Re: 78 Days and counting
(wrt GFM) My plan is to be there and add some color to the canvas. Perhaps this is the year that PDML sweeps the contest categories... wudduya say, Bubba? - ambitious jerome
FS: 4 Sigma Lenses + TC's
The following lenses will be placed on eBay within the next week unless, of course, someone here would like to buy them beforehand. Sigma 105 mm f2.8 EX 1:1 Macro lens - includes lens shade, and soft lens case Sigma 24-70 mm f2.8 EX lens - includes lens shade, and soft lens case Sigma 70-200 mm f2.8 EX lens - includes lens shade, and soft lens case Sigma 50-500 mm f4.5-6.3 lens - includes lens shade and soft lens case Sigma 1.4x EX teleconverter Sigma 2.0x EX teleconverter For the 70-200 and 24-70, I'll include the CPL and UV filters for my lovely (and not-so-lovely) PDML members. All of the equipment (except the 50-500) was purchased [not by me] over the summer months of 2002, and the 50-500 was purchased in January, 2003. Everything listed is in Like New condition. You wont even know that it was preowned... (well besides the fact that you bought it used). If you purchase and are unsatisfied with the condition of any of this equipment (you wont be, so this sentence is a waste of my time, but...) then I will keep your money and kindly ask Doug Brewer to unsubscribe you from PDML before you post negative feedback to the list. Just kidding... making sure you were paying attention. Of course, I'd refund your money and take my doggone lens back. As always, contact me off-list if you have questions about / interest in these items. Thanks, and enjoy your weekend. jerome
Grandfather Mountain
Camper Bill Asked... Hey, Jerome, you coming to GFM this spring? Thanks for asking, I almost forgot about it. It seemed too early to discuss such things but (wow) I guess this year is progressing rather quickly... only about 3 months away, huh? To answer your question, yes, I plan to be there. I like the entrance fee of the Camera Clinic *much* better g but hey, what can you do? The trip up there last year was a good time (YES, even being *tricked* by Mark Roberts into climbing the North Carolina equivalent of Mount Everest) and so I definitely look forward to a repeat performance... This time I'll be ready! This is all assuming, of course, that Cesar is still willing to carry my tripod for me everywhere I go vbg. But seriously, I enjoyed meeting (dorn near!) all the PDMLers that showed up there last year at the Camera Clinic, and hope to see some new faces this year as well. Who else is planning to make it? http://www.grandfather.com/events/nphoto.htm - jerome
Re: Grandfather Mountain
They can't hold it without me. Doug at least, that's what I tell myself HAR!!! [actually, Doug, I think you're right... but still... HAR!]
Need assistance on fair pricing
Hello PDMLers... it's been a long while since I've posted, but *yes* I've been watching and reading over the past few months [and boy has it been entertaining!] Anyhow! I need some help determing the prices of some equipment that I plan to (possibly) dump soon. Usually, after doing my homework, I'd just put the stuff on eBay and take my lumps accordingly. However, since the money is going towards another specific purchase, the estimates I get will pretty much determine if I go forth with the sale. In short, I know there are quite a few of you that keep a close eye on the used market... so if you could tell me (perhaps off-list is best) if my expectations are reasonable, optimistic, low, etc., then that would be quite helpful. For you *advanced* used market scavengers g, info you may have on the likelihood of an item selling would be incredibly helpful as well. ALSO! if you see something that you want, then even better! Let me know (again, off-list preferably). Having someone lined up to buy an item ofcourse decreases my risk and makes me more likely to go forward with the sales. Okay, without further ado, here's the list: ZX-10 body with cap and strap. As my first Pentax, I'd hate to see it go! But sentiments don't pay the bills, now do they? Excellent condition (cosmetically and wrt functionality). In particular, the entire outer shell was replaced (actually free of charge) by Pentax not too long ago, so she looks beautiful. Plasticky... but beautiful. $135 All lenses are in excellent condition and include caps and hoods. Sigma 105mm Macro Lens; also includes case. $300 SMC PENTAX-M 1:1.7 50mm [redundant to my FA version so it's gotta go.. and yes, I know... autofocus is for chumps. But hey... never said I wasn't]. $25 SMC PENTAX-FA* 1:4.5 300mm IF ED w/ hood and caps $425 SMC PENTAX-FA 1:4 20-35mm AL w/ hood and caps $310 SMC PENTAX-FA 1:3.5-4.5 24-90mm IF AL $270 Sigma apo macro 70-300mm $100 AF330FTZ flashes (I have two for sale) $80 each REAR CONVERTER-A 2X-S $130 Hot Shoe FG $25 Extension Cord F - 5P $20 Thanks in advance! jerome
Flash questions
[disclaimer: these are pretty basic questions, but hey! I never claim to be more than a beginner... but a professional beginner, ofcourse! g] It's been said on numerous occasions that the exposure compensation dial works as flash compensation in M mode. Okay, so if I understand this correctly, for half intensity, dial in -1 EV of flash compensation; for one-third fill, -1 1/3 or -1.5 EV; for one quarter, -2 EV. Well, even if that scale is not quite right, the main point is that for less flash, I'm supposed to dial negatively correct? Well, if the answer is yes, then please answer the following: Consider a conventional fill-flash setting. I first metered the scene on Program mode. Then I set the same exact settings manually (now in M mode). Then I flip on the flash unit. Initially, the compensation bar graph stays at zero as expected. But as I turn the comp. dial to the negative side (less flash?) the bar graph goes up (towards the over exposure side). Is this supposed to happen? Is what I expect to happen (less flash) actually going to occur even though the indicators seem to say otherwise? Of course, I could probably answer some of these questions by just shooting some shots, and taking some notes but I figured there is no need to waste film when I have such a panel of experts before me [hoping that flattery will get me everywhere]. Thanks in advance, jerome ps... I now see that it pays to take the camera out of the bag sometimes even when you're not shooting. seems like an obvious thing to do (for learning purposes), but I unfortunately never bother with such things until I'm out taking photos, and by then it's too late! hmmm... lesson learned. ___ Jerome D. Coombs-Reyes PhD Candidate, ISyE, Georgia Tech http://www.isye.gatech.edu/~jerome
RE: Flash questions
Thanks, Tom! Very nice explanation. Much appreciated. - jerome On Fri, 13 Dec 2002, tom wrote: The camera is still metering for the ambient light. You've set the sperture/shutter speed for a correct ambient exposure. If you dial in -1, the camera is telling you that the manual settings will give you a stop more than the -1 setting on the dial. In other words, you've told the camera you want to underexpose by -1, and it's telling you you're a stop over -1, which is just what you want. Maybe the confusing part is that you expect the meter bar graph to line up at -1. It's not. It's going to line up in the middle, the difference being that the middle value is -1. Now when you hit the shutter, the flash/camera doesn't care about your manual settings, it's going to shut the flash off when it senses it's hit -1. Therefore the ambient exposure will be correct, the flash will be a stop below.
OT: contacting Alexander Krohe
Alexander, I've tried to wait patiently for your email address to pop back up so that I can contact you off-list... but I guess I'm just too anxious. If you'd be so kind, could you contact me off-list @ [EMAIL PROTECTED] ... It pertains to your 200mm SCMA* lens. Thanks in advance. - jerome PS... if anyone else can help put me in contact with Alexander, then that would be appreciated as well. Thanks again. ___ Jerome D. Coombs-Reyes PhD Candidate, ISyE, Georgia Tech http://www.isye.gatech.edu/~jerome
Best TC for 300mm
After surfing the archives, I found the following inquiry to the list from about 2 years ago (taken verbatim): I've lately acquired a 300 mm F2.8 A* big glass and naturally am looking for ways to burn off the extra F stops. If I read the materials correctly 300mm is sort of the breaking point between whether you should use an S or L converter. Someone know which works best with this lens/focal length? Surprisingly, there were only 2 responses... Part of one response was that... I believe the main advantage of XL teleconverters is a reduction in light fall-off in the corners compared to teleconverters without the long snout. The secondary advantage of XL teleconverters is optimized image quality for their compatible lenses. Another response mentioned, I'd assume that the 'L' converters would work slightly better, but I suspect you'd only see the difference under lab conditions. My question is, does anyone care to elaborate / confirm / disagree with these comments? In particular, with an FA 300mm 1:2.8, would one have the option of using either the 2x-S or the 2x-L? and if so, is the optical difference neglible? In short I'm trying to determine if paying twice as much for the 2x-L is necessary if the 2x-S is acceptable. Thanks in advance, jerome ___ Jerome D. Coombs-Reyes PhD Candidate, ISyE, Georgia Tech http://www.isye.gatech.edu/~jerome
WTB: flash accessories
It's time to try my hand at some (insect) macro shots... Hence I'll be needing: A) Extension Cord F - 5P B) Hotshoe Adapter FG If you have these items to offer, then please contact me off-list. Thanks in advance. Carry on. - jerome ___ Jerome D. Coombs-Reyes PhD Candidate, ISyE, Georgia Tech http://www.isye.gatech.edu/~jerome
Re: Best TC for 300mm
Thanks, Bruce and Mike. Mike Wrote: The F*300ED(IF) is listed under the -S list of lenses WHICH ARE UNSUITABLE. Not exactly. For the 1.4x-L half of the table, it's listed as vignetting at picture corners... but it's not listed in the usuable table at all for the 2x-S half; hence logic would have it that it is indeed usuable for this lens... but then again this is a Pentax document (logic.. Pentax... oxyMORONS?) Anyhow, thanks for the reference. I did not realize that this table / manual was available. Lastly, I called Pentax (Colorado) this morning. At first I was a bit discouraged that the product info rep didn't know what I meant by rear converter... but once he figured it out, he readily admitted that he didn't know the answer (which is WA better than just making something up) and sought help. From his sources (the repair dept., I think) I was told that the 2x-S is the best match for the FA 300mm f2.8 lens... I hope they're right since the savings are quite appreciative. Thanks again, jerome ___ Jerome D. Coombs-Reyes PhD Candidate, ISyE, Georgia Tech http://www.isye.gatech.edu/~jerome
OT: Hey Cotty and Cesar...
Cesar, I don't have your email address! I unsubscribed after my last few messages, and the messages weren't coming thru to the web archives until now. Hence, I missed you message (and also your email address). I'll be unsubscribing again once I post this message, so write me off list so that I can at least have your email address, and I'll get back to ya! I've been meaning to write you for a while, in fact. Cotty, I also missed your message until it was posted today. Thanks for clearing up my ramblings; definitely no offense taken. In fact, as soon as I sent the initial message I realized that I was getting drawn into the very things I complain about (bickering, etc)... [hey, at least I caught myself!] so I took my own advice... I unsubscribed and took some pictures! [imagine that]. I'll probably just stay off-list for a while and keep up with the archives when I can. I find that me being active on the list usually amounts to more important things not being taken care of in the 'real world', so it was a good spot check for me. Anyhow, you are 100% correct about the purpose of this forum being discussions (of all kinds!) And I didn't mean to discredit it as such. While I respectfully agree that this is indeed the proper forum for discussion of Pentax products, past, present AND future... with respect to one specific product (DSLR), it just seemed as if many users were / are beginning to sound like that kid in the backseat who won't quit asking are we there, yet?.. are we there, yet?... every time we turn a corner. I mean, before Photokina was even over, you started to hear chants of, okay.. NEXT MONTH!... And one of the more recent comments sounded dangerous close to someone saying, They probably already have it... but didn't feel like showing it... To me, that's just comical! And quite tiring, to be honest. But hey, whadaya gonna do? I can only control myself, right? Hence, the 'unsubscription'. Thanks again, Cotty, for cleaning up my mess. Catch ya later. Best regards, - jerome
OT: (spiked) Monopod feet
It is interesting that this topic was spawned recently, as I have also been in the midst of this decision. Well, I've finally made my decision and now have the following question: Has anyone invested in the spiked foot that can be bought for the Bogen family of monopods? It sells for about $7 and (at least in theory) sounds like a good idea... But I was wondering how it faired in practice. More specifically, with a heavy lens in a dirt / grass environment this seems like it may be a worthwhile investment for added stability. I went to a local camera shop today and played with the monopod, head and lens combo that I intend to use, and the rubber bottom seemed a bit slippery... but the store unfortunately had no spiked feet for me to bore holes into the floor with. Go figure! Thanks in advance, jerome ___ Jerome D. Coombs-Reyes PhD Candidate, ISyE, Georgia Tech http://www.isye.gatech.edu/~jerome
OT: Photojournalism
I started to write an email to the list with two purposes: a) to convey my happiness about a local cover that I made today, and b) to share some thoughts that had crossed my mind as a result of what was essentially my first experience at anything resembling the fabled genre of photojournalism. But the post got way too long and out-of-hand... and Pentax content was pretty minimal... so I cut and pasted it to my photo journal on my website for anyone interested. http://www.isye.gatech.edu/~jerome/about3.htm PS... my condolences to all who were eagerly anticipating a Pentax DSLR, or anything new and worthwhile for that matter at Photokina. I know that has to be a heart-breaker. - jerome ___ Jerome D. Coombs-Reyes PhD Candidate, ISyE, Georgia Tech http://www.isye.gatech.edu/~jerome
Re: Points of View
I personally enjoy the different points of view on the group even if they aren't all pro-Pentax. Robert, I agree, especially with the last part. Specifically, during the Pentax AutoFocus / Consumer Fast Film thread I was somewhat surprised (and actually very glad to see) that so many people were willing to just say Hey, you're right, Pentax AF technology is not exactly cutting edge. Brand X clearly has an advantage because As everyone's favorite list member mentioned yesterday (in his own special way), sometimes it seems as if it's almost taboo to say anything anti-Pentax on the list, even when it may be helpful to others... and thats not a good environment at all for learning and exchanging true experiences. - jerome
Pentax AutoFocus / Consumer Fast Film
Hello all - I'm going to go out on a limb here and talk about equipment that actually already exists! And I'm going to stretch even further and talk about TAKING PICTURES with these cameras (do I have the right discussion group?! Should I list this as OT?) Anyhow, I was out shooting with my ZX-10 this past weekend at a Dog Contest [2002 Skyhoundz Hyperflite Canine Disc World Championship, to be exact]. This was my first time shooting anything worthy of being called action. I had heard about it the night before and said, HEY! WHY NOT? I've only been doing the serious hobby thing for a year now and usually stick to zoo photos and, in general, animals that don't move a whole lot, so it was a great challenge. Anyhow, here's the point... (and I hate to make it now with Bruce lurking once again... as if he needs fuel for the anti-Pentax fire...)... the AF on the ZX-10 was atrociously slow. I mean, it failed just about everytime. My main camera is a ZX-5n which is in the shop (ha! more fuel...) but I suspect from the few experiences that I've had trying to track things with it that the AF on that model is, granted, better than the ZX-10 -- but not Tremendously better (?). So here's are my questions... a) is this the general concensus with these two cameras, and b) how do the other Pentax cameras rate wrt AF as I go up the ranks (i.e., move up (?) to PZ-1p and the MZ-S)... For example, Is the MZ-S AF simply better... much better... or does it blow the former two out of the water [I'd hope for the latter answer to be honest]. OH! BTW, the photos from the weekend can be seen here if you're interested in such things: http://www.isye.gatech.edu/~jerome/gallery5.htm As a side note, this was also my first time using Print film since I've started photography as a serious hobby [most folks 'work their way up' to slide film, but I figured Hey, why wait?]... I was in a pinch so I used all consumer stuff... 800 speed Fuji and Kodak. I'm generally a Kodak person, but in this case [high speed consumer film] Fuji TOTALLY blew the Kodak stuff out of the water wrt grain, detail rendered, and color rendition [there was a lot of greenery, so advantage Fuji]. Just my $.02US... overall though, whenever possible, I'll be sticking to my slide film for sure. Thanks again, jerome ___ Jerome D. Coombs-Reyes PhD Candidate, ISyE, Georgia Tech http://www.isye.gatech.edu/~jerome
Re: Pentax AutoFocus / Consumer Fast Film
I looked at the pics -- great action, and on top of that, they seem quite focussed. Thank God for manual focus! What did you exactly mean by it failed just about everytime? Hmmm... good question. Well, for one, subjects were moving too fast for me to focus on them on AF mode. The thing would hunt like mad, even as I tracked the subject and stayed (pretty much) the same distance away [e.g., when the subject was moving from my left-to-right or vice versa, and not away or towards me]. As a result, I missed plenty of shots since the shutter wouldn't snap unless there was AF confirmation [does that sound about right?]... and even when it would... why would I want it to? In general though, when using my ZX-5n instead, AF in dimly lit places is all but impossible. The thing will hunt like a caveman. I'm convinced (from heresy, nonetheless) that AF in such conditions has been significantly improved with the more recent cameras, but I guess I still don't know about action, etc. I don't know a whole lot about predictive focus (then again, is there much to know?)... but have read that both of my cameras should be equiped with this feature... On Saturday, however, the only thing that I was able to predict was that the camera would not acheive AF lock by itself unless the dog was at a complete stand-still. As for the shots... I'm glad you enjoyed them. I quickly learned to anticipate the action and focus on a particular spot (or at least close to it). It helped tremendously that, as far as focus rings go, the 300mm lens I was using is hands down the most well-dampened lens that I've personally used [not a long list]. MF was so smoooth I tell ya, I finally just said WHO NEEDS AF ANYWAY?! ... but it still would've been nice. OKAY OKAY... so maybe it wasn't atrocious as I mentioned... but I sure was dissatisfied. How's that? So... back to my original question... - jerome
Re: Pentax AutoFocus / Consumer Fast Film
How many rolls did you shot? 6 rolls of 24-exposure. However, not all of it was action (trophy shots, crowd shots, etc. were included). As for the action shots (maybe about 4 rolls total) the downfall of most of the shots were the backgrounds. I didn't have much to work with as each sideline was lined with people and canopy / tent set-ups. Then there were field goal uprights at each end of the field. In general, a photographers nightmare as far as smooth backgrounds go. I just got as low as possible, shot at f2.8 or f4 and hoped for the best. Btw,i had good experience with Fuji Press 800. Grain is not visible in 10x15 cm prints. The grainier shots that I posted are also partly due to some pretty significant cropping on a few of the images, so it's hard to tell from those. But overall, as I mentioend, the Fuji stuff did pretty good. jerome
300mm f2.8 (FA vs A)
I have questions... but first here are examples of listings for these lenses (as taken from BH website). Telephoto SMCP-A* 300mm f/2.8 ED IF Manual Focus Lens Price: $5,152.50 Telephoto SMCP-FA* 300mm f/2.8 ED IF Autofocus Lens Price: $4,299.95 My question is, why is there a price difference between these two lenses? More specifically, why is the FA* version less expensive than the A*? Personally, I would have expected the reverse. I've also taken note that the A* version of this lens has always been the rave on PDML and also on Stan Halpin's site. Should this also be interpreted as a 'black eye' against the FA version, or just a shared preference for manual focus big glass amongst PDMLers? Since AF is typically not free, I'm guessing that there must be some _significant_ optical quality differences (about $1000 worth) between the two lenses [which would actually surprise me quite a bit]. Can anyone confirm or deny this presumption? For those with experience with these lenses (preferably first hand, but second or third hands will do, too).. please enlighten me! Thanks in advance, jerome __ [EMAIL PROTECTED] - 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: Pugs up!!!!
On Fri, 31 May 2002, Bill D. Casselberry wrote: I'm still getting May - even substituting /02jun/index.html :^(Bill FWIW, I'm getting the same. Guess it's only a matter of time though. - 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 .
WTB: FA 28-105/4-5.6
The older version. With the success of my previous WTB posting, I thought I'd try here again before committing elsewhere. Thanks in advance, jerome - 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: Dumb eBay question
On Mon, 27 May 2002, William Robb wrote: An item I was bidding on ended for somewhat more than the article would have cost brand new. Is this a common occurence on eBay? From my experience, I'd say yes. In fact, I've sold stuff for prices higher than they'd sell for new. IMO, Its all about the available market of the individual buyer / bidders. In determining what's fair pricing (i.e., what we would pay for something at, say, keh or BH), we're excluding one obvious fact: Such resources are not known / available to everyone. When I see ridiculously high prices for stuff on ebay, I tend to picture folks in Smalleville, USA, who only have one major Camera shop in the town; like a Wolf/Ritz outfit who's prices are exhorbitant. Hence, to them almost any price is a good price. I was reminded this weekend though that it's not always Smallvillers when I saw someone drop a brickload of money at Wolf for some very nice equipment that would've likely been 30% cheaper virtually anywhere else. I cringed at the sight. But these are the people you could be bidding against. A classic example of this (IMO) is when I see rolls of Elite Chrome 100 sell for more than $3 or $4 a roll on ebay. It makes no sense to me since it sells at BH [much more reliable!] for about $2.80 per 36exp roll (imported)... but then I learned this weekend (in a pinch) that locally (From Walgreens to Wolf) the 24exp version sells for $8 to $10 a roll. Incredible. Needless to say, I made due with what I had. With all of that said, it's starting to seem like the more knowledgeable and resourceful a consumer you become, the less incredible various ebay deals begin to look. My $.02 jerome - 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: Camera Problems. Please Help!
Thanks for all of the suggestions. Here is my reply (or replies) to the comments thus far. Maybe this will help spark some other ideas. Otherwise, it sounds like Pentax will be borrowing my equipment for a while (once again!). Paul: You mentioned insufficient current (from rechargeables) as well as trigger mechanism for the f stop. Well, I dont use rechargeables (yet!), but the second part sounds reasonable. Since the flash apparently IS going off (I can see it, plus the reflection shows in the animals' eyes), perhaps the camera is choosing the wrong aperture for some reason (?!). In which case, not much I can do but send it for repair. Lawrence, See my inserted comments below: Did you get any flash confirmation signal after you took the picture? Yes, before (to let me know the flash was charged) and after (I actually saw the flash but) nothing out of the ordinary was displayed. This does bring up another point (perhaps related). The other day, I was shooting in Tv mode with flash the other day and noticed something strange. I set the speed to 1/60 and the lens to A. The camera indicated that the flash was ready to go, so I fired away. But after each shot, the aperture setting flashed (5.6) in the viewfinder. To me, that means that the picture was under or over exposed (likely under since it could have chosen a smaller aperture setting, but not a larger one)... So I guess I expect those to come back dark too (???). But why would this happen??? I'm OUTSIDE, and that much flash should not have been necessary. Moreover, the camera was content (no flashing signals) before the shot, and also when shooting at 1/100 just a second ago with flash. The flash shouldve been able to make the adjustment of me going to 1/60, especially since metering without flash showed about 1/15 or so was sufficient. Perplexing! (BTW, the subject was 6 feet away). fired, bad batteries, poor contacts... etc. You bring up a good point about the contacts. I'm guessing that since I get a flash is ready type of signal (plus the camera goes up to the flash sync speed), the contacts are fine... but maybe there's more to it (??) Maybe I should figure out how th best clean the flash contacts and try that before I use my test roll. Could you see the flash firing Yes. Plus, in the examples I posted, the animals eyes are proof that there was a flash. Was the sync speed set correctly when the flash is charged up? I'm in Aperture Priority mode, so the speed changes automatically (and it does display 100, the max sync speed, once the flash is charged). Have you made sure no exposure compensation has been set? Yes. Besides, wouldnt this affect all pictures (and not just the ones with flash). I found that sometimes body/flash contacts may not be good, and I need to remove/insert again to get good contacts (no automatic sync speed setting or no flash confirmation signal are the clues). These clues are never present, so I'm guessing its not the contacts sigh, but that is a good guess that I didnt even consider. GrayWolf, you wrote: From this I would guess that you are taking pics beyond the range of the flash. I do not know the guide number for that flash, but with the slow zoom I would guess that it is only good out to 12-15ft I checked that after your email. The sleeping hog photo was done from about 6 or 7 feet away, with both the 80-320mm and the 105mm Sigma Macro (max aperture = 2.8). The Gray Wolf photo (no, not you, the one with the four lit up eyes) was taken from about 8 feet away. The table in the manual says that I should have an effective range of 3-18ft (~1-6 meters) wide open or one stop down, which is where I pretty much stay. Plus... even if it was, say, 15 feet away, I couldnt imagine the drop-off being THAT dramatic from in range to out of range given the ambient lighting wasnt so bad in all of the shots [as Bruce pointed out, in many shots, I was only using the flash for fill]. But thanks. Based on your email, I suppose I'll run the test roll after all. Mark, most of your points were the same as Graywolfs. I will add, however, that I have indeed taken many shots in Full Program mode as well... same results unfortunately. Bruce, your last comment was about the flash settings. There's leading shutter, trailing shutter, contrast control and spot beam. I tend to keep it in the first one... but this still leads me to the next comment... With all of that said, someone sent me an email off-list suggesting that the flash and shutter simply may not be in sync. I guess this makes sense since I DO see the flash go off, and its shown in the eyes of the animals in the pics... but I havent a clue if its in sync or not (nor can I distinguish with my eyes if the shutter is open when the flash goes off... too many fractions of a second). Perhaps this is the problem (??) It sounds like its either that or the camera selecting an incorrect aperture for some reason. Either way, it appears to be beyond the
RE: Camera Problems. Please Help!
On Thu, 16 May 2002, MANGUM,MARK (HP-USA,ex1) wrote: How about the operation of the RTF (internal pop-up) flash? Do you get the same results? If it's only a 6-7ft shot then the RTF should work for a test. Blasted! I shouldve read this 5 minutes ago... I just finished running my test roll thru, and never took a shot with the RTF... Great advice. If my test roll comes back ugly, I guess I'll try that too. Thanks. On my way to get it developed, jerome - 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: Camera Problems. Please Help!
Well, the test results are back and not a trace of misbehavior on the part of either the flash or body; which is almost worse than otherwise [systematic errors are much easier to identify]. So I havent a clue still. I tried to vary things up as much as possible, and even shot in dim conditions WELL outside of the predescribed range of my flash... but nothing close to the aforementioned bad results. Thanks all for your replies nonetheless. At least now I better understand what it definitely isn't [e.g., based on your emails I understand now that its not a sync problem], and what it still might be. Ultimately I think I will leave it to Pentax to decide (I'm still under warranty). In the meantime, I'll just have to decide if I send the camera before or after a wedding I'm going to on June 23. If I send it before, I likely wont get it back soon enough, and since I'm using 400 speed print film (the camera and flash are now 1 for 1 on print film), I'm thinking of taking my chances. Thanks again, you all have been very insightful, as always. jerome - 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: Camera Problems. Please Help!
Try seeing how far out (distance) you can use that AF330FTZ flash. Try some test shots. As allused to earlier, I try to stay pretty conscious of the effective shooting range of my weak flash (usually with 6 to 15 feet, wide open). Look for flash confirmation signals in the viewfinder or on the flash. I've got 'em. My AF500FTZ with an onboard zoom feature doesn't work with the kind of subjects you are taking. You look to be far away or the animals would be frightened. Actually, because of the locations, these animals are pretty used to people. The hogs were no more than 8 feet away, the duck about the same. The eagle was a bit further (maybe 15 feet), but there was much more ambient light available there. Nonetheless, I understand the basic trend here of the advice I'm being given and will definitely take it into consideration. I will run the test as you and others have suggested, and see what I come up with. I have to admit though, given the typical proximity (usually within 10 to 15 feet), and aperture setting (wide open or a stop off) I'm skeptical. I just got off the phone with pentax support, and he seems to think that my flash is bugging out, perhaps fooling the camera and not really providing sufficient light. It's been to repair before, so that wouldnt be TOO surprising. You've got to get a tripod Got one! A cheap one, but it works :o) which is why (as shown in the samples) the flash is used often just for fill... and it still messes things up. Thanks Bob. jerome - 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: AA battery types
Mark, you asked: Is it OK to use NMH rechargeables in battery grips? Taken from a review of the MZ-S at the following site: http://www.steves-digicams.com/2001_reviews/pentax_mzs_pg3.html ...Since the BG-10 is a battery pack, let's talk about the batteries for a moment. It allows you to use the common AA type of alkaline or NiMH rechargeable cells instead of the two CR-2 lithium cells in the camera... Perhaps more importantly, an early morning phone call to Pentax tech support has confirmed these claims. In short, I'm excited. Quite possibly one less recurring expense to deal with. jerome - 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 .
OT: AA battery types
The recent Batter Life Question prompted me to ask the following: I have a related question... What batteries do you use in your battery packs? It used to be such an easy choice for me... Energizer or Duracell... but now there's regular energizer, energizer max, energizer titanium, energizer e^2 Photo batteries,... etc. sigh The whole thing has left me befuddled. I guess ultimately my question is, has anyone found that the price difference across the different levels of AA bateries within a brand name (and these price differences are VERY dramatic) are worth the extra bucks? I'm very tempted to stay with just the cheapest version of each, but not sure if I'm doing myself a disservice or if it really is just marketing. Moreover, my battery life has seemingly varied so much that I cant get a handle on which is best. If this was any other list, I'd doubt that anyone would have a definitive answer. but this is the PDML... home of the anal retentive (I mean that in an endearing way) so I'm sure SOMEONE has done a definitive test on this already... or at least has made a general assessment. Thanks in advance for your opinions. jerome - 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: Battey Life
From the Energizer Homepage: Keep batteries at room temperature. Heat can shorten their life and a damp location like the refrigerator is not recommended. Also, never carry loose batteries in your pocket or purse - contact with metal items like keys or coins can short-circuit the battery. - 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: AA battery types
On Mon, 13 May 2002, TM wrote: I'm using pretty much only the Energizer high output 1700mAH and Ray-O-Vac 1600 mAH NiMH rechargeables... Smacking self in head I use rechargeables for my cd player and havent a clue why I never thought to do the same for my camera equipment!!! One problem is that after a while, it seems that the life (or rather, turn-around time) on my rechargeables has diminished significantly; and was already significantly shorter than nonrechargeables to begin with... However! My rechargeables are cheap ones. Now that I think about it, i suppose that such an investment would make plenty of sense. Even if I bought plenty of rechargers + batteries, its still probably MUCh more economically efficient over time. Thanks for this (most obvious!) idea. Smacking self in head again Much appreciated. jerome - 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: AA battery types (carrying case)
Speaking of AAs, what do you all use to carry spare AAs, esp. if they're rechargeables and thus out of the box? If you buy one of the higher end versions of some batteries [energizer in particular], they tend to come in a plastic shell thats much more sturdy than the plastic on other battery packages. Once the cardboard is stripped down and discarded, this makes for a good recycleable battery case. - jerome - 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: Myrtle Beach? temp off list
I'm going on vacation with the family for a week so I'll be off-list for a week as of tomorrow. (would you have noticed?) Why of course! In fact, this place has seemed quite desolate since your departure. The list just isn't the same g. Anyhow, Hope you had a good time, Cory, and got plenty of great family pics to add to your collection. I could use such a trip myself. BTW, if all goes well, I'll be teaching part time in your neck of the woods soon (WCTC). Extra income for a few more Pentax (on topic!) lenses. TTYL, jerome - 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: Ouch ouch ouch ouch....
Or maybe not... looks like (s)he bought a screwmount pentax Just before the lens. Got a good deal on that one too. On Mon, 29 Apr 2002, James Adams wrote: I'd bet the buyer will have it on sale on Ebay in a week or two. James - 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: Guess what I found...
Guess he didn't read Pauls (well written) ebay speech sent just minutes before, huh? Or didnt care to adhere. Such is life I suppose. I thought it was pretty interesting too and I hoped no one else would notice. On Friday 26 April 2002 10:49 pm, Albert Fekson wrote: Seems interesting...Pentax A 100mm Macro http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItemitem=1349094657 - -- Kenneth Archer, San Antonio, Texas [EMAIL PROTECTED] - 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 .
PUG maintainer
Who currently has the honors? Is it Adelheid von Kirschten as the webpage suggests? I'm trying to get a hold of this person. I've already tried email. Guess I'll wait n see what happens. Thanks for any assitance, jerome - 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: tokina 80 - 400mm is it any good for wildlife
Hilarious On Sat, 13 Apr 2002 [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: They usually have trouble focusing with their paws and hoofs. Bird claws usually do better8-) In a message dated 4/13/2002 3:44:25 AM Central Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: tokina 80 - 400mm is it any good for wildlife - 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 .
WTB: 28-70 and loupe
#1: 28-70 F4 SMC FA AL #2: SMC 5.5x Loupe I've already seen the lens a few places on the used market, but thought I'd check here before I purchased. If I can, I may as well put the money in another PDMLers hands [not that my checkbook knows the difference, but hey]. Please contact me off-list if you're willing to sell: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Thanks in advance, jerome - 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: zoom len 28-70
You gotta be kiddin, right?! Is this like a test... to see if we can remember all that was said during the 8 times in the past 6 weeks that this subject came up? G Anyhow, since the archives must be currently inaccessible (?!), here ya go. Lucky for you I already did the leg work a few weeks ago. Hence, for a change I suppose supreme Laziness (or perhaps unawareness) has been rewarded. click here: http://www.isye.gatech.edu/~jerome/temp/lazyinfo.htm and scroll for different alternatives. Only thing is, I dont think the f2.8 version was covered. Hope this helps (not just you, but also those who rather not answer again). Take care and good luck, jerome - 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: Slashdotted! Amy Hughes Lego Church
Well, Slashdot covered Amy Hughes Lego church Nice! I glanced at the coverage. Is it just me, or was the comment, a monument to dead cats, no less quite callous, and almost downright rude [dont answer that... I dont mean to steer us off-topic]... Anyhow, Thanks for pointing that out, Mark. I quite enjoyed that project of hers and am glad to see it getting some more attention. Have a good weekend everyone! I'm going back into my hole now. Adios. jerome - 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: retail bummer
On Thu, 4 Apr 2002, CBWaters wrote: Burning a hole!!! OR my wife might use it to pay BILLS!!!?!?! it's gotta go quick! -snip- Guess I'll have to go back downtown to Wolf :( Dont do it, man!!! I'll let you borrow some of my stuff before I let another PDMLer pay 200% Wolf mark-ups. Better yet, if its burning a hole, then I'll even charge you a rental fee... just to help you out, ofcourse g But serious, if you want to borrow, I dont have much but I likely wont be shooting this weekend. I think you have my 'real' email address. jerome ___ Jerome D. Coombs-Reyes PhD Candidate, ISyE, Georgia Tech http://www.isye.gatech.edu/~jerome - 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: FA 28-105 or FA 28-70 ?
On Sun, 31 Mar 2002, Cyril MARION wrote: So my question to the list is how do the 2 zooms compare. Is the FA 28-105 really the best complement for a Z1 ? Although you did manage to put a _slightly_ different twist on it by adding the Z1 part (smart!), the basic question still has to be amongst the most frequently asked questions over the past 6 weeks (I recall 3 times... maybe 4). The frequency has inspired me to consider creating a FAQ page for PDML (we'll see). Anyhow, just wanted to make sure that you came across the following discussions in the archives: Discussion of 28-70 (and 24-90) http://www.mail-archive.com/pentax-discuss@pdml.net/msg61865.html LOTS of comments on all Pentax lenses: http://www.concentric.net/~smhalpin/LongComments.html#ZoomsDET (scroll down) FA28-105/f3.2-4.5 http://www.mail-archive.com/cgi-bin/htsearch?config=pentax-discuss_pdml_netrestrict=exclude=words=28-105mm http://www.mail-archive.com/pentax-discuss@pdml.net/msg54965.html http://www.mail-archive.com/pentax-discuss@pdml.net/msg05093.html Theres more... but I'm tired already. HTH, jerome ___ Jerome D. Coombs-Reyes PhD Candidate, ISyE, Georgia Tech http://www.isye.gatech.edu/~jerome - 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: FA 28-105 or FA 28-70 ?
I find it to be a good idea to make a FAQ for the PDML. But a lot of work to build it up. I AGREE! Thats why I said we'll see :o) I like projects like that so it would be fun (and informative!) for me, but I have enough (too many) photography related distractions from my _real_ work as it is, I suppose. sigh I think I will go for the FA 28-70 f/4 AL. Actually, ME TOO! I've been holding out for a 24-90... but am thinking better of it. For the purposes I intended for it (mostly for use in casual settings) I think the extra $230 is money better spent elsewhere. Not to mention that the extra bucks seem somewhat elusive right now. Plus, with my 50 and 105mm lenses in the bag, the only time I'd likely use this lens for important stuff would be at the wide end. With that said, perhaps the 28-70 + a wide prime [20 or 24mm] combo would be a better purchase. [still debating that part]. Just thinkin aloud. Anyhow, Best of luck with your purchase. jerome ___ Jerome D. Coombs-Reyes PhD Candidate, ISyE, Georgia Tech http://www.isye.gatech.edu/~jerome - 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: OT: Matching Colors in HTML
Is there a way to do it without Photoshop Yes. For Windows user (not sure if that includes you, Shel) windows Paint does the exact thing that gabriel discussed in his email, and I'm about 99% sure that windows Paint comes with every Windows package (its under Accessories). Click on the eyedropper, click on the desired color, go to Color on the Menu bar, then click on Edit Colors. From there, click on define custom colors. This last step will give you the RGB value. I havent used it myself but I think that Gabriels email also gave a link to a site that will convert it to HEX for you (if necessary). HTH, jerome ___ Jerome D. Coombs-Reyes PhD Candidate, ISyE, Georgia Tech http://www.isye.gatech.edu/~jerome - 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: CRITIC WANTED!!!!!:was what are you shooting this weekend
Brendan wrote: advise and comments ( be brutal!! please ) ...and Brutal he was! - 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: (OT?) PDMLers in the Atlanta Area
Just wanted to say thanks to the Atlanta PDMLers that got back to me on and off the list. There seems to be at least 5 of us, including myself. And a most cynical thanks to everyone else for all of the banter that you so lovingly supply. Happy shooting to all. jerome ps... my fellow alumnus, if you would be so kind to email me again, I'd appreciate it. Your email address got lost in my PDML trap, and I'm unsure as to if my guess of the correct one was correct. Thanks again. - 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: 28-70 vs 24-90 vs 28-105
Check the archives. This question (or very similar ones) have been posted and answered about 3 or 4 times in the past 6 weeks. There's some good comparative info already there in the archives. To help at least just a little, here's a couple of the links (but there are plenty more) http://www.mail-archive.com/pentax-discuss@pdml.net/msg61865.html http://www.mail-archive.com/pentax-discuss@pdml.net/msg53123.html Good luck, .jerome. On Thu, 14 Mar 2002, Peter Smekal wrote: I'm thinking about buying a good and not too expensive normal range zoom lense to use on my Z1-p. There is the SMC-FA 28-70 mm/4,0 AL which I have seen. It seems to be quite good and not too pricy. There are also two newer lenses, both with more tele-range: 1) SMC-FA 24-90mm f/3.5-4.5 AL [IF] and 2) SMC-FA 28-105/3,2-4,5 AL [IF] At leastv here in Sweden the 24-90 is more expensive than the other two lenses. Is it worth the extra money? What is your opinion (humble of course) of these lenses? Any recommendations? Have you seen any test results for the new lenses? Peter Smekal Uppsala, Sweden [EMAIL PROTECTED] - 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 .
Re: (OT?) PDMLers in the Atlanta Area
Thats spelt Canadian You silly Ameriquan, you. HEY! be glad I even mentioned you! grin Any other typos? - 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: (OT?) PDMLers in the Atlanta Area
(after thought...) Thats spelt Canadian And to think.. I spelled Madagascar correctly. Go figure. - 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: (OT?) PDMLers in the Atlanta Area
Spelt is a grain. There's an apostrophe in thats. (Thinking: how did I miss that obvious setup?!) Point well made Shel! Touche my CanadiAn friend! okay...okay... enough late night shenanigans, and back on topic with my off-topic inquiry g. - 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: OT: Question for AOL Users
Shel, I have a backup aol account - THere isn't a way to send hotlinks from outside. Another AOL nasty. They just don't allow them in. Not that I'm a big AOL fan, but I don't think thats true. Funny this should come up today. I have an AOL account that I use pretty much just for ISP purposes (that is, I dont use the email account attached to it). However, on the rare occasion that I get emails to my school account (which I check using Telnet) that have links in them, I forward it to my AOL account. Once I check it in AOL, I then have clickable links. This hasn't happened in a while, but I just used the feature this morning, before I check the PDML post. Moreover, the piece of mail that I forwarded was forwarded to me through a number of previous (non-AOL) recipients. One caveat to add is that I use AOL 5.0, not 7.0. I know this doesnt help wrt how its done, but just thought I should add that it Is indeed doable. HTH jerome - 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 .
OT: www.technikdirekt.de
Has anyone in the States ordered from www.technikdirekt.de? If so, i would like to know how the experience was. Thanks in advance, .jerome. - 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: OT: Canceling my EBay auction (advice sought)
I was in the same situation (to cancel or not to cancel) not too long ago. I ended up cancelling. Because my concious tends to be pathetically guilty about such things, I had the same dilemma. I went as far as to email each person who had bidded individually (pathetic, huh?)... But anyway... here's what I learned: In short, I would suggest a terse explanation. Unfortunately, it seems that (though it seems like the right thing to do), the more information you supply, the more you leave yourself open to criticism and opinions being voiced. Besides, the top of your page will say something like AUCTION HAS ENDED EARLY... the part where you get to add to the description will be way at the bottom of the page... and I think you'd be surprised at how many people dont even bother to scroll down once they see that the auction is dead. And will my name forever be mud? Definitely not. I think that memories are incredibly short on eBay. What matters (over time) is the feedback, and like you pointed out: people (can't) post feedback unless they're the buyer. Your post (and hence your conscious) already shows that you are not doing such a thing maliciously, so in that respect I think you can personally rest assured. However, I will advise the following: (I guess this is for future reference, since I just reread your post, and noticed that you already ended the auction)... Be CERTAIN that you are not underselling yourself. Sometimes you will be surprised how much some people (perhaps in very remote, smaller markets) will be willing to pay for an item when you may deem it significantly less in value. Is 4 days early worth the potential of an extra xx amount of dollars? In my case, I was certain that the bids would not go higher than the price given by the person who wanted me to end the auction. Why? (a) I checked the history on eBay (completed items) on how much identical items sold for previously. And (b) the price they gave was a couple of dollars above the cost of buying it new on a few other websites (they needed the item urgently) Hope this helps. .jerome. - 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: OT: Canceling my EBay auction (advice sought)
You and the buyer broke a number of Ebay rules regarding transactions. Can you please let me know which rules these are? I'm quite curious since I've done somthing similar myself. (10 seconds later...) ...In reviewing this particular case, I see where he 'could' have gone wrong (broke a number of rules as you put it)... but, still, here's my question: This particular person (forgot the name already) sold first, THEN ended the auction, versus the other way around... But vice versa or versa vice, these two seem to be only 'technically' different. (ie, the result is exactly the same). Anyhow, the question is, since eBay specifically makes a provision for ending your auction early and selling to the current highest bidder, then if you do so, how is this breaking the rule? Or perhaps your disgust is in reference to the (seemingly trivial) technicality that I sited above (?). Thanks for clarifying. .jerome. - 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 .
HP Photosmart S20 (buy it?!)
Okay... so I've been paging through the PDML archives for about a week now, and I think I've read just about every posting I deemed helpful concerning which scanner to buy (and theres a LOT of them!... thanks for you past contributions). For the capability and price range, I've decided on the Photosmart S20... Atleast for now. From reading your opinions over time, the pros for this system and the praise that it has received (even when you omit all of Pauls advertisements... I mean... postings... concernings this unit) have significantly outweighed any cons. And to top it off, I 've just been offered a deal I (almost) can't refuse (under 350 for a hopefully used-but-mint unit)... Hence, this posting is somewhat of a last call... A plea for any arguments, comments, opinions, that I should concider with respect to purchasing this scanner. Perhaps some of you have had developments _since_ all of the scanner posts that I've read which have changed your opinions about this or related products. Any such input would be appreciated. Lastly, going thru with this particular deal is not a done deal at all. Hence, your comments may be very helpful for future considerations as well. Thanks in advance, .jerome. ps... I'm primarily looking for a slide scanner... and the added capability of scanning up to 5x7 prints is definitely a plus. - 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: OT: Canceling my EBay auction (advice sought)
By the way, the going rate on my unit is $700 to $850. He paid me $1000. Great! What portion do we get for consulting fees? (dont answer that)... Anyhow, I'm glad that it went well for you. .jerome. - 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: Keh or Pentax for repair
On Fri, 25 Jan 2002, Nitin Garg wrote: hmmm... i was thinking of sending it to keh repair center. Would sending to pentax itself be better ? How much more expensive (cheaper?) would that be Nitin, Here's my experience. Some time ago I completely destroyed the shutter curtain of one of my ZX bodies. I'm in Atlanta, so first I took it to Keh. Assuming it was only the curtain and related parts (not sure what means)... they offered to fix it for about $110. They would also warranty the repaired part for 3 months (I THINK). In the end, I sent it to pentax instead. Now, pentax generally wont give you an estimate over the phone, but I told them what I THOUGHT the problem was, and they said about $100. With shipping, it likely costed me about the same as Keh. But here's the advantages... Pentax: 1. replaced my entire shutter system (curtains, timing gear, etc) and bounce prevention assemblies. 2. Aligned and calibrated curtain tensions and exposure to factory specifications. 3. assessed that my camera had suffered impact damage (maybe it was the horse back riding)... and replaced my entire outter casing, which made a big difference to a scuffed up 3 year old camera. 4. and (most importantly) they gave me an additional one year warranty on (not just the repaired parts, but) the entire camera [which is their general policy after repairs]. So I damn near got a brand new camera back. I also like that you can track your repair status via the internet, and the people in that dept. on the phone are especially nice and helpful. Once the camera arrived there, it took about 10-14 days to get back to me. Not bad (in my opinion). If you DO send it to Pentax, my advice is to call when you think it has gotten there and get the ball rolling on the repairs. Once they assess the problem, you can either wait for a letter in the mail, and mail them back (ie, add about 7-10 days to the process), or be more proactive and get your gear back quicker. They also recalibrated everything (metering system...), which Keh will also do... but my opinion is that I rather have the manufacturer do this than a 3rd party. Here's another caveat to the story: Once I got it back, the built-in-flash didnt work. Some may say AH HA! HORRIBLE SERVICE! ... but I just say, hey, stuff happens. So I called, and explained the problem. They were quite apologetic and told me that this of course was covered in the new warranty they had just given me. Once I returned it, it was given priority status, and the total turn around time (from when I sent it to when I got it back) was about 7 days total (they returned it via overnight mail). If it sounds like I'm pushing pentax service dept, I AM! I think that people are more inclined to share their bad storys (ie complain) than their good ones... so I wanted to be sure to get this one in while I could. In Short, my suggestion is: SEND IT TO PENTAX INSTEAD. But hey, there are likely some good Keh stories out there too. .jerome. - 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: Which zoom lens for PZ-10 ??
On Wed, 16 Jan 2002, Fred Widall wrote: FA Lens Zoom 28-105mm f/3.2-4.5 or FA-Lens Zoom 28-70mm F/4.0 Smcp Ashperic Hopefully Fred will not mind my weight as I piggy-back on his question... I have considered the same two lenses, as well as a third one: the FA 24-90 F/3.5-4.5 AL[IF] . The prices are quite different; however I cant decide for the life of me if the lens quality and/or extra width in the latter lens is worth it. I know the 24mm vs. 28mm is a personal decision, but perhaps you can help decide the (more objective) quality concern. I'll likely check out the review in Shutterbug, as Rob suggested earlier. However, I'd of course like to hear from you guys (and gals) also. Thanks! .jerome. ps... Like Fred, I'm also looking (pretty much) exclusively for a zoom to fill this particular need. Hence, hopefully we wont get too many well what you REALLy need is a PRIME! responses... But of course theres always at least one... So let me get it out the way now: THERES NOTHING LIKE A PRIME LENS! I'LL TAKE A PRIME OVER A ZOOM ANY DAY! PRIMES SURE ARE WONDERFUL! :O) thanks in advance. - 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 .
