Re: 70-300 1:2 macro: Tamron vs. Sigma
At 10:02 PM 1/21/2003 +0100, you wrote: I wonder if any of you have experiences of either the Sigma 70-300 f/4-5.6 Apo Macro Super or the Tamron 70-300 f/4-5.6 LD 1:2 Macro AF lens - or preferably both. Which do you think is better in terms of optical and build quality? They cost roughly the same, but the Tamron's macro function can be engaged through a broader focal length range (180-300 mm), whereas the Sigma's is fixed at the longest end. Any experiences? I've got the Sigma lens and I like it but I haven't used the Tamron so I can't compare it. When using the macro, I'm usually shooting butterflies, dragonflies or something similar so I'd be at 300mm anyway. The only thing I don't like about the Sigma is the little switch to convert to macro. That's a bit of a pain in the butt. Gary J Sibio [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://home.earthlink.net/~garysibio/ Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like bananas.
Re: Dale Labs has cured me of digital SLR envy
At 08:09 PM 1/3/2003 -0500, you wrote: That's right, Gary. If the Post Office is x-raying packages, they're not x-raying the tear-proof yellow Dale envelopes in which I send off my film. There's not the slightest hint of fogging or any other sort of x-ray damage. Thanks for the info. Gary J Sibio [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://home.earthlink.net/~garysibio/ Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like bananas.
Re: Dale Labs has cured me of digital SLR envy
At 10:22 PM 1/2/2003 -0500, you wrote: For the past few months, I've been having my color prints developed at Dale Labs of Hollywood, Florida. Most of their business is mail order. After 9/11 and the anthrax scare there was talk of scanning mail with x-rays in a dosage that would have been fatal to film. I hadn't heard whether any of this has been implemented but, based on your recommendation of Dale's mail order processing, I would assume that you have not run into any problems with ruined film. Am I right? Gary J Sibio [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://home.earthlink.net/~garysibio/ Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like bananas.
Re: Happy JRR Tolkien's Birthday
At 07:29 PM 1/3/2003 +0100, you wrote: Have you already seen the Two Towers? It'll be in the Polish cinemas at the end of the january, I guess... You're in for a big treat. It's even better than Fellowship of the Ring. They did a great job with the ents. Gary J Sibio [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://home.earthlink.net/~garysibio/ Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like bananas.
Re: OT: Happy JRR Tolkien's Birthday
At 12:07 PM 1/3/2003 -0600, you wrote: JRR Tolkien begins the Lord of the Rings tale with a 111th birthday party for Bilbo Baggins, calling it an eleventy-first birthday ... a very curious number and a very respectable age for a Hobbit. Today is Tolkien's eleventy-first birthday. My wife and I are celebrating by going to see The Two Towers again. Gary J Sibio [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://home.earthlink.net/~garysibio/ Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like bananas.
RE: Dale Labs has cured me of digital SLR envy
At 01:23 PM 1/3/2003 -0500, you wrote: About 100 rolls later, no problem, and I'm in DC. Good. Thanks. Gary J Sibio [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://home.earthlink.net/~garysibio/ Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like bananas.
Re: opto 430
At 08:53 AM 12/30/2002 -0500, you wrote: On Fri, 27 Dec 2002, Lon Williamson wrote: Damn Gfen, you're too OLD to learn anything, as am I. LOL. Merry Christmas (post) to you and yours. I was too young to learn anything, judging from my highschool career.. :) (you know, I didn't really think I was old until the doctor told me I was arthritic, and starting giving me medication for it.. I'm only 28, I'm not supposed to be on these kinds of pills for at least another 20 years! -sigh-) When they turned 20 I told my daughters that it's all downhill from there. Gary J Sibio [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://home.earthlink.net/~garysibio/ Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like bananas.
Re: Opinions Wanted: Vivitar 2x Macro Focussing Teleconverter
At 12:52 PM 12/11/2002 -0800, you wrote: I seem to recall hearing good things about this TC, but a search of the PDML archives didn't turn up anything useful. Has anyone got one? How do you like it? If I did pick one up, I'd be using it with a 135/2.5 and a 50/1.7. I used it with both of those lenses and loved the results I got. Using it with the 135mm and the Vivitar 283 flash with one layer of handkerchief over the flashhead as a diffuser got me some very nice dragonfly closeups. Gary J Sibio [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://home.earthlink.net/~garysibio/ Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like bananas.
RE: Question #2: Macro related
At 02:11 PM 12/11/2002 -0500, you wrote: I have the Pentax version, and can vouch that it's a good value. Haven't noticed any flare with mine, but I don't think I've used it in many flarey situations. Ditto with mine. (Vivitar version) Gary J Sibio [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://home.earthlink.net/~garysibio/ Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like bananas.
Re: Question #2: Macro related
At 08:04 AM 12/5/2002 -0500, you wrote: My preference for macro work is, in decreasing order of preference and optical quality, but increasing order of convenience and versatility: A true macro lens Extension tubes Achromatic (2-element) close-up attachment From an optical point of view, you are right on. However there is another consideration that tends to get overlooked in these discussions: practicality. Extension tubes are great when you are working in the studio. In the field they are close to useless. By the time you get the right combination of tubes mounted between your lens and your camera, whatever little creepy-crawly you wanted to photograph has long since vanished. Of course flower photographers wouldn't have to concern themselves with disappearing subjects. Accessory lenses are a little better since you don't have to remove the lens from the camera. A real macro lens if your best choice and the Vivitar 100mm/3.5 lens is very good for its price, especially when you consider the price of extension tubes. Gary J Sibio [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://home.earthlink.net/~garysibio/ Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like bananas.
Re: Question #2: Macro related
At 01:22 PM 12/5/2002 -0500, you wrote: Actually, there's another solution for decent light: the good ole Vivitar 2x macro TC and a lens from 50mm to 135. Talk about a quick setup! My favorite lens to mount the Vivitar on is the K 135mm f2.5. Anyone else do this? Yes, it does work well. I used the TC with the 135 to photograph some dragonflies a while ago. It was fantastic. Used a Viv 283 flash so that I could use 100 speed film. Gary J Sibio [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://home.earthlink.net/~garysibio/ Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like bananas.
Re: Question #2: Macro related
At 01:44 PM 12/5/2002 -0500, you wrote: Gary J Sibio [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Accessory lenses are a little better since you don't have to remove the lens from the camera. Especially important you're in conditions in which there's danger of dirt/debris blowing into the camera or if you only have one hand available. Excellent points. I should have thought about the former since I often take close-ups at the beach here in Chicago where it tends to et a bit windy.
Re: Question #2: Macro related
At 01:55 PM 12/5/2002 -0500, you wrote: I disagree. The key to macro field work is to know what combination of devices gives you the magnification you desire. Prior to spending heaps of money on gear I used the Nikon 6T and 5T suplementary lenses (62mm) on a crappy 60-300mm f4-5.6 zoom. The results were not bad considering the zoom lens was a cheap Kalimar. With time you do learn that but, in the field where speed matters, extension tubes and bellows are the slowest to work with. In addition, the accessory lenses make more sense to carry with you for those times when macro shots are not your primary focus (pardon the pun) but you want something just in case. When I first got started in photography (1970) I had my Spotmatic, a set of automatic extension tubes, the auto-bellows and a reversing ring. I even invested in a couple of enlarger lenses and the Leica thread mount adaptor to use with the bellows. Going out in the field to photograph quickly turned into a burden. Now I use tubes or a bellows or a Vivitar S1 105/2.5 macro lens and I also stack a 100mm bellows lens (reverse-mounted) on a 200mm prime (2x magnification). The 100mm bellows lens acts like a multi-element close-up lens in this case (for 4x I'll reverse mount a 50mm on the 200mm). Stacking lenses requires extension tubes to avoid vignetting. I bought one of those rings a while back because I wanted to try using my 28 50mm lenses on my 200mm. I just haven't gotten around to playing with it yet. The key to all of my setups is knowing which one gives the magnification I want and knowing which combination of strobe or natural light is needed. It takes a lot of testing and burns a lot of film but in the end it allows me to work quickly in the field with all sorts of gear. Again, even if you know the exact combination of equipment, it is still slow to set up and you risk your subject taking off for the wild blue yonder. Accessory lenses are a little better since you don't have to remove the lens from the camera. This is true but even with the Nikon multi-element lenses you get some softness. I don't use mine anymore. Keep in mind that you used yours with a crappy zoom lens. My zoom lenses focus to .5x by themselves so my use of accessory lenses tends to be restricted to single focal length lenses. A real macro lens if your best choice and the Vivitar 100mm/3.5 lens is very good for its price, especially when you consider the price of extension tubes. I use the Series 1 105/2.5 Macro extensively. It's an awesome lens that gives 1x magnification without adapters or tubes. Extension tubes are cheap! You can get a set of Vivitar auto Tubes that work with A lenses for US$50 or less sometimes. Macro lenses (even my beloved Vivitar) are the most expensive way to shoot macro. The Nikon 5T and 6T were not cheap either when I bough them new a few years ago. The macro lens I mentioned was only $100 and gives excellent results. If you're going to do any amount of macro, I'd say pay the extra $50 and get it instead. The tubes will still be slow to work with in the field. Gary J Sibio [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://home.earthlink.net/~garysibio/ Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like bananas.
Re: Question #2: Macro related
At 05:25 PM 12/4/2002 -0500, you wrote: N*K*N sells 2 element diopter close up lenses in several strengths (5T, 6T) all I believe are 58mm. The two element diopter is supposed to be superior (sharper images) than the single element. Haven't done any testing but I have used the N*K*N diopters for several years and have no complaints. I have them and the results have been excellent although I don't use them much since I got the Vivitar 100/3.5 macro. Gary J Sibio [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://home.earthlink.net/~garysibio/ Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like bananas.
Re: OT: Really dumb question on atmospheric conditions
It's quite simple. Water vapor - H2O molecules in a gaseous state - are what causes light to scatter. The colder the air, the less water vapor it can contain. Therefore there is less scattering of light resulting in a clearer view. At 01:02 PM 12/3/2002 -0500, you wrote: It was about 9 degrees Fahrenheit this morning and very clear out. It seems it is usually or often clear when very cold. Dumb question but is this some kind of rule: is it always/usually clearer when cold? And why? Is it because of the cold, or some other related factor which may be present when it is not cold or may sometimes not be present when it is cold)? Or is it all in my imagination? Thanks and forgive my ignorance... Gary J Sibio [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://home.earthlink.net/~garysibio/ Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like bananas.
Re: Anybody else shooting the Leonids?
At 11:48 PM 11/18/2002 -0500, you wrote: rain clouds in Chicago, Bob S. The weather report I heard tonight said it would clear up in time (2A-5A) for the peak. It's now 3:00AM. They lied. Gary J Sibio [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://home.earthlink.net/~garysibio/ What if squirrels are really the first line in an attack by extraterrestrials and our dogs are trying to warn us???
Re: OT: Re: Have we ever done people's pets on PUG?
At 08:53 AM 11/12/2002 -0500, you wrote: On Tue, 12 Nov 2002, Gary J Sibio wrote: Wow. And I thought it was a mess when my daughters' snapping turtle knocked over a rock and took out the bottom of a 20 gallon tank. I figured out what was going on at about 40 gallons of water into the rug, which trust me, was quite a powerful smell. Especially since that rug was never really taken care of before hand. It was also less than a week before I was set to go away on vacation. I have never cleaned my house so hard to try and keep it from really setting in and stinking.. I kinda did a good job, although, admittedly, it can still smell during the hot,w et summer months.. Carpet replacement is one of the many things on the long, long list of things that must be done. With my luck it would have happened the day after I left for vacation. Gary J Sibio [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://home.earthlink.net/~garysibio/ What if squirrels are really the first line in an attack by extraterrestrials and our dogs are trying to warn us???
Re: Have we ever done people's pets on PUG?
At 12:53 PM 11/12/2002 -0600, you wrote: The PUG has a no nudes policy. So does my wife. Gary J Sibio [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://home.earthlink.net/~garysibio/ What if squirrels are really the first line in an attack by extraterrestrials and our dogs are trying to warn us???
Re: Have we ever done people's pets on PUG?
At 05:08 PM 11/11/2002 -0600, you wrote: We don't all have a pet. William Robb Two solutions come to mind: 1) Photograph someone else's pet. 2) Go outside and get a pet rock. Gary J Sibio [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://home.earthlink.net/~garysibio/ What if squirrels are really the first line in an attack by extraterrestrials and our dogs are trying to warn us???
Re: Have we ever done people's pets on PUG?
At 08:16 PM 11/11/2002 -0500, you wrote: (I went out and purcahsed her a 180g tank for that fish after the 55g split its bottom seam into my living room, oooh, memories) Wow. And I thought it was a mess when my daughters' snapping turtle knocked over a rock and took out the bottom of a 20 gallon tank. Gary J Sibio [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://home.earthlink.net/~garysibio/ What if squirrels are really the first line in an attack by extraterrestrials and our dogs are trying to warn us???
Re: Have we ever done people's pets on PUG?
At 07:46 PM 11/11/2002 -0600, you wrote: William, As with all PUG themes, a bit of 'artistic creativity' may be necessary to participate. For instance, if I didn't have a pet, I might decide to take a photo of a friends pet, a family members pet, or just go to a pet store and take a picture of an animal that I WISH I had as a pet . . . now all I need to do is find a petstore that sells Bison . . . So you want a home where the buffalo roam. Gary J Sibio [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://home.earthlink.net/~garysibio/ What if squirrels are really the first line in an attack by extraterrestrials and our dogs are trying to warn us???
Re: Wedding Photography
My daughter is getting married in Nov 2003 so I took her and her fiance to talk to the photographer. She's asking $1500 for 20 rolls of 36 including proofs and the negatives. This was for 50/50 color BW. She found this photographer through a chat group for Chicago-area brides. At 11:24 PM 10/17/2002 -0400, you wrote: #1 son is preparing for a July wedding. The bride has no sense of money. How much should you pay? What should you get for that amount? Any suggestions on approaches you like, you use? Any good online portfolios to review? Gary J Sibio [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://home.earthlink.net/~garysibio/ What if squirrels are really the first line in an attack by extraterrestrials and our dogs are trying to warn us???
Re: I bought a new lens today
I've had one for a while and, as long as you watch out for flare, it produces some very nice results. Be careful of on thing: the front of the lens tends to unscrew a bit on mine. I just make a point of checking it from time to time and tightening it up as needed. At 04:42 PM 10/17/2002 -0400, you wrote: From Dave Chang-Sang, who changes systems about as often as most people change their underwear g. Got a Vivitar 3.8 19mm. Not the sexiest wide angle to be sure, but I've seen some shots that Dave's taken with it, and it seems it will be a capable performer. Gary J Sibio [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://home.earthlink.net/~garysibio/ What if squirrels are really the first line in an attack by extraterrestrials and our dogs are trying to warn us???
FS: Vivitar Screw-mount Teleconverters
Hi, If anyone is interested, I just put a Vivitar 2x and 3x teleconverter (Pentax screw-mount) up for auction on Ebay. Here are the links: 2x - http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/ eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItemitem=1379807489 3x - http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/ eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItemitem=1379809663 Gary J. Sibio [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://home.earthlink.net/~garysibio/ On the sixth day God created the platypus and said, Let's see the evolutionists explain this one.
Re: OT: Blue Crush
At 11:25 AM 8/31/2002 -0400, you wrote: Last weekend, I saw the movie Blue Crush. It's all about women surfers. The Another excellent surfer movie is The Endless Summer. It follows two surfers as they travel around the world. Again, the cinematography is excellent. It's an older flick (1966) and shows up occasionally on AMC. Gary J. Sibio [EMAIL PROTECTED] On the sixth day God created the platypus and said, Let's see the evolutionists explain this one.
RE: Lenses in the field
At 11:51 AM 8/13/2002 -0400, you wrote: Peter, The focal range you mention works out well. The 135 would probably not get used as much, in my opinion. I tend to carry the longer focal lengths but find their use is minimal in my case. Sorry this is a bit delayed but I was out-of-town this week. You're right that the 135 would not get a lot of use but, when I was at the Parthenon, the moon happened to make a daytime appearance coming up between two of the pillars. The longest I had with me was 100mm. I would have killed for something that would have made the moon look larger. Gary J. Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: Vivitar 19mm?
I have the Viv 19/3.8 and it's not a bad lens. It is subject to flare so be careful about where you aim it. At 11:05 PM 7/28/2002 +0100, you wrote: Hiya, been lurking for a while and slowly making sense of it all. For a while now my widest lens has been a 24mm, and I fancy trying something wider. Cost IS a consideration, so I know I won't get much. Vivitar do an MF 19mm prime (£89) and AF 19-35mmm zoom for a little more (£119) - reviews seem to be fairly mixed/poor. Anyone have any thoughts, or recommendations about alternatives? Good ones to look out for s/h? I'm in London - any good places to go shopping? Gary J. Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re:
At 04:46 PM 6/26/02 -0700, you wrote: I'm trying to decide whether to take a second Spotmatic F or a Leica CL as a backup for a 3+ month trip later this year to Jordan and Egypt. I I think having a nice quiet rangefinder would pay off. I wished I had one when I was in Morocco. Gary J. Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: [pentax 17-28 fisheye
At 03:08 PM 6/16/02 +0930, you wrote: i just love this lens but that maybe because i have a distorted veiw of the world lol Is this lens a fisheye throughout its entire range or does it go rectilinear at some point? Gary J. Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: Phoenix USA Lens?
At 07:51 AM 6/16/02 -0400, you wrote: Has anyone heard of these lenses? I wonder how it would compare to a Sigma lens. I believe that Phoenix = Vivitar. I've never owned any so I can't tell you anything about their quality. I used to have a Sigma 100-300mm zoom, but it met with an unfortunate end and is beyond repair. I like taking shots of birds and other wildlife (wolves, deer, etc) and want to replace the lens. My budget is around $200 and I have a Pentax ZX-10. Which of these should I pick? Or is there something else I'm overlooking that would be better in the same price range? I heard something recently that Phoenix was coming out with a telephoto zoom that went to 500mm. I don't remember what the short end was. Gary J. Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: Heliopan multicoated filters--best source
Is Heliopan the company that makes the graduated filters that can slide through the holder like the Cokins can? If so, have you tried any of them and how do they compare to the Cokin filters? (I would assume orders of magnitude better.) At 07:58 AM 3/6/02 -0500, you wrote: Heliopan multicoated filters are among the very best you can buy. I've ordered a good number of Heliopan multicoated filters from The Filter Shop. Their prices beat anyone else's by about a third, and beat B+H multicoated prices by even more. Heliopan slims are the slimmest filters you can buy that are threaded to accept hoods or other filters. And the service is friendly, responsive, and prompt. In addition to credit cards, PayPal payments are accepted. You can sign-up for The Filter Shop Mailing List by sending an email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] to let them know. Benefits include: 1. E-mail notification every time The Filter Shop adds new filters to its inventory (usually every other month). 2. E-mail notification prior to every order The Filter Shop places, allowing them to have in stock anything specific to your needs (usually every other month). The shop is planning a Heliopan filter order for March 8, so if they're is anything you want, let them know by then; they'll get it. This will be their last order until July. You don't pay until the items have arrived and are ready to be shipped. You can find the current price list at http://members.aol.com/filtershop/Pricelist.htm Current great buys at their EBay store can be found at http://www.ebaystores.com/thefiltershop/ Paul Franklin Stregevsky 13 Selby Court Poolesville, Maryland 20837-2410 [EMAIL PROTECTED] H (301) 349-5243 - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org . Gary J. Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: Hand-holding a 67
At 06:18 AM 3/5/02 -0500, you wrote: I've hand held my 4x5 Speed Graphic at 1/125 with good results It has a 127mm lens Press photographers commonly did the same in the fifties These cameras were designed to be able to be handheld My point was that there are some that are not Gary J Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List To unsubscribe, go to http://wwwpdmlnet and follow the directions Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pugkomkonorg
Hand-holding a 67
At 09:30 PM 3/3/02 -0800, you wrote: Well, After a trip to Hawaii and 2 weddings I can say that I am thrilled with my 67II The lenses I have (55, 90, 165) have all been used quite evenly and they cover most uses quite well There is a world of difference in the images between it and my 35mm gear I am finding the 67 to be a great field camera and very usable handheld or on a monopod It functions equally well on a tripod for groups and portraits All in all, I couldn't be more pleased Even though I've been a Pentax user since 1970, I've never even held one of these in my hands With the 90mm lens (I assume that's the normal lens for this format), what's the lowest shutter speed you can hand-hold at? (I'm assuming the 67 is substantially heavier than a 35mm) Gary J Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List To unsubscribe, go to http://wwwpdmlnet and follow the directions Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pugkomkonorg
Re: Hand-holding a 67
At 03:58 PM 3/4/02 -0800, you wrote: Gary, I have only limited experience so far, but I am not finding a significant difference in handholding the 67II vs 35mm 1/focal length rule can still apply Be aware that since the focal lengths are twice as long for the same FOV, your shutter speeds will need to be a bit faster than the FOV for 35mm Good point I hadn't thought of that However I wouldn't want to use the 1/focal length rule with an 8x10 view camera g so it has to break down somewhere along the line Gary J Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List To unsubscribe, go to http://wwwpdmlnet and follow the directions Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pugkomkonorg
Re: Hand-holding a 67
At 09:12 PM 3/4/02 -0500, you wrote: Well - for an example - http://wwwtransientimagesnet/pages/productasp?intProdID=73 Nice shot f28 1/8 - yes, 1/8 second would not recommend it for the weak of breath (I hold, focus, breath in, focus adjust, shoot, wind, breath out) I wouldn't even recommend it for an MX with a pancake lens Gary J Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List To unsubscribe, go to http://wwwpdmlnet and follow the directions Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pugkomkonorg
Re: dental macro and macro lens
At 04:02 PM 2/28/02 -0500, you wrote: What is the difference between a dental macro and macro lens ? The dental version has markings on the barrel that tell you the magnification ratios when the lens is used in combination with one of the two close-up lenses tat make up the Dental closeup set I'm tempted to add that dental macro images have more bite, but I don't quite have the nerve I think you deserve a plaque for that one Gary J Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List To unsubscribe, go to http://wwwpdmlnet and follow the directions Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pugkomkonorg
Re: Adorama
At 10:26 PM 2/25/02 -0800, you wrote: I guess it depends on where you live, or perhaps some other factor or factors, but I've found that sometimes Adorama gets delivered to me faster than items from BH. That may be. I live in Chicago so that may be a major factor. I recently ordered a lens from BH. I ordered it after business hours. The next day I got an email saying it had been shipped and it arrived the following day. That's pretty much been my experience with them. Adorama seems to take a day or two longer. Not really a big deal. Gary J. Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
RE: Adorama
At 09:11 AM 2/25/02 -0500, you wrote: I almost exclusively use Adorama now, about 30% of the time I have found their prices cheaper on stuff I want. The rest of the time they usually match BH. Their web-site isn't as good as BH's, but it's pretty easy to use (especially if you search on the manufacturers part number taken from the BH site ;o)). I guess it's a matter of taste. I find Adorama's Web site easier to use than BH's. I have noticed that Adorama can be a bit cheaper than BH. My daughter recently needed an bw infrared filter and Adorama was quite a bit cheaper. However, if you need stuff yesterday, BH seems to get it to you faster. Gary J. Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: Processing color slide film at home
I did this for a while when the Unichrome chemistry first came out (early 1970s). The amount of time it took to cut up the film and put it in the mount convinced me that it just wasn't worth it. At 07:51 PM 2/19/02 -0800, you wrote: I remember having seen some discussion about this, but don't remember if it was on this forum. I believe there is a kit of sort that one could buy to process color slide film at home. My questions are: How many rolls do you have to process before it becomes economical, not counting one's own labour? Also, does it require some setup such as darkroom? Is there a can-like container of solution that you can buy, in which you would just drop the film (the kit comes with a film canister opener), close cover, shake for 2 minutes, and it's done? Regards, ___ Tonghang Zhou (Zhou is pronounced like Joe) - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org . Gary J. Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: Update: Vivitar Auto Extension Tubes
At 10:46 PM 11/30/01 -0800, you wrote: If you're curious, you can see some photos I've taken with them at http://homepage.mac.com/sherburne/PhotoAlbum1.html I tried it. No pics. Gary J. Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: Flash questions
At 01:06 PM 11/21/01 -0500, you wrote: You're both right. The head does drop, but unless you get it off the camera hotshoe, the distance from the subject tends to make it a point source. Moving it closer (and stopping down, perhaps using a tissue or two to permit it to shut off properly) makes for more effective shots. Since I do a lot of macro and was thinking about the 280T, is there a problem with using it off-camera? Gary J. Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: Leonid meteor shower could be truly spectacular
At 06:02 PM 11/18/01 +1100, you wrote: I worked out the equivelant time in Melbourne to the one shown in Tokyo and HK. I just heard on the time on TV for Melbourne and it does start at 4am. You mean there's nothing where you plug in latitude, longitude and your grandmother's shoe size to arrive at the answer? Regards, Paul Jones - Original Message - From: Gary J Sibio [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, November 18, 2001 5:08 PM Subject: Re: Leonid meteor shower could be truly spectacular At 04:36 PM 11/16/01 +1100, you wrote: Hi, From my calculations it should start at 4:00am in Melbourne. As its 1:00 am for HK and 2:00am for Tokyo and Melbourne is 3 hours infront of HK and 2 hours in front of Tokyo. What times sunrise in Sydney and Melbourne at the moment? How do you calculate this? Gary J. Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org . - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org . Gary J. Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: Leonid meteor shower could be truly spectacular
At 08:07 AM 11/18/01 -0500, you wrote: Weather here in Chicago was a bummer too! It is positively balmy for November at 65-70 degrees F. This is at least 20 degrees F higher than average. But, along with the warm air has come moisture and fog. There was no sky visible here last night, only fog below the street lights. Yeah. My wife, her sister and I were going to try to get out of the city but the Weather Channel said the closest place with decent visibility was Madison, WI. We stayed at home. My wife did see one from our back porch, however. Gary J. Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: Low budget WA?
At 01:30 PM 11/15/01 -0600, you wrote: Does anyone have any experience with the 19mm Vivitar? I realize this by far no pro lens but it affords me a wider angle than my current 28mm limit. It's alright but nothing to write home about. If you can afford to do better, I would. I read the warnings about its problems with flare before I bought it and have made sure to keep the sun out of the picture when using it. Gary J. Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: Leonid meteor shower could be truly spectacular
At 04:36 PM 11/16/01 +1100, you wrote: Hi, From my calculations it should start at 4:00am in Melbourne. As its 1:00 am for HK and 2:00am for Tokyo and Melbourne is 3 hours infront of HK and 2 hours in front of Tokyo. What times sunrise in Sydney and Melbourne at the moment? How do you calculate this? Gary J. Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: where to buy film
At 08:58 AM 11/15/01 -0500, you wrote: Just a poll: Where do you buy your film? BH or Adorama Gary J. Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: Critique request
At 09:31 PM 11/15/01 -0600, you wrote: If anyone has the time I'd appreciate any critique on the following image: I love the lighting and composition. Gary J. Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: Vivitar extension tubes
At 10:48 AM 11/13/01 -0800, you wrote: Hello all... Does anyone have experience with Vivitar's K-mount auto extension tube set? What's the quality like? I'd prefer Pentax, but the price of Vivitar's set is about 1/3 that of a new Pentax set. There's no optics in an extension tube. You're paying for the name. t - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org . Gary J. Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Stereo Adaptor
Thanks to all who responded. Gary J. Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: Shooting Film and my Guardian Angel
At 09:27 PM 10/21/01 -0400, you wrote: When I first started shooting film some 25 years ago, I encountered a guardian angel. He had a camera store in the Old Chicago neighborhood west of Comiskey Park. The neighborhood was, and still is so far as I know, called Bridgeport. This guy told me that if I ever hoped to be a halfway decent photographer, I had to shoot one roll of film per day. Then he sold me a bunch of darkroom equipment at below his cost, pushed a bunch of film across the counter, and said, go take pictures. For years, he continued to subsidize my efforts, and I shot at least one roll of film every day. I don't know if I'm a good photographer, but I'm a lot better than I would have been if I had not burned all that film. I think I know the place. It was around 33rd Halsted. I majored in photography at IIT for a semester and we went there to buy our film and other supplies. Gary J. Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: Look at this auction!
At 05:50 PM 9/14/01 -0700, you wrote: Hey Folks, The BIN price is completely ridiculous: http://cgi.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItemitem=1275200666 My thought is that they might have made a typo and it should have been $99.95. However that seems pretty low. Anyone interested in the camera might want to consider emailing the seller. Gary J. Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: Ever shrinking depth of field
At 01:44 AM 9/9/01 -0700, you wrote: So, I'm considering the FA 77/1.8, FA 85/1.4, FA 135/2.8, or FA 200/2.8. I'm also open to the A*200/4 Macro. I'm wondering if anyone can give me some feedback about the performance of these lenses in the scenario I described. One time I was asked to take some portraits of someone and I accidentally grabbed my 200mm lens instead of the 90mm which I had intended. It was very hard to work with the increased camera-subject distance. Also, the increased focal length makes the background bigger even though it was out-of-focus. Long story short, the results sucked. Also, be careful with using macro lenses for portraits. I took some portraits with one once and every pore in the skin showed up perfectly. With portraits, there's such a thing as too sharp. Gary J. Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: Slides vs digital
At 05:15 PM 9/4/01 +0800, you wrote: Trouble is I've never played a (vinyl) record that didn't have the odd crackle or snap. If you can ignore that - then yes, it sounds surprisingly good. Film on the hand has no such artefacts (to my amateur eyes ;-)) so it should be able to put up a good fight against digital. Color film - and chromogenic bw - fades over time. I'd say that equates to scratching on vinyl. Maybe even worse. Gary J. Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
RE: ebay inflation
At 10:34 PM 8/13/01 -0400, you wrote: I know what you mean. Someone is unloading a bunch of Vanguard monopods on ebay with a BIN price of $5 MORE than BH has it. Go figure. I bought a pennywhistle at a local music store for $11. That afternoon I saw the exact same pennywhistle for sale on Ebay. Bidding was at $37. The moral of the story: Know what you're doing before you use Ebay. Gary J. Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: Photo Sites Database--Guidelines
At 11:56 AM 7/24/01 -0700, you wrote: The revised format (thanks Chris) will be: Country: Theme: (street-urban, nature, landscape, wildlife, etc) [State or Province:] [City:] Location: Description: (a short description of why this place is worthwhile) [Related Link:] (a web site with pictures of the site, or related to it) [Suggested by:] (name, email address, www page) Accessiblity: (any special procedures needed to get to the place. Is it free? Is it private property and you need permission? --etc) Options within brackets are optional. I'll probably end up standarizing the themes, once we have a few entries we'll have a good idea of what they will be. I'm sorry that it took so long to write this but Monday I returned from vacation to find out that I was just laid off the job I've had for the last 25 years. Finding a new job has been my priority. I wanted to suggest that you add a field for GPS coordinates. Even though I don't have one, these devices are becoming more common these days. Gary J. Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: A clue to the flash-impaired?
John Glover wrote: AF201Sa has that option. You might want to look for a nice used AF280T, as it will probably do anything you want on the ZX-M, I know it's not Pentax but the Vivitar 283 is still a wonderful flash for the ZX-M. It has a moveable head and an optional module for varying the power. You can also leave the AF sensor on the hot shoe and move the flash around. I don't know if they are still marketed, but they also had a bounce flash attachment, lenses for altering the field of coverage for wide-angle telephoto lenses. provided you use it in the automatic or manual modes. Plus, it is TTL compatible so when you upgrade to a TTL body in the future, you will not need a change in flashes. The 283 won't help there but it's only about $60 new. Gary J Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: A clue to the flash-impaired?
Tom Rittenhouse wrote: A useful old trick from the days before auto flash is to cover the flash head with a white handkerchef. A rubber band works well to hold it on. One layer cuts the output down about one stop, two layes about two stops. Use your usual guide number and just use one or two layers to reduce your fill level. I still do that to soften the light some. My flashes always look like they are suffering from severe head trauma. Gary J Sibio - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: Twenty seconds (or less)
At 05:59 PM 6/17/01 +0800, you wrote: Hi all Sometimes some things aren't meant to happen. I was at the local flea market for the first time in six months (give or take a coupla months) and I'm wandering around looking ay stuff. I spy a camera on a stall and wander over towards it, only to see a chap to pick it up and look it over. He hands over a $10 note and gets $2.00 change. I'm spewing big copious amounts of it. Don't forget garage sales. I picked up a $150 light meter for $5. The meter had never even been used once. Gary - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: Film improvement question (rhetorical)
At 01:49 PM 4/28/01 -0700, you wrote: In regard of the demise of slow films you wrote; Nothing wrong with a good quality ND filter. except for viewing, focusing, and composing, of course. If that's a problem, attach the filter after you've done all of the above. Pax et bonum, Gary J. Sibio, SFO - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: Film improvement question (rhetorical)
At 08:19 PM 4/27/01 -0700, you wrote: I've yet to see any ISO 100 film approach the results I used to get with Ektar 25 and Royal Gold 25. IMHO. What you suggest still has another decade of improvement to go at the current pace before modern ISO 100 film is as good as RG25. Until recently I shot nothing but slide film. By the time I started experimenting with color negative film the two you mentioned had already been pulled off the market. Therefore, the only thing I know about them is that I've never heard anyone say anything bad about them. So maybe there is no ISO 100 (Fuji Superia Reala) film that is their equal. I don't know. However, I just got back a role yesterday with some pictures of my cat and the prints were incredibly sharp. Now maybe you're making enlargements of such size that you need finer grain (assuming you're right about ISO 25 film). In that case I'd make the jump to medium format. Let's face it, if the film companies drop a film it's either because no one was buying it or it has become redundant. I've been in photography long enough to hear people bemoan the fact that such and such a film is no longer. The interesting thing is that people continue to turn out incredible images. The PUG serves witness to that fact. Lastly I would like to challenge your prophetic abilities. g In 10 years I think we'll be seeing digital cameras that are of the quality of yesterday's ultra-fine grain films. We'll also see even better emulsions (with higher speeds) and better lenses. Pax et bonum, Gary J. Sibio, SFO - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: Film improvement question (rhetorical)
At 09:07 PM 4/27/01 -0700, you wrote: Sure, there are lots of ways of limiting DOF - but not every way is appropriate or ideal for every situation. Nothing wrong with a good quality ND filter. By removing two stops of film speed flexibility and creativity is reduced. Ultra fine grain and speed is not necessarily better than ultra fine grain and less speed. It's just different. The idea that it's better is ludicrous. It's just different. Well, apparently a lot of people believe that faster is better - all other things being equal - because so few of them bought ISO 25 film that it wasn't worth it for the manufacturers to continue it.
Re: Film improvement question (rhetorical)
David A. Mann wrote: The return from improving the ISO100 might pay for the investment in ISO25. But I'm not sure if any businesses think that way anymore. Or it could be invested in making even more improvements in the ISO 100 product. Why should a company put any effort into an ISO 25 film if it can produce an ISO 100 film that's as good or better. The companies are striving for a better quality product and they are delivering it at faster speeds. There's nothing wrong with that. Pax et bonum Gary J Sibio, SFO - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: Teleconvertor suggestion
At 10:10 AM 4/26/01 -0400, you wrote: What you've discovered is the inverse square law. When you do bellows or extension tube work, your exposure has to increase when you extend your bellows or use of tubes. This is not in a linear fashion but increases proportionately with the distance. If (and this is the important if) your flash is attached to the front standard of the bellows or the filter ring of your lens, whenever you extend your bellows the amount of light the flash puts on the subject will increase also. But again it will not increase in a linear amount depending on the extension but in proportion to the square of the distance. Both of these cancel out, as you have found out through experimentation. Congratulations for empirically finding this out. Actually, I've had enough physics that I knew about that. You're giving me a little too much credit. Although I mentioned the flash, which was attached to the top of the camera with an extension that allows me to angle the flash downward, I still get the same exposures when using available light. - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: Teleconvertor suggestion
At 08:42 PM 4/24/01 +0800, you wrote: I suppose this Vivitar 2X Macro Focusing MC 7 Element (what a name!) is no longer is production? Over here where I am (Singapore), it's next to impossible to buy non-Nikon/Canon accessories that's out of production. And some of those guys over at eBay just refuse to ship over here! Even if they do, the shipping charges go up to US$50... and I can't say for sure that the lens is in good condition. Here's a link for the item at BH Photo. I don't know what they'd charge to ship it to Singapore but the price is $119.95. http://www03.bhphotovideo.com/default.sph/FrameWork.class?FNC=ProductActivator__Aproductlist_html___61457___VI2XMP___REG___SID=E64B668C340 Pax et bonum, Gary J. Sibio, SFO - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: Teleconvertor suggestion
At 12:04 PM 4/24/01 +0300, you wrote: The problem with the macro teleconverters is the additional 1/2-1 stop of light loss, that reduces a f/2.8 lens to f/8 instead of f/5.6 - as do normal 2X teleconverters. I suspect this is due to the additional extension required by the helicoid mechanism. Even if very good, I'd stay away from a macro TC just for this reason. Not so with the Vivitar. You lose the two stops from the teleconverter and that's it. Even at life-size. - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: Teleconvertor suggestion
Steve Larson wrote: The Vivitar 2X Macro Focusing Teleconverter MC 7 element is a pretty good unit. It can be had for ~$50 on ebay. I've been using one of these for quite some time now. They give wonderful results. Pax et bonum Gary J Sibio, SFO - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: Teleconvertor suggestion
At 10:02 PM 4/23/01 +0800, you wrote: I'm very confused... Vivitar is said to produce very bad lenses, and they have good teleconvertors that are also cheap? I have a Series 1 28-210mm Super(lousy)Zoom and it sort of conclude my experience with Vivitars... is this teleconverter really good enough for me to spend my time on Vivitar products again? It used to be that Vivitar made some excellent lenses and teleconverters. That seems to have changed in recent years. (I have heard some good things about their 100/3.5 macro lens, however.) However, the teleconverter that I'm talking about was purchased about 15 years ago. I don't know if they've changed any since then. I've seen some on Ebay that don't look any different on the outside. Pax et bonum, Gary J. Sibio, SFO - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
Re: Inexpensive K-mount camera for teaching kids photography
At 09:46 AM 3/11/01 -0600, you wrote: Spotted at ritzcamera.com, for $110 you can get a new Ricoh with 35-70mm zoom lens: http://www.ritzcamera.com/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/ExecMacro/ritzcamera/ritz.d2w/r eport?prp=CLRSLRC002 Free shipping too. At that price I might have to pick one up :) Link didn't work. However you can find it by going to their site and doing a search on Ricoh. Scroll down a bit. Pax et bonum, Gary J. Sibio, SFO - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
