RE: November PUG pt1
Kevin, Thanks for your PUG comments and kind words. Since you mentioned bracketing, I did bracket at half stops. (thanks Pentax for the user-friendly exposure compensation control.) The shot I submitted is the lightest. The other two shots are dark and darker still. The darker ones bring out more detail and color in the sky, but the heather in the foreground looses detail and color. The thing I learned from this situation is to invest in sliding ND grad 1 and 2 stop filters. In outdoor photography you often have to deal with the limited latitude of slide film. That is one reason I used provia, rather than velvia in this particular shot. Spot meter was also invaluable here. Harald Rust Kevin wrote: Morning Has Broken This really has alot going for it, nice color and detail in the forground, a lake surounded by trees drifting into the distance and some nice color in the sky. Did you bracket this? I would love to see the shots either side of it.
re: My PUG favorites for this month
Thibault, Thank you for taking the time to comment on my PUG entry. You're right. It is a very peaceful place, at least, it was that summer morning. I'm glad you think that I captured the mood of the moment. I enjoyed your PUG comments on the other photos as well. Harald Rust Thibault wrote: Morning Has Broken by Harald Rust This is a really nice landscape, very peaceful, very soft and very quiet. A place I'd like to be. The color range especially the pinks looks nice.
Re: Carrying a tripod
Adelheid, I found it most comfortable to carry my tripod with a strap from an old camera bag. I fasten the strap with a couple of plastic ties, one on the top around the ballhead, and a big plastic tie at the bottom of the tripod that I pull over the three legs when the tripod is folded up. I tried strapping the tripod to the backpack, but the whole thing becomes too heavy on my back. With the tripod hanging on its own strap, I can move it around on long hikes. Less fatigue that way. It all depends on how much your tripod plus ballhead weighs. My Bogen seems pretty heavy. I'd like to get a carbon fiber one, but they're kind of pricey. Harald Rust
Re: Prints from slides questions
I had the same experience with prints from slides, disappointing results, dull colors, no comparison to the slides. It was the same with every local lab I tried, digital or conventional process. Then I got this tip to try Overlake Photo in Bellevue. http://www.overlakephoto.com/main.html I had a few 5 x 7 test prints made from slides recently. The results were awesome. The high gloss prints are as vibrant as the slides themselves. Totally professional results. The prints were on Agfa paper, but don't know if they use the same Agfa D-lab that Bruce mentioned previously. One complaint that I have was the edges of the slides were cropped all the way around, which unfortunately affected the composition in a couple cases. Haven't dealt with that yet. Guess I'll have to contact them about that sometime to make sure it doesn't happen on a larger more costly enlargement. Or is that common that slides to prints process crop the edges? Harald
Re: Cotty's September PUG review
Hi Cotty, Thanks for taking the time to write another review, which I am always looking forward to (even if I'm not mentioned). It's an interesting analogy to compare the Painted Hills to shaved cheeks. They do look like that from a distance, with their smoothly curved surface. But from very close, the surface actually has a texture of puffed popcorn. In the springtime there are supposed to be yellow wildflowers blooming, but there weren't many this year due to the dry weather in Oregon. Thanks again for your kind words. Harald Washington state Cotty wrote: Painted Hills Harold Rust Fascinating hills, they look so smooth, like freshly shaved cheeks! Nice light here for Harold as he returns again to better himself. Truly amazing landscape.
Re: August PUG Comments to Bruce Dayton
I just wanted to resend this following message to thank Bruce Dayton for the friendly comment on my August pug entry, since it never reached the Pentax list in August when the list had technical problems. I've since been on a trip to Arizona. Harald Hi Bruce, Thank you so much for the kind words! It made my day. I wish the scan could have been sharper, as it is on the slide. Someday I'm going to invest in a better scanner. When I took the shot, I didn't expect much, but the photo turned out interesting anyway. The only way to get this shot was to use the self-timer on the MZ-S, put the black cap on the viewfinder, and then move a distance away from the camera and tripod, as my own shadow was reflecting in the puddle. Harald Rust Bruce wrote: Who is the Most Beautiful of Them All? - Harald Rust This is an image that I wish I would have made. I'm afraid that I wouldn't have been in the right place to find this wonderful image. Harald has a knack for getting these great shots. The row full of water with the reflection of the tulips breaks it up just enough to not have the sea of tulips overpower. This is one of my favorite images this month. Great job!
Ot: Met Lee Mann, NW Nature Photographer
Some of you might find this interesting. I spent a few days at Mt. Baker, Washington state, doing some landscape photography with my Pentax 35 mm. Came through this little town, and saw the sign, Lee Mann gallery, 1 mile this way. So we follow the sign, and end up in the driveway of a beautiful contemporary home. A scholarly looking gentleman greets me and my wife, and my wife has the guts to ask, are you Lee Mann? He says, yes, I am. He welcomes us into his shop and gallery. Spent awhile admiring some of his incredible work, but there were too many images to take them all in. The gallery is filled with 30 years of his work, photograhic prints (high quality ink jet prints, scanned and printed by himself, personally in his shop), posters, and note cards, both color and bw. Couldn't resist picking his brain a little. He gave us a tour of his high tech shop, top-end 6 x 7 scanner, huge Epson ink jet printer. I ask him, You like total control of your work? and he agrees, that's the only way he can get the results he wants. He mostly uses 6 x 7 format. Talking about film, he says he uses negative film, because of the wider f stop range, which he thinks works better for the scenics during bright conditions. He says, Velvia works well with an overcast sky. We talk about digital, which he doesn't use. He guesses that maybe in 3 to 4 years, digital might equal film, and mentions the Foeveon (sp?) chip. He likes ink jet prints, and his limited edition prints are now made in his shop on his own printer. I ask him about some of the shooting locations, and how he manages to get those special nature shots. He tells me that he has returned to a particular place 29 times to better his result. Just wanted to share this with you. Harald - 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: Vancouver Island Nature Photography?
Hi Canadian Listmembers, I'm going to spend a few days in Vancouver Island, and I'm planning to drive on the backroads and camp and visit Tofino. Just wondering if any of you know some good places for nature photography on the island? I'm a bit familiar with Victoria, but that's all I've seen of the island so far. Thanks for any ideas. Harald Rust Washington state - 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: Photos of the Palouse
Ken, Thanks for your kind words. We were there a couple of weeks ago, Memorial Day weekend. The colors were mostly greens and dark brown soil. It's pretty neat, but at the end of July, the wheat fields turn golden during harvest time. That's when the Palouse is at its most dramatic. I'm hoping to go back then. Harald Ken wrote: Nice job harald. The Palouse has been on my list of places to visit and shoot. A well done report. What time of the year were the photos taken? Ken Waller - 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 .
Photos of the Palouse
I just finished a photo trip report for our travel club about the Palouse, Washington. The Palouse is very popular with photographers. Even John Shaw took many photos there. I'll have to go back in the late summer when the hills turn golden during harvest time, which usually is the best time for photography. It can be viewed here: http://www.geocities.com/harald_nancy/palouse.htm I used my ZX-5, Tokina 80-200, Pentax 400 5.6 for the owl photo. Bogen tripod, and remote shutter release, Velvia film. Harald - 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: May PUG Review from Cotty
Hi Cotty, Thank you for the May review and for taking the time for the good squint. Also I appreciate your kind comments. Harald Cotty wrote: Le Petit Prince (tree frog) Harold Rust Charming shot - well composed and sharp where it needs to be. Nicely observed. - 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: April 2002 PUG Comments (yes, April)
Ed, Thanks for your kind comment. Glad you liked it. Some of the credit for the image probably should go to the Pentax 50mm macro lens. The lens is becoming one of my favorite. Harald Ed wrote: Juicy - Harald Rust I once worked for Sunkist oranges - this could be one of their posters. Excellent! - 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: Photos of Tulip Fields in Washington
Gaurev, Thanks for your kind words. About capturing sunsets, I usually put the camera (ZX-5) on manual mode. I set the aperature to F8 or F11 or something like that, then meter the sky next to the sun, but no sun in the viewfinder. Keep that exposure, and then recompose. Now when you point the camera towards the sun, you will see the scale inside the viewfinder shoot up, as if it's overexposed. Just ignore, and take a shot. If it's a worthy sunset, take some extra shots with half stops bracketed. Sometimes I use the spot meter and meter on something else like the sand in the front and keep that exposure. Harald Gaurev wrote: Extremely beautiful!! I really enjoyed them. I also looked at some other pictures and particularly liked the sunset picture at: http://www.geocities.com/harald_nancy/images/sunset.jpg Was wondering if you could give me some tips on capturing sunsets. How did you meter it? What is the best time to capture the sunset? Did you need to bracket by large EV values? Any tips would be much appreciated. Gaurav - 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: Photos of Tulip Fields in Washington
Steve, Thanks! It's nice to have a photo opportunity like the flower fields, and a lot of loving care goes into planting and organizing the farms, and keeping them publicly accessible. Harald Steve wrote: Simply gorgeous Harald! Steve Larson - 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: Photos of Tulip Fields in Washington
Frits, Thanks for your friendly note. The farms are still run by the original Dutch immigrant families. The most noted are DeGoedes family. All the tulips are hybridized in Holland, and a few varieties are named after local areas, in honor of the tulip farmers of Washington state. Harald Frits wrote: Very nice Harald! For a Dutch guy it is strange to see tulip fields with the typical US barns in the background, somehow that doesn't fit in my expectations I guess. Frits Wüthrich - 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: Photos of Tulip Fields in Washington
Jim, Thanks! We got lucky, and had some time earlier in the week. The tulip season was pretty late this year. When we first arrived, the flowers in most fields were still closed. But the light was better on those days. La Conner once flourished as a fishing and shipping port. There also used to be, until recently, a pea processing plant. Most of the local farms would supply the pea crop. In the '70s it became an artist community when writer Tom Robbins moved there from Seattle. Later the tourists flooded in. Harald Jim wrote: Great photos. I drove up from Portland to see them last Saturday. I avoided the horrendous daytime traffic on I-5 through the Tacoma-Seattle-Everett area by driving really early in the morning (around 2AM). The lighting conditions for me were cloudy-bright unlike the sunny days you had for your photos. Glad I rode the Tulip Transit buses instead of driving to the various floral farms. La Connor is interesting. What industry sustained the town before it settled on the tourist dollars? Jim A. - 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: Photos of Tulip Fields in Washington
Kathy, Thanks for your kind words. You can bookmark this website for info: http://www.tulipfestival.org/ This shows the dates for the tulips. This year it is extended one week, because of the late season. There's also a map, showing fields in bloom. It's quite a spectacle with the large expanses of intense colors. Harald Kathy wrote: How incredibly beautiful. When were you there? I guess we've missed this wonderful display this year, but my daughter lives in the Pacific Northwest, and I sure would like to plan a visit there next year when these tulips are in bloom. Incidentally, I really enjoy all of your photos. Kathy L. - 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 .
Photos of Tulip Fields in Washington
Hi Pentaxians, I just spent a few days shooting in the tulip fields by La Conner, Washington state. The expanse of colors in the tulip fields were spectacular! If anyone likes to view a few photos I scanned, go here: http://www.geocities.com/harald_nancy/Tulips_2002.htm Photos were taken with my trusty ZX-5, Pentax 50 macro, Pentax 28-70, Tokina 80-200, Tokina 20-35. slide film Kodak Elite Chrome 100. Harald - 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 .
Photos of sea lion caves on trip to Oregon
If anyone is interested, I just finished a new trip report for my travel website. It's about the sea lion caves and the dunes on the central Oregon coast. Also a shot of flesh eating plants. I had fun trying out a couple of new lenses, Tokina 20-35mm and Tokina 80-200mm. I'm starting to get used to their weight. http://www.geocities.com/harald_nancy/oregon_coast.htm Any comments welcome. Harald - 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: equipment bashing update
Tom, It sounds like the MZ-S fared pretty well in the mishap. Did it suffer any consequences after being airborne? Nancy - 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: My April picks from Poland
Maciej, Thanks for your comment. I'm glad you liked it. My intent was to come up with something extremely bright and cheerful, but familiar. For still life photography, it would be nice to have access to a studio and photo lighting. But it is possible to get some results improvising with natural light. Those mono picture calendars sound interesting. Harald Maciej wrote: - Juicy by Harald Rust - don't know exactly why but I like this shot a lot. Maybe it's the joyfull colour? Simple subject but great approach. This would easily qualify for those calendars with almost mono pictures (thing in mainly one colour photographed together) - 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[2]: Photos of migrating Cranes in Washington
Bruce, Thanks for your kind words. Impressions of the Pentax FA* 400mm 5.6 lens: Firstly, it's a beautiful lens. Feels solid with a metal body. I find it very user-friendly. Very smooth focusing on manual focus, and easy to switch back and forth between manual and auto focus. It turned out to be very important for fine-tuning the focus in this case. Sometimes the auto focus would get confused pointing skyward. Nice compact size and not too heavy. Very sharp picture quality. Sometime I'll have to buy a better slide scanner. Technique I used for the birds in flight: I used my Bogen tripod with Manfrotto ballhead. Mostly crouching on the ground. I set the tripod up low, so as not to frighten off the skittish birds. Adjusted the tension on the ballhead, so there would be some resistance to steady the lens, but for easy panning. Used a relatively large aperature, like F5.6 and F8, with a 81a warming filter to compensate for the grey and cloudy weather. Film was Kodak Elite Chrome iso 200 slide. Figured the birds were pretty much grey tone, so I let the camera choose the shutter speed on spot metering. No exposure compensation. Shutter speed was pretty fast. It was just a matter of sitting quietly, and panning with the birds in flight. Sometimes I would lay on my back with the tripod on my stomach and the camera pointing straight up. You can do all this with this compact Pentax 400. I always stay a half frame ahead of the birds, and then if there is a nice composition, I'd take the shot. Meanwhile switching back and forth between manual and auto focus for fine-tuning. Wildlife photography is a lot of fun. Harald Bruce wrote: harald, I must say that I was impressed with your shots of birds in flight. For a first time user of that lens, you did a great job. Would you care to tell us your impressions of the lens and techniques that you used? Bruce Dayton - 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: Velvia (was: Film ISO Speed Choices?
Christian and all, I'm not ashamed to say I love Velvia and its saturated colors. Are French Impressionist paintings, such as those of Seurat or Dufy, as examples, with all their intense colors gaudy? I don't think so. Photography, to me, is like painting with light. The different film choices are like a paintbrush. That's why I'm not drawn to digital photography, because I can't choose film. Maybe someday there will be digitals with film modes like Velvia mode, Agfa mode or Kodak mode with patent royalties to the ex-film manufacturers. What a future. I enjoy your two examples of Velvia, red flower and green caterpillar. In my opinion, it's the saturated colors that make those two photos interesting. Just my humble opinion. Harald Christian wrote: Can you send me links to examples of this gaudy color emphasis (or files off-list)? I'm curious to see what you mean. honestly, in my personal photography and looking at profesional nature photographer's photos using Velvia I've not seen anyhting that looked gaudy or out of place to me. Again, this is all personal opinion but there seems to be several people on this list that have made comments about Velvia's oversaturation and I would just like to see what they mean. I am still struggling with composition so I don't have too many keepers but here are two of my favorites using Velvia. I REALLY like the colors in theese two shots. In your (and anyone else on this list) opinion, is this over saturated or gaudy? http://photography.skofteland.net/flowers/canis.htm http://photography.skofteland.net/insects/insect08.htm I value your opinions. Thanks Christian - 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: my favorite March PUG entries
Hi Amita, Thank you for your friendly comments. The photo I captured that evening was a lucky combination of different elements coming together. I also enjoyed your website, especially the trip reports to Las Vegas, Red Rock Canyon, and Death Valley. Nice shots inside the casinos, especially the Venetian glass ceiling. Congratulations on your wedding. Harald Amita Guha wrote: Cosmic Karma by Harald Rust - the colors are amazing. You had good karma indeed to get this shot! - 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: MZ-S for under $700
The lowest price I have found for the U.S. version MZ-S (body only) is $768.99 from Tristate Camera. Has anyone found a better price for the U.S. model from a reputable dealer? Thanks. Nancy - 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: MZ-S price drop?
Tiger, I called up one of the mail order houses recently that listed a lower priced MZ-S in the magazine ad. On the phone, they told me that the price was for a import body, and the U.S. model was higher and had to be purchased with Mack insurance for around $800. I guess it was the typical bait and switch. Let us know if you have luck finding a good price. I'm also looking for a MZ-S. Thanks. Nancy - 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: my March PUG favorites
Richard, Thank you for your encouragement. I was kind of surprised that evening when Mt. St. Helens put on the short performance. Often the volcano is not all that photogenic. Mostly brown and grey ash, with a steely sky. Nevertheless, it's one of my favorite places. Harald Washington state Richard Seaman wrote: Cosmic Karma by Harald Rust The colors are magnificent, and the cropping with the mountain (which would normally dominate the shot) at the bottom is unusual, but very effective - it does give it a spiritual tone. - 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: MZ-S extended warranty(?)
In case anyone is interested, I did call BH and Cameraworld. Neither had the 2 year Pentax ext. warranty for the MZ-S yet. BH had it in their computer and said they will get it around the end of March. Cameraworld also has it in their computer and will have it for sale sometime soon for $50. Guess I'll just wait until then. Thanks all for the friendly responses. Nancy Tom wrote: Has anyone anwered this? I can't find the warranty on any of the usual sites, but I would think that an authorized Pentax dealer would have to offer it. Maybe call or email B+H and see if they'll sell you one. tv - 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: MZ-S extended warranty(?)
Thanks all for the replies. Tom, that's what the Pentax rep. told me. He also gave me a product number for the Pentax MZ-S 2 year extended warranty as Product 80200. He said the list price for the Pentax extended warranty is $149.99, but the actual price charged by the discount mail order houses should be a lot lower. (like maybe $50 or so). The question remains, where can I buy this Pentax MZ-S ext. warranty? Most mail order houses sell Mack ext. warranty for the MZ-S. BH and such do sell the Pentax ext. warranty for the ZX/PZ line, which is 4 years, but apparently does not cover the MZ-S. I'm not familiar with Mack, but from what I understand they have their own repair facilities in New Jersey. I'd rather send my future MZ-S to Pentax should it need some repair or recalibrating, which Pentax does with specialized computer software. Thanks for any leads. Nancy Tom wrote: As I understand it, the extended warranty on a MZ-S is two years, which is on top of the normal one year warranty. The extended warranty on the ZX cameras is 4 years. One cool thing about it is that you can send your camera in for a CLA at no cost during the extended warranty period. - 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: first PUG comments
Christian, Thanks. Glad you liked it. First, I was a little worried that the shot was too cliche for the PUG, but then I sent it in anyway. One encounters photos like that every day in calendars, etc, but trying to catch it yourself is not that easy. Mostly Mt. Rainier is covered with clouds and fog, and you have to spend a lot of time up there to catch any good light (which has its own reward). Harald Rust Washington state Christian wrote: snip This will be the first time I comment on PUG submissions Here are my favorites (in order of appearance): Paradise - Harald Rust - I'm a sucker for landscapes like this... what can I say? - 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: Temporary dropout
Don't forget the pink sunsets and alpenglow (my favorites). Oh and it's safe to use mirror lockup again. Harald Gianfranco wrote: And cats pictures!!! Don't you forget cats! Gianfranco (with 20 cats sitting around...) Ann Sanfedele [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Quick everyone, post your flower pictures!! annsan Mike Johnston wrote: Hey friends, I must leave the list for a few days to concentrate on work. I'll be looking forward to getting back again--see you soon. Be good! - 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: some more PUG comments
Jaume, I don't manipulate digitally, so some others might know more about that. I don't think I would crop it. It changes the character of the compositon too much, the tall and narrow effect. Maybe the wires just belong there, and are part of the passageway. I tried to get another look, but wasn't able to bring up the PUG this afternoon. I think it's a very interesting photo. Harald Jaume wrote: The wires! I haven't paid too much attention to them since my eyes always follow the stairs when I look at this picture, but you're right, they are too visible. But, are you suggesting digitally deleting them or cropping the picture? Thanks for your comments, I am glad you liked it. Jaume - 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 .
Some more PUG comments
some Feb PUG comments a few photos I especially enjoyed, and like to comment on, if I may. (in order as they appear in the PUG). Toladie Well by Joseph Tainter I like the spontaneity of the shot, and the story it tells. Takes me right into Africa. Also good depth of field with the line into the distance. Somewhere in Colorado by William Robb I like the glistening light on the cliffs and the rocks. Maybe it's right after a rain or morning dew? It gives it a special quality. Cadaques by Jaume Lahuerta Makes me feel like I'm standing right there at the top of the steps. I enjoy the way the photo leads you into the narrow passageway. How about a cutter for the wires (?) Gates of the Valley by Dick Jones Nice classical shot of the valley and El Capitan. Inspires me to go back to Yosemite sometime, and try some black and white. Partnachklamm in Winter by Hans-Bernhard Beykirch You can almost feel the cold. The long exposure gives it an ethereal quality. Mirror Image?? by Toni Lankerd I enjoy the luminous quality of the tulips. Interesting backlit effect despite the black background. Butterfly near Tucson, AZ - Nov. 7, 2001 by Ann Sanfedele I like the way the butterfly stands out against the background. Nice colors and perfect composition. G.G. and Mari, Thanksgiving 2001 by Mike Johnston Good family shot. Nice example of shallow depth of field. I'll have to try the Kodak Tri-X sometime. Too bad the towel is behind your mother's head. Otherwise would be almost perfect. Are you sure they are your family, and not hired models? Harald Rust - 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: What Have You Learned Here?
I've only been on the list a couple of months. The first thing that comes to mind since I've been following the list is learning to interact with other photographers. I never used to talk to photographers out in the field. But now it's natural to make conversations when I run into some tripod carrying shutterbugs. Also I became more aware of the art of photography and seeing. Learned lots about equipment. I used to be satisfied with my ZX-5 and a couple of Pentax zooms. Most of my money was spent on food, shelter, transportation, but it seems like that has changed. Now there is something just as important to spend money on. Most important, discovered that a lot of photographers are muy simpatico. Harald Rust Washington state http://www.geocities.com/harald_nancy/ - 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: What did we shoot this weekend?
Three shots I took last weekend camping on Mt Rainier New Years Eve. No photos this weekend, too much rain here in the Pacific Northwest. http://www.geocities.com/harald_nancy/weekend_shots.htm Mostly experimental with cheap Kodak print film. Harald - 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 .
MZ-S Sighting
Hi all, Thanks for the store recommendations in the PNW. We ended up driving down yesterday to Portland's Camera World store to take a look at the MZ-S. The phone number to R K Photo in Auburn WA seems to be disconnected. Are they still in business? The MZ-S is definitely going to be my next camera. I think Pentax has a real winner with the MZ-S. All the main functions are easily accessible without having to push and hold any mode buttons. The auto focus is very fast and smooth. Shutter seems vibration-free. (smoother than my ZX-5). To me, it's a definite postive that the camera has its unique switches and dials for drive mode, metering mode, exposure compensation, auto bracketing, traditonal aperature lens ring, and separate auto focus and auto exposure lock buttons. Except for the custom functions, I could figure out all the main functions without the manual (unlike Canon Eos 3 and Nikon F100). It's a very intuitive camera, very well thought out. It's not a small task to incorporate so many functions, and keep the camera user-friendly. Also like the shape, size, weight, and sturdiness of the body. The built-in flash can certainly come in handy. Viewfinder seemed bright, and liked the lcd illuminator aid light. One salesman told me that the camera was featured in Las Vegas Photo Media show, and it was well received. One thing I couldn't figure out was how you would set the camera to prewind the film to a specific frame number. (read about it) Is it actually possible to use part of a roll of film, rewind it, and then later put it back in the camera, advance it to a frame number, and shoot the rest of the roll? Could come in handy for multiple exposures, like moon shots, and then later, add whatever else. Harald Washington state - 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 .
Met Art Wolfe
Just happened to run into Art Wolfe, world renowned wildlife and outdoor photographer, this weekend in Seattle, Washington. If you don't know, this is his website: http://www.artwolfe.com/ Started talking a bit about outdoor photography, so I asked him What's your favorite lense? He asks, What camera are you using? I say, Pentax. His eyes light up, Ah, Medium format. (one of his cameras is a Pentax Med. Format). No, I say, 35mm. I was kind of surprised that his favorite lense right now for 35mm is the super wide angle zoom 17-35 mm. Next favorite 70-200mm zoom. In his opinion modern pro-grade zooms have advanced to such a degree that they are equal to primary lenses. He prefers them for composing. His results obviously speak for themselves. Just thought to share it with you. Harald - 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 .
Photos of Newport, Oregon coast
Hi Pentaxians, A few photos I took Veteran's Day weekend at Newport, Central Oregon coast. The listmembers from the PNW will know where it is. They let me use the tripod in the aquarium, and they are very accomodating to photographers. The photos might not be the greatest, but we had a lot of fun. I think the ZX-5 did pretty well, considering the strange lighting conditions. Some of the photos were shot with 400 iso cheap Kodak print, and 100 and 200 Kodak elite chrome slide film. Lense used 28-70 mm and 100- 300 mm Pentax. Click here: http://www.geocities.com/harald_nancy/newport.htm Harald - 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 .
Traditional vs Digital Photography
Here's an interesting article about traditional vs digital photography by Pedro Meyer. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/photo/essays/zonezero/2.htm It includes an interesting example of how you can alter digital images with software. If you click on the picture top right, it brings up the original photo before alteration. Harald - 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: pacific image film scanner-opinions
Rob, I have the Pacific Image 1800u scanner, and have a kind of love/hate relationship with it. I use it for slides only, because mine doesn't seem to work well with negatives. If the colors in a transparency are too subtle, the scanner doesn't seem to recognize them. It does an adequate job if the colors and contrast are strong. From what I understand (correct me if I'm wrong), more expensive scanners can recognize more colors. Perhaps that's the limitation of the Pacific Image 1800u scanner. I have a image in the November PUG, and I had it rescanned with a Minolta scanner by a shop. It looks much better than the scan of the same slide with the Pacific Image on my website. The subtle amber light becomes more apparent on the Minolta scan. (Pacific Image scan can be found on my website under Port Townsend trip report) As a few weeks ago, I asked this list if I needed to invest more for a slide scanner to get crisper results. The software is not great, but it works. You can use other purchased software, like Photoshop with the scanner. Currently I'm using the software that came with my Canon flatbed scanner. Harald http://www.geocities.com/harald_nancy/ - Original Message - From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Saturday, November 17, 2001 1:35 AM Subject: Re: pacific image film scanner-opinions good morning pug-sters: looking at perhaps purchasing my 1st film scanner. i remember reading a few weeks/months back about the pacific image 1800u. a local shop now has them in stock. could those w/real-world experience share some of their experiences? since i usually don't shoot slides, for those who do shoot print film, do u no longer have prints made at a lab but now scan from your negatives? w/o starting a holy war, how does this unit handle b/w film negatives? my needs are modest. i would be printing on an epson photo printer for my own viewing, usually 5x7, occasionally larger, and for web posting of images. do u use the software that comes w/this scanner? i use macs. is that a problem w/this machine? software-wise? (for those mac-heads, what machine are u using w/this scanner how much ram?) again, and as always, thanks for any info u care to share. be well robo - - 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: To Zx-5n or not...
I bought a ZX-5 when it first came out. It doesn't have the depth of field preview and exposure lock, like the current model ZX-5n does. It's a sturdy little camera, and we always take it along on our travels. It never let us down. The metal frame is sturdy for mounting larger lenses. I like the traditional manual SLR controls setup for aperature and shutter speed. The spot metering is invaluable. I mostly use it like a manual camera. Got decent results using the Pentax lenses: FA28-70 F4, and F100-300 zoom lenses. I'm thinking about purchasing fixed focal lenses for landscape scenes. Any recommendations? If you like to see some travel photos taken with the ZX-5, you can point your browser here and click on travel stories or the map. http://www.geocities.com/harald_nancy/ Harald --- Original Message - From: Clive Williams [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Pentax Discuss [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Wednesday, October 03, 2001 1:51 PM Subject: Re: To Zx-5n or not... (Discussion on useful features of the 5n) Hi Isaac I've had my 5n for a year and would recommend it over the 7 for the spot meter alone. (Remember to turn it off when you've finished though - same with the self-timer - the only downside of the all-analogue controls) As Phyllis comments, the DOF preview is invaluable too, and you won't miss the picture modes - after all, you can always hand the camera to a novice set to f/4 or 1/500, which is pretty much all those programs do anyway. I found the sheer range of features a little daunting after years with an ME Super, but a little time with the manual got me over that. You'll find the viewfinder display annoying, of course - we all do g - but that's in the 7, too, isn't it? I find film loading a little fiddly compared with the old magic needles, and the shutter button doesn't feel as meaty as in the MF days, but I'm well pleased with my 5n. Hope you will be too. - 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 .
Slide scanner, PrimeFilm 1800u
Hi folks, Anyone using the slide scanner PrimeFilm 1800 u, Pacific Image manufacturer? Ours does a reasonable job, but when we reduce the images to a size appropriate for websites, they lose their sharpness. I'm wondering if I have to buy a different slide scanner. If anyone wants to see scanned examples, I can put a few images on a webpage. Thanks for any input. Harald in Washington state - 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 .
