26 replies to this topic

[Ronny]

Hi all,
Recently I've been looking into getting into photography, mainly aquarium and scenary type stuff of course
I've been looking up stuff on the net for tips and buying guides.
I came accross this and thought it would be pretty helpful for other wannabe photographers like myself.

http://www.wetwebmed...photography.htm

Of course, I welcome any other hints and tips as I want to learn as much as I can before I buy a camera and start clicking away

Cheers
Ronny

[Sazabi]

errr... theory and reading can only do so much... not saying it isnt useful or helpful, it is but it's only when you get real practice that you begin to learn. Get a decent camera within your budget and the accessories then apply what you have learned. There are many techniques, style and quirks each photographer has and use.

If you want to compare cameras, just find a few within your budget and compare them. I found that Canon's pretty good. 450D 400D. Unless you want to be like my brother and get himself a 3D

Every photo you take is a step to refining your skills

[CubanB]

GET A DSLR

even though they are a little bit more expensive, if you are truly wanting to get into photography there is no other option. i just got a nikon D40, which is the cheapest DSLR i could find, and i have learnt alot about phototgraphy simply from practicing every day. it really depends on how serious you want to get with your photography

cubanb

[Donna]

Thanks Ronny,

Some neat tips on this page. I have saved it to my favourites.

If you are really interested, I think the best way to improve your photography is to join a photography club. You just happen to live within range of three really active clubs

Rockingham Photography Club (progressive club, well connected and networked, big club, plenty of pros)
Mandurah Camera Club (good age range at this club, mixture of pros and ams, around 60 members)
Kwinana and Districts Camera Club (huge age range, 11-70, smaller club around 30, mainly ams but some budding pros, monthly workshop component)

For more information visit:

www.wapf.org.au

Can't say any of them specialise in underwater or aquarium photography, however, as a photographer, I can say it is really just a matter of learning the techniques which can then be applied to many different situations. This of course is the trick to photography. Learning which technique to apply and when.

The advice given above is also really good advice. Lot's of practice, a DSLR and Photoshop CS2 or higher will ensure that you won't get bored. Also, photography clubs are great because the regular excursions to different locations mean that you can buddy up with someone with a similar camera and get them to help you out. Learning in the field is one of the most valuable experiences and will guarantee a steeper learning curve.

Then of course there's photoshop

Regards,

Donna

[Ronny]

Thanks guys,
I was looking at getting an SLR, at the moment its a toss up between a canon 450D or a nikon D60, at the moment they come with a twin lens kit for $1100, not sure if that's great but from what I've seen it's ok.

I didn't realise there were so many photography clubs around here Will definately have to sus that out.

[Sazabi]

Get the 450D, trust me you wont regret it

[golden_dase]

Canon EOS 450D Twin Lens KitBlack, Inc 450D Body, 18-55mm& 75-300mm Lens Kit
$1395 inc. GST

Is that a good price?

[Ronny]

Better than what I've seen! where abouts is that from?
I was lookin at one for around 1400 without the lens kit lol.

[dazzabozza]

Clarify what the lenses are. Some come with the IS (image stabiliser) lenses which will cost more.


Daz

[Sazabi]

Canon EOS 450D Twin Lens KitBlack, Inc 450D Body, 18-55mm& 75-300mm Lens Kit
$1395 inc. GST

Is that a good price?

Reasonable, with the standard twin lense pack

[golden_dase]

I can get the 450D body for less than $1000 inc. GST....
I can also get the 450D with 4 different types/bundles of lens kits..

By the way, these prices are direct from my supplier (through work). Not sure how much they cost at retail stores...

BTW Daz, did you know our mates at "Dicker" sells Canon EOS stuff?? A supplier for your Canon needs! LOL!
(For anyone wondering who "Dicker" is, you have to be in the IT industry to know....)

[Sazabi]

go to www.shopbot.com.au for some price comparisons

[golden_dase]

I'm very well aware of Shopbot..

But did you know most of them don't have stock and are generally on credit-hold with suppliers? Most of those online stores are operated from someones bedrooms.... LOL!
Nothing against that, but I rather buy from authorised resellers etc.. than taking the risk and buying from unknown sources..
Thats one of the reasons why i like to purchase stuff locally, even if at a slighly higher price..

[Sazabi]

I know, but it is for a price comparison for Ronny

Kevin, can you check out how much would the Canon EF 100mm macro and the EF 50mm macro lense be?

[golden_dase]

I'll inquire and pm you tonite..

[Ronny]

Thanks Ed,
so far the only comparisons I've found were the ones from major retailers like harvey normans and good guys and I know you can get em cheaper than that

Also Kev, would you be able to find out how much a 450D with macro lenses for me to?
Cheers

[Sazabi]

I'll inquire and pm you tonite..

thanks mate

also the tamron 90mm if can do

[Kimbo]

www.aquatic-photography.com/ thats the place to learn all you need!

[Ronny]

Looks awesome, thanks, joining now
Are you a member? I'll say you reffered me in the registration proccess?

[Donna]

Hi everyone,

I got the Canon EF 100mm f2.8 lens for my birthday a few days ago. It's a beauty. Paid $880.00 for it apparently This is with a full Aussie warranty etc.

I also own the Canon 50mm Prime lens f1.8 among others.

Saw the prime at Dick Smith just the other day for $149.00. Be aware that this prime lens is an entry level lens. There are a lot more expensive ones on the market. I find it's a great performer though especially for the price.

For those buying cameras with limited funds go with the semi pro bodies unless you are going to get really serious or need a full frame sensor.
I have had a 350D, a 400D and now a 450D. Reserve any extra funds to purchase some good glass to put in front of your camera. Basic kit would be a

Walk around zoom lens: Canon 24-105 L Series
Prime Lens: 50mm or 60mm
Macro Lens: 100mm
Huge Ass Lens: I have the 300-500 zoom lens, but it's probably a bit extreme and awkward when scaling cliff faces etc

Try to aim for the Canon L Series wherever possible.

Be aware however, to avoid being disappointed with the prime lenses, know that they are not zoom lenses and take some getting used too. Once mastered, you can't beat them for speed or sharpness.

All of the above just my opinion. Works for me. Once you start selling your photos or winning prize money (you'd be surprised how easy this is to do) you can start paying for your lenses.

Regards,

Donna