| El Sid |
| (Going potty) |
| 16/05/2008 09:28 |
|
Re: Buying a digital camera - buy the latest model or second hand?
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If, say, I got hold of a Nikon D1X for under a hundred quid that would be well worth it then, you think?
I'd have one for that kind of price!!!
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Am I correct in thinking that it is a tough camera which can take a knock or two, being a pro camera and all?
Yes... Older pro cameras are likely to have taken a bit of a bashing but poor exterior cosmetics don't necessarily mean mechanical problems as pro kit is also more likely to have been subject to a regular maintenance schedule. If buying from a dealer you will most likely get some form of guarantee. On the other hand if you have managed to find one privately for under a ton it's not a major disaster if it turns out to be a bit iffy. Ideally it would be good to get it with all the software and leads though there's enough aftermarket accessories and software (some free) to cope if it doesn't.
One known characteristic of the D1 series is that they can be a bit battery hungry even by the standards of their time (my D30 eats battery power faster than the 20D) so you will need spare power cells.
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A friend just got a Nikon D200 the other day (mmmmm, drool) and as I was stroking and admiring it I said to him 'I suppose it has a built in light meter?' to which he looked at me blankly and replied 'No, I don't think so'. I think this shows how out of touch I am with digital cameras! Of course it must have a built in light meter.
I think it shows how too many people have too little understanding about the technology they use........
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Now days I suppose you don't really need to buy filters and stuff do you? Do people still always fit skylight filters? I have been using Photoshop for about 15 years now (good lord is it really that long?!) so know my way round it pretty well (I could not claim to be an expert though) and I guess I can do most stuff that filters provide using that.
Skylight filters are a bone of contention. Some fit them (me for instance) others see them as an anathema and instruments of Satan....
It's a matter of personal choice.Polarisers and neutral density filters (graduated and non-grad) remain useful tools. The effects of grad ND filters can be replicated post capture with multiple RAW conversions or combining multiple exposures but I suspect it remains simpler in the end to fit an ND filter to balance the light. The effect of polarisers is almost impossible to replicate post capture. Most other effects can be done in PS and probably with more control...