Quote:
Originally Posted by Eye Candy
While not an expert I have read a lot recently about this upgrade pathway. While I would love to have a D300, I think a D80 is enough camera for most people, and the money saved could be spent toward a flashmeter, SLIK 700DX Pro tripod (a sturdy beast at $129,) a second flash (SB600) that the SB800 could control automatically for multiple flash wireless photography TTL, and a manual focus 300 mm f/2.8 ED IF AI-S lens (buy a used one that is E, E+ or D at Adorama or B&H.) That would be a great long lens for sports, track shooting and is considered "classic" glass, the autofocus lenses in this focal length and longer get outrageously expensive. I prefocus track shots anyway so AF isn't that helpful for what I do, but I just shoot for my own enjoyment and consider myself a beginner. You could also build a diffusion panel with PVC and white ripstop nylon ($20 total) and buy a Beginner Bee one light set up from Alien Bees ($330 for one flashhead, umbrella, lightstand) and have a portable home studio to play with. If you can master a one light setup with a diffusion panel and other light modifiers you can teach yourself a lot about the hobby in general. It is worth doing just to take headshots of your family and friends. The diffusion panel can be taken apart like tinker toys (schedule 40 PVC 1/2",) with 8'x5' being a convenient size. You could take this panel outside and use it to help photograph your car, or to the beach to use as a diffusion tent in the bright sun.
There are probably more people looking at this thread that are beginner-amateurs trying to get a few tips than hard core professionals. I am not sure why they would bother, as most of this easy stuff would be tedious for them, I don't think they can relate to us beginners. People should post up their everyday attempts and discuss them, it would help a lot of people.
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I do not think I would move to the D80 from a D70. Mostly because the D70 and 70s are taking very good pictures for the most part. The rest of your points are well taken. I already have the tripod, a slik but I do not know which one. I have even upgraded that with a ball head. I got the SB800 a few years ago and have thought about pairing it with a SB600. I really like the points about the diffusion pannel. The manuel focus 300mm Nikon seems like a good way to go also. A local camera store (Penn Camera) will rent a simular linse.
More than any thing though I like your last comment. I am and intend to stay firmly in the amateur camp. I do enough stuff with my daughter's crew team. Post production and time limits would take the fun away.
using the flash for effect at the 2007 Mid Atlantic Erg Sprints
the photo info should be in the shot or go to my smug mug site
http://dac.smugmug.com/gallery/3483999#196167541