theamazingjosh

Calumet 7042

Just picked up a 7042 ballhead for the Fauxtobooth™. It's a pretty sweet head... I may start using it instead of my Manfrotto 482RC2.

Not sure how long they will honor this offer, but Lensbaby shipped me this in SIX DAYS from the time they got my email. $60 value. Going to use it on tonight's photowalk. Kick ass.

Someone asked me not so long ago for advice on what sort of equipment a wedding photographer needed... just the very basics. Basics are of course relative, but here is what I consider essential, plus a few extras. In answer to the brand question: I shoot Nikon, but I am not a fanatic about brands. The only thing I'd say about brands is the simple fact of the matter is if you are a pro event photographer there is a pretty good chance you will either be shooting Nikon or Canon. Either one will work, I think it's mostly a matter of ergonomics. There is a lot more stuff you can use to shoot weddings besides what I've mentioned, and this is really just my current opinion here... my needs and outlooks change with my experience as well so who knows what tune I will be singing next year.
( gear talk )

If your curious as to what goes in my camera bag you can check it out here. Melissa's bag is here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/theamazingjosh/3383220931/ , but of course we interchange lenses and all of that good stuff. Each gig is a bit different, but this in particular is for an engagement shoot, a party, and our normal vacation stuff so it's a bit more than usual. Not pictured and in our carry on luggage will be a tripod, light stand, a single AlienBees 400, and an umbrella. Click on the photo to see the notes.

If I ever get rich I want to buy a Leica. Not because I necessarily think their cameras produce better images than the ones I'm using now, but because they look badass. Case in point, today I read an article in DP Review that said they are discontinuing their R series. The R series was the first 35mm film SLR that had an optional 10MP digital back. From what I researched on it when it first came out the image quality was nice, but it had some serious issues as a platform... 800 maximum ISO, firmware issues that corrupted files written to the CF cards, and it was all manual (no AF system). Oh and don't forget how insane Leica's are priced, but as Vince would say, "you know Germans make good stuff."


But for serious check it out, isn't that a bad ass design?

Nikon in an "it's about time they did that move" announced they are releasing a new prime in March 2009. Now I must say that I have been none too impressed with Nikon's entry level bodies... the D40 and D60 with their near miniature size, SD card slots vs. Compact Flash, and lack of lens motors built in are really the most bothersome aspect. This 35mm prime has a built in motor, which means it will be usable on the entry level lenses, and it's priced right at $200. This will be the must have lens purchase for everyone with a D40 or D60. I'm a little disappointed they made it a DX lens, but it's not like I really needed to yearn for yet another lens. If you are still using a DX format and have no plans to upgrade to a D700 or a D3 anytime soon you should probably get this one when it comes out.

Is the US next for a price increase?

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Nikon's reverse bailout is seemingly in full swing. Granted they have lowered prices on their bodies, which is really all I should ever be thinking about buying again... but come on people! I guess they made up my mind on whether or not to get the new 50mm. Guess I'll wait until they drift into the used market.