Canon EOS 500D TVC

Posted on October 17, 2010 by Editor AL
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Canon EOS 450D TVC

Posted on October 17, 2010 by Editor AL
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Canon EOS 400D TVC

Posted on October 17, 2010 by Editor AL
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Canon EOS 350D TVC

Posted on October 17, 2010 by Editor AL

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Canon EOS 300D TVC

Posted on October 17, 2010 by Editor AL

The Official TVC for Canon’s EOS 300D – the entry-level model that started the DSLR revolution.

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Featured Photographer – Cheong Kok Leong

Posted on October 14, 2010 by Editor AL

Cheong Kok Leong

Kok Leong is somewhat an “accidental photographer”.  We came to know him by “accident” too. We were doing a commercial project for a Dance Performance and Kok Leong happened to be one of the guests. We spoke briefly at the event and invited him to join our group (SJS).

Kok Leong came across to us as a friendly chap who is full of humour. With him, he brought lots of laughter to the group whenever he attend group outing with us. A Pentax FAN, Kok Leong is the also the FIRST Pentax user who join the group among the hordes of Canons & Nikons. (Other FIRSTs are Ryan Thihan-First Sony user, Connie-First Olympus, BlackBirdFly-Royston Ang) Going through his albums, you will know that Kok Leong is an expert on portraiture works. We have selected a few of his works to be featured here (without his permission of course!) for your enjoyment. Cheers!



Ways to Contact Kok Leong;
Email: cheong_kl@hotmail.com:
Web: Nil 
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/CheongKokLeong

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Camera Toys & Collectibles

Posted on October 8, 2010 by Editor AL

Just recently I bought and reviewed some Canon Lens Mugs in a separate article. Photography related collectibles are getting popular again as more and more collectibles in various forms are being innovated and made available to the growing photography community. In the past, we are talking about items like paper weight, pens, notepads, etc with the brand of the manufacturer. Today, these collectibles had evolved into many other useful forms apart from those Canon Lens-look-a-like thermal mugs.

Let me share some of these collectibles which I have added to my collection recently. (Apart from the 3 Canon 70-200mm mugs of course!)

The Mini SLR Keychain-

I received this Keychain as a birthday gift from Photographer Royston Ang 3 months ago. This is a very interesting keychain. Not only it looks like a real mini camera that actually works, when the shutter button is pressed, the flash actually fires! And with shutter sound too! This is super cute!

Manufactured with a Rubberized external, this keychain is nice to touch and hold. Do get one of these and trick your friends. It is really fun!

Available at: Unknown

The Miniature Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III Display set-

Got this off some online photography store. This made-to-scale miniature comes in a very nice box and cased inside an acrylic display jewel box. Looking at the fine details of this miniature, I would give it a rating of 9/10.

This miniature DSLR also feature a Removable Lens, which the whole lens can be dismounted from the body. And to make the deal sweeter, the lens cap of this miniature lens can be removed too! Whoa!! And of course, it’s a Canon!


Available at: Johny Camera Accessories.

The Sony A900 Thumbdrive-

I too, got this from an online store. This is rare, or so I say, SUPER RARE. In this era of Canon+Nikon, manufacturers will rather make something for the 2 mentioned brands which guaranteed sales rather than to venture to other brands. Made to the like of Sony Alpha’s A900, the thumbdrive has simplified details.

The drive is integrated into the “lens” in the form of SAL 70-300mm F4-5.6 which the camera body serves as the cover. Details are good. Comes in 4gb or 8gb version. This is a Must Buy for all Sony fans & hardcore collectors!

Available at: MemoriesLink (sales@memorieslink.com)

The Canon EOS 5D MarkII ThumbDrive-

Again, I bought this off an online store. Comes in a very nice box, this thumbdrive is very much sought after by photographers. The Canon EOS 5D MarkII is currently one of the hotest EOS model in the Canon DSLR lineup and anything relating to this model are hot!

This thumbdrive has unbelievable details and super close to the real unit! Opposite to the earlier Sony A900 thumbDrive, the drive is integrated into the body and the miniature lens now serves as a body. The miniature lens is modelled after the EOS 5D MarkII’s accompanying kit lens the EF 24-105mm F4L IS USM.

When plug into a laptop or when used, the mini LCD panel on the camera even lights up! Comes in 4gb version ONLY. Grab it before it is all gone!

Available at: freezy1977@yahoo.com.sg

The Canon IXUS 200 IS Thumbdrive-

I received this as a gift from Canon. This IXUS 200IS thumbdrive looks really close to the real thing and the LCD display panel double up as a photo holder, very clever. Packed in a miniature box alike to the real box, this thumbdrive  is one great collectible to own.

A necklace “strap” is included in the box for the user to hang the drive on the neck too, good idea! The drive is slide type and integrated into the camera body itself, so when the drive is not in use, the drive plug can be conceived and hidden from view too!

Available at: Unknown

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ShutterJourneying – By Nicole Wong

Posted on October 5, 2010 by Editor AL

Originally Published on http://nicole.sg/archives/shutterjourneying/ by Photographer Nicole Wong
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(Photo intensive post, though I’ve tried my best to put them into collages – selected shots) Have fun reading, as much fun as I have writing it. ;P

My photography journey with Shutter Journey (Singapore) Photography Group started when I first answered the call to attend “Reflections” outing. I could still recall how Allan said that it’s the most difficult theme I’ve picked. Oddly, I felt bold enough to try.

And these are some of the photos I’ve shot in answering the challenge. Well, that first was certainly not my last outing with the folks of SJS.

 The next shot that followed was a trip to Starz Restaurant, to feast upon the food with our taste buds, and being able to photographed these yummilicious looking food. They ended up in our stomachs, but not before being terrorized by the cameras. I remembered fondly with all that laughter surrounding the dinner.

Through each different theme outings or photo walks, there are always new things for me to learn from fellow photographers, and improve my shooting skills as I go along. It’s a humbling journey for me, given that I had no formal background or training of sorts, but just took the plunge and learn through trial and error.

Take the limited shoot series for example… one of it I attended was using auto mode without flash light for night photography… and the results were pretty amazing, though blurred shots were common

And another night shoot at Fort Canning…

It was really eye opening to be roaming Fort Canning at night, of course, minus the spooks

Apart from night photography that are held almost every Wednesday evenings, interesting outings are held every Sunday. Sunday outings takes one to familiar places, and little nooks and cranny of Singapore. Think of it as Singapore Explorers of sorts.

Sunday outings usually garner a large group of photographers, which would be quite a sight when we swarm upon a location to shoot. The element of fun, laughter and of course, food!

Let me show you more images from the various outings:


ToyArt – where toys are the subjects, amidst Vivocity. We were quite a sight, and many were wondering what are we big kids doing with toys. Boy that was really a blast.

Kallang Stadium shoot was a trip down memory lane, a road of nostalgia… given that the grand dame has been sealed and being torn down to make way for the new Sports Hub…

Another location would be the KTM Railway Station…

I also tried my hand at shooting Macro shots, with my first Macro walk at Hort Park… and of course, shooting fishies with the Sony TX-5.

Sunrise shoot at Punggol was a challenge to be up so early… and thankfully, the weather held, though cloudy, causing us to miss the rising of the Sun, affectionately called ‘the Yolk’

And took the chance for more Macro action. LOL.

Marang trail was a memorable walk, and had the chance to see many creatures in the forest along the trail…

One thing to note… SJS shoots carry on regardless of the weather. Rain or Shine, the shoot carries on.

Ubin was on a wet wet day, but that didn’t dampened our mood, we just kept going.

Recent trips include going to Haw Par Villa, where this majestic place is now a shadow of its glorious days…

Where places have photo opportunities, photographers gather. Chinatown, was a heritage site that has a diverse range of photo opportunities for wide angle shots, portrait etc.

Not forgetting Bottle Tree Park, where the hot weather really sapped a lot of energy, but its a great venue for Long Exposure shots!

Perhaps by now, you would have a better idea of the places SJS goes, and having fun in the process of an outing. Feel free to check out the Facebook Group  as well as the blog.

Every shoot is a moment of discovery, and joy in photography. So come on, join me, as I continue my journey with SJS, so can you. All you need is a camera, and the spirit of carefree photography. Come with an open mind, and have fun!

Nicole
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Visit Nicole’s Blog at http://nicole.sg/

Thank you Nicole!
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Yashica MG-1, My Restoration Project

Posted on September 27, 2010 by Editor AL
 
My Dad gave me a few of his old film cameras recently and one of them is a RangeFinder, the Yashica MG-1. I was very excited and impressed with this camera. This is my first RF and I am determined to restore the camera to pristine. This article sort of serves as a record for the restoration process and what I have done to it.

First thing that I did, was to sent the MG-1 to my trusted camera repairman Mr. David Hilos. He helped me cleaned up the camera chambers, view finder and did a general check for me. When the camera is good to go, I collected it back and to work on the cosmetic department.

The below picture shows how it looks like when I got it from my Dad along with an external Flash. 

The camera is still cladded in its original leather case. I removed the camera from the case by unscrewing the placeholder cum tripod mount.

 

Using Alcohol Swab, Lens Cleaning Solution and a Cloth, I am ready to start.

 
 
First, using the alcohol swab, i cleaned the leather grip area area on the camera. Old leather tends to have this “whitish” thingy on the surface which can’t really be removed by most convention cleaners and leather conditioners. I read up somewhere on the net that alcohol swab works and so I tried. The surface no longer has the “whitish” compound now, I guess it really works.

Next, still using the alcohol swab, the original leather case was given the same treatment. Now the case looks really new and shiny.

 

Next, will be to clean the lens. using the lens cleaning solution, I drip one drop of it onto a cleaning cloth and work my way on the lens surface to remove any possible stains. (I did not use the lens tissue because the lens front element is not very big.

 

Next, I bought a new 55mm UV filter to protect the front element.

 

This is how the MG-1 looks like (below) after the new UV Filter is mounted. Cool eh?

 

Bought a lens cap to replace the original Yashica rubber cap.

After the new lens cap is mounted, this is how the MG-1 looks like now. (Below)

 

Next, the original Yashica camera strap. It’s such a beauty. I had the strap conditioned with alcohol swab and removed it from the camera for safekeeping.

 

The original strap will be replaced with this new Yashica Camera strap. (Below)

 

Now, the MG-1 with a new strap!

 

Next, I popped open the battery hatch.

 

I found a mercury battery (HM-4N) which my Dad told me that this is out of production already. Well, the whole world had banned mercury anyway. With the help of a friend Sebastian Chow, he taught me how to use another battery and a battery spring to use this combo to power the camera. I am not showing it here though.

 

Then recently, another photography (Darren Chin) brought me to another shop (battery.com) who specialized in batteries of all kinds, voila! Found a direct replacement! But in alkaline of course! And made in Singapore too! (Below)

 

Now to test, both lights lighted up!

 

Below shows when the lights are off.

 

And to make sure, I pressed again to check, yes, the battery works and both lights lighted again. Tried the shutter for wide open and narrow down and the speed varied with the apetures, the MG-1 is ready!

 

Added new batteries (AA) into the flash and mounted on the MG-1, this guy is ready for some serious RangeFinder action again after sitting inside my Dad’s store room for the longest time!

 

Thanks Dad. I will cherish this camera.

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Featured Photographer – Sheladina Joseph

Posted on September 25, 2010 by Editor AL
Sheladina Joseph
Coincidentally, today is Shela’s Birthday too.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SHELA!

Sheladina – better known as “Shela” to us and the rest of the photography community, is one fun lady to be shooting with. Laughter follows Shela wherever she goes and people around are happy to have her around, everytime. Shela is a great living testimonial to the term “carefree photography”, for she shoot what she thinks is nice while the world keeps spinning – and that is what she believes in and what we admire her for. She adopted the “beginner’s attitude” since she joined our group for shoots and looking through her albums, she is no beginner by any standards. Well travelled and well exposed, Shela is well-versed in the various genres of photography. Her works are interesting, meaningful and some times a little soulful. We went through her albums and selected a few of her works to be featured here. (Again, without her permission of course!) Enjoy!

  
Ways to Contact Sheladina;
Email: shelajoseph@hotmail.com
Web: Nil
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/sheladina
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Add Us on Facebook Here.
Join Us on Facebook Group Here. 
About Me Here.
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Samyang 8mm F3.5 CS Fish Eye

Posted on September 20, 2010 by Editor AL
Korean Lens hit our shores recently in the form of Samyang Lenses. Out of curiosity, I contacted the local importer/ distributor (SgCameraStore) to request for a test copy to review. I was granted a week’s access to Samyang’s 8mm Fish Eye lens. For those not familiar with Samyang, Samyang is a Korean optics company who produces telescopes and other lab optics. Using their expertise on glass elements, they started producing camera lenses for SLR/ DSLR cameras. Though all the Samyang Lenses are currently made as manuel lenses, the meagre asking price will rightly justify the absense of an AF Motor. Let’s take a look at this lens and how it performs now.

Here’s how the exact box looks like 

 

Inside the Box, you get the Lens, instruction manual, Front & Rear Caps & a Lens Pouch. Not bad if you ask me. Some other lenses around the same price range don’t even include a lens pouch (or a hood).

 
Being a 100% manual lens, you have to set the focusing distance, the apeture all by yourself.  
 
Lens construction is solid and beautifully designed. The lens cap can lock while the proprietory brands is still using friction to hold the caps for their fish eye lenses.
 
Beautifully crafted.
Below is another view of this lens from a different angle. 
 
The Test:
We have gathered 3 candidates for this group test. A Canon 350D-IR, a Canon 500D and a Nikon D60. Each of these camera will be mounted with the Samyang 8mm Fish Eye on a fixed/heavy Tripod, set to a shutter speed of 1/200, F11, ISO 200. (White Balance all set to Auto – except 350D-IR)

Please note that Nikon D60 is a x1.5 Cropped Sensor body while the Canon 350D & 500D are x1.6 Cropped sensor bodies. (Focal length xCropped factor)
 


OK, the candidates are ready to go (above). Below is how the Samyang 8mm Fish Eye lens will look like on a Nikon D60 body.

On Canon EOS 500D

Canon 500D is a X1.6 cropped body so it actually gives 12.8mm with this 8mm lens. The photo below will show you that this diagonal fish eye lens covers 180 degree horizontally giving the user a great perspective.

On Nikon D60


Nikon D60 is a X1.5 cropped body so it actually gives 12mm with this 8mm lens. The photo below will show you that this diagonal fish eye lens covers 180 degree horizontally giving the user a great perspective.

On Canon EOS 350D-IR (Infra Red)

Canon 350D is a X1.6 cropped body so it actually gives 12.8mm with this 8mm lens. The photo below will show you that this diagonal fish eye lens covers 180 degree horizontally giving the user a great perspective. On infra-red photography (IR), there were not hotspotting at all and it gives nice IR colors too. (Flaring does appears – hood not well designed? But flaring disappears when the camera is shifted to another angle later.) This will be good news to IR Photographers as this is a great IR Lens!

 
Looking for a Fish Eye Lens? Try the Samyang, it cost only less than half of what your proprietory brand are asking and though manufactured as a fully manual lens,
it does not matter if you are a seasoned photographer who knows your stuff. Manual is fun when you know how to use it. 

I will rate the Samyang 8mm F3.5 CS Fish Eyes lens 9/10 – a great lens to own and to use. Value for money!  

 
Some User Facts/ Information:
(If you are looking for the specs, please google yourself, it’s all over the internet.)
– Filter Size (N.A.)
– Lens Hood (Petal Type – Built in).
– Excellent lens for Infra-red Photography (IR), ZERO Hotspotting.
– Fully Manual Lens. 
– Lens are multi-coated.
– Focal Range when used on bodies with smaller APS-C sensors 12mm for Nikon & Sony Alpha, 12.8mm for Canon.
– Available in many mounts.

What I Like:
– Super wide angle.
– Super Cheap.
– Solid build.
– Well Designed.
– Sharp Photos.

What I Hate:
– Manual Lens.
– No Distance Scale Meter.
– No AF Confirmation.

 
 
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Samyang Exclusive Importer/ Distributor
SgCameraStore is located at:

No 5 Coleman Street #02-18
Excelsior Hotel and Shopping Center Singapore 179805
(next to Peninsula Shopping Center )
3 minutes walk from City Hall MRT
Tel : 63362273 Hp : 93531915
www.sgcamerastore.com

 

Operating Hours:
Mon-Sat 11am -8pm
Sun 11am – 5pm
Closed on Public Holiday


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Posted in Brand: Others (Cosina, Carl Zeiss, Leica, Mamiya, Samyang, Vivitar, Zenitar,etc), Group Test & Reviews | Tagged , , | 1 Comment

Canon Lens Mug 70-200mm F4L 1:1 – How Real?

Posted on September 19, 2010 by Editor AL
by Allan Lee.
 
Photography Collectibles are interesting to keep for display purposes other than its primary use. We have seen hordes of miniatures in the form of paper weights, thumbdrives, or logo-based novelties in many forms, things that are familar to us. Most recently, Lens Mug has caught on. To date, there are 2 versions of Canon’s EF24-105mm F4L IS, 3 versions of EF70-200mm F4L, 1 version of 85mm F1.2L and Nikon’s Nikkor 24-70mm. These mugs are either office coffee mugs or thermo mugs.

I bought all 3 versions of the EF70-200mm F4L mugs. As usual, I did a comparison test. 


Picture: The Lens that sparked off the trend. Canon EF 70-200mm F4L USM.

All lens mugs claimed to be modelled on a 1:1 ratio!! How uncanny! We take a look at all 4 of them when placed side by side. On first look, can you spot the real lens on first glance?

Picture: Can You Find the real lens?

When placed side by side, you will notice that all the 3 mugs above are not exactly 1:1 as claimed. even the color are off. The 3rd from the left above is the real lens.

Let’s scrutinize each version now.

Version 1:

This is version 1. On first look, not too bad, pretty close due to the color. And the packaging box was quite close to Canon’s theme of Red, Black & White.


However on a closer look, the AF/MF Switch was ultra fake and the “switch” itself wasn’t even moulded onto it.

The Distance scale meter was a joke, the font size are wrong. The Ultrasonic logo also looks a tad too fake to be real.
 
Workmanship was very bad, especially at the signature red ring area. And the focusing ring looks unbalanced. The grip lines are inconsistent.
 

Cup is functional with the usual lid design for easy consumption of beverages.
 

This “Canon” word is not supposed to be there, but I guess with a lens this fake, the logo helps to make it look more convincing.
 

I like the bottom though. The other 2 versions feature real Rear Lens caps except for this version. This is a anti-slip rubber base which adds functionality to the mug and to prevent spills. This is the best feature for this version. Let’s look at Version 2 now.

Version 2:

This is version 2. The box did not employ the Canon theme of Red, Black & White. The lens’s body color is too white as compared to the original lens. This is the “whitest” version of the 3 mugs.
 

The switches are the most realistic of the 3 versions, but the rubber rings feel cheap and a little too soft to be real.
 

This version has the most realistic Distance Scale meter too.
 

The lens Focal Range Print makes the lens even more convincing!

 

Mug lid is again functional.
 

Featuring a real lens cap that can be used on a real EF lens, this feature is interestingly incorporated into the design of this lens mug. Let’s look at version 3 now.

Version 3:


Version 3 uses the Canon theme on the box design. The details of this version is amazing. Color is slightly off, but still closer to the real lens color when compared with the other 2 versions.
 

The switches are life-like and has slightly less details than version 2. But the size is definitely correct and to scale.
 

The distance scale meter on this version has got the font and size wrong, but it looks good still. But the quality of the focusing and zoom ring (rubber grips) are made quite badly and unbalanced. It even feels wrong when touched. I hate the sticky feel to it.
 

But details like the “Ultrasonic” logo, the Focal range meter, etc, this version has the best copy.
 

The lid was even made to look like a real Canon lens cap. But lack the golden “Ultrasonic” word on the lid. Compared with the earlier 2 versions, this will be an added advantage if the buyer really meant to buy and display rather than to buy and use.
 

The rear lens cap also can be used on real EF Lenses as a rear lens cap, however the texture of this version is not quite close to the real thing. I suspect it is made this way to create the friction on the mug base to prevent spills.
 
The Winner?
 
 

The overall winner has to be version 3. The details were paid attention to and it was in fact made to 90% close to the real lens. Inside the packaging (picture above), there’s a pleasant surprise that the manufacturer even included a mug holder mimicking a real “Lens Pouch”. So if you are out looking to buy one for collecting and light usage, do make sure you get the right version or get mugged.

Have fun collecting!

 
 
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Latest Products Announced at SgCameraStore!

Posted on September 17, 2010 by Editor AL

SgCameraStore is indeed causing a storm recently. Since their outlet opened, There are new announcements almost on a weekly basis! Photographers from all arena are talking about them, so if you have not been "introduced" to SgCameraStore, do check them out soon, or be left behind. 🙂

Now Akaline Batteries can be charged.

A FIRST for the world, this revolutional charger charges regular Akaline Batteries! Save the earth, stop more toxic being dumped into our environment on a daily basis, get this charger and do your part for the nature today! Retailing at only SGD $85!
Get more information here!

And who says you can’t see in the dark?

A real Night Vision Camera (NVG), the YASHICA EZ Digital NV-1 is a 5 megapixel wonder that allows the user to see beyond your eyes can see at low light conditions. This NVG comes with Video recording function with a 5x Digital Zoom, a nice 2.7 inch display LCD and weights a mere 80g! SGD $150 ONLY!
Get more information here!

Explore the world beyond your eyes.

A lot had been said about front mounted "Macro convertors". The Pros laughed at it, the semi-Pros tried and off-loaded it, the beginners got cheated into buying this while some bought one of these convertors simply because a real macro lens does not come cheap.

The Raynox DCR-250 is one that made a difference. Featuring a 3 piece ACHROMATIC glass (unlike cheaper convertors that is simply a one piece magnifying glass), this allows the user to capture superb macro close up shots of subject with minimal detail lose! When used on zoom lenses, at the telephoto end, the Raynox converts any lenses into an almost 100% Macro lens! And when added to real macro lens, the details of the subject will be even more stunning! But, practise is required to fully understand and to use the Raynox. Well, google yourself and see the photos taken with the Raynox, you won’t believe what you see. SGD $125.
Get more information here! 

Make your way to SgCameraStore soon!
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SgCameraStore is located at:

No 5 Coleman Street #02-18
Excelsior Hotel and Shopping Center Singapore 179805
(next to Peninsula Shopping Center )
3 minutes walk from City Hall MRT
Tel : 63362273 Hp : 93531915
www.sgcamerastore.com

 

Operating Hours:
Mon-Sat 11am -8pm
Sun 11am – 5pm
Closed on Public Holiday


For Studio/ Classroom ( Studio rental / workshop / Photography courses
No 34, Arab street 303-02 Singapore 199733
Tel : 93531915
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Join Us on Facebook Group Here. 

Posted in Featured Photography Merchants | Tagged , | 4 Comments

Latest Cream of The Crop – Shopping at SgCameraStore!

Posted on September 14, 2010 by Editor AL
 
We received another tip-off from a few fellow photographers just days ago that SgCameraStore now carries some new and really cool stuff.
Following that, we went down to "shop" & check out what’s so interesting that got so many photographers talking.
 
Targus Filters-
Was kinda shocked when I saw this. Targus has been widely known as a very established and strongly branded name for high quality laptop bags/ carriers. Was not aware that they manufacture camera related accessories too. In this case, UV filters and Circular Polarizer (CPL) filters! I bought the 52mm version for my Canon EF28mm F2.8 eventually to try out the filter. Using a light meter, the raw light penetration was recorded at 92% and UV cut was 40%. If you are lost here, expensive filters like Hoya or B+W (UV) has a penetration rate of 95% and UV cut of 50-60%. While lower end filters (usually OEM, Indonesia or China Made) has a raw penetration of 87-90% and a UV cut of approximately 35% on average. This simple test simply shows that the Targus brand filters are not just a mediocre sub-product line, but a real performing filter at a great price!

Here’s how the packaging looks like.

And the filter is smart looking too.

The other product that caught my eye is;

AC*MAXX- LCD Screen Protector –
I am very sure almost all photographers experienced some form of "freak" accidents before with their gear. One of the very important part (in my view) has to be the LCD Screen. Once, I hit my Canon 5D MKII against a fellow photographer’s lens during a Press Conference and it hit directly on the screen! Thank God the film-type protector I had on my LCD screen save the LCD screen from being scratched, but the protector has to be replaced after the accident. Anticipating that such things happened often, especially in journalism where photojournalists are constantly banging into each other and gear against gear, I am out looking for something more hardy to withstand possible accidental knocks & abuse. The staff on duty recommended AC*Maxx. This is a hardy acrylic-type protector and it feels very strong when I tried to bend it – but did not succeed. (lolza) This protector is much thicker than the regular film type and it does not obstruct the original view of the LCD. I was later told that this protector also helps in the waterproofing at the LCD edges even though my camera is already weather-proofed. This is like added "peace of mind’ at a really great price!

In fact, it made my camera really elegant after I put it on. The package also includes a smaller piece for the top view LCD Menu for my camera. I am very sure that my camera’s 2 LCD screens are really protected and I feel really safe now.

Here’s how the AC*MAXX protector package looks like.

and after I added to my cam.

the main LCD.


The top LCD.

Looks great eh? I was really happy with my purchase and I will be returning to shop for more stuff really soon!
   

I’ve included SgCameraStore’s details below – just in case you feel like making your way down too. :)~ 
  
SgCameraStore is located at:

No 5 Coleman Street #02-18
Excelsior Hotel and Shopping Center Singapore 179805
(next to Peninsula Shopping Center )
3 minutes walk from City Hall MRT
Tel : 63362273 Hp : 93531915
www.sgcamerastore.com

 

Operating Hours:
Mon-Sat 11am -8pm
Sun 11am – 5pm
Closed on Public Holiday


For Studio/ Classroom ( Studio rental / workshop / Photography courses
No 34, Arab street 303-02 Singapore 199733
Tel : 93531915
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Shutter Journey Singapore – by Wong Ren Hao

Posted on September 9, 2010 by Editor AL
 
Originally Published on http://blinksnap.blogspot.com/2010/07/shutter-journey-of-singapore.html by Photographer Wong Ren Hao.
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Shutter Journey of Singapore

Nicole first invited me to join her in a photo shoot back in the middle of May, with a Facebook-based hobby group called Shutter Journey. They were going to the CBD on Sunday to take photographs based on the theme of ‘reflections’. How interesting, I thought, and joined in.


Iconic fountains outside Capital Tower (album link)

It is now mid-July, two months on, and the amount of things I’ve learnt and been able to apply to create better photos is simply incredible.


 Onion stacks at Pasir Panjang Wholesale Center [not with SJ] (album link)

I cannot vouch that Shutter Journey is the best photo club (to term it loosely) to join in Singapore, especially since it’s the first and only group I’ve joined. For the same reason, I also can’t say if other groups in Singapore are about to teach you more or less things about photography than Shutter Journey. What I can tell you from my short experience with this bunch of people is that they have a burning passion to share what they see with the world, and for most of these people it is self-evident if you just visit their personal Facebook page, because they’re constantly uploading photos (stunning ones too). And even more than that, something about most photographers, and definitely those in Shutter Journey, make them totally selfless people very eager to share knowledge about techniques and factors cumulating into those rare, once-in-a-lifetime moments that photographers live for.


Best and luckiest shot so far. (album link)

It is natural that not everyone joining such an open group would have a DSLR, myself included. Apart from the more recent shoots or occasions where I know I will need a particular lens type and borrowed my brother’s 500D, my weapon of choice is a G11, and all the shots in this post at least are products of the G11. On normal shoots, my darling can do the job, and I daresay one or two things that DSLRs can’t, but I felt severely unequipped when I went along with their trip to the zoo, where the theme of the day was ‘eyes’. Everyone came with telephoto lenses formidable enough to use as battle clubs, and there I was with my overly bulky point and shoot camera. But for me and everyone who subsequently came with very normal point and shoot cameras, there were always people insisting that no matter what you held in your hand (well, as long as its a camera), good shots are never out of reach. And indeed, one would be amazed what compacts can do in the hands of an inspired photographer.


The star photo of my most challenging shoot – animal’s eyes at the SG Zoo (album link)

At the end of the day, Shutter Journey just aims to have a big load of fun with people of similar mind and passion. Ask any of the event regulars – they’ll gladly tell you that there’s always a risk of being bent over in laughter while your precious photo opportunity floats serenely by. If you want to learn more about photography, or if you’re thinking of joining a group that goes on regular excursions, you can always consider Shutter Journey.


The only time we had two group shots – toy art photoshoot (album link)

It’s alot easier when you’re with a whole bunch of people who perfectly understand when you’re 100m behind trying to get your perfect shot. Chances are, there’ll be another group about 50m behind you anyway.


ToyArt toy group shot

 
Visit Wong Renhao’s blog at http://blinksnap.blogspot.com/

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Journeying with Shutter Journey – by Nicole Wong

Posted on September 6, 2010 by Editor AL
 
Originally Published on http://nicole.sg/archives/journeying-with-shutterjourney/ by Photographer Nicole Wong.
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It has truly been a shutter journey for myself, as well as a bunch of friends I met through the Shutter Journey (Singapore) Photography Group on Facebook.

I still remember myself having clicked “Join” and lurking there for quite sometime, looking through the photographs and hesitating to attend the outings that were organized twice a week by Allan and Ling.

“Reflections” was my very first photo outing with them, and it so happened that I picked a challenging topic to attempt on. My initial fears were unfounded, for I have not found just a group for photography, but friendly, helpful bunch of photographers! (and they are very funny people too!)

To date, I’ve gone on about 14 outings with them, and yes, still enjoying myself thoroughly. :P

I never failed to laugh myself silly, or simply enjoy the company as well as shooting at each outing, and that one thing I must add, rain or shine, the outing’s still on. Weather has not been a stopping factor to the outings each week.

Every week’s outing focuses on different aspects of photography, and making use of whatever camera equipment to shoot with. Of course, the constant camaraderie makes each shoot unforgettable, with tales that get retold, or having a good laugh.

Wednesdays and Sundays have never been this good, though I tend to skip shoots due to work or other commitments.

Photography is a healthy addiction. -Nicole

It’s heartening to note that the group has grown to about 550 members. w00t! Check out the group’s facebook as well as the blog!

PS: I never wanted to attach any photos here, because I want you to go check them out on Facebook! :)

PPS: Oh yes, don’t be shy, come along to any of our shoots, and have fun! Check them out on Facebook ok? I hope to see you there and let’s all have fun!

Nicole

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Featured Photographer – Connie Yeo

Posted on September 4, 2010 by Editor AL
 
Connie Yeo

I last saw Connie 19 years ago, back in high school. I still remember a little nickname I gave her back in school, we called her “YSL”, invented from her name’s initials and coincidentally, a name of a popular cigarette at that time. Just months ago, We got “reunited” again after almost two decades and we were brought together again through photography. Unbelievably true. Some times it is just hard to explain why certain things are planned in a certain way, in life.

 
Connie is on Olympus system, which is considered a “rare” in the current trend and market domination by Canon, Nikon & Sony. Behind the shutter, Connie sees things quite differently from the rest (most) of us. She can be rather abstract and alternative from the way she compose her photos, while her mainstream photos are just as good! Looking at her photos, I see a budding photographer well on her way to become a photographer who are capable of artistic photo expressions one day. 

A cheerful person by nature, Connie loves jokes and fun stuff like every other photographer in the group. Her humour on some her photo captions made me and everyone else laughed for days. (How can anyone resist anyway? – Haha) Before I forgot, I would also like to add that she is a very meticulous person and always well prepared for the unforeseen. (The answer is – what’s in her bag. :)~ ) Connie is really fun to be with at photo outings!

As usual, we browsed her albums and selected a few pieces of her work to be featured here. (no need to ask – we didn’t get her permission first)
Enjoy!
 

 
Ways to Contact Connie;
Email: connieyeo@gmail.com
Web: NIL
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ConnieYeo
 
 
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The Battle of 18-55mm

Posted on September 3, 2010 by Editor AL
Battle of 18-55mm Kit Lenses!
Photos by Ling Tan. Reviewed by Allan Lee

Since I have access to 3 different brand’s kit lenses of the current generation, I was wondering if I should do a write up on their physical appearances. If you wish to know more about each individual lenses, do search for them on the bar on the left (on the main page) as I have previously reviewed them. I will include the links at the end of this article too. Here we go.
Picture: Left to Right
1) Sony Alpha SAL (DT) 18-55mm F3.5-5.6
On first look, the Nikkor unit has a taller stance then the other 2. It doesn’t even have a filter when the Sony & Canon unit has a front filter and each sitting with their rear lens cap in place. The Nikkor still stand taller. Another interesting fact is, Nikon & Sony had adopted the dual cap locking system (centre & side release) for a long time and Canon had no improved on their lens cap design, still retaining the side locking since 1990s.

When fully extended to 55mm (zoomed), I noticed that the Sony & Canon’s units extended the most while the Nikkor’s physical zoom ratio is slightly less than Canon. Sony has the longest zoom here. At fully zoomed, Nikkor’s unit is still the tallest here. Another interesting find, at the fully zoomed position, the Nikkor’s extended portion are very filmsy to the touch while Canon & Sony’s units are much more refined in this area.  On the design wise, Canon has the most “Professional” layout while Sony adopted the “No-Frills” and minimalistic design – carried over from the Konica-Minolta legacy. And while Nikon & Canon added the chromed-color silver ring near the zoom ring to give the “Pro” look, Sony retains its matted silver ring, also another trace from the predecessor. The Sony unit probably has the worst rear lens cap here (above).

 

Uniquely, Sony’s simple design is catching on with many photographers today. From the fine zoom ring to the AF/MF button, everything spell “Simple” and almost “Zen-like”. Among the 3 brands, Sony outshines Nikon & Canon on Build quality and clearly the winner among the three. 

Canon’s lens designers gave priority to the cosmetics rather the material used. Canon’s kit lens was “Very Professional Looking”, but sadly, “Toy-like” when handled. The buttons layout are nice, but not really friendly to use. Try shooting then use your left hand fingers and try to fumble with the switch, you will find that somehow the “touch” is not there and something is not really right here. But back to the looks department, Canon beats Nikon and Sony hands down in this area.

Picture: Nikon Nikkor AF-S DX 18-55mm F3.5-5.6G VR

Nikon concentrated on ergonomics and ease of use for their design. Though the AF/MF button and the IS/VR Buttons are positioned the same, look at Nikon’s button carefully and you will notice the the button has more “switch” surface than the Canon unit. Honestly, this make changing modes easy while the photographer can continue to compost the photo through the viewfinder without having to double confirm the button he/she is pressing is the correct one. (Sony’s unit has only one button – very easy to use. Sony’s SteadyShot is built into the body itself) I tried switching modes with the Nikkor on a Nikon D60 and the Canon on a EOS 500D, I can easily change modes on the D60, but on the 500D, my head have to move away from the viewfinder and confirm what I am switching many times.

Nikon is clearly the winner on ease-of-use here.

A kit lens may be the cheapest consumer-grade lens the manufacturer made to package with DSLRs, to sell their DSLRs. But being the lowest form of life on the lens range does not mean having to perform badly too. Read the individual reviews you will realize each of these lenses has their great characteristics. 

For me, a lens must perform well, handles well and produce reasonabley average-quality photos. Not a lens with nice design or professionally crafted.

My pick for the overall Winner is Nikon Nikkor AF-S DX 18-55mm F3.5-5.6G VR!
 

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Nikon Nikkor AF-S DX VR 55-200mm F4.0-F5.6G IF-ED

Posted on September 3, 2010 by Editor AL
 
This is the 2nd Nikkor Lens that I get to touch. :). The Nikkor AF-S DX VR 55-200mm F4.0-F5.6G IF-ED looks intimidating when I first saw it. Part of Nikon’s low end lenses made for the consumer market, this lens was really designed and manufactured to pair with the 18-55mm as the "second tier" telelphoto zoom. We understand this lens came with the D60 & AF-S DX 18-55mm VR as a 2 lenses kit package. Launch at the same time (2007) with the 18-55mm brother, this larger kit lens covers a good medium telephoto range. And probably every other brand is doing the same? Canon has got an equivalent (EF 55-200mm F4-5.6 USM) while 3rd party manufacturers came out with Tamron AF 55-200 F4-5.6 Di II LD & Sigma 55-200mm f/4-5.6 DC HSM. At that point of time, 55-200mm was the rage. 


* Picture: (Nikon) Nikkor AF-S DX VR 55-200mm F4-5.6G IF-ED

Lens built quality was very well constructed for Nikkor’s version. The lens feels solid and purposeful. Ergonomics are well thought off with the buttons layout and the large (yes, super large) zoom ring. The weird part is, it has the same tiny focus ring (like the 18-55mm) right at the front just behind the front lens elements. This is quite stupid in my view, but once getting used to it, I can live with it. The focus ring feels a little plasticky to touch and use, but it works. (Of course). The VR feature is well appreciated, though a very basic version, it works down to 2 stops when I tested it. (Nikon claims 4 stops – like every other brands)

Among Nikon, Canon, Tamron & Sigma being the most talked-about 55-200mm lenses at that time, Nikon & Sigma emerged as the winners for the better built quality, better design and excellent image quality. Nikon incorporated their proprietory Silent Wave Motor (SWM) while Sigma added their Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) for super fast focusing and near-silent operation. Canon has their Ultrasonic Motor (USM) in place, however, users had complained about the noisy operation and average focusing speed. Apart from these negatives noted, image quality is excellent. Tamron probably lost due to its lens built quality. Tamron’s version looks sophisticated (at that point of time – go Google for it), but feels like a toy when handled. "Filmsy" was the best description I can think of. I almost thought I was holding some SLR Lens when I played with a fellow photographer’s unit. Image quality from the Tamron is average.

On InfraRed Photography (IR), Nikkor AF-S DX VR 55-200mm F4.0-F5.6G IF-ED is really at home. I’ve gotten super sharp IR photos using this lens with ZERO hotspots at all focal range and apeture stops. Not sure if it is just me, I also noticed the IR Colors from this lens is better than the AF-S DX 18-55mm. Please let me know if you feel the same. The focal range of this lens is also great for portraits, be it IR or normal photos, DX 55mm (83mm after corresponding increase x1.5 for DX) makes it a very good and cheap portrait lens. This is like the super-budget Nikkor 70-200mm or 85mm for FX (Full Frame Bodies). If you own a DX, get this lens. 

 
* Picture: (Nikon) Nikkor AF-S DX VR 55-200mm F4-5.6G IF-ED

Some User Facts/ Information:
(If you are looking for the specs, please google yourself, it’s all over the internet.)
– Filter Size 52mm
– Lens Hood HB-37 (Sold separately).

– Excellent Lens for Infra-red Photography (IR).
– AF Runs on Fast & Silent Wave Motor (SWM). 
– Focal Range when used on Nikon bodies with smaller APS-C sensors – 82.8-300mm.
– Nikon DX Mount is designed for use on Nikon’s Cropped Bodies (with corresponding increase x1.5 APS-C)
– Designed & Built to pair with the AF-S DX 18-55mm Kit lens.

What I Like:
– Good Portrait to Medium Telephoto range when used on my D60 & D70-IR.
– Super Cheap.
– Tough & Solid Built.
– Larger than Sony or Canon’s equivalent.
– Good picture quality from a Cheap Zoom Lens.
– SWM provides a quiet and fast focusing.
– VC works well. (on the test unit)
– Nice Zoom Ring – good to touch & use.

What I Hate:
– Plastic Construction.
– Weird Design again (Big Body small head).
– Hood not included in package.
– No Distance Scale Meter.

*Picture Source Internet.
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We Check Out: SgCamerastore.com

Posted on September 2, 2010 by Editor AL
Following our article yesterday on SgCameraStore’s Opening Sale at their new premise (Excelsior Hotel). We popped by earlier during lunch to check out their new store. As expected, the shop is neat and organized, certainly well stocked and comprehensive! The lunch crowd came while we were there and as observed, 9 customers came in a short period of 15 minutes while we were there. The staff on duty was helpful and knowledgeable – able to find what the customer need within seconds and very friendly to speak to. Every customer was greeted and served within minutes – an important aspect here as lunch time is short. Everyone was smiling – both customers and staff, the mood inside the store was almost jovial and light hearted. Great ambience to do photography shopping if you ask me.

Good news for photographers who are into WhatTheDuck! SgCameraStore is the appointed exclusive distributor/dealer for WhatTheDuck Merchandise in Singapore. No more buying off ebays!!!

There are so many photography shops in Singapore, and each store has its niche and service standards (and even some of the customers these establishments serves are different from shop to shop too). SgCameraStore will stand out from the rest with their great service, great deal and great smiles. 
We decide to nickname SgCameraStore.com the "Photo Store with Personality".

My Shopping Experience Rating: 9/10

Below are some photos we managed to "sneak" during our visit today. 


Picture: The Welcoming Front.


Picture: There Is Something For Everyone!
   

*Picture: Well Stocked!


Picture: Lots of great Stuff for sale!




Picture: Great Used Gears on Sale too!


Picture: All Photographers Should Know This Fella – the Famous WhatTheDuck! Don’t know? Go Google.
 
SgCameraStore is located at:

No 5 Coleman Street #02-18
Excelsior Hotel and Shopping Center Singapore 179805
(next to Peninsula Shopping Center )
3 minutes walk from City Hall MRT
Tel : 63362273 Hp : 93531915
www.sgcamerastore.com

 

Operating Hours:
Mon-Sat 11am -8pm
Sun 11am – 5pm
Closed on Public Holiday


For Studio/ Classroom ( Studio rental / workshop / Photography courses
No 34, Arab street 303-02 Singapore 199733
Tel : 93531915

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