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Choosing Camera Kit for an Epic Trip Made Easy

Lowepro Mini Trekker Camera Bag

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Ted on Tour USA – Choosing Camera Kit for an Epic Trip

Choosing Camera Kit for an Epic Trip is the first part of a new blog post series. This series will run parallel to our travel blog posts documenting our epic trip across America. This new series will feature the photographic related aspects of the 15000 mile trip.

In this first post I will discuss the process I used to choose what camera kit to pack for our 6 week Ted on Tour USA trip. I will also be providing background information and tips to some of the pictures taken on the first part of our trip from the UK to New York

Here are links to read an overview of the Ted on Tour USA trip and Ted on Tour USA Part 2 Gatwick to New York.

Alternatively check out the timelapse video below![/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://youtu.be/LJzK-LAxT-U” align=”center” title=”Ted on Tour USA Video”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Which Camera Bag?

Our Norwegian Airlines flight allowed us to check in one 20kg bag each and take one carry on bag each. We chose to use a Lowepro camera bags as our carry on bags. This ensured all the delicate camera kit would be kept with us and away from the dreaded baggage carousel system.

I have several camera bags and chose the following for this trip –

  • Lowepro Mini Trekker AW which is capable of holding an SLR Camera with a large telephoto lens attached and 4 or 5 other lenses
  • Lowepro Fastpack 350 which holds an SLR Camera with a small zoom and 3 to 4 other lens.
  • Lowepro Event Messenger 250 shoulder bag. Ideal for a camera and a couple of lenses and a laptop.

I chose the Mini Trekker because it can carry a ton of camera kit and will (just) hold my camera with Nikon 200-500 attached. I use this camera bag 90% of the time.

The Fastpack camera bag is great as it has a top compartment ideal for carrying a wide array of items. You can use it to hold all your leads and chargers or alternatively put a bit of lunch and some other bits in there. The Fastpack camera bag has a slide-in opening for a laptop and/or notepad tablets.

The Event Messenger is a great shoulder bag that is ideal for when travelling light. It also has a slot for laptops (up to 15″ screens) and notepad tablets. The Event Messenger camera bag would travel empty and flattened in our checked in luggage. This camera bag would be ideal for travelling light when we got to ‘the other side’ and I didnt necessarily want to carry all the gear around.

Prior to the trip I did seriously look at buying a roller bag along the lines of a Think Tank Airport or similar. I eventually decided against buying one as I wasnt absolutely sure the roller bag would be better than a backpack when transferring between trains and planes etc.

I have undertaken many trips and found the backpacks perfectly when dragging suitcases around. I didnt want to risk my first experience with a roller camera bag on such a big trip.[/vc_column_text][ess_grid alias=”choosing-camera-kit-camera-bags”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Choosing Camera Kit

When I am choosing camera kit to take on any trip, I always start by listing where I want to go and what sort of shots I want to get. I have many lenses ranging from 15mm through to 500mm so needed to work out which lenses to leave at home without compromising my flexibility.

Create a Shot list

From part 1 of planning an epic trip here is my brief shot list

  • City scenes
  • Railways
  • Aircraft
  • Abandoned buildings and vehicles, dereliction and abandonment

Mixed into this would be the obligatory general touristy type shots of wherever we went.

In order to select appropriate lenses I padded out the brief list above with some specific details[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_column_text]

New York

  • buildings
  • water towers
  • escape ladders
  • city skyline
  • shots from tall buildings
  • street scenes

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San Francisco

  • Golden Gate Bridge
  • trolly buses/cable cars
  • Alcatraz buildings

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Pacific Coast Highway

  • general vista’s
  • national parks

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Route 66

  • old buildings
  • old cars
  • abandoned living

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Aircraft

  • Vegas Nellis AFB
  • Las Vegas McCarren Airport
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport
  • Joe Davis Airpark in Palmdale

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Railways

  • Around New York
  • California Zephyr
  • Tehachapi Loop

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Putting more details into our shot list made it easier to break down the lens characteristics I would need

  • Aircraft pics would need long reach
  • Street photography would need flexibility in zoom length
  • National Parks I thought would need wide and low light capable
  • Aircraft museums would need wide view and low light capable

I always want to take all my camera kit on every trip but it simply wasnt practical on this trip. With this in mind I sort through all my kit and remove things I can justify leaving at home. I couldn’t foresee having the time to mess with flash or macro so it was easy to discount all my flash kit and macro lenses.

Working through the considerations I felt these lenses made sense

  • Nikon 200-500 f5.6 for airbases and airports
  • Sigma 18-200 C, Nikon 16-85 and Sigma 18-35 f1.8 A for Street photography
  • Nikon 50mm f1.8 because its so light I take it everywhere!

This lens selection would provide a lot of flexibility and cover pretty much every scenario encountered.

Cameras

Choosing cameras is always a lot easier – I always take all 3 cameras!

  • Nikon D7200
  • Nikon D300
  • Sony NEX6 with 16-50 lens

I usually keep the Nikon 16-85 on my D300 for general shots. I then use my Nikon D7200 with whatever specialist lens capability I want.

The Sony NEX6 is great for general pictures plus video. Its so small and light yet the picture quality is fantastic.

Camera Accessories

I also threw (metaphorically) these filters and accessories into the bags –

  • Hoya Pro 1 circular polariser filter for 16-85 and 18-200 due to potential haze and glare on the Pacific Coast highway and in the desert
  • A selection of different rated neutral density filters for creative work
  • Manfrotto 055 tripod
  • Manfrotto Ball head 057 Magnesium Ball Head with Q5 Quick Release
  • Manfrotto 035 Universal Super Clamp
  • Memory cards – as many as I could get into my bags
  • Laptop
  • Spare batteries
  • Chargers for everything

Apart from the cameras, lenses, laptop and notebook tablets, everything else would go in the suitcases. The camera bags would be heavy enough, so all of the robust non essential stuff would go into the suitcase.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]I have to make special mention of the Manfrotto Universal Super Clamp. This single piece of kit is simply amazing! Combine it with the ball head and you have a really useful tool for when a tripod either isnt allowed or there isnt sufficient space. It can be a bit unwieldly, but the flexibility if you can find a mounting point, is fantastic.

The jaws open wide and it clamps to pipes, railings, poles – pretty much anything. With the ball head fitted you can move your camera around irrespective of the fixings orientation. You do need to ensure there is a reasonable amount of clearance around your fixing point to allow your head and camera to be moved. It’s fantastic though and has made many long exposure shots possible that I would otherwise have missed or at least struggled to get.[/vc_column_text][ess_grid alias=”manfrotto-super-clamp”][vc_column_text]

Camera Kit Complete

So after working through my shot list I had finally decided on what camera kit to take.

  • Nikon 200-500 f5.6 for airbases and airports
  • Sigma 18-200 C, Nikon 16-85 and Sigma 18-35 f1.8 A for Street photography
  • Nikon 50mm f1.8 because its so light I take it everywhere!
  • Nikon D7200
  • Nikon D300
  • Sony NEX6 with 16-50 lens
  • Hoya Pro 1 circular polariser filters
  • A selection of different rated neutral density filters
  • Manfrotto 055 tripod
  • Manfrotto Ball head 057 Magnesium Ball Head with Q5 Quick Release
  • Manfrotto 035 Universal Super Clamp

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Creativity and Improvisation

I’m always on the lookout for unusual shots and angles from the moment I leave the door. I knew the low level Thameslink platforms would provide a nice low light opportunity. I like long exposures and low light photography so was interested in the potential for blurred motion pictures of the trains arriving and departing. The long exposures are also great for getting people to show up as shadowy characters as they walk along the platforms.

I used the suitcases as a stable rest and the cameras built in timer in place of a tripod and release cable to get some pictures of the trains arriving and departing. Just because my tripod was packed in the suitcases didnt mean I wasnt going to take some long exposure photos. I moved the cases around to suitable places on the platform and took a number of long exposures. If you dont have anything with you put your camera on the floor, or on seats, bins – anything that is stable will do! Be creative and use the things to hand! Just be sensible – dont use improvised items right at the edge of platforms or block entrances and exits, you know the score!

I had hoped to get some aircraft photos whilst at Gatwick but the views were useless. I didn’t bother getting any photos in the departures lounge and surrounding area as basically there wasn’t a lot of scenes that caught my interest. I just didnt feel the ‘vibe’ and didnt feel the effort worth risking the attention from the heavy security presence for the meagre pickings on offer.

Shooting From on High

In part 2 – Gatwick to New York I mentioned we used the open top Big Bus tours to get around New York. These open top buses were great for orientating ourselves in a new city. From a photographers point of view they are great for several reasons –

  • The tour guides provide a great insight and point things out you would likely miss if unescorted
  • you see things you may not see from the ground
  • the elevated position gives you a different view of your chosen subject
  • people are unaware of your presence so there are great candid picture opportunities

Unfortunately there are a few downsides to the Big Bus tour buses for photographers –

  • an obvious lack of opportunity to ‘work’ a scene from different viewpoints
  • your fixed viewpoint means you almost always need a superzoom
  • other passengers on the bus getting in the way!

One additional bonus I didn’t anticipate with Big Bus tour was on the rainy days. I got some great abstract pictures of rainstreaked windows combined with the array of city lights. We also got to see the city and keep dry!

The Manfrotto Super Clamp would also come into its own for the views from high rise buildings. Tripods are a definite no no in most high rise buildings and, in reality, the volume of people around you makes them almost impossible to use. Most of the places we visited had some sort of railing or fixing I could use to stabilise the camera. As said before, the Super Clamp is a great piece of kit. In a couple of places I noticed the security guys watching me use the clamp. I could almost hear them wanting to scream ‘Excuse me Sir, you cant do that’ but obviously couldnt find an excuse to say it!

Below are examples from the scenarios discussed above.[/vc_column_text][ess_grid alias=”choosing-camera-kit-grid”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Part 2 – Long Exposure HDR

One technique I have been trying out is long exposure HDR. I wanted to try this technique out at New York Grand Central Station. This is an iconic location that has plenty of character and is perfect for standard HDR but has the added element of being very busy.

In part 2 I will show the results and discuss the techniques used.

Thanks for reading about how I chose which camera kit to take – I really hope you found it useful! Let us know your thoughts below

All the best for now and hope to see you in part 2!

Gary[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_separator color=”sky” el_width=”80″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

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Nikon D500 Announced At CES 2016

Nikon D500 Front View

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Nikon D500 announced

Finally, after years of rumour, counter rumour and pure wild speculation, Nikon has announced what a lot of people have been crying out for – a successor to the famous Nikon D300.

Nikon did a good job keeping this new camera under the radar. Most CES (Consumer Electronics Show) pre show speculation surrounded their highly anticipated Nikon D5.

Avoiding the Nikon D400 label, the new Nikon D500 appears packed with useful features while keeping the gimmicks to a minimum.

Those shooting in DX, or crop, format have a lot to get excited about.[/vc_column_text][vc_gallery type=”image_grid” images=”8931,8932″ img_size=”large” title=”Nikon D500 Pictures”][vc_column_text]

pictures courtesy of Nikon

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Nikon D500 Key Specs

Taken from the Nikon website, the D500 key specs are shown below.

  • 20.9MP DX format CMOS sensor and EXPEED 5 image processor
  • Multi-CAM 20K Autofocus sensor with 153/99 AF points
  • ISO range of 100-51,200 expandable to Lo 1 and Hi 5 (50 – 1,640,000 equivalent)
  • Share images instanly with built-in SnapBridge (Wi-Fi® + Bluetooth) capabilities
  • Shoot cinematic 4K UHD video
  • Dual card slots – XQD and SD media

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153 Focus Points

From my point of view, the biggest attraction is the AF system. The jump to 153 AF points with 99 being cross type (and therefore more accurate) is very attractive.

These 153 focus points can be grouped at 25, 72 or the full 153 points. Driving these AF points is the new Nikon Advanced Multi-CAM 20K sensor module.

I jumped from the D300 to the Nikon D7200 and was very impressed by the AF improvements. If a similar leap is made with the new system then those shooting AF critical subjects such as Birds, sports and fast jets are going to be very happy.

One feature that really intrigues me is the button or joystick just under the AF-ON button. Look at the rear view picture above – could this be linked to the AF system and give control over fine AF tuning?

I dont now but am excited to find out.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Other Cool Nikon D500 Features

Again, from my point of view and in no particular order, I really like these cool features.

Touch Sensitive Tilt Screen

I wish the D7200 had been released with a tilt screen. I like to exploit different angles of view and a tilt screen makes this much easier. The fact the D500 has a 3 axis tilt screen is appreciated. Add in that this screen is also touch sensitive is a nice touch (pardon the pun). Not really necessary, but thanks anyway Nikon!

Extended ISO Range

The D500 has a native extended ISO range of up to ISO 51200. This can be expanded up to ISO 1640000. Just how usable 51200 will be remains to be seen, let alone the almost ridiculously high 1640000! The Hi 5 setting may be a bit of a gimmick, but nevertheless there is increased potential for extreme low light photography.

Video

I’ll be honest and admit that I am not overly interested in video. Looking through the D500 specs, it is fairly obvious to a video dunce (aka me) that the D500 is highly competent for video and will also be attractive to videographers.

I am far too busy trying to exploit my camera and lenses to the full to dabble with video, but I could be tempted to at least have a play with video.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Hands On, Availability and Pricing

I am guessing the first opportunity for those in the UK to get hands on will be at The Photography Show in March.

Nikon UK are more than welcome to send me a test unit before then if they want!! Sorry, only dreaming.

Back to being serious, the Nikon D500 camera is another big step forward for those who dont need, or want, to shoot full frame.

Nikon D500 Availability

As for availability, a kit with the Nikon 16-80 VR is available for $3069.95 from the US site. The body only option is not yet available.

The D500 isnt even listed on the UK site yet, but I assume a kit version will be available before the body only option.

One can assume that the Nikon D500 could be available, body only, sometime around March. This is a pure guesstimate on my part.

Nikon D500 Prices

Wex are offering pre-order for the Nikon D500 body only for £1729 and the Nikon D500 and 16-80mm VR kit for £2479.

London Camera Exchange have the body only listed at £1729 as well so it seems a price point has been established.

I am really looking forward to getting my hands on the Nikon D500 to see just how the specs on paper convert into real world usefulness.

Until I can do that, I will be looking through the web to find out as much as I can about this exciting new camera.

Thanks for reading and please let me know what you think about the new Nikon D500.

Cheers

Gary

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Nikon D7200 v D300 One Month Later

Nikon D300 and D7200 side by side front view

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Nikon D7200 v D300 hands on opinion

I have owned the D7200 for just over a month now. This article aims to provide information to those wondering if the new Nikon D7200 can genuinely be considered as a D300 replacement (*update 06/01/16 – Nikon D500 released as D300 replacement*). There has been a lot of discussion about Nikons latest DX format DSLR camera. Many are unhappy that there has been no signficant upgrade over the D7100. Whilst this viewpoint may be somewhat justified, this article is aimed at people who haven’t recently upgraded their Nikon bodies. There is a significant population of photographers who have been waiting for the almost mystical D400 to replace the well respected Nikon D300. Many havent upgraded their camera bodies despite several iterations of Nikon DX format DSLR cameras being released. I purchased my Nikon D300 a couple of weeks after initial release just over 7 years ago. Camera sensors, image processors and AF capabilities have significantly improved in that time. Those who have used the D300 will agree with me that it is an extremely capable, robust and solid camera. Indeed, the D300 has been such a good camera that none of the recent releases have been a match for its capabilities. Newer cameras may have improved components and features but none have offered the overall package offered by the D300. A compromise in capability was always required to move away from the D300 – until now. I have been following the stories and rumours about a Nikon D400 for some time. As time goes by it seems less and less likely that this much anticipated camera will ever make an appearance. With this in mind, the Nikon D7200 caught my eye when Nikon announced its release. The D7200 feature list addressed most of what I needed in a camera body. I researched many articles to try and understand the full feature set of the D7200.  After handling an example at the ukphotoshow, I took the decision to finally give in and upgrade. This article is written on the basis of my experiences moving from the D300 to the D7200.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Does size matter?

The first obvious feature of the D7200 camera body is its smaller size when compared to the D300. The size difference is not massive but is noticeable. The D7200 is as comfortable in the hand, and is lighter, but you do notice the smaller size. In the side by side photos shown below you can see the size difference of the Nikon D7200 v D300 when viewing from above, the front and rear.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row font_color=”#00478c”][vc_column][vc_gallery type=”image_grid” images=”27205,27206,27207″ img_size=”full”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The photos above illustrate the size difference but also show the many changes to the cameras controls. Most notable on the top view is the D7200s Mode Dial in place of the D300s dedicated Quality, ISO and WB buttons. The rear view shows a smaller Multi Selector pad on the D7200. You can see the focus area, meter area controls and dedicated AF-ON button controls are missing. I was concerned the removal of these buttons inferred that Nikon had removed key functionality. The D7200 still offers all the D300s functionality, and more besides, albeit the functions are accessed via different controls. Consequently, there is quite a learning curve as you adjust to using these common functions. I will admit to suffering  from a bit of frustration as simple operations, that were once instinctive actions, have had to be re-learnt.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row font_color=”#00478c”][vc_column][vc_gallery type=”image_grid” images=”27211,27210″ img_size=”full”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Nikon D7200 Ergonomics

There are two ergonomic issues I didn’t immediately like about using the D7200. I have to ask why certain simple actions have changed. The two images above illustrate my first dislike. The release dial on the D300 requires the index finger to operate the release button and a twist of the dial with your thumb. The D7200 design has reversed this meaning the thumb releases the dial button and the index finger twists the dial. For whatever reason this just does not feel as comfortable. Many times my index finger has been groping in vain for the release button. When I realise and try to release with the thumb it just feels weird. Secondly, the rear Multi selector pad is smaller on the D7200 and doesn’t have that smooth operation of the D300. The pad is also bulkier and just feels less precise in operation. Other than these two issues, the ergonomics of the D7200 are not too bad. Much of the ergonomic issues I have encountered result from having ingrained muscle memory from using the D300.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Nikon D7200 Operation

After getting past the size and different button arrangements, your next noticeable difference comes when you look through the D7200s viewfinder. You will see that the Focus Mode, Exposure Mode and ISO speed readouts (see update below) are missing. I really dont like this aspect of the camera and do not know why these features are missing. This camera is aimed at semi-pro and advanced amateur photographers, so why remove such a useful facility? The visual representation of this information in the viewfinder is a must have feature in any ‘advanced’ camera. You want to keep the camera to your eye and visual reminders in the viewfinder are crucial. Tsk tsk Nikon – dont think you can release a D7200b or D7250 to cover up for this omission because that wont wash. Back to comparing the D7200 to the D300. Every aspect of the cameras operation has changed and there is a fair learning curve in getting to grips with these changes. I guess this is expected considering the changes that have taken place with camera technology since the release of the D300. The new mode dial brings a lot more functionality to hand quickly. The displaced D300 buttons have been moved and relocated onto the cameras rear panel. The new dial on the D7200 allows quick access to some very useful functionality and I feel is an improvement.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]**Update**

I need to make a slight clarification in regard to viewfinder display information. Following Rods comment below, I double checked the viewfinder readout and found the ISO was showing.

This was enabled by using ‘Easy ISO’ mode in the custom menu settings. When Easy ISO mode is enabled, you control the ISO setting with your thumb on the rear command dial. Also, lo and behold, it enables ISO readout in the viewfinder.

Apologies for this oversight and I hope it hasn’t mislead too many people. I only recently dabbled with the Easy ISO mode and never noticed the correlation between the viewfinder readout and this mode.

**[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

The AF modes are a little confusing at first and will take a little time to adjust to. Your familiar 3 way C, S, M AF switch (Continous, Single, Manual) is replaced with a 2 way AF and M switch with a new central button. Essentially you now only choose either AF or M with the toggle. To access the differing AF modes, you hold in the new central button and select the AF mode with the Sub Command dial. To change the AF matrix configuration, hold in the button and rotate the Command dial. Throw in a new AF mode to the mix (AF-A which automatically selects between AF-S or AF-C depending on subject movement) and you have a rich recipe for confusion. If your chosen field of photography needs frequent swapping of focus modes and matrix configurations  then you need to get out in the field and practice, practice, practice before you go to an important shoot!

Located above the AF Mode selector switch is a new Bracket button. The D7200 bracketing options have increased over the D300 giving you more creative flexibility.

One unexpected factor I noticed is the D7200s operation speed. I didnt notice this until I went out with both cameras (tele on the D7200 and wide angle on the D300). The D300 was noticeably slower in general operation and when firing off a series of shots. The D7200 has received criticism for its burst mode and poor high speed shooting capabilities. All I can say is when shooting 6 or 7 consecutive shots, the D7200 is noticeably faster than the D300 in getting those 6 or 7 shots off. I always regarded my D300 as perfectly capable for getting off continous sequences so am pleasantly surprised by this discovery.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_gallery type=”image_grid” images=”27209,27208″ img_size=”full”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Nikon D7200 Customisations

There is no denying it – the Nikon D7200 is a complex bit of kit. With this complexity comes a generous number of customisation options. Almost every button and function can be customised to tweak almost every camera mode. With a little time and experimentation, you can customise your own D7200 to become a highly personalised tool honed to your photographic niche. The trusty ‘My Menu’ option, whereby often used menu options are added to your own menu for quick access, is still available. Added to this are the two user settings, U1 and U2, on the mode dial. You can set very specific camera functionality and store it in one of two user slots. You can then quickly swap between these settings by moving the dial to U1 or U2 and load the settings. This is useful if you swap between two subjects that need different camera operation – for instance swapping quickly from fast sports photography to macro photography. Each of those scenarios need differing settings and these user slots make multiple setting changes very easy.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Nikon D7200 Ruggedness

The D7200 does not have the full armouring and water resistance of the D300. Many have commented that this is an obvious omission by Nikon. I have to agree somewhat, but also in the 7 and a bit years of owning a D300, I never dropped my camera to test its actual ruggedness. I will handle the D7200 with the same care so (fingers crossed) I wont have need to see how robust or brittle the newer camera is. As for weatherproofing, well I got caught in a monstrous rain shower on the Charles bridge in Prague. I am happy to say the D7200 and my lenses survived perfectly well. If the camera survived this downpour then I have no worries going forward in respect of weatherproofing.

A short clip from the rainstorm is shown below.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://youtu.be/q1CjwQpNHOI”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Nikon D7200 New Features

As mentioned the D7200 offers many new technologies and features that weren’t available at the D300s release. It goes without saying that the D7200 hardware is a significant upgrade over that employed in the D300. The sensor is a far more capable 24mp device as opposed to the original 12mp sensor. The image processor is 3 generations newer and the AF module is extremely capable. In short, and without getting into the technical intricacies of each component, the sensor, AF and image processing is very good. Moving on to the new features I particularly like some of the additions. I like the new quiet shutter mode. The cameras operation doesnt become silent, but is somewhat quieter for those situations where noise may be an issue. The AF-A mode could be interesting. To be honest I like to have direct control over the AF mode. I select either single servo or continous servo depending on the subject matter. I will experiment with this new AF-A mode to see if it is reliable and accurate enough to correctly identify subject movement. One feature I really like is the wireless control via mobile phone. The mobile app is available for both Android and Apple devices via their respective app stores. Once downloaded, you can connect the D7200 and mobile device via wireless and control the camera via Live View. The app will display the scene seen through the viewfinder and gives you the ability to trigger the shutter from your phone. This is perfect when the camera is placed in awkward positions and may save you a few aches and pains! The app has more functionality and is a great addition. One other feature that I like is the delayed shutter mode. You can select a predetermined time for the shutter to operate once the mirror has raised. This is ideal for those circumstances where the slightest camera movement may affect the sharpness of your image.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Is the D7200 really the D400?

From my viewpoint, the D7200 probably isnt the D400 per se. Having said that, the Nikon D7200 is an extremely competent and feature rich camera that I am sure will satisfy anyone waiting for Nikons next real move in the ‘semi-pro’ and ‘pro-sumer’ niche. The upgrade in sensor, AF Module and image processor is enough alone to justify my decision in upgrading to a D7200. Add in the features I discuss above and you have at hand an extremely competent camera. A camera that is capable of delivering top quality images coupled with an extremely useful range of features. Features that are customisable to such a degree that you can create a fine tuned instrument honed to your particular photography niche.

It may not be the D400 but the Nikon D7200 is definitely the camera I have been waiting for. Of most importance to me is the change to the D7200 hasnt compromised any of the capabilities my D300 provided. I now have an exceptional main camera and an extremely competent and proven back up. If the D400 never materialises then I have an exceptional camera that will serve me just fine for a long time. If the D400 does ever appear, then it will need a genre breaking feature set priced somewhere around the £1500 mark for me to even consider dropping the D7200.

I’m beginning to the think the D7200 has made the Nikon D400 irrelevant. The D7200 is set to serve me well for a long time and my next upgrade may not be the D400 at all, but a step up to Full Frame – now that is a completely different kettle of fish!

I hope this article has been informative.

I’d love to hear your views, so why not leave a comment below?

Thanks Gary[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_separator color=”sky” el_width=”70″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column font_color=”#00478c”][vc_cta h2=”Subscribe to GDMK Images” h2_font_container=”color:%2300478c” h2_google_fonts=”font_family:Arimo%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal” h4_google_fonts=”font_family:Arimo%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal” txt_align=”center” color=”sky” add_button=”bottom” btn_title=”Sign me up I want to know about new GDMK Images articles” btn_align=”center” style=”outline” btn_style=”outline” use_custom_fonts_h2=”true” use_custom_fonts_h4=”true” btn_button_block=”true” btn_color=”sky” shape=”round” btn_shape=”round” btn_size=”md” btn_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fstaging.gdmkimages.co.uk%2Fsubscribe-gdmk-images-newsletters%2F||”]Be the first to know when new GDMK Images articles are available[/vc_cta][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

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GDMK Images April 2015 News Update

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GDMK Images April 2015 News Update

April has been busy with quite a lot happening behind the scenes.

March ended with a visit to the Photography Show at Birminghams NEC. As usual there was a lot to see and do. I took the opportunity to look first hand at some new wall art products. As a result there will be some new additions to the catalogue for mounting images upon.

I was able to finally buy a Nikon D7200. The camera is pretty impressive and my initial reaction is positive. The D7200 feels a lot smaller in the hand than I expected. My only issue so far, is that Lightroom and Camera RAW still don’t support the new NEFs. I guess this is fair enough as all new releases take a while to get supported by 3rd party products. I am hoping when Lightroom 6  gets released (potentially this week) the NEF files will have support.

I have been looking at the first thousand or so images with Nikons View NX-I and I am impressed with the detail and resolution. I havent processed any so far as I have a structured Lightroom workflow and dont want to mess up the system – however tempted I am to get to grips with them!

Unfortunately I couldnt get the Sigma 150-600S lens at the Photography Show as planned. Following the show I did hire one for a week so I could get a sample of what the lens could do coupled to the D7200. All I can say is – WOW, what a combination!

As soon as supplies pick up I will be ordering one.

I am still reviewing and revising old blog posts as mentioned last month. Parts 2 & 3 of my Aviation Photography Techniques guide have been posted with part 4 coming over the next couple of weeks.

Both the stock photo and wall art photo portfolios are expanding with new and varied content. The new stock photography additions focus on the ongoing construction of ‘The Crescent’ shopping centre in Hinckley. There is also a good number of additions from a visit to Newton Abbot and Exeter.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_media_grid element_width=”3″ gap=”3″ item=”mediaGrid_SimpleOverlay” filter_size=”md” include=”1088,1087,1086,1085″ grid_id=”vc_gid:1450788618404-a9010b8a-dfcb-9″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

A small selection of the latest additions to my stock photo portfolio.

A random selection of the latest photos added to my stock photo portfolio.[/vc_column_text][vc_media_grid element_width=”3″ gap=”1″ item=”mediaGrid_SimpleOverlay” filter_size=”md” include=”1018,1021,1024,1026,1093,1092,1084,1083″ grid_id=”vc_gid:1450788618479-e6c7aa83-55c7-10″][vc_btn title=”See 60 Latest Stock Photos” shape=”round” align=”center” color=”primary” size=”md” link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fwww.alamy.com%2Flbx.asp%3F777804||target:%20_blank”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]On the Wall Art front, I have been practising with some new digital art techniques. The first image using this new style is shown below and depicts a World War 1 soldier. The style is evolving and I intend to upload a small range featuring more pictures in this style. Let me know your thoughts on the style.[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”1089″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded” onclick=”custom_link” link=”http://www.photos.staging.gdmkimages.co.uk/digital-art/e41eb3fa9″][vc_btn title=”See Latest Wall Art” shape=”round” align=”center” color=”primary” size=”md” link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fphotos.staging.gdmkimages.co.uk||”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Need Wall Art ideas?

Below are examples of the products you can mount your chosen picture onto. There are many wall art products for mounting pictures from my portfolio including –

  • Canvas
  • Framed
  • Wood Blocks
  • Framed Canvas
  • Metal

As mentioned earlier, I will be adding some new products over the coming weeks. In the meantime have a look at my current wall art product range.[/vc_column_text][vc_media_grid element_width=”2″ gap=”1″ filter_size=”md” include=”1057,1056,1055,1054,955,956″ grid_id=”vc_gid:1450788618698-6fce6206-e156-4″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Going forward you can expect to see part 4 of my Aviation Photography Techniques series. I have two new location reports from my old blog that are being updated to reflect recent changes.

Additionally I will be visiting Budapest and Prague in the next couple of weeks. I will be adding trip reports of both these cities when I get back.

After my return I will be posting my experiences of using the new Nikon D7200 and a post about my weeks hire of the Sigma 150-600 S lens.

Thanks for taking the time to read this update and looking at my portfolio updates. Please feel free to leave any comments about the site layout and fuctionality, portfolios or anything else that comes to mind.

Cheers

Gary[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_separator color=”sky” el_width=”70″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column font_color=”#00478c”][vc_cta h2=”Subscribe to GDMK Images” h2_font_container=”color:%2300478c” h2_google_fonts=”font_family:Arimo%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal” h4_google_fonts=”font_family:Arimo%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal” txt_align=”center” color=”sky” add_button=”bottom” btn_title=”Sign me up I want to know about new GDMK Images articles” btn_align=”center” style=”outline” btn_style=”outline” btn_color=”sky” shape=”round” btn_shape=”round” btn_size=”md” use_custom_fonts_h2=”true” use_custom_fonts_h4=”true” btn_button_block=”true” btn_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fstaging.gdmkimages.co.uk%2Fsubscribe-gdmk-images-newsletters%2F||”]Be the first to know when new GDMK Images articles are available[/vc_cta][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

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GDMK Images News Update Feb-March 2015

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GDMK Website Latest News

Here is a quick update on what’s new in regard to this website.

A lot of time has been spent tweaking the user interface and aesthetics of the site. The aim is for visitors to quickly see whats new and easily get to the section of interest whether that be my portfolios, location reports or news.

I have been reviewing and updating some old photography technique posts that were posted several years ago on an old blog of mine. The updated articles will be posted here in due course following a general tidy up of the content and updating any technical or product information to reflect newly released equipment.

The first series focuses on aircraft photography – here is the link to part 1 of the series which looks at cameras and lenses. The original series of posts featured 4 parts and discusses cameras, lenses, camera modes and various useful aircraft photography techniques.

I am quite intrigued by the release of the Nikon D7200 and have been mulling over the likelihood of ever seeing a Nikon D400 to replace the classic Nikon D300 camera.

Both the stock photo and wall art photo portfolios are expanding with new and varied content. The new additions feature many different subjects as shown below.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][mpc_vc_grid id=”819″ columns=”5″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

A selection of the latest stock photos

A random selection of latest new photos added to my stock photography portfolio. Use the categories above to see all the latest additions in each category.[/vc_column_text][vc_media_grid element_width=”3″ gap=”1″ filter_size=”md” include=”843,842,841,840,839,829,830,828″ grid_id=”vc_gid:1551114352315-19777b50-27eb-3″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][mpc_vc_grid id=”902″ columns=”5″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

A random selection of the latest wall art pictures.

A random selection of latest new photos added to my portfolio can be seen below..[/vc_column_text][vc_media_grid element_width=”3″ gap=”1″ filter_size=”md” include=”888,1730,1733,1734,1719,1732,1793″ grid_id=”vc_gid:1551114352325-a42776b2-df60-7″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Thanks for taking the time to read this update and look at my portfolio updates. Please feel free to leave any comments about the site layout and fuctionality, portfolios or anything else that comes to mind.

Cheers

Gary[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_separator color=”sky” el_width=”70″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column font_color=”#00478c”][vc_cta h2=”Subscribe to GDMK Images” h2_font_container=”color:%2300478c” h2_google_fonts=”font_family:Arimo%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal” h4_google_fonts=”font_family:Arimo%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal” txt_align=”center” color=”sky” add_button=”bottom” btn_title=”Sign me up I want to know about new GDMK Images articles” btn_align=”center” style=”outline” btn_style=”outline” use_custom_fonts_h2=”true” use_custom_fonts_h4=”true” btn_button_block=”true” btn_color=”sky” shape=”round” btn_shape=”round” btn_size=”md” btn_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fstaging.gdmkimages.co.uk%2Fsubscribe-gdmk-images-newsletters%2F||”]

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Nikon D300 replacement

Nikon D7200 DSLR camera is it the Nikon D300 replacement?

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Nikon D300 Replacement, The King is dead – long live the King!

Last week I was discussing whether the soon to be released Nikon D7200 would be the replacement of the Nikon D300.

So after taking a few days to digest the news and opinions generated by the actual release, it seems the much anticipated Nikon D400 might actually be here at last.

Except Nikon put a spanner in the works and called it the D7200. *Update 06/01/16 – Nikon releases Nikon D500 as true D300 replacement*

For those, including me, awaiting an evolution of the classic Nikon D300/D300s model I think its probably time we moved on and accepted the Nikon D7200 is ‘the evolution’ we have been waiting for.

Looking at the specs, its hard to see what else could be seriously expected. More importantly, what other features do crop body users seriously NEED over and above what the D7200 offers?

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Lets look at the specs of the Nikon D7200 compared to the D300 ….

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Features

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sensor

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Image processor

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Anti-Aliasing filter

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Native ISO

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Memory Buffer

(Single Burst)[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

AF System

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AF Detection

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Crop Mode

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Nikon D7200

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24.2mp

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Expeed 4*

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 No

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 100 to 25600

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27 x 12 bit RAW

18 x 14 bit RAW

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Multi-Cam 3500 II*

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EV -3 to EV +19

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1.3x

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Nikon D300

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12.3mp

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Expeed 1

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Yes

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200 to 3200

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21 x 12 bit RAW

18 x 14 bit RAW

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Nikon Multi-CAM 3500DX

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EV -1 to EV +19

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N/A

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* Same as the Nikon D750

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[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Its immediately obvious that the Nikon D7200 is vastly superior in features compared to the Nikon D300 – well lets face facts, it should be as the D300 is 8 years old.

But in reality the comparison is pointless. The Nikon D300 is still an excellent camera. It is solid, rugged and full of adequate features. But it is undeniably 8 years old. 8 years in an environment where the technology is evolving significantly every 2 years or so.

The real question is what should the Nikon D300 replacement really look like feature wise?[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

What could or should a Nikon D300 replacement offer?

So bearing in mind the image processor and AF System from the Pro Full Frame range of Nikon cameras have been used in the D7200, what could the D300 replacement offer over and above what the D7200 offers?

Keep to the forefront of your mind that, body only, the D7200 is less than £1000. Slowly the penny should be dropping that this it, there is no logical reason to pursue the D400 dream.

If the D400 is to come to life, what features would it need to have to justify its place in the market?

Is there anything in the Nikon Pro Full Frame range that could trickle down and make a significant improvement without taking the body into the Pro price range?

Slowly the penny should be dropping that this it, there is no logical reason to pursue the D400 dream.

One could surmise that any Nikon D300 replacement would feature some significant upgrades, but I dont see any gaps in the existing Nikon product range that would justify ‘another’ DX body on top of the D7200.

I also believe the next large steps in Nikon development will be in the FF pro range. I would be extremely surprised to see a revolutionary DX model with ground breaking features being released and those new features then being rolled out into new Full Frame pro body.

I think the main areas of concern for most photographers are –

  • the camera can focus fast and accurately
  • images are registered accurately by a good quality sensor
  • images are processed fast and efficiently so you can carry on shooting.

From what I can see the D7200 does just that, and judging by the rave reviews of the Nikon D750 (where components for 2 of these 3 features come from), should do it very well.

A shortcoming in any of those three key areas makes the camera unsuitable for this market niche – pro-sumer, semi-pro or whatever you want to label it.

For those already with a D7100, then I agree the ‘evolution’ is somewhat less appealing. Although it could be argued the D7100s main weakness, if it had one, was the buffer. That buffer shortcoming has now been addressed with an impressive 27 consecutive 12 bit RAWs. Check out the Nikon D7100 v D7200 comparison chart for a detailed side by side comparison.

Any faster throughput begs the question as to why you NEED to machine gun any more shots out of a single burst?

It could also be argued that a step change is necessary in this market niche. Moving towards 80 or 90 focus points with added cross type AF points would be useful. Getting nearer to double digit FPS could also be useful. More fine control over the AF tracking system would be very useful. What about eye movement detection to control the AF points?

All sound very nice but two issues come to mind. Firstly, some of these features are already available in the Pro range. Secondly there will be an additional hit to the wallet.

How much extra do you want to spend? Or in reality, how much more do you NEED to spend. Once you start heading towards the £1500, £1600 or even £1700 price point you start drifting away from the niche you are serving. Nikon also risk customers dropping out of the Pro range market and going for a product, that is undeniably, extremely competent and at a fraction of the cost.

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What about jumping ship to another brand instead of waiting for a D300 replacement?

Well what else is there out in the market place?

The Sony A77ii? Now this is a nice looking camera. I love the colours and ‘look’ of the images from my NEX-6, so perhaps this is a contender?

Lets quickly look at the three features mentioned above.

Autofocus

The A77ii does offer more focus points at 79 compared to Nikons 51.

But, is the AF module comparable? Are those 79 AF points better managed and integrated on the Sony?

The short answer is I dont think so. I havent used a Sony A77ii but looking through the myriad of opinions, I havent seen any conclusive arguments to convince me the Sony 79 are better or worse than Nikons 51.

The Canon 7D2, although not a direct comparison, has 65 AF points and importantly, all are cross type sensors compared to both the Nikons and Sonys 15 cross types. The Canon also has options to make more subtle alterations to the AF tracking of moving objects. That is definitely something worth having on your feature list – but do you want fork out another £500 for the privilege?

Image Processing

When looking at image processing, both the Canon and Sony cant match the low light performance of the Nikon processor.

The Sony cant match low light performance partly due to the translucent mirror arrangement which loses around 0.5 EV. In regard to the Canon 7D2 in simple terms, across the board in this price range, Canon just cant match Nikons quality in its shadow detail.

For me personally, despite the D7200 having class leading modules from the Nikon pro range in the autofocus and image processing modules, the one single over-riding factor is how Nikon have integrated the metering and focusing system.

In spot metering mode, neither the Sony or the Canon has tied the metering system to the selected AF point. If you do use spot metering with the Sony or Canon, you are tied to the central AF point.

That is a massive deal for a lot of photographers – or at least it should be. It frees up creativity in compositions out in the field and removes the need to make a creative crop in post processing.

If you are wanting to shoot sport, fast moving action such as birds in flight or aircraft at airshows, this feature seals the deal.

Again looking back at my three critical factors, rightly or wrongly, the D7200 is the only one to tick all the boxes.

It could be argued that an articulated rear screen should be fitted as standard. It could also be argued that the D7200 isnt a full metal body. I think the removal of the back focus button is a mistake (but its also gone from the D750). But on the scale of things, these are minor issues.

Looking back at the introduction I asked a serious question – what other features do crop body users seriously NEED over and above what the D7200 offers?

Hand on heart, I cant think of anything and my order has been submitted.

And for that reason the D7200 is, at last, the Nikon D300 replacement.

As I said earlier, the King is dead, long live the King!

Thanks for reading, I would love to hear your views so please leave your thoughts on the new King below.

Cheers

Gary

** UPDATE **

Following on from this post I eventually purchased a Nikon D7200 – read my thoughts in this post – Nikon D7200 v D300 one month later[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_separator color=”sky” el_width=”70″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

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New Nikon D7200

Does the Nikon D300 have its successor

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So the Nikon D7200 will officially be announced soon…?

The much talked about and anticipated new Nikon dxxxx seems to indeed be the D7200. Nikon Rumors has been talking about a possible new Nikon camera release for a while. Could it also be the long awaited D300 successor?

According to a Nikon Rumors update the specification could be as follows

  • New 24MP APS-C sensor
  • Nikon D750 styled body with a tilting screen
  • Expeed 4 processor
  • MultiCAM 3500DX2 autofocus system
  • 51 AF points
  • Built-in Wi-Fi
  • 6fps
  • Buffer: 16 RAW+JPG
  • Video: 1080p @60 and 720p @120 (not sure about 4k)
  • Video aperture will be adjustable during live view

So almost 2 years after release, the D7100 almost has a successor. Does this release also seal the fate of the hotly debated and anticipated D400? Well, as usual, the answer is nobody knows.

Considering the D300s was released in 2009, is there really any chance of a successor, considering the specs detailed above, nearly 6 years later?

If this new Nikon D7200 features the durable build and weather sealing of the D300 then perhaps those still holding on for the elusive D400 will have their answer. Both the Exspeed processor and MultiCAM autofocus are proven winners. 51 AF points and 6 fps is about what you expect, so I guess it all comes down to the ruggedness of the build.

I am one of those with a D300 awaiting the next evolution. It is still a great camera and highly capable. I might also be one of those that has to accept the D7200 is the next step. For those like me who are patiently waiting for a D400, the burning question is – do you really need a D400 when looking at the specs of the Nikon D7200?

All this new Nikon model talk is very interesting but it doesn’t alter the fact that, whatever the spec of your camera, the most important feature is the glass you bolt on to it.

Anyway, time will reveal all in this saga, thanks for reading and feel free to leave your views.

Cheers

Gary[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

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