Here are a few street photography tips I learned:

Shoot with a wide angle to medium telephoto (in the 17-50mm range). Shooting in this focal range, you are involving yourself with what’s happening around you. Try to blend and be patient.  And remember it isn’t  a good idea to shoot and hide, most people would think that you have bad intension when you use this approach.

To be continued……..

The Canon EF 50mm F/1.8 also known as the Nifty-Fifty is true to its name, it produces great image quality, sharp and is only around $100.00. Best bang for the buck. I highly recommend it.

Product Description:

This is the lightest EF lens of all at a mere 4.6 oz. (130g). Compact and high-performance, standard lens. Its Gaussian optics provide sharp delineation from near to far focusing distances. The color balance is excellent for a standard lens. From USA.Canon.Com

Specification:

• Focal length: 50mm
• Maximum aperture: 1:1.8
• Lens Construction: 6 elements in 5 group
• Diagonal angel of view: 46 degrees
• Focus adjustment: Overall linear extension system with Micromotor
• Cosest focusing distance: 1.5 feet
• Filter size: 52mm
• Dimensions: 2.7 inches in diameter, 1.6 inches long
• Weight: 4.6 ounces

The Canon EF 50mm F/1.8 as we all know is a very famous lens, primarily because it’s affordable and it produces sharp images. The build construction however is not impressive, it is made of cheap plastic which is expected at this price range. The lens mount of this Malaysian made lens is also made of plastic which is kinda scary at first. It seems that it’s going to break, but it’s actually pretty sturdy, just don’t grab or hold your camera by the lens. This is lens is so light at less than 4.6oz and as I have mentioned, very cheap, for approximately $100(from the time of this writing) you’ll have a lens that is sharp, delivers great image quality and focus accurately. You can’t bit that.

What I Like About the Canon EF 50mm F/1.8

• Image Quality is Great
• Sharp
• Fast Accurate Autofocus
• Light
• Small
• Filter Thread does not roate
• Great for Portrait
• Great for Low Light Situations
• Great for Street Photography
• All around lens

What I Don’t Like About the Canon EF 50mm F/1.8

• No full time manual focus
• No focus scale like the old EF 50mm F/1.8
• Made of Plastic
• Plastic lens mount
• Focus ring is too small
• Focus ring turns when the lens is autofocusing

This is fast lens having a F/1.8 aperture, it is very useful in low light indoor situation where you cannot or not allowed to use a flash, a church for example, just boost your ISO to 800 or 1600 depending on the type of body you have and you can surely make things happen. However because it only has five aperture blades, the quality of bokeh can be rated as fair to good, which is one of this lens weak spots, but that doesn’t worry me too much as most of the time I can still get pretty good results.

The 50mm 1.8 is also one of my favorite walk around lens and because it’s a prime lens, it cannot zoom which makes me slow down and think of what I’m doing, it gives me time to compose and look at everything around my subject and things around me. I used to want to upgrade to the 50mm F/1.4, but lately I have been very comfortable with the 50mm F/1.8, I may upgrade soon, but for now in terms of image quality and sharpness this is a top notch, if I find the need for a F/1.4, I might upgrade.

Conclusion and Recommendation
Buy it. It is a great lens, it’s sharp, delivers great image quality, light, small and best of all it is very affordable, forget about it being made of plastic, and just think of what it can give you. Go get it now. You can get the best prices from the stores below. That’s where I buy my stuff.

You can buy the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II from these reputable stores.

• Adorama
• Amazon
• 
  BHPhoto Video

Photos of the Canon EF 50mm F/1.8 on a Canon EOS 1000D/Rebel XS

Here are some photos from other people who uses the Canon EF 50mm F/1.8:

To be continued……

Before I start, let me just tell you that the Canon EF 85mm F/1.8 is a suprisingly awesome lens and I highly recommend it to anyone.

Product Description.

A highly practical medium telephoto lens with superb delineation and portability, the Canon EF 85mm F/1.8 USM lens produces sharp and clear images at all apertures. Through computer simulations, the lens has been designed to give beautiful background blur, thereby bringing your subject into crisp view. The ring-type ultra-sonic monitor (USM) and fast f/1.8 aperture, meanwhile, helps the subject zip into focus in the viewfinder. And because the front lens group does not rotate during focusing, special filter effects are not affected. Best of all, the standard zoom lens–with its natural angle of view and perspective–captures the subject plainly, making it excellent for portraits and images that require a natural depth of field. As with all Canon lenses, the lens carries a one-year warranty.
(From Canon.Com)

Specification.
Focal Length & Maximum Aperture: 85mm 1:1.8
Lens Construction : 9 elements in 7 groups
Diagonal Angle of View: 28° 30′
Focus Adjustment : Rear focusing system with USM
Closest Focusing Distance: 0.85m / 2.8 ft
Filter Size: 58mm
Max. Diameter x Length, Weight: 3.0″ x 2.8″, 15.0 oz. / 75.0 x 71.5mm, 425g

If you are looking for a reliable, ultimately sharp, small, light, fast lens for Canon DSLR’s, look no farther and get the EF 85mm F/1.8. It is reasonably cheap, and at a bargain at less than $400.00 from Amazon (as of the time of this writing)for the quality of the lens and quality of images it can produce.

What I like about the EF 85mm F/1.8:

• Small and lightweight
• Fast Focus and Very Accurately
• It is awesomely sharp
• The Price, it’s a bargain especially for what you can get out of it.
• Excellent for portrait
• Can be use for tight landscape
• Great lens for street photography
• Makes me slow down and think of what I’m doing
• Great Contrast and Saturation
• Utilizes USM
• Fulltime Manual Focus

What I don’t like about this lens:

• It doesn’t come with a lens hood, you have to buy one. It uses the Canon ET65III Lens Hood which you can buy from Amazon and Adorama.

Reasons to get this lens:

• Great for Portraiture
• Indoor and Low Light
• Cheap
• Wide F/1.8 Aperture
• USM for Fast Focus
• Fulltime Manual Focus
• Sharp

Why I bought this lens?
I bought this lens primarily for portraiture and an addition to my EF 50mm F/1.8. When I want to travel light, these are the two lenses that I bring, light, small and great for indoor low light situations. Other reason is I wanted to build an arsenal of prime lenses. I love prime lenses because they just get the job done, they work and they work great.

Conclusion and Recommendation:
The bottom line is, the Canon EF 85mm F/1.8 is simply a great lens. If you need a sharp, small, lightweight, portrait lens that can perform in anyway you want, this is it. It’s a very nice lens at a great price. I also use it as a macro lens with an extension tube and it works great. I highly recommend it. Go get one, you’ll love it.

You can buy the Canon EF 85mm F/1.8 USM Lens from these reputable stores.

• Adorama
• Amazon
• 
  BH Photo Video

Some more images of the Canon EF 85mm F/1.8 USM:

Here are some photos from other people who uses the Canon EF 85mm F/1.8:

Gear:
Canon EOS 20D
EF 85mm F/1.8

The compact (143mm) design also features the build quality that photographers have come to expect from Canon’s acclaimed L-series lenses. With its impressive focal range and travel-friendly size, the EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM is ideally suited to professionals and advanced amateur photographers wishing to capture portraits, nature and action shots in superb detail.

Canon signature image quality
Thanks to two ultra-low dispersion (UD) elements and a floating lens group, the
EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM captures stunning high-contrast, high-resolution images with low levels of chromatic aberration throughout the zoom range. The lens makes use of Canon’s Super Spectra coatings, reducing ghosting and flare to ensure the highest possible image quality and minimising the requirement for extensive post processing.

Canon’s advanced optical Image Stabilizer (IS) provides photographers with a four-stop IS advantage, enabling the capture of sharp images even when shooting at maximum zoom or in low light conditions, by allowing the use of slower shutter speeds than would usually be possible with handheld shooting.

An eight-blade circular aperture also offers excellent bokeh ideal for portraiture, producing a more pleasant background and creatively isolating the subject.

Autofocus (AF) is fast and quiet thanks to a ring-type USM AF motor, combined with the independent lens CPU and advanced AF algorithms to enable accurate, reliable focusing in all conditions. As with all Canon L series lenses, full time manual focus override is possible, allowing photographers to manually focus, even when the AF motor is engaged. With a minimum focusing distance of 1.2m (3.9ft) throughout the zoom range, photographers can achieve sharp results, even when close to the action.

L-series – robust performance in all conditions
Honouring the L-series heritage, the EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM offers exceptional build quality, ideal for daily use by professionals and advanced amateurs. The lens includes environmental protection, allowing photographers to shoot in harsh conditions – even in the extremes of the desert or rainforest. Canon’s new Fluorine Coating also makes cleaning the lens easier, preventing smears or streaking.

Professional accessories
As part of the L-series range, the EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM is supplied with a lens hood ET-73B and lens case LP1424 as standard. In addition, an optional, dedicated tripod mount C (WII) can be directly attached to the lens. This allows it to be stabilised easily and the camera switched quickly from vertical to horizontal and back, without having to reposition the camera body on the tripod, perfect for fast-paced action with a variety of subjects.

There is beauty in the pattern of the shadows, the light and dark which that object provides.

I am way behind in this project, still struggling to keep up.

Close focusing distance 85mm with 13mm Extension Tube = 14.5 inches

Close focusing distance 85mm with 21mm = roughly 11.4 inches

Close focusing distance 85mm + 31mm = 9 inches

Close focusing distance 85mm with 13mm + 21mm = 9.3 inches

Close focusing distance 85mm@F/4 with 13mm + 21mm + 31mm = 5.5 inches

Close focusing distance 85mm@F/8 + 13mm + 21mm + 31mm = 5.5 inches

All photos above were taken using the Canon EF 85mm F/1.8, Pro Optic Budget Extension tube, Canon Rebel XS on a tripod and a off Camera Canon 430 EX II. All images were taken at F/8 except the 2nd to the last photo which as you can see has a very shallow depth of field at F/4 compare the rest.

Conclusion and Recommendation
I find the Pro Optic Budget Extension tube very easy to use especially with my favorite lens EF 85mm and the EF 28-135mm, primarily because of the weight and offers a good distance with the subject. Using it with the EF 50mm F/1.8 is ok and will give greater magnification but I find it too close to the subject. I also tried to use it with the EF 70-200mm F/4 L IS USM, which I didn’t like at all because it was too heavy, I needed to use my Manfrotto 680b Monopod.

Overall, I’m satisfied with the product and I would recommend it to anyone. For the price, it’s a steal, and you’ll gain a lot because you can use your existing lenses except EF-s lenses.

Here are more photos of the Pro Optic Budget Auto Extension Tube for Canon.

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., August 26, 2010 – High-quality digital capture and skillful post-processing go hand-in-hand for superior end results, and more control over in-camera image processing means less time editing and more time shooting. At the same time, the overwhelming popularity of Full HD video recording with other current EOS Digital SLRs has led to customer requests for more advanced features such as manual audio level control and flexible LCD screens. Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, delivers all of these features and more with the new EOS 60D Digital SLR Camera. For the first time on an EOS camera, the EOS 60D DSLR boasts a three-inch Vari-Angle Clear View LCD screen, EOS Full HD video recording with manual overrides including audio level control, and in-camera functionality for RAW image processing plus Creative Filters to manipulate images after taking them. Designed primarily for advanced amateurs, the EOS 60D replaces the EOS 50D and boasts a broad array of new features that make it easier for photographers to add personal creativity to their images. Whether it’s capturing an overhead shot on the Vari-Angle screen at a graduation ceremony, or converting a color image to black and white for a nostalgic look, Canon is delivering in-camera features and functions that empower advanced photographers to capture, display and print the images they want.

“The EOS 60D has been designed to offer the image-capture and the Full HD video features customers are looking for as they continue to expand their photographic skills. The exciting new features of the EOS 60D make using a DSLR camera more attractive and easier than ever before. We want everyone to experience the great image quality a Canon DSLR can offer with features and functions that they will appreciate and use,” stated Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A.
Exciting EOS “Firsts”

For the first time in the history of the Canon EOS System, the new 60D camera features a large Vari-Angle 3-inch Clear View LCD screen with 1,040,000 dot/VGA resolution plus anti-reflective and smudge-resistant coatings for bright clear viewing from any angle. The new LCD screen is ideal for composing low-angle or overhead shots whether capturing still images or Full HD video clips.

Another first for the EOS system is the EOS 60D camera’s new Multi-Control Dial, which places a Multi-Controller and Set button inside the Quick Control Dial. This new control layout streamlines camera navigation for vertical as well as horizontal shooting and enables a cleaner camera design. Responding to customer requests, the EOS 60D also features a locking mode dial, which makes camera operation more secure by preventing inadvertent changes to the photographer’s selected shooting mode.

While the photography mantra of “get it right in the camera” still stands true, Canon’s new EOS 60D gives advanced photographers an edge with new in-camera features that enable users to enhance their images without a computer even after they have been shot. For the first time ever in an EOS camera, the EOS 60D features in-camera processing of RAW image files, new reduced resolution image copies, and post-processing creative image filters for exceptional flexibility in digital image rendering.

* In-camera RAW image processing features include Picture Style, White Balance (WB), Color Space, High-ISO Noise Reduction, Peripheral Illumination Correction, linear distortion correction and chromatic aberration correction. These powerful in-camera editing tools will allow photographers in the field to produce optimized images on the spot and generate JPEG files at various resolution and compression settings for immediate sharing, without affecting the original RAW data.
* Another great new feature for photographers-on-the-go is Canon’s new image resizing function. After capturing full resolution or smaller JPEG images, the camera can generate lower-resolution copies using menu commands. New lower-resolution settings include 1920 x 1280 for optimal display on HD televisions, or 720 x 480, ideal for immediate uploading to social networking and other photo sharing web sites. The original high resolution files remain unaffected by the image resizing function.
* Available for the first time in an EOS camera are Canon’s new creative image filters. Familiar to Canon PowerShot users, these fun photo effects help make a great image more dynamic, even after it has been shot. Canon provides four artistic filters that allow photographers to capture an image and then create and manipulate a digital copy of it.
o The Soft Focus effect filter helps dramatize an image and smooth over shiny reflections.
o The Grainy Black and White filter can give a different nostalgic perspective to any shot.
o Canon’s “Toy Camera” filter deliberately adds vignetting and color shift for a creative option when shooting a colorful scene.
o Users can also make a scene appear like a small-scale model, simulating the look from a tilt-shift lens, with Canon’s Miniature Effect filter, great when shooting any scene from a high vantage point.

Each of these filters can be applied to a captured still image in-camera to create a second “filtered” JPEG version, leaving the original RAW or JPEG file unaffected.

Another addition to the camera’s Live View function is Canon’s new Aspect Ratio feature whereby the Live View screen can display cropping lines for 1:1, 16:9 or 4:3 aspect ratios in addition to the standard 3:2 ratio. These cropping lines make it easier to compose images in Live View, and they can help to expedite printing when using Canon’s supplied Digital Photo Professional software. Custom aspect ratios are also applied to JPEG images whether captured directly in-camera or created with the EOS 60D’s in-camera RAW image processing function.
EOS HD Video: Continuing the Video Paradigm Shift

In addition to its new still capture capabilities, the EOS 60D features Full HD video capture at 1920 x 1080 resolution with selectable frame rates of 24p, 25p or 30p. Native 24p recording helps videographers achieve a more cinema-style look for their footage without the need for post-processing. The EOS 60D builds upon the great video capabilities Canon has introduced in recent DSLR cameras and packs them into a camera photo enthusiasts will love. Full HD video capture, along with selectable cinematic frame rates for both NTSC (National Television System Committee) and PAL (Phase Altering Line) standards, will help the EOS 60D to be the camera of choice among film students and photography students alike.

The new EOS 60D camera’s movie mode also includes manual controls for exposure as well as manual audio levels in 64 steps, much like the latest firmware update for the EOS 5D Mark II HD-SLR. Users can set audio levels on the rear menu screen before shooting begins; once recording is initialized, audio adjustments are not possible. In addition, Canon has added an electronic Wind Filter to the audio controls within the movie shooting menu.

Canon has also included an in-camera movie editing feature, allowing users to shorten a video file by clipping segments from the beginning or the end, removing unwanted portions without outside software. This feature can dramatically accelerate workflow by reducing the time needed to upload video clips to a computer for further editing and assembly. The EOS 60D also includes Canon’s Movie Crop mode, which allows users to achieve 7x magnification when shooting SD video. Unlike the digital zoom feature found in many compact digital cameras, Canon’s Movie Crop mode crops the image directly from the CMOS sensor at full SD resolution to preserve image quality and still provide additional telephoto power.

Providing access to the right lens for any given shooting scenario, the EOS 60D DSLR camera is compatible with more than 60 Canon EF and EF-S lenses. The EOS 60D DSLR’s video functions are supported by two key proprietary Canon technologies, a DIGIC 4 Imaging Processor and a large APS-C–sized CMOS sensor capturing fine detail and color with an amazing cinematic depth of field. The Canon EOS 60D allows for three video recording modes – Full HD and HD in a 16:9 aspect ratio and Standard Definition (SD) in a 4:3 aspect ratio, all at selectable frame rates. The EOS 60D Digital SLR camera will record Full HD at 1920 x 1080 pixels in selectable frame rates of 24p (23.976), 25p, or 30p (29.97); 720p HD recording at 50p or 60p (59.94) and SD video at frame rates of 50p or 60p (59.94). The EOS 60D features a dedicated button to initiate live view for both video and still shooting. Once engaged, the same dedicated button will start and stop video recording.
Valuable Additional Features

Along with the adjustable LCD screen, the new EOS 60D DSLR features a class-leading 18-megapixel Canon CMOS sensor, a proprietary DIGIC 4 Imaging Processor, a 9-point Autofocus system and Canon’s exclusive iFCL Metering System (Intelligent Focus, Color, Luminance) giving it the power of a professional-level camera. Capable of capturing fast action, the 60D DSLR can shoot full resolution still images up to 5.3-frames per second (fps). The EOS 60D records its images and video clips to the photographer’s choice of SD, SDHC or new extended capacity SDXC memory cards.

The 9-point AF system on the new EOS 60D features f/5.6-sensitive cross-type focusing on all nine focusing points. Like the EOS 7D, the center AF point is a hybrid of standard cross-type and special diagonally-shaped “X” cross, with high-precision sensitivity for f/2.8 and larger aperture lenses. Complementing the AF system, Canon’s iFCL metering system, identical to that on the EOS 7D and Rebel T2i, takes color information into account and includes a 63-zone dual-layer metering sensor that reads both illumination and color for consistent results in all lighting conditions, keeping exposure levels stable from shot to shot, even as the light source changes.

Photographers will enjoy shooting in low light thanks to the EOS 60D DSLR’s wide ISO range from 100-6400 (adjustable in 1/3-step increments from ISO 100-6400 and expandable to 12,800) allowing it to capture beautiful images without flash during family milestone events such as wedding ceremonies, while still being equipped with a built-in pop-up flash for shooting the cake cutting ceremony and reception. The EOS 60D’s pop-up flash features a built-in Integrated Speedlite Transmitter for control of up to two groups of off-camera EOS Speedlites without the need for an external transmitter, providing an economical solution for multi-flash shoots.

Making accurate composition more convenient, the EOS 60D’s optical viewfinder provides 96 percent coverage along with Canon’s built-in single axis Electronic Level Display, which utilizes the exposure level scale below the picture area to let the photographer know when the camera is level. The Electronic Level Display is also visible on the camera’s LCD screen in both Live View and Movie modes. An artificial horizon display illustrates horizontal roll, allowing the photographer to know when the camera is in a fixed level position. The entire camera has been durability-tested to 100,000 exposures making the EOS 60D a reliable as well as a powerful imaging tool.
Pricing and Availability

The Canon EOS 60D Digital SLR camera is scheduled to be delivered to U.S. dealers toward the end of September, and will be sold in a body-only configuration at an estimated retail price of $1,099.00i. It will also be offered in a kit version with Canon’s EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM zoom lens at an estimated retail price of $1,399.00ii. The Canon BG-E9 battery grip is scheduled to be available toward the end of September and sell at an estimated retail price of $270.00iii.

About Canon U.S.A., Inc.

Canon U.S.A., Inc., is a leading provider of consumer, business-to-business, and industrial digital imaging solutions. Its parent company, Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), a top patent holder of technology, ranked fourth overall in the U.S. in 2009†, with global revenues of US $35 billion, is listed as number six in the computer industry on Fortune Magazine’s World’s Most Admired Companies 2010 list, and is on the 2009 BusinessWeek list of “100 Best Global Brands.” Canon U.S.A. is committed to the highest levels of customer satisfaction and loyalty, providing 100 percent U.S.-based consumer service and support for all of the products it distributes. At Canon, we care because caring is essential to living together in harmony. Founded upon a corporate philosophy of Kyosei – “all people, regardless of race, religion or culture, harmoniously living and working together into the future” – Canon U.S.A. supports a number of social, youth, educational and other programs, including environmental and recycling initiatives. Additional information about these programs can be found at www.usa.canon.com/kyosei. To keep apprised of the latest news from Canon U.S.A., sign up for the Company’s RSS news feed by visiting www.usa.canon.com/rss.

Day 238(Aug. 26, 2010), just the usual. I just got back from my morning run, enjoying my morning coffee and reading an issue of Wired Magazine, still thinking of what photo to make for today. While looking at what’s in front of me I decided to continue on the light and shadow for the rest of the week, and took a snap at my coffee travel mug.

Gear:
EF 50MM F/1.8

Day 237(Aug. 25, 2010), it was 8AM. I just got back from my morning workout, I pour coffee into my mug and sat down on the kitchen table, I was about to grab a magazine when I remembered I still have no photo for today. Hmm. Then I noticed the window blinds were fully retracted and the bright light coming from outside was hitting this hanging tray, that’s when I saw this photograph in my mind come to life. Took a couple shots and here it is, the photo of the day.

Light illuminates shadows define.
In photography we need light, without light there can be no photograph, without shadow there is no definition.

Gear:
EF 50MM F/1.8

Months ago I sold my awesome EF 100mm F/2.8 Macro thinking that I wasn’t really into macro photography, but guess what, it’s been three months and I’m still shooting macro and close up photos here and there. A month after I sold my 100mm macro I bought an extension tube from Adorama, just for the sake of trying it out and see how it compares to the real macro lens I had. A Macro Lens is a Macro Lens, but I found out that with the help of an extension tube I can fully utilize the usefulness of the lenses that I have.

This is a mini review of the Pro Optic Budget Auto Extention Tube Set for Canon EOS SLR Cameras which was long overdue. First of what is an extension tube and why do we need this? An extension tube is an object, a photographic accessory that is connected between the Camera Body and the Lens. Photographers use it to move the lens farther away from the image sensor to decrease the minimum focusing distance of a lens(the farther the lens is, the closer the focus). In short with an extension tube you can basically use an ordinary lens for macro photography. This is exactly what the Pro Optic Budget Auto Extention Tube Set for Canon EOS SLR Cameras does.

What I like about the Pro Optic Budget Auto Extention Tube Set for Canon EOS SLR Cameras

• Great Value for the Money
• Easy to Use
• Lightweight
• Made of Plastic but strong enough to use all three tubes all at once on the following canon lenses: Canon EF 28-135mm F/3.5-5.6 IS USM, Canon EF 70-210mm F/4 Macro and Canon EF 70-200mm F/4 IS USM.
• TTL metering compatibility
• Autofocus functions provided there is enough light available.

Cons :
So far I can’t find any, that’s because I wasn’t expecting name brand quality and macro quality photos when I bought it. For the price it does what it’s design to do and it does it really good.

I have use it on the following lenses:

• EF 50mm F/1.8
• EF 85mm F/1.8
• EF 28-135mm F/3.5-5.6
• EF 70-210mm F/4 Macro
• EF 70-200mm F/4 IS USM.

The first set of sample photos were taken using the EF 28-135mm F/3.5-5.6 at 135mm:

This is the closest I can get at 135mm Focal length at 135mm

This second test shows how close I was able to get with the extension tube attached. In here I use the 31mm Extension Tube.

I did not actually measure the distance between the lens and the object, but it looks like, it’s less than 2 inches. Below you can see two more photos taken with the EF 28-135mm F/3.5-5.6 and Pro Optic Budget Auto Extension Tube.

You can buy the Pro Optic Budget Auto Extention Tube Set for Canon EOS SLR Cameras from the following reputable stores:

• Adorama
• Amazon.com

Things to consider before buying an extension tube:

• For true macro capability, get a macro lens. A true macro lens can give you more like better image quality, ease of use and versatility.
• A basic rule in macro photography, “Get a Tripod” or at least a “Monopod”. Everything tends to get heavy especially when using long lenses like the 28-135 or 70-200mm
• You need a lot of patience in your arsenal. If you plan on taking photos of bugs or insects that are really fast, it will be really hard(not impossible but hard), I would suggest getting a true macro lens like the EF 100mm f/2.8, but for still objects, an extension tube is a great solution.

In Part II, I will post sample photos taken with the 85mm F/1.8 and the Pro Optic Budget Auto Extension Tube.

Continue to Part II here.

I was enjoying my morning coffee in the backyard when I noticed the grass, “cool” morning dew. I immediately went back inside and grab my camera with a my 50mm 1.8 with and 31mm extension tube, I then took the shot crawling way below the ground.

Gear:
EF 50MM F/1.8
Pro Optic Budget Auto Extention Tube Set for Canon EOS SLR Cameras

Part of the 2010 Daily Photo Project. I went to a nearby forest hoping to find some small creatures, and luckily I found one. Thank God.

Gear:
EF 28-135mm F/3.5-5.6 IS USM
Pro Optic Budget Auto Extention Tube Set for Canon EOS SLR

Spent an hour in the pond nearby, I just sat on the bench looking afar, I suddenly noticed that I was staring blindly looking at nothing. I walk around, but cannot find anything that inspires me. Then I saw this hanging upside down just beneath the leaves of the tree infront me, and I new that I finally found the perfect picture for today.

Gear:
EF 28-135mm F/3.5-5.6 IS USM
Pro Optic Budget Auto Extention Tube Set for Canon EOS SLR

New “Locking” Feature is Included in The EOS 7D Studio Version For Administrative Control Over Camera Functionality

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., August 17, 2010 – For wedding and portrait photographers, one of the most enjoyable parts of a project is the actual photographic element with the laborious work starting when the time comes to organize files, edit and ultimately provide the finished product. To help make this process less cumbersome, Canon U.S.A. Inc., a leader in digital imaging, today announced the launch of a new EOS 7D Studio Version DSLR Camera, ideal for professional school and event photographers which features four levels of “locking” camera controls for studio environments. In addition to the “locking” feature on the new EOS 7D Studio Version, the Company is also introducing a Canon Barcode Solution, which links customer data directly with the image file so that it can be maintained throughout the entire workflow process, ideal for school photographers, forensic and medical photo workflows.

Canon’s new “Locking” EOS 7D Studio Version DSLR allows administrators to disable unwanted features and settings thus providing professional studio operators the comfort of knowing the end result will be both reliable and repeatable. The camera has four different “lock” levels allowing administrators to enable the appropriate level of camera functionality for any studio operation. Custom functionality management is also achieved through each level by unlocking individual features according to operator-specific needs. This complete level of control is guarded by a daily password preventing anyone with a different vision from changing the camera settings and disrupting the overall project and workflow.

“We know professional photographers are constantly searching for ways to simplify the workflow process,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A. “With the addition of the new EOS 7D Studio Version camera, professionals and business owners can be confident that data management will be streamlined and they can focus on the current task at hand.”

The new Canon Barcode Solution for the new EOS 7D Studio Version cameras helps to automate the data management required when shooting, processing and delivering images for school photoshoots and other large scale events as well as organizing medical images while maintaining patient anonymity. Once the barcode option is enabled, customer, organizational, patient and/or other data will be embedded directly into the image file’s EXIF data by scanning a barcode for easy identification when reviewing the completed work. While shooting, the actual reading of barcodes can be easily managed and, based upon each person’s workflow, the critical task of file management is accomplished with less risk of error. Upon completion, a visual confirmation will appear on the camera’s rear LCD screen.

The EOS 7D Studio Version kit includes Canon’s WFT-E5A unit, which along with an optional barcode reader can scan and seamlessly manage image and customer data through a “wired connection”. A wireless system configuration is also possible through Canon’s BU-30 Bluetooth adapter further adding to the system’s convenience and functionality. Existing WFT-E5A units require a firmware update to work with Barcode functionality. This update will need to be done at a Canon USA Factory Service location if the customer wishes to use a previously purchased WFT-E5A unit. If the customer chooses this option, the ability to read and embed GPS (Global Positioning System) data will no longer function.

Coupled with a new “Locking” EOS 7D Studio Version Digital SLR camera, photographic operations both large and small can ensure reliability and efficient workflow for whomever is using the camera.

The new EOS 7DSV (Studio Version) Barcode Kit (EOS 7DSV and WFT-E5A with firmware change) will carry an estimated selling price of $ $2599. The EOS 7DSV (Studio Version) Body Only will carry an estimated selling price of $1829. Both are available by special order through select Canon authorized dealers.

The following Barcode Scanners are compatible; Honeywell 3800, Honeywell 3820, for scanning via bluetooth and Honeywell 4600, for scanning 1D and 2D barcodes.

All inquiries and questions regarding Canon’s EOS 7D Studio Version DSLR or Canon’s Barcode Solution can be directed to ProSolutions@cusa.canon.com.

Source : USA.CANON.COM

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This is a Mini Review of my favorite walk-around bag the Lowepro Outback 200 Camera Backpack . I Bought this on May 24, 2010 just in time for the Memorial Day Parade in Washington DC, and since then, it’s been my bag of choice for all around street photography.

First off, the features that I like about the Lowepro Outback 200:

• a well-padded camera compartment with adjustable dividers,
• one-piece foam framing and memory card pockets on the inside lid,
• Two lens/accessory cases (also suitable for carrying flash, water bottles, personal electronics or other items) are easily attached or detached with sturdy, yet lightweight compression straps.
• Easily attached a new or bigger lens case if needed in placed of the current lens case that came with with it.

What’s in my Outback 200 bag?

Set I

• Canon EOS 20D (Main Bag Compartment)
• Tamron AF SP 17-50mm F/2.8 VC with lens hood in reverse position (attached to camera)
• EF 85mm F/1.8 with lens hood in reverse (main compartment inside Et-74 lens hood, bottom compartment)
• ET-74 (main compartment bottom together with Ef 85mm F/1.8)
• EF 70-200mm F/4 IS USM (lens case 1)
• Demb Flash Diffuser Pro (Main compartment side panel)
• Canon 430EX II (Main compartment front packet)
• 2 Extra LP-E5 batteries (Main compartment front packet)
• 4 extra AA Batteries for 430ex II
• Air Blower (lens case 2)
• Brush (lens case 2)
• CPL Filter (lens case 2)
• Extension Tubes (lens case 2)
• NPT-04 Wireless Flash Trigger and Receiver (lens case 2)

Set II

• Canon Rebel XS with Battery Grip (Main Bag Compartment)
• EF 28-135mm IS USM with lens hood in reverse position (attached to camera)
• EF 50mm F/1.8 with lens hood in reverse (main compartment, bottom)
• Demb Flash Diffuser Pro (Main compartment side panel)
• Canon 430EX II (Main compartment front packet)
• 2 Extra LP-E5 batteries (Main compartment front packet)
• 4 AA Batteries for 430ex II
• Air Blower (lens case 2)
• Brush (lens case 2)
• CPL Filter (lens case 2)
• Extension Tubes (lens case 2)
• NPT-04 Wireless Flash Trigger and Receiver (lens case 2)

My Impression:

I was really glad I bought this bag, it has excellent build quality, provides quick easy access to everything, my gear stays protected even in wet and cold environment, I can use it as a beltpack, or as a shoulder bag or both to evenly distribute the weight, and the best thing I like about this bag is the fact that I can use the main bag compartment to insert my Canon Rebel XS with Battery Grip and a EF70-200mm F/4 IS USM attached including a lens hood, with no problem. All I have to do is remove the divider and I can used like a holster when needed.

I also used the Lowepro Outback 200 in tandem with my Black Rapid Straps RS1 Black Fabric, a great combination.

I highly recommend this bag. If you do long walks with your gear the Lowepro Outback 200 Camera Backpack is the bag for you.

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Below are photos of the Lowepro Outback 200 Camera Backpack (Black) together with some of my gear.

The Tamrac 5534 Adventure Messenger 4 Camera Bag is my goto bag when I needed to bring 1 extra lens like a EF 85mm F/1.8 in addition to my Tamron AF SP 17-50mm F/2.8 VC attached to my Canon Rebel XS, a flash and a lenovo mini netbook on the outer front compartment.

What I Like about the Tamrac 5534 Adventure Messenger 4 Camera Bag (Gray/Black):

• it offers suitable protection for my gear,
• it has water repellant materials,
• it’s small and lightweight, just enough room if I want to pack light,
• I can fit a mini netbook in the front outer compartment together with some filters and extra batteries
• I can slipped the bag over the handle of a rolling luggage,
• compatible with Tamrac’s MAS and SAS (strap accessory system) giving me an option to add tamrac  storage cases if needed. In fact I bought a Tamrac MX5378 BlackMX5378 MAS Lens Case Large for extra storage and it fits nicely on the side.

In cases where you don’t need to bring tons of gear, this bag might be the solution for you.  And since it is compatible with Tamrac’s MAS and SAS, you have the option to mix and match tamrac accessory pouches and lens case. Just buy the suitable lens case or accessory pouch that’s right for your needs and you’re good to go.

Get your Tamrac 5534 Adventure Messenger 4 Camera Bag (Gray/Black) now for a cheaper price from these reputable stores:

• Amazon
• Adorama.Com
• 
  B&H Photo Video