Nikon D300s 12MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S ED VR II Telephoto Zoom Lens

The Nikon D300S is the updated version of the D300 which basically set the bar pretty high, and that standard is still relevant today. There were very few changes made to this updated version and just adds to the high quality already in place. The overall feel of the camera is outstanding, the controls are placed in a comfortable position and overall construction is of the quality you would expect from Nikon. They have mastered the art of ergonomic design when it comes to cameras.

What you have in the D300S camera is really more of a semi-professional camera. It is a higher class than most DSLRs but functions on par with the full-frame CMOS sensor cameras the professionals generally use. Most pros would find this camera more than appropriate for their use and the more capable amateur will be thrilled with the high level of features and the overall performance. Combine the design, ease of use, and add modern technology and you have a mighty fine camera.

Nikon D300S Camera Features

12.3- megapixels: This is a lower number than normally seen for a professional level cameras, but it is a high quality count for a DSLR. It is deceiving as the exceptionally sharp picture quality matches what if often found with the higher level pixel count found in professional cameras

DX-format full screen CMOS sensor: The CMOS sensor technology allows for a perfect blend of pixel numbers and light sensor capabilities by the angles the light ray hit each pixel. It includes an Integrated Dust Reduction system that uses ultrasonic vibrations will keep the sensor clean.

Nikon EXPEED processor: This will give high quality processing speed and accurate images, keeping the noise levels low. It has the capability of shooting 7 frames per second. The battery charge will last through 950 shots.

3 inch LCD Screen: This monitor with a protective tempered glass covering, has a 921,000 dot VGA screen that is very easy to read and easy to use. It has the added feature of seven levels of brightness to make it easy to read in all degrees of indoor and outdoor light.

Auto Focus System: This camera has a highly effective new contrast detection auto focus system. It uses 51 auto focus points, which is higher than normal for this style camera. The auto focus system is easy to use and will give photos that are especially clear and sharp. In addition, there is a 3D color matrix metering system with 1,005 pixels that has the capability to evaluate color information as part pf the automatic choosing of exposure settings. You will find that its standard ISO sensitivity will range from 200- 3,200 and it has an expanded sensitivity of 100 to 6400 available.

Video Recording: One of the additions to this model, that is not found in the D300 is video recording. The Nikon D300S can record video at 24 frames per second on it s720p HD video. The combination of still and video recording capabilities is becoming an important tool in professional photograph today, much to the dismay of many purists. This includes a n integrated microphone that unfortunately is place too close to the auto focus motor sound. One of the few flaws in the design. Using the external microphone input capability will take care of that problem.

Duel Memory Cards: One particularly helpful new feature for this D300s camera is the dual memory card slots. This lets you use both a compact flash and a secure digital card. You can use these in a variety of ways. Use one to store the overflow from the other. You might also record JPEG to one card and RAW to the other. Another option is to put still shots on one card and video on the other.

Summary:

Having a DSLR camera that functions at the superior performance levels associated with professional class cameras is a nice affordable option. The Nikon D300S is just that camera. It is far above the other cameras in the DSLR class and the features meet the needs of the pros. It keeps the high standards set in the original S300 while adding a video element and other minor changes. Any professional or experienced amateur would be well served by this semi-professional camera.

Sony Alpha DSLRA300K 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera with Super SteadyShot Image Stabilization with DT 18-70mm f/3.5-5.6 Zoom Lens

Sony DSLR Alpha 300 Features

A 10.2 megapixel image sensor: This is really more than enough pixels for any amateur photographer to use, and even enough to satisfy the more advanced photographer’s needs. The biggest advantage for entry level photography is the ability to blow up the pictures without becoming distorted or grainy.

Built In Image Stabilizer: Like with the A200 series, a stabilizer built into the camera itself instead of the lenses allows pictures to come out with clear sharp images not matter which lenses are being used. One thing the stabilizer will do is eliminates the blur that comes when the camera is moved or jiggled when shooting a picture.

Flip up,3 inch LCD Screen: this feature makes it easy to read the options on the LCD screen both outdoors and inside. The flip up feature protects athe screen when not is use, keeping it out of harms way.

Live View Function: This option, when turned on,lets you basically use this A300 camera just like a point and shoot camera. Add to that a movable screen that can be tilted to help take pictures from well above your head, to those lower to the ground with ease.

View Finder: When using the view finder manually you can shoot up to 3 frames per second which makes for some great action shots. The buffer can store 6 images in RAW mode, so you do not have to wait between shots. That I one of the more annoying features of the point and shoot cameras.

Built In Flash: Perfect for the novice DSLR camera user, the flash will pop up automatically if needed. It not only helps get the best shots, but the user will gradually learn how to tell when the flash is needed and when natural light is enough.

Anti Dust Mechanism: Most DSLRs have a feature that helps keep the dust off the CCD sensor. This way when lenses are changed there is less chance of dust entering. It also will save lots of time when using the photography enhancement software. Not having to touch up photos to get rid of specs of dust is a true time saver.

Sony Alpha DSLR A300 Value and Satisfaction

Value:

When looking at value, it is important to consider the cost of a camera of this caliber, in relation to the quality of the features With the Sony A300 model, it is the adjustable screen, the 10.2 megapixel resolution and the automatic flash that set this camera apart from other models and can justify the higher cost. These will give an entry level DSLR camera user added ways to explore the art of photography and help increase the comfort zone when making the transition to this type of photography.

Customer Satisfaction:

There are two features that stick out when looking a the satisfaction level of customers. On is the the convenience of being able to use old their Konica Minolta lenses and the other is the benefits gained from having a LCD screen that can be tilted to make taking pictures from awkward angles easier. Add these to the picture quality and you have satisfied customers.

Summary:

All in all, the Sony Alpha A300 model of Sony’s entry level camera would be a good option for any one making the transition to DSLR level of photography. It includes all the features found in the newly updated Sony A200 series along with some more advanced features that will make the photography experience even better. Its compatibility with the Konica Minolta lenses make this an attractive option for quite a few budding photographers.

Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera with EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM Lens

The Canon EOS 5D Mark II is the most recent update the the highly popular and well regarded Canon EOS 5D. This is a camera whose extensive electronic attributes are designed to meet the needs of professional photographers and photojournalists, yet at the same time a skilled amateur photographer could also learn to use this model if and when they are ready to upgrade from a DSLR entry level camera. Although much heavier than the point and shoot digital camera, the Canon Eos 5D Mark II at two pounds is considered light weight for its class. The same can be said for the price, it will be a significant jump in cost from the entry level DSLR camera, but in its class, and taking into consideration all the features that are included, it should be considered a bargain.

The Canon EOS 5D Mark II Features

21.1 Megapixel Resolution: It is important to keep your pixel count at a level that matches the other capabilities your camera can produce. There is no need for a massive pixel count without the proper supporting devices that work with it. The Canon EOS 5D Mark II is able to take full advantage of each one of the 21.1 megapixels Full Frame CMOS Sensor: The original Canon 5D was credited with being the first large, single plate full frame (36mmx24mm) CMOS sensor on a digital camera and the EOS 5D Mark II has continued to utilize these benefits. This works in tandem with the pixels, and functions similarly to the ways light will hit 35mm film (the same dimensions.) The light will hit the pixels at the same angle it used to hit the film, a perfect blend of pixel number and light sensor capabilities.

DIGIC 4 Image Processor: This is often referred to as the digital command center of a camera since it is where all the light data received can be speedily processed to create a clear, image with amazing photographic detail, with high quality color, face detection and video recording. Full

HD Video Recording: This EOS 5D MarkII camera is the first model that Canon has made that incorporates video recording into its large sensor, speedy processing and fast 30 frames a second shooting capabilities. Individual still shots can be taken while the film video is recording. Optional mono or stereo microphones can be connected to add an audio element.

Clear View LCD Screen: A 3.0 inch LCD screen, with 920,000/VGA resolution gives top quality viewing. It will adjust its brightness to the surrounding light condition. Other viewing functions include a Live View, where real time viewing can be used, including zooming, and a Face Detection Live setting.

Advanced Cleaning System: There is a low-pass filter found at the front of the CMOS sensor that with ultrasonic vibrations can shake off micro-dust particles. This system was designed specifically for the CMOS full-frame sensor. If any particles were to sneak past this, the accompanying Digital Photo Professional software can be calibrated to delete any dust spots.

ISO Speed and Exposure Controls: There are both manual and automatic speed adjustments, with manual options ranging from 100 – 6400 and automatic options with a range of 100 – 3200. Shooting in near darkness is possible with sensitivity up to 25,6000. The Canon EOS 5D MarkII has a variety of exposure controls like Program AE, shutter-priority AE, aperture-priority AE, and creative auto. Other settings include a more choices than found in the entry level DSLR cameras. In addition to the auto, custom, flash, daylight, shade and cloudy settings, there are also options for tungsten light, white fluorescent light, color temperature settings and automatic white balance.

Summary:

This model update was over three years in the making, which in electronic time seems like forever. Because of this, the modifications and improvements to the Canon EOS 5D Mark II go well beyond minor adjustments and give the consumer innovative and impressive features like massive light sensors, super fast processing, HD videos and a superior quality LCD screen. There is no question that this is a camera designed for the professional, and will serve them well for years to come. Amateurs who want to take their photography capabilities up to a higher level, and can afford the cost, will also benefit from this outstanding camera.

A DSLR stands for a digital SLR camera that uses a digital single reflex lens. The camera uses a mirrored position behind the lens that will direct light toward the viewfinder. When the user releases the shutter, the mirror will swing out of the way to let light from the lens travel straight to the sensor. This action will momentarily black out the viewfinder, and flip the image upside down. The viewfinder houses a prism that will work in reverse, so that you can see the image it right side up. The DSLR camera is designed to provide the user with multiple focal lens length options.

With an automatic camera your taking lens and viewing lens are different from each other. These lenses’s as are considered to be fixed lens and require a complex viewfinder mechanism in order to take the majority of your pictures. A DSLR camera will allow you to take a wider variety of pictures, and avoid many of the problems that arise with an automatic camera. This is possible because, your viewing lens and your taking lens are the same lens. This will improve your image quality, provide different speed options, increase your depth of field, larger ISO range, provide quality optics and allow you to control how you take your picture. While these cameras are more manual, you will have a greater influence on the end result.

Sony Alpha A200K 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera Kit with Super SteadyShot Image Stabilization with 18-70mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens

When an amateur photographer is ready to put aside their basic point-and-shoot digital camera and graduate to the big leagues, they need to find an entry level DSLR camera designed to make this transition an easy one. The Sony Alpha DSLR A200 series ( which replaces the A100) fits that requirement perfectly. Although this camera will cost a couple hundred dollars more than you are used to, you will find that it has higher quality photos than you ever would find with your old point-and-shoot digital camera. Its design has created a nice balance between some striking new professional camera features while keeping the ease of use level high with familiar looking and easy to see buttons on the front and back of the camera.

Sony Alpha DSLR A200 FEATURES – gives you higher resolution and crisp clear photos.

In-body Image Stabilization: This feature is ideal for the amateur who is getting used to this new type of camera and how to use different lenses. What it does is limit the shake and will take out some of the blur from your pictures that comes when the camera moves while taking a picture. In the Sony DSLR camera, this image stabilization is no longer dependent on the lens; it is now found in the body of the camera. This way you get the feature all the time, not just with the more expensive lenses.

10.2 Megapixels: This is a CCD image sensor ( not a CMOS sensor) that eliminates the grainy look when blowing up your pictures. You will get a more true, clear digital image all the time.

3 Fames Per Second (fps) continuous shooting speed: No waiting between shots, which will obviously improve your chances of getting that perfect shot everyone dreams of.

The 2.7 inch LCD Screen: This screen has resolution that makes it easy to read the information you need, whether you are inside or out, without straining the battery.

Weighs 1.2 lbs: Other entry level DSLR cameras might be lighter than the A200. That is mainly because of some of the extra features it includes that helps make the transition to learning how to use this type of camera easier.

8 Automatic Shooting Modes: The A200 allows a beginner to chose a mode and start shooting without having to deal with any manual adjustments of the settings. Eventually you will learn about the different shutter speeds and which ones work best in different situations. In the meantime, ease in using these automatic features helps smooth over the transition from a point and shoot camera.

Sony DSLR A200 Value and Satisfaction

Value: The A200 is considered among the mid-level prices of all the entry level cameras. It is definitely a few hundred dollars more expensive than a point and shoot digital camera, but that is to be expected. What makes this a good value for the amateur are the added features designed to make the transition smooth. These are not common in all entry level cameras. Buying a camera like this is really an investment and will be worth it when you see the improvement in the quality of the pictures you take.

Customer Satisfaction: Most users of this camera say they would recommend it to others. The particularly like the quality of the images, and that the design makes it easy to learn how to use the features not found on a point and shoot camera. One thing users were not thrilled with was the USB cable since it was not a standard size.

Summary:

For any amateur looking to make the transition into this DSLR world of photography, the Sony Alpha DSLR-A200 gives them the ease of transition that is needed. Many of these features are not standard in entry level cameras, so the extra cost is worth it when you realize how much frustration you are avoiding. The built-in image stabilization technology assures clear pictures from the get go. The automatic shoot modes not only sets this camera apart from other entry level cameras, but is a true life saver by allowing you to learn as you go, while still being able to take high quality photographs.

In the night from 23th to 24th August I have gone to Bohor to take some photos of Elephant’s trunk, but I had to end taking photos about at midnight because the object passed the meridian and I couldn’t track it anymore. I had to make quick decision which object to capture the rest of the night and I choose the dark nebulas B334, 336-7 in Aquila, near Altair. I had no internet and I hadn’t a clue how this nebula looks like. Some of dark nebulas are really breath-taking and impressive (who doesn’t know Horsehead). Well, mine isn’t so spectacular, but I am pretty satisfied with the result. The next day I have checked the google image search for this nebula and found nothing, which means that I am one of the first who decided to “burn” his CMOS sensor on this object for some hours After all, that counts as well …

Here you go:

Dark Nebulas B334, B336, B337 @ photo: Primož Cigler

Some technical data about the exposure, equipment and so on:

Object: B334
Date and Location: 23. 8. 2009, Oslica, Bohor
Exposition: 26 x 5min
Camera: Canon 350D, Baader mod., ISO 800, RAW
Optics: Orion Optics Europa 20cm f/4.5
Mount: Vixen GP-DX SS2K
Autoguiding: SW 80/400 with QHY5
Processed in: Iris, Ps

Object: M31 and M32 (Andromeda Galaxy)
Date and Location: 20. and 21. 8. 2009, Mali Orehek, Slovenia
Exposition: 2×1 mosaic: 30 x 5min and 36 x 5min
Camera: Canon 350D, Baader mod., ISO 800, RAW
Optics: Orion Optics Europa 20cm f/4.5
Mount: Vixen GP-DX SS2K
Autoguiding: SW 80/400 with QHY5
Processed in: Iris, Ps

M31 and M32 @ photo: Primož Cigler

I hope you like it, I am very satisfied with the result. More is coming soon…

Bolid -5 mag. above me, capturing the night sky

And here is the timelapse of the entire night. I have tagged the meteor:

I admit, I am lazy and that’s why I don’t finish up my Astrophotography Tutorial. I hope that I will find more inspiration, time and will to finish it up in September, because in October I start studying Physics at Ljubljana…

The images of the objects I listed above will be published here soon. As soons as I process them

CS!

Perseid on 13th August 2009

I am going to observe tonight again if the weather is OK. We had some clouds yesterday after the midnight. I came home at 8.10 in the morning and I haven’t slept yet, that’s why this post is so short