Kamis, 20 Februari 2014

What is the future of the digital camera?

Q. Hi
What is the future of the digital camera?
I buy my first digital camera in the year 2003. It was a 3 mega pixel Kodak. And now in 2007 no stores sell 3 mega pixels. The shipper mega pixel you can get is 5 and more. So what is the future of digital camera? All the companies are making competition and maybe in 2013 the smallest mega pixels in store will be 20 mega pixels. So what do you think?

A. more features will be added in
this is what i think

wifi connectivity (already in nikon) that can let u blog it automatically
should be able to share it immediately to other users on phone/pda/camera.

image stabilisation should be improved so shaky hands is no problem.

user interface also shud be improved to make it fool proof.


Which 2013 new semi-compact digital cameras are compatable with my old but reliable MAC OSX 10.4.11?
Q.

A. While the software included with the camera may not have a Mac version, you generally never need it anyway. Most advanced photographers do not use the included camera software, but simply transfer photos from camera to computer by removing the memory card from the camera and inserting it into a computer (PC or Mac).

In the end, this is easier, and it alleviates the need to install any software on your computer from the camera maker - which can be temperamental.

To do this, you may need to buy an inexpensive memory card reader - but most modern PCs and Macs already have SD card readers built into them.

Macs will read the various versions of the formatting used in the typical camera (FAT). The only restriction is you should never delete a photo in a Mac nor should you format the memory card in a Mac.

Formatting is a no-no as natively, the Mac will not format in FAT, but use the Mac file system - which no camera can use. Formatting the card in the camera formats it in FAT, which the Mac can read. You can actually format the memory card in a Mac, but you have to use advanced commands to do it right. You need to format in both FAT and usually use a 32kb file allocation block, which can only be done with a unix command. It is far easier for most people to just format the card in the camera.

If you delete files off the memory card using a Mac, the files are not deleted but just hidden. Therefore even though you cannot see the files, you will not be able to recover the memory space on the card.

If you delete photos using a Mac - you must also empty the trash bin to recover the memory space on the memory card.

If you delete the photos in the camera, you don't have to be concerned with this.

If you use a camera that produces RAW files, you may need to find a codec that will properly handle them, or use a 3rd party software such as Adobe Lightroom. But JPGs should work fine. This is an issue with PCs as well.

Otherwise you should have no issues.





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Rabu, 19 Februari 2014

What's the best camera?

Q. Looking to spend $250 or under for a good digital camera. Mostly for taking pictures and video of my new daughter. I don't want a manual flash that I have to pop out everytime I take a picture. What camera do you LOVE, where did you get it and what did it cost?

A. If you are going to use on-camera flash (which is not the most pleasing-looking image), you should not reject those models that require you to push the button to pop it up. It is generally a desirable feature to do that. Increasing the distance between the flash and the lens decreases the chances of red eye.
For best results at your budget, you should get a premium compact--one with a sensor bigger than the 1/2.3" sensors of the cheapos. It would be good to get one with a hotshoe to mount an external flash for doing bounce flash. I know, currently you are not interested in that, but you might grow into it. Maybe not. I don't think there is one with a hotshoe currently in your budget, but prices can wax and wane.

BH Photo currently carries the Nikon P330 for $200 while they last. It is discontinued to be replaced by the Nikon P340.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/936161-REG/nikon_coolpix_p330_digital_camera.html
It has a wide aperture at its wide angle setting, although it stops down a lot as you zoom in. It will have better image quality than the cheapos.
Amazon has the discontinued S110 marked down to $249.
http://www.amazon.com/Canon-PowerShot-Digital-Camera-3-Inch/dp/B009B0MYSQ/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top
http://www.amazon.com/Canon-PowerShot-Digital-Camera-3-Inch/dp/B009B0MYLS/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top
It is reputed to have a faster response than the Nikon, but it lacks as much video resolution. (Canon improves that in the new S120.)
While they last, Adorama has the discontinued Pentax MX-1 for $200.
http://www.adorama.com/IPXMX1SL.html
This camera has a slightly more limited zoom range than the P330 or S110. It does offer a wider aperture at telephoto than the others, and it has a tilting LCD screen. It is reputed to be sluggish at writing files and being ready for the next shot.
Some other possibilities are the Panasonic LX7, and the discontinued Canon G15 (being replaced by the Canon G16). The G15 would be a very, very good choice. Prices have fluctuated. Today I don't see them within your budget at BH Photo, Adorama, or Amazon. Prices may drop again. I think they probably will for the LX7, which I think is still in production. They might drop again for the G15, but they might just sell out at $349.

Here are some reviews:
http://www.dpreview.com/articles/6489685206/enthusiast-compact-camera-2013-roundup
http://www.dpreview.com/articles/9935181366/high-end-pocketable-compacts-2013-roundup


Should I buy a Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7?
Q. I've been saving up for six months, and I really love the camera. Do you think it's worth the money?

A. Don't let anyone spoil the party. If you really love this camera, go ahead and buy it. Panasonic makes wonderful and capable cameras. If you buy some other camera, you will regret it later because your love is here with GX7 ;)
However if I were you I would put the money in some Pentax camera like K30, k50, k5 etc. They have bigger sensor, better image quality and better overall value for money. If you are looking for a smaller form factor, you can buy Pentax K01 for around $450-500 which normally comes with a 40mm XS lens which itself is one of the best kit lenses out there in any consumer grade SLR/Mirrorless camera kits.
Would highly recommend you to read this:
http://photography-with-any-camera.blogspot.com/2013/05/best-digital-slr-for-beginners.html





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Sony digital camera( DSC-TX30/B)....this camera good or no? please tell........?

Q.

A. Here is a review
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/sony-cyber-shot-dsc-tx30
Within the category of immersible compact cameras, its image quality is probably among the best in the studio test, although that is not a category with spectacularly great image quality. In the real world comparison tests it seems to have fallen a bit below the competition.
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/2013-waterproof-roundup/14
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/2013-waterproof-roundup/15
It is the lightest and most compact within that class. However, it is not a very easy camera to handle for actual diving.

With any compact camera you should use a wriststrap, and all the more so when handling these water resistant cameras in the water. with no floatation attached, they will sink.

For diving the Canon D20 has an advantage with the best ergonomics. Image quality is good for its class with least noise reduction smudging or highlight clipping. The Nikon AW110 is a very good overall performer for its class in image quality and has least chromatic aberration. The Olympus TG-2 gains an advantage in low light with its f2 lens. For video with real time sound, its sound gets terrible when immersed in water.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBFwthdyXRQ
The Pentax WG-3 also has an f2 lens, but its images were rather dull in this test
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jnxn_Ng-1U8
The Panasonic TS5 seems to produce some nice images, and it has the best video options, but its autofocus is sluggish.

A peculiar thing about the Nikon AW110 is that they package it with a neckstrap and advise against using a neckstrap in the water for safety reasons. An aftermarket wriststrap should be purchased for it.


What Canon compact digital camera should I buy -- either A4000 or A2600?
Q. Which should I buy? ...it is between the Canon A4000 IS or A2600?

Technical Benefit Differences of A4000 IS the A2600 lacks I see:
1. More zoom range (8x vs.5x)
2. Optical Image Stabilization/Intelligent Image Stabilization
3. Better Macro Capability (1 cm vs. 3 cm)

Technical Benefit Differences of A2600 the A4000 lacks I see:
1. Longer Battery Life (ECO Mode -- up to 30% more pictures per battery charge)
2. Wider Aperture (f/2.8 vs. f/3.0)
3. Lower Light Exposure Sensitivity in Low Light Mode only (ISO 6400 vs. ISO 1600)
4. Digital Image Stabilization -- Yes, an added feature the A4000 lacks; but greatly inferior to Optical Image Stabilization/Intelligent Image Stabilization

The physical size, dimensions, and weight differences, are very minor to me; both relatively small. Other than these differences above, they are technically the same compact camera. The A2600 is this years (2013) new Canon compact model release -- highest model of the newest of the A-series. The A4000 IS is last years (2012) Canon compact model release -- overall highest still for this years A-series lineup.

This is just an opinion question, but if you could justify your answers as to why YOU would pick one over the other with reason, that would be great! I am stumped. I am torn between these two. Thanks!
Let me add...

If you ask what kind of pictures I generally take, I take all kinds like landscapes, portraits, close-ups, night scenes, action, etc.. Yes, a general use camera.

A. No need to enumerate what you shoot. It is expected for all cameras to do them all anyway.

Judging from those spec differences, I'd go for the A2600. Battery life would be a huge issue and it would be nice to see Canon actually address the shortness of it once and for all. Wider apertures allow for longer shooting pleasure after the sun has gone down. It also helps blur backgrounds more easily for closeup portraits.

Although I personally avoid going higher than ISO 1600, it's good to know there's more in case I really need it. Image stabilization would be great though for making razor sharp shots but it's not really that important as I am confident my hands can still hold on steadily.





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Selasa, 18 Februari 2014

How long before this camera is considered obsolete?

Q. My son is a high school senior. Next year he wants to go to community college and live at home (at least that is reasonably affordable) instead of going away to school. He wants to take an expensive major however. Video production. We have been able to save about $5,000 towards his education. We are not wealthy people. The rest will have to come from loans and maybe a grant or scholarship.
We are looking at some "entry level" pro cameras in the $1500-1800 range. That's about 1/3 of our savings for his education.
Models include these:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/518555-REG/Sony_HVRHD1000U_HVR_HD1000U_Digital_High_Definition.html
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/745707-REG/Sony_HXR_MC2000U_HXR_MC2000U_Shoulder_Mount_AVCHD.html
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/878341-REG/Panasonic_hmc40kit_AG_HMC40_AVCCAM_HD_Camcorder.html
and
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/749467-REG/Canon_4922B002_XA10_HD_Professional_Camcorder.html

My concern is he starts September 2013 so these products may not even be available by then or others will be available. We hope he graduates May 2015. He tells us when he graduates he will maybe find a freelance job or shoot local cable news, build up some experience, maybe after 2 years go for a B.A. at least part time.
Is anything we buy him in 2013 (summer) going to be any use to him as a working professional in 2015 (summer)? So let's say you are a class of 2012 graduate with an AAS in video production. The camera you purchased in the summer of 2010 when you first started, do you still use it professionally? Can you make anything doing freelance news videos, PR videos or local account commercials with this equipment?
We're going to do everything we can to help him. No doubt he will still be living at home in the summer of 2015. By then he's going to have a student loan to pay off. We have a 2005 Hyundai Accent that we are going to give him for college. I hope that thing still runs when it is 10 years old and he isn't making car payments on top of that. The thing has 120,000 miles on it but runs really well. I just fear when he graduates he's going to be in deep debt and have limited employment. I may be wrong. What do you think? Thanks.

A. Hi "Upwardly Mobile":

Fellow Contributor "L" covered most of the bases quite well, but the only point he didn't underscore is that MOST good video & film production programs at community colleges HAVE the cameras, lights, mikes, tripods, and other gear that the students will learn on & use.

When I went to a local (but nationally prominent) university with a Broadcast/Film Dept., portable video was still fairly new, but all the film cameras, tripods, & light kits were supplied by the Department for students to "check out" as-needed for class projects.

And most video production students start out with Studio Production techniques (where it's easier for groups to learn 3-point lighting, camera setup & tripod/dolly operation, shot composition, audio techniques & mixing, etc.). No need for portable field gear there.

For field production & Electronic News Gathering, a good college will have a fair number of camcorders for students to use & check out (if needed for outside-of-class projects).

The same is true for Editing Software & computer workstations. Some college programs might be economizing and making students supply their own laptops for this, but all the major software companies offer Academic Editions of their normally-expensive edit suites at discounted prices. And of course, nowadays, apps like iMovie (Mac) and Movie Maker (PC) come "free" as part of the operating system and can accomplish what older (and expensive) software used to do, as far as basic editing.

As "L" mentioned, do a bit of "homework" yourself by contacting the community college's department head & instructors for your son's chosen major. Tour the facilities (studio and edit suites) and ask about the "equipment room" for student project gear. See what textbooks (a major expense) are required, and whether computer/laptop & software expense will be part of what's expected of your son. Only if there's little-or-no camcorder gear (or no hands-on studio cameras) would I recommend buying anything like the models from B+H that you listed.

Almost every cable TV & freelance video job I've had over the past 30 years has "supplied" (rented or company-owned) the cameras & grip gear I needed. I bring my own gear only when it's a "favor" or when what I have is better-suited to the task, or they want a "director with gear". My point being, your son doesn't need to own =any= camera gear to make a living freelancing. A good camera operator can stay busy in almost any part of the country, with just his/her skills. (Same for sound mixers & boom/wireless mike operators.)

hope this helps, and hope it saves you some money,
--Dennis C.
 


Is this a good camera?
Q. Canon EOS 5D Mark III 22.3 MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera with EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM Lens

is $3,500 a good price for this slr?
can you recommend a good srl?

better description
http://blog.danieljsd.com/2013/02/canon-eos-5d-mark-iii-223-mp-full-frame.html

A. That price is OK for that camera and lens.

If I were you I would be worried about spending that amount of money on something I knew nothing about. The fact that you have to ask this question makes me think you would be better in the $1000-1500 bracket. But hey! It's your cash!





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Digital Camera for wildlife photography help?

Q. I am planing a couple trips in the next year. First trip is to go up to Alaska or Canada and I want to try and get some nice Polar Bear and Musk Oxen shots. Then I am going to be going out to Yellowstone to try and photograph wolves and finally I will be taking a trip to Australia and New Zealand and am hoping to get some great landscape and animal shots. But now I have to figure out what is going to be the best camera for me to get. I have a budget of around $3500.

Right now I am looking at the Nikon D 7100, Nikon D 7000, Cannon EOS 7 D, and Sony Alpha SLT-A77.

I am also then figureing on getting either a 300mm or 400mm lens then buying a 2X teleconverter. I'm trying to do all this for $3500 or less I know its going to be tough. Obviously I can not afford the real nice lenses in the 300mm zoom so how much is this going to affect my quality if I get a little bit cheaper lens? My goal is I want to have nice enough pictures to where I could blow them up and hang them up around my house with out the image getting grainy or fuzzy. I'm looking at blowing them up to 24 x 36 and maybe bigger for landscape shots.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated! Thank you so much for your time.

A. You might get to see these animals, but don't get your hopes up too high. The Nikon D7100 with 18-105mm could be a good choice of camera for most of your shots. A super duper great telephoto to get the kind of shots you are dreaming of will blow your budget. For less ambitious but pretty good shots you could get the Nikon 70-300mm AF-S VR (the good 70-300, not the cheapo). Forget about a 2X teleconverter. The 70-300mm lacks a tripod collar, and it will be front heavy. You will want to bring a tripod. You need to think about what day pack you will carry it in, as the tripod must fit. There are some decent travel tripods. However, the light duty ballhead on some of these may be barely adequate with the 70-300mm. You need to assemble something with a good medium duty 3 way pan head, like maybe the Manfrotto 804RC2 or the Induro PHT2. BTW, if you want to point a panhead higher than about 30 degrees, the trick is to put the quick release plate on backwards.
Which brings us to, when do you expect to do this?
Winter, aurora watching?
You will need serious clothes.
http://www.martingrumet.com/yellowknife01-30-2013-02-2000.jpg
Carry your camera in a padded case with several handwarmer packs. Have an extra charged battery in your pocket. Two layers of glove liners with handwarmer packs inside can probably give you adequate dexterity without freezing your fingers.
Also have a clean, dry cotton handkerchief in the bag to wipe off condensation.
Getting focused in the dark could be a problem. You might be able to lock on autofocus on a distant street light, and switch to manual. Or you could spend more money on an older style AF-D prime lens like a 20mm or 24mm, and be able to dial to infinity in the dark.
For aurora shots set white balance to daylight. Practice with your equipment at home before you go on your trip. Maybe ISO is 800. More gets noisy. Exposure time maybe 20 seconds. More shows star trails. Also the aurora is dynamic, and more exposure makes it look blob like.
http://www.martingrumet.com/yellowknife02-05-2013-01-2000.jpg
http://www.martingrumet.com/yellowknife02-05-2013-02-2000.jpg
About midnight to 2am is often best activity, although not always.


What's the best camera?
Q. Looking to spend $250 or under for a good digital camera. Mostly for taking pictures and video of my new daughter. I don't want a manual flash that I have to pop out everytime I take a picture. What camera do you LOVE, where did you get it and what did it cost?

A. If you are going to use on-camera flash (which is not the most pleasing-looking image), you should not reject those models that require you to push the button to pop it up. It is generally a desirable feature to do that. Increasing the distance between the flash and the lens decreases the chances of red eye.
For best results at your budget, you should get a premium compact--one with a sensor bigger than the 1/2.3" sensors of the cheapos. It would be good to get one with a hotshoe to mount an external flash for doing bounce flash. I know, currently you are not interested in that, but you might grow into it. Maybe not. I don't think there is one with a hotshoe currently in your budget, but prices can wax and wane.

BH Photo currently carries the Nikon P330 for $200 while they last. It is discontinued to be replaced by the Nikon P340.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/936161-REG/nikon_coolpix_p330_digital_camera.html
It has a wide aperture at its wide angle setting, although it stops down a lot as you zoom in. It will have better image quality than the cheapos.
Amazon has the discontinued S110 marked down to $249.
http://www.amazon.com/Canon-PowerShot-Digital-Camera-3-Inch/dp/B009B0MYSQ/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top
http://www.amazon.com/Canon-PowerShot-Digital-Camera-3-Inch/dp/B009B0MYLS/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top
It is reputed to have a faster response than the Nikon, but it lacks as much video resolution. (Canon improves that in the new S120.)
While they last, Adorama has the discontinued Pentax MX-1 for $200.
http://www.adorama.com/IPXMX1SL.html
This camera has a slightly more limited zoom range than the P330 or S110. It does offer a wider aperture at telephoto than the others, and it has a tilting LCD screen. It is reputed to be sluggish at writing files and being ready for the next shot.
Some other possibilities are the Panasonic LX7, and the discontinued Canon G15 (being replaced by the Canon G16). The G15 would be a very, very good choice. Prices have fluctuated. Today I don't see them within your budget at BH Photo, Adorama, or Amazon. Prices may drop again. I think they probably will for the LX7, which I think is still in production. They might drop again for the G15, but they might just sell out at $349.

Here are some reviews:
http://www.dpreview.com/articles/6489685206/enthusiast-compact-camera-2013-roundup
http://www.dpreview.com/articles/9935181366/high-end-pocketable-compacts-2013-roundup





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XOTICPC Shipping costs and product price.?

Q. $3,761.00 for:
MSI GT70 0NE-609US Dragon Edition
- FREE!!! � U.S. UPS GROUND SHIPPING (Use Coupon Code "FREESHIP" in Checkout) [U.S. Lower 48 ONLY / Restrictions Apply]
- FREE - MSI DOGTAG & BACKPACK + SteelSeries Gaming Headset - Included with your purchase of the MSI GT70 0NE-609US Dragon Edition!
- 17.3" FHD 16:9 "Matte Type" Super Clear Ultra Bright LED Matte Screen (1920x1080) (SKU - X1R553)
- Standard Dead Pixel Policy
- XOTIC PC Professional Monitor Color Calibration (Will add to Production Time) (Operating System is required) (XPC Service)
- 3rd Generation Intel® Ivy Bridge Core� i7-3630QM (2.4GHz - 3.4GHz, 6MB Intel® Smart Cache, 45W Max TDP) (SKU � X2X317)
- Stock OEM Thermal Compound ( IC Diamond Thermal Compound - CPU + GPU Provided FREE with Processor Upgrade!)
- nVidia GeForce GTX 680M 4,096MB PCI-Express GDDR5 DX11 w/ Optimus� Technology (SKU - X3R708)
- COPPER COOLING UPGRADE - Extra Cooling Copper Heatsinks Applied to the Heatsink/Heatpipes (XPC Service)
- No Video Adapter
- No External Mobile Display
- 32GB DDR3 1600MHz [SKU-844PX] (Kingston HyperX CL9 Dual Channel Memory (4x8GB SODIMMS))
- Standard Laptop Finish - Dragon Edition Red
- Standard White Logo Backlight
- 128GB Solid State Drive (Super RAID) mSATA - [ In Primary Hard Drive Bay ]
- 128GB Solid State Drive (Super RAID) mSATA - [ In Primary Hard Drive Bay ]
- 750GB 7200RPM 16MB Cache Buffer (Serial-ATA II 3GB/s) (SKU - X5R303)
- Raid 0 Stripe Enabled (Requires 2 or 3 Hard Drives. Combines Hard Drives for performance)
- 6X Blu-Ray Writer/Reader + 8X DVDRW/CDRW Super Multi Combo Drive (SKU - X7R551)
- No Extra Optical Bay Hard Drive Caddy
- No Back Up Hard Drive
- NO External USB Optical Drive
- Internal 7-in-1 Card Reader (MS/MS Pro/MS Duo/MS Pro Duo/SD/Mini-SD/MMC/RS)
- No Back Up Software
- Bluetooth Included *With select wireless cards only* (See �Wireless Network� Section Below)
- Bigfoot Networks Killer� Wireless-N 1202 + Bluetooth 4.0 (Dual Band) (SKU � X8R117)
- No Network Accessory
- Integrated Digital Video Camera
- No TV Tuner
- Sound Blaster Compatible 3D Audio - Included
- No Carrying Case
- Smart Li-ion Battery (9-Cell)
- No Car Adapter
- No Spare AC Adapter
- No Dock/Hub/Adapter
- No Fingerprint Reader
- No Headset
- No External Keyboard
- Stock MSI SteelSeries� Chiclet Backlit Keyboard
- Cyborg R.A.T. 9 Gaming Mouse-
- Full Size Black Aluminum Notebook Cooler - Dual Fans - USB Powered (For up to 17" Laptops)
- YES - Redline Boost� Overclock My System (Operating System Required) (XPC Service)
- Yes, Redline Boost My Operating System (Operating System Required) (XPC Service)
- WINDOWS 8 - 64-Bit (Pre-Installed + Drivers & Utilities Disk)
- Clean Windows Installation (Install drivers only - no bloatwares) (For factory installed OS only, not required if OS upgrade is selected) (XPC Service)
- Yes, please create manufacturer factory backup recovery Install 32GB USB Drive for Windows 8
- None
- 2013 PC Security Essentials Software (Not Installed) (Trend Micro Titanium Antivirus + Security (2 Year Subscription) & Zemana AntiLogger)
- No Office Software
- No Software Bundle
- 2 Year MSI US/Canada Parts & Labor 1 Year Global Warranty w/ Lifetime Tech Support
+ 1 Year Accidental Damage Warranty (Requires Registration within 30 Days from Ship Date) (SKU - M9R301)
- Yes, I would like XOTIC PC�s White Glove Premium Packaging (XPC Service)
- No Outside of US Shipping Coverage
- Rush Build & Skinning (Reduces Build Time + Skinning Time After Order Is Successfully Processed) (Subject to Parts Availability + Notebook Skin Required) (XPC Service)
- No Xotic PC Gear.

Transport excluded , I have no idea about that , anyone had any experience with exoticpc ?

A. Way overpriced laptop, get a 1500 laptop and a 1500 pc. both will be better than this laptop.

a laptop like the Sony vaio s15 with full hd screen (full ips panel).
a computer with an i5 3350p and a HD7970 is way faster than that laptop and way cheaper. also better screen.


would this be a good laptop for drafting such as auto cad?
Q. MSI GE70 0ND-213US -



- 17.3" FHD 16:9 "Matte Type" Super Clear Ultra Bright LED Matte Screen (1920x1080) (SKU - X1R553)
- Standard Dead Pixel Policy
- NO Professional Monitor Color Calibration
- 3rd Generation Intel® Ivy Bridge Core� i7-3630QM (2.4GHz - 3.4GHz, 6MB Intel® Smart Cache, 45W Max TDP) (SKU � X2X317)
- Stock OEM Thermal Compound ( IC Diamond Thermal Compound - CPU + GPU Provided FREE with Processor Upgrade!)
- nVidia GeForce GTX 660M 2,048MB PCI-Express GDDR5 DX11 w/ Optimus Technology (SKU � X3R529)
- No Copper Cooling Upgrade
- No Video Adapter
- No External Mobile Display
- 8GB DDR3 1600MHz [SKU-422P] (Dual Channel Memory (2x4GB SODIMMS)) � Default
- Standard Finish
- No mSATA Drive
- 750GB 7200RPM 16MB Cache Buffer (Serial-ATA II 3GB/s) (SKU - X5R303)
- Combo Dual Layer SuperMulti DVDRW/CDRW Drive w/ Software (SKU - X7R451)
- No Extra Optical Bay Hard Drive Caddy
- External Aluminum USB 3.0 750GB 5400RPM 2.5" SATA Hard Drive - On Sale!
- NO External USB Optical Drive
- Internal 5-in-1 Card Reader (SD/MMC/MS/MS PRO/ xD-P)
- SaveMe for 1 PC - Ridiculously Simply Back Up Software - Set it and Forget it! (Images and backs up your system as changes are made automatically)
- Bluetooth Included *With select wireless cards only* (See �Wireless Network� Section Below)
- Built-in 802.11 Wireless B/G/N - Stock Wireless Card + Bluetooth 4.0 (SKU � X8R012)
- No Network Accessory
- Integrated Digital Video Camera
- No TV Tuner
- Sound Blaster Compatible 3D Audio - Included
- SLAPPA - Ballistix PTAC Matrix Laptop Sleeve (for 17" & larger laptops)
- Smart Li-ion Battery (6-Cell)
- No Car Adapter
- No Spare AC Adapter
- No Dock/Hub/Adapter
- No Fingerprint Reader
- No Headset
- No External Keyboard
- No External Mouse
- No Notebook Cooler
- No Thanks, Please do not Overclock my system
- No Operating System Redline Boost
- WINDOWS 8 - 64-Bit (Pre-Installed + Drivers & Utilities Disk)
- Clean Windows Installation (Install drivers only - no bloatwares) (For factory installed OS only, not required if OS upgrade is selected) (XPC Service)
- No thanks, do not create backup recovery DVD's
- 2013 PC Security Essentials Software (Not Installed) (Trend Micro Titanium Antivirus + Security (2 Year Subscription) & Zemana AntiLogger)
- No Office Software
- No Software Bundle

A. thats like good for anything ...





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What are some really cheap HD cameras under 200$?

Q.

A. The best camera under $200 is currently the Nikon P310.

Well, maybe under $200. Nikon had a $100 instant rebate that expired on Mar 30, 2013. Check back periodically to see if that rebate is extended or not. Otherwise, you may be spending about $50 more, which is still a good deal.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/842326-REG/Nikon_P310B_Coolpix_P300_Digital_Camera.html

This camera normally sells for $300+, but it has just been discontinued for it's replacement, the P330. Since this is an annual (or semi-annual) event with most camera manufacturers (of compact cameras), you can often pick up an outstanding camera at a low price when they first become discontinued.

However, when this happens you have to act farily quickly as the stock is limited to what is on the dealer's shelves.

Why do I like the P310?

First, it has manual exposure controls (prorgam, shutter/aperture priority, manual), This gives you maximum flexibility in composing your photos.

Second, it has a fast f/1.8 lens, which rivals even the better grade DSLR lenses. What does this mean? Superior low-light performance, as the camera will gather 2 to 4 times more light than the typical compact camera.

It also does up to 1920x1080p @ 30fps "full" HD with stereo audio. But I am not much into video so that is not something I often use. If I want to do video, I have a camcorder for that.

And I own this camera, so it is not something I would recommend without having some experience with it. While the zoom range of this camera is less than those ridiculously high-powered zooms on bridge cameras, the lens on the P310 is vastly superior to those cameras. So while you won't be able to take a photo of a bird from a mile away, you will be able to take better photos within the range of the P310's zoom.





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Senin, 17 Februari 2014

What is the best time of the year in 2013 to buy a digital camera?

Q. I figured before Christmas of 2012 would be a bad time to buy one, but what would be the best time of 2013 to buy one, taking product cycles into consideration? I don't know too much about that, really. Thanks for any input!

A. The best time to buy a camera is now.

If you wait until tomorrow when the prices may have dropped you have wasted another day not having a camera. Because tomorrow arrives and tomorrow they may be cheaper... another day of your life gone.


Which 2013 new semi-compact digital cameras are compatable with my old but reliable MAC OSX 10.4.11?
Q.

A. While the software included with the camera may not have a Mac version, you generally never need it anyway. Most advanced photographers do not use the included camera software, but simply transfer photos from camera to computer by removing the memory card from the camera and inserting it into a computer (PC or Mac).

In the end, this is easier, and it alleviates the need to install any software on your computer from the camera maker - which can be temperamental.

To do this, you may need to buy an inexpensive memory card reader - but most modern PCs and Macs already have SD card readers built into them.

Macs will read the various versions of the formatting used in the typical camera (FAT). The only restriction is you should never delete a photo in a Mac nor should you format the memory card in a Mac.

Formatting is a no-no as natively, the Mac will not format in FAT, but use the Mac file system - which no camera can use. Formatting the card in the camera formats it in FAT, which the Mac can read. You can actually format the memory card in a Mac, but you have to use advanced commands to do it right. You need to format in both FAT and usually use a 32kb file allocation block, which can only be done with a unix command. It is far easier for most people to just format the card in the camera.

If you delete files off the memory card using a Mac, the files are not deleted but just hidden. Therefore even though you cannot see the files, you will not be able to recover the memory space on the card.

If you delete photos using a Mac - you must also empty the trash bin to recover the memory space on the memory card.

If you delete the photos in the camera, you don't have to be concerned with this.

If you use a camera that produces RAW files, you may need to find a codec that will properly handle them, or use a 3rd party software such as Adobe Lightroom. But JPGs should work fine. This is an issue with PCs as well.

Otherwise you should have no issues.





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Professional camcorder 2013?

Q. Hi several years ago, HVR-Z1U was my main camera but since this one is too old and still need to use by film, I wanted to buy professional camcorder. I'm going to buy it in B&H but not sure which one is good choice. the price will be between $2000~3500. Can you show me the recent professional camcorder?
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?Ns=p_PRICE_2|0

A. Film cameras us film. Once the film is exposed, , in a dark place, the film is removed from the camera and sent in a light-tight container for chemical processing. For editing, a splicer is used. Or, individual frames are scanned (one by on) and digitized for use in a computer editing system. Typically, film cameras do not record audio. Sound is recorded externally.

The Sony HVR-Z1 is a digital camcorder. It record high quality, low compression DV and HDV video to miniDV tape. It is a digital video camcorder. There is no film involved. The Z1 has a built-in mic and also XLR connectors for external mics. It has a 72mm diameter lens and a 3CCD imaging chip that is 1/3".

My definition of "professional camcorder":
Lens diameter 70mm or larger.
Imaging chip is 3CCD or 3CMOS, 1/3 inch or larger.
XLR audio inputs.
Your Z1 meets all these requirements.

In your price range, we have:
* Sony HDR-FX1000 (it is the prosumer sibling to the Z1; uses miniDV tape; has only a 3.5mm stereo audio-in connecter - add a BeachTek or juicedLink XLR adapter is needed).

* The Sony HVR-Z5 (replaced the Z1), PMW160, HXRNX5, all the NEX and NX series camcorders are outside your budget.

* The Canon XF300 series is outside your budget.

* The Panasonic AG-AC series camcorders that meet the above criteria are outside your budget.

* The JVC GY-HM600 might fit your budget.

I think you are better of sticking with the Z1 - unless it is broken.


Why is the Leica M8 so good?
Q. Why is the Leica M8 good what makes it Unique from the Dslr's?

A. Well, in a lot of ways, in 2013, the Leica M8 is actually not so good by current standards. It's a crop sensor digital camera with, what is now considered, poor high ISO noise redux. The M9 is another story however.

The reason the M8 used to be considered a great digital camera and still is if you're on a budget, is that it is a rangefinder camera. That in itself makes it unique from DSLR's because it is simply not a Single Lens Reflex camera.

If you want to study up on the differences between rangefinders and SLR's, there are hundreds of in-depth discussions all over the internet. Essentially it boils down to rangefinders being smaller, quieter, better at manual focusing in low light and due to the lack of a flipping mirror, viewing is more of the moment as well as handheld slow shutter speeds more free of vibration. The problem is that there are limitations to composition and use of macro and longer telephoto lenses as well as zoom lenses with rangefinders. Also, some folks just don't like focusing through them.

Whats-more, Leica build quality far exceeds those of most popular manufacturers. They hand-assemble their camera and lenses with higher quality materials and more tightly fitting parts. This results in cameras and lenses that feel very enjoyable to use but also that last through extreme abuse and continue to work well for decades.

Leica is also world renowned for the high optical performance of their lenses. They are virtually devoid of optical abberations commonly found in Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Olympus and other more popular lensmakers products.

Hope this is useful!





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Minggu, 16 Februari 2014

Which 2013 new semi-compact digital cameras are compatable with my old but reliable MAC OSX 10.4.11?

Q.

A. While the software included with the camera may not have a Mac version, you generally never need it anyway. Most advanced photographers do not use the included camera software, but simply transfer photos from camera to computer by removing the memory card from the camera and inserting it into a computer (PC or Mac).

In the end, this is easier, and it alleviates the need to install any software on your computer from the camera maker - which can be temperamental.

To do this, you may need to buy an inexpensive memory card reader - but most modern PCs and Macs already have SD card readers built into them.

Macs will read the various versions of the formatting used in the typical camera (FAT). The only restriction is you should never delete a photo in a Mac nor should you format the memory card in a Mac.

Formatting is a no-no as natively, the Mac will not format in FAT, but use the Mac file system - which no camera can use. Formatting the card in the camera formats it in FAT, which the Mac can read. You can actually format the memory card in a Mac, but you have to use advanced commands to do it right. You need to format in both FAT and usually use a 32kb file allocation block, which can only be done with a unix command. It is far easier for most people to just format the card in the camera.

If you delete files off the memory card using a Mac, the files are not deleted but just hidden. Therefore even though you cannot see the files, you will not be able to recover the memory space on the card.

If you delete photos using a Mac - you must also empty the trash bin to recover the memory space on the memory card.

If you delete the photos in the camera, you don't have to be concerned with this.

If you use a camera that produces RAW files, you may need to find a codec that will properly handle them, or use a 3rd party software such as Adobe Lightroom. But JPGs should work fine. This is an issue with PCs as well.

Otherwise you should have no issues.


What is a good camera?
Q. I am sick of getting these digital cameras that eat batteries and take fuzzy pictures and then just stop working. My third one just won't turn on any more. Once I take it back, I want to find a new one. Does anyone have any suggestions? I'm looking for around the $100 mark but I'll appreciate any ideas you have.

A. Canon PowerShot A2500 is an excellent camera. This camcorder comes with 2.7-inch TFT color LCD . It also has 16megapixel and ½.3 inch ccd sensor. It can also hold up to 64gb sd card. This camera shoots awesome videos with a 720p HD and have been one of the top recommended in 2013 so far. It would be perfect for your youtube videos. It is sold at amazon for $85 which i think is a decent price for such quality. I have provided links below for you.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B5HE2UG/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00B5HE2UG&linkCode=as2&tag=laptop058-20


check out this video that the camcorder took below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W2ZTJPm2Fd8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zz71kfXPapA





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Best filming camera to film movies?

Q. Hi! In 2015, some school mates and I are planning to shoot a remake of The Breakfast Club. It will be the 30 year anniversary and we are excited to start. Anyways, I am looking for a great filming camera for movies. I know it'll be pricey but I seem to get 0 help when I just google it. I also want to know how to make the footage have an 80s feel, quality wise. I will be using the camera that any of you suggest for a number of years and films to come, and I would also appreciate if you have any movie editing software? Thank you!

A. I am guessing you are looking to use some digital camera to film. If you are going to spend tens of thousands of dollars on a professional movie camera, please ignore rest of my answer.

Most of us know that most compact cameras, or smart-phones like iPhones, are not good at video recording. If light is good, they do an okay job. When light is dull, they are almost unusable. Same is true for most consumer SLR cameras with kit lenses. So what do we do to take high quality High-Definition videos? Should we use an HD camcoder or a pocket camcorder like Sony Bloggie or UltraHD?

Most compact cameras don't do a good job in low light- for still images or for videos. If you zoom in, the shake becomes too obvious. Most DSLRs will do a little better as light level goes down but many of them will not auto focus during videos (because of the mirror which needs to be flipped for focusing). You can bypass this with a mirrorless camera which can auto focus, like Panasonic G or GF series but with Auto focus, you lose the control over which part of the frame, or on which person to focus on. If you have 3 persons in a frame, your Auto-Focus will not know which one you want to focus on. Why not? Silly, it is Auto-focus! It focuses by itself!! That is the reason you never see a professional movie or videos done with Autofocus.

Now read an article here which can give you nice tips:
http://photography-with-any-camera.blogspot.com/2013/03/video-recording-with-dslr-is-it-worth-it.html


How long before this camera is considered obsolete?
Q. My son is a high school senior. Next year he wants to go to community college and live at home (at least that is reasonably affordable) instead of going away to school. He wants to take an expensive major however. Video production. We have been able to save about $5,000 towards his education. We are not wealthy people. The rest will have to come from loans and maybe a grant or scholarship.
We are looking at some "entry level" pro cameras in the $1500-1800 range. That's about 1/3 of our savings for his education.
Models include these:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/518555-REG/Sony_HVRHD1000U_HVR_HD1000U_Digital_High_Definition.html
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/745707-REG/Sony_HXR_MC2000U_HXR_MC2000U_Shoulder_Mount_AVCHD.html
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/878341-REG/Panasonic_hmc40kit_AG_HMC40_AVCCAM_HD_Camcorder.html
and
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/749467-REG/Canon_4922B002_XA10_HD_Professional_Camcorder.html

My concern is he starts September 2013 so these products may not even be available by then or others will be available. We hope he graduates May 2015. He tells us when he graduates he will maybe find a freelance job or shoot local cable news, build up some experience, maybe after 2 years go for a B.A. at least part time.
Is anything we buy him in 2013 (summer) going to be any use to him as a working professional in 2015 (summer)? So let's say you are a class of 2012 graduate with an AAS in video production. The camera you purchased in the summer of 2010 when you first started, do you still use it professionally? Can you make anything doing freelance news videos, PR videos or local account commercials with this equipment?
We're going to do everything we can to help him. No doubt he will still be living at home in the summer of 2015. By then he's going to have a student loan to pay off. We have a 2005 Hyundai Accent that we are going to give him for college. I hope that thing still runs when it is 10 years old and he isn't making car payments on top of that. The thing has 120,000 miles on it but runs really well. I just fear when he graduates he's going to be in deep debt and have limited employment. I may be wrong. What do you think? Thanks.

A. Hi "Upwardly Mobile":

Fellow Contributor "L" covered most of the bases quite well, but the only point he didn't underscore is that MOST good video & film production programs at community colleges HAVE the cameras, lights, mikes, tripods, and other gear that the students will learn on & use.

When I went to a local (but nationally prominent) university with a Broadcast/Film Dept., portable video was still fairly new, but all the film cameras, tripods, & light kits were supplied by the Department for students to "check out" as-needed for class projects.

And most video production students start out with Studio Production techniques (where it's easier for groups to learn 3-point lighting, camera setup & tripod/dolly operation, shot composition, audio techniques & mixing, etc.). No need for portable field gear there.

For field production & Electronic News Gathering, a good college will have a fair number of camcorders for students to use & check out (if needed for outside-of-class projects).

The same is true for Editing Software & computer workstations. Some college programs might be economizing and making students supply their own laptops for this, but all the major software companies offer Academic Editions of their normally-expensive edit suites at discounted prices. And of course, nowadays, apps like iMovie (Mac) and Movie Maker (PC) come "free" as part of the operating system and can accomplish what older (and expensive) software used to do, as far as basic editing.

As "L" mentioned, do a bit of "homework" yourself by contacting the community college's department head & instructors for your son's chosen major. Tour the facilities (studio and edit suites) and ask about the "equipment room" for student project gear. See what textbooks (a major expense) are required, and whether computer/laptop & software expense will be part of what's expected of your son. Only if there's little-or-no camcorder gear (or no hands-on studio cameras) would I recommend buying anything like the models from B+H that you listed.

Almost every cable TV & freelance video job I've had over the past 30 years has "supplied" (rented or company-owned) the cameras & grip gear I needed. I bring my own gear only when it's a "favor" or when what I have is better-suited to the task, or they want a "director with gear". My point being, your son doesn't need to own =any= camera gear to make a living freelancing. A good camera operator can stay busy in almost any part of the country, with just his/her skills. (Same for sound mixers & boom/wireless mike operators.)

hope this helps, and hope it saves you some money,
--Dennis C.
 





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Digital Camera for wildlife photography help?

Q. I am planing a couple trips in the next year. First trip is to go up to Alaska or Canada and I want to try and get some nice Polar Bear and Musk Oxen shots. Then I am going to be going out to Yellowstone to try and photograph wolves and finally I will be taking a trip to Australia and New Zealand and am hoping to get some great landscape and animal shots. But now I have to figure out what is going to be the best camera for me to get. I have a budget of around $3500.

Right now I am looking at the Nikon D 7100, Nikon D 7000, Cannon EOS 7 D, and Sony Alpha SLT-A77.

I am also then figureing on getting either a 300mm or 400mm lens then buying a 2X teleconverter. I'm trying to do all this for $3500 or less I know its going to be tough. Obviously I can not afford the real nice lenses in the 300mm zoom so how much is this going to affect my quality if I get a little bit cheaper lens? My goal is I want to have nice enough pictures to where I could blow them up and hang them up around my house with out the image getting grainy or fuzzy. I'm looking at blowing them up to 24 x 36 and maybe bigger for landscape shots.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated! Thank you so much for your time.

A. You might get to see these animals, but don't get your hopes up too high. The Nikon D7100 with 18-105mm could be a good choice of camera for most of your shots. A super duper great telephoto to get the kind of shots you are dreaming of will blow your budget. For less ambitious but pretty good shots you could get the Nikon 70-300mm AF-S VR (the good 70-300, not the cheapo). Forget about a 2X teleconverter. The 70-300mm lacks a tripod collar, and it will be front heavy. You will want to bring a tripod. You need to think about what day pack you will carry it in, as the tripod must fit. There are some decent travel tripods. However, the light duty ballhead on some of these may be barely adequate with the 70-300mm. You need to assemble something with a good medium duty 3 way pan head, like maybe the Manfrotto 804RC2 or the Induro PHT2. BTW, if you want to point a panhead higher than about 30 degrees, the trick is to put the quick release plate on backwards.
Which brings us to, when do you expect to do this?
Winter, aurora watching?
You will need serious clothes.
http://www.martingrumet.com/yellowknife01-30-2013-02-2000.jpg
Carry your camera in a padded case with several handwarmer packs. Have an extra charged battery in your pocket. Two layers of glove liners with handwarmer packs inside can probably give you adequate dexterity without freezing your fingers.
Also have a clean, dry cotton handkerchief in the bag to wipe off condensation.
Getting focused in the dark could be a problem. You might be able to lock on autofocus on a distant street light, and switch to manual. Or you could spend more money on an older style AF-D prime lens like a 20mm or 24mm, and be able to dial to infinity in the dark.
For aurora shots set white balance to daylight. Practice with your equipment at home before you go on your trip. Maybe ISO is 800. More gets noisy. Exposure time maybe 20 seconds. More shows star trails. Also the aurora is dynamic, and more exposure makes it look blob like.
http://www.martingrumet.com/yellowknife02-05-2013-01-2000.jpg
http://www.martingrumet.com/yellowknife02-05-2013-02-2000.jpg
About midnight to 2am is often best activity, although not always.


Sony digital camera( DSC-TX30/B)....this camera good or no? please tell........?
Q.

A. Here is a review
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/sony-cyber-shot-dsc-tx30
Within the category of immersible compact cameras, its image quality is probably among the best in the studio test, although that is not a category with spectacularly great image quality. In the real world comparison tests it seems to have fallen a bit below the competition.
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/2013-waterproof-roundup/14
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/2013-waterproof-roundup/15
It is the lightest and most compact within that class. However, it is not a very easy camera to handle for actual diving.

With any compact camera you should use a wriststrap, and all the more so when handling these water resistant cameras in the water. with no floatation attached, they will sink.

For diving the Canon D20 has an advantage with the best ergonomics. Image quality is good for its class with least noise reduction smudging or highlight clipping. The Nikon AW110 is a very good overall performer for its class in image quality and has least chromatic aberration. The Olympus TG-2 gains an advantage in low light with its f2 lens. For video with real time sound, its sound gets terrible when immersed in water.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBFwthdyXRQ
The Pentax WG-3 also has an f2 lens, but its images were rather dull in this test
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jnxn_Ng-1U8
The Panasonic TS5 seems to produce some nice images, and it has the best video options, but its autofocus is sluggish.

A peculiar thing about the Nikon AW110 is that they package it with a neckstrap and advise against using a neckstrap in the water for safety reasons. An aftermarket wriststrap should be purchased for it.





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What Canon compact digital camera should I buy -- either A4000 or A2600?

Q. Which should I buy? ...it is between the Canon A4000 IS or A2600?

Technical Benefit Differences of A4000 IS the A2600 lacks I see:
1. More zoom range (8x vs.5x)
2. Optical Image Stabilization/Intelligent Image Stabilization
3. Better Macro Capability (1 cm vs. 3 cm)

Technical Benefit Differences of A2600 the A4000 lacks I see:
1. Longer Battery Life (ECO Mode -- up to 30% more pictures per battery charge)
2. Wider Aperture (f/2.8 vs. f/3.0)
3. Lower Light Exposure Sensitivity in Low Light Mode only (ISO 6400 vs. ISO 1600)
4. Digital Image Stabilization -- Yes, an added feature the A4000 lacks; but greatly inferior to Optical Image Stabilization/Intelligent Image Stabilization

The physical size, dimensions, and weight differences, are very minor to me; both relatively small. Other than these differences above, they are technically the same compact camera. The A2600 is this years (2013) new Canon compact model release -- highest model of the newest of the A-series. The A4000 IS is last years (2012) Canon compact model release -- overall highest still for this years A-series lineup.

This is just an opinion question, but if you could justify your answers as to why YOU would pick one over the other with reason, that would be great! I am stumped. I am torn between these two. Thanks!
Let me add...

If you ask what kind of pictures I generally take, I take all kinds like landscapes, portraits, close-ups, night scenes, action, etc.. Yes, a general use camera.

A. No need to enumerate what you shoot. It is expected for all cameras to do them all anyway.

Judging from those spec differences, I'd go for the A2600. Battery life would be a huge issue and it would be nice to see Canon actually address the shortness of it once and for all. Wider apertures allow for longer shooting pleasure after the sun has gone down. It also helps blur backgrounds more easily for closeup portraits.

Although I personally avoid going higher than ISO 1600, it's good to know there's more in case I really need it. Image stabilization would be great though for making razor sharp shots but it's not really that important as I am confident my hands can still hold on steadily.


Can most digital cameras now all do full hd 1080p video recording?
Q.

A. Most of them do 1080p HD video. However please be aware that most compact cameras, or smart-phones like iPhones, are not good at video recording. If light is good, they do an okay job. When light is dull, they are almost unusable. If you zoom in and do video, there can be lot of shake. You may be better off with iPhone or some digital camcorder that offers 30-40x zoom.

Read this article- it will provide you some relevant info:
http://photography-with-any-camera.blogspot.com/2013/03/video-recording-with-dslr-is-it-worth-it.html





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