much better. Better grip options is pretty much all I can come up with as a suggestion for next time.

A 40-something’s take: Great alternative to the full-size
I’m not the “Guitar Hero pro” like some of these other helpful reviewers; I’d played the ‘real’ Guitar Hero only once, this past New Year’s Eve, when a couple’s teen son brought his XBox + GHero to our home and we all played during our small party. Although I wasn’t that great at it, it was a lot of fun, and I was instantly hooked, and very nearly bought GH for our PS2…until I came to my senses and realized that, since my husband didn’t like it (so we’d never play it together and I’d have to be in a different room/TV during our few short evening after-work hours together), I’d probably rarely play it.

This little DS version is the perfect solution; I can pick it up & pop in the headphones, and play a little while on my own, whenever.

I received it only recently so have played it only about 8 hours but it’s nearly as fun as the full-size version (at least for a novice like me).

However, unlike the full-size version, it’s very hard to find a comfortable position in which to hold it. It’s not a simple matter of wrist position, as the little booklet advises; instead, it’s the fact that the console and its buttons are straight across, while your fingers are not. So if you have it comfortably set for your first 3 fingers, your pinkie’s gonna miss those blue notes, and if you adjust for your pinkie, you’ll soon find your hand or wrist cramping while your other fingers struggle to feel natural. And if you try to re-adjust mid-game, you risk dislodging the game from the DS slot (thereby stopping the game), because it’s not a tight “snap” fit in the GBA slot.

Still, it’s fun and for a novice like me will be challenging for some time to come. (The playlist has lots of songs that I like, such as Spiderwebs by No Doubt, This Love by Maroon 5, All Star by Smashmouth, etc….although in the first run-through of the first 3 levels, I actually did better on songs with which I was totally unfamiliar — if you read music you’ll probably experience the same thing.) Like the ‘real’ game, you can go back and Quickplay or Practice any song you’ve unlocked.

This is an ingenious little take on GH; I just hope the designers can go back to the drawing board and refine the GH device so that it fits the hand more naturally (and can be flipped for ‘lefties’). If they can do that, it would eliminate the problem of the device slipping from the gameslot.

Nice game!
I just got my guitar hero on tour. At first I wasnt very used to the small buttons and everything. after a short time practice, I picked things up. I played like 4 or 5 hours. I unlocked all the songs on easy mood. Now I’m playing medium mode and battles. It was a lot fun!I absolutely love it.
But yeah, it causes pain on the wrist if play for a long time. So take a little break once in a while.:)

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