Interesting Discovery - Full Frame Sensor Matrix Has Lower Efficiency & Higher Optical Demand

In my routine review of the Nikkor family of lens, together with what I have been told by several friends, an identical lens (e.g. Nikkor 50mm F/1.4G) fixed on the DX body out resolves an image compared to it being used on an FX body!

This is verified by typically found MTF50 charts, in both center and corner resolution. It is also said that the full frame matrix has a lower efficiency rating compared to the DX matrix. An interesting read was found to support my findings [here] for this particular example.

Well, this small discovery seems to give DX body owners one more reason to stay put in the DX camp after all.

What Nikon D90 Owners Are Missing Out from Nikon D300

Thought of doing this trivial article for a long time but never got the chance to do it until today - compare Nikon D90 against the Nikon D300 from the functional perspective (not image quality perspective).

Here's a complete list of what we, Nikon D90 owners do not have on our camera

1. 1005-segment RGB sensor
2. Lens data input capability of non-CPU lens for color matrix metering
3. Up to 9 frames bracketing capabilities between -5/+5 EV
4. 51-point CAM 3500DX AF module
5. 1/8000 second shutter speed
6. 150,000 shuttle life
7. 100% frame coverage viewfinder
8. 14-bit file format
9. 6 to 8 FPS release mode
10. Tripod Live view Mode
11. Ten-pin remote terminal
12. Weather-sealing body
13. Magnesium Alloy construction

For all that, you will need to pay an additional $400 from a Nikon D90. Quite neat if you think about it...

Cheaper 35mm Alternative - Go Film?

I am pretty sure that crossed everyone's mind at some point of time, as the enticement to the road to shooting at 35mm with film is just so logical! But apart from the Nikon's offering of the FM10 and F6 monster, we are really only looking at the used market for these type of camera. It's a road less taken these days though...

Well, to go hybrid, using film does have her usual quirks, like longer workflow processing time and the trouble to carry with you more rolls of stuff called films! But can it really come in between our digital comfort zone? At least, the answer is yes to pros like Moose Peterson who still lug around his Nikon F6 regularly to shoot sites.

Is film more suitable for a particular type of photography? Slides perhaps? At time of writing, the Nikon F5 is available new at only $950.

Let's Hear from the "Pros" About Canon

Well, my eldest boy has accustomed himself to shooting with a Canon G2 camera since Jan 2009 and my decision to let him play with a Canon 500D tonight is but a stepping stone to expand his exposure to a real 600g DSLR. (His previous attempts to man handle my Nikon D90 has proved to be quite a challenge at over 2kg)

While he shot with the Canon 500D, I shot with both the Canon 50D and my Nikon D90. Though the fun lasted just over 20 minutes, it critically serve to provide me the few remaining missing pieces to the Canon puzzle. I am pretty set to now say that the Nikon DSLRs are engineered to serve a totally different class in the art of photography. Well, I am not saying Nikon is a plane while Canon is a car but its much rather like a peer comparison between a Lexus and a Toyota. They are both excellent in their core competencies but bears radical differences in their approach to materialize the philosophy of photography. My conclusion? Nikon optics is plainly the key winning differentiation in this game, and they are pushing all the right buttons at the right time.

Canon seems to hit out heavily on the technical accuracy of her machines but has totally failed to grasp the finesse and dynamics of the whole ecosystem of optics (Just take the Canon 50D/500D as an example). Nikon has (for now) managed to achieve that balance between the study of optics behavior and blended interpretation of how these light rays get registered on their sensors electronically, a feat only the best can achieve - A state of the art.

More Probes into Playing with a Canon DSLR

A little visit to the Canon showroom today confirms the EOL status of the Canon 40D, despite the fact it may have been a better camera in the minds of many. But here's what I discovered while there. The Canon xxD series magnesium alloy frame does give me a more confident feel while handling the Canon 50D (or higher) camera, though the shutter release sound is flat, uninspiring and boring throughout.

The two available silent mode of the Canon xxD is surprisingly only available in the Live View mode while the color of each shot comparatively still appears rather lifeless despite the use of the faithful picture control setting (Maybe its my eyes again?). The need to use a combination of dials and directional stick will also definitely require some training & familiarity. The location of the ON/OFF flip switch (on the Canon xxD and above series) is also not helping towards my favorable assessment of Canon. Talk about lack of ergonomics. Lastly, the supposed weather sealing is found to be also a half-hearted attempt on the Canon xxD. Only the battery and CF cover is sufficiently protected. All other buttons are left exposed to the mercy of the elements. Interesting.

In conclusion, despite the availability of cheaper, more variety range of optics, I find no other good enough reasons to delve any further on possibly using Canon DSLR as a second body now.

All said, it all seems to lead to a dead, non-conclusive end. This is so disappointing!

The True Value of a Second DSLR Body - Part III

How in the world will a second body from Canon be used with a Nikon D90 owner? Is there a possibility in this madness? In a word...perhaps. Since I re-entered photography with Nikon, any new lens MUST complement the lens I already own.

That theoretically leaves me with three lens type - Macro, Wide and Super Tele for the second body. The Nikon D90 will anchor shots between 18mm to 200mm. The second body will cover wide shots between 10-24mm and anything beyond 300mm, or perhaps prime reach of 50mm. One body will be on a monopod. The other on my Black Rapid strap. Guess what? The Canon EF 400mm F/5.6L USM cost only $1200! Try Nikon for that price!

Well, just me blowing some steam today! No harm talking about it as its free! Right?

The True Value of a Second DSLR Body - Part II

Work has been stifling today (boring I would say)and I hence would like to take this opportunity to wind down with a slightly lengthy article or two. Yes, we are still babbling about Canon today.

Why Canon? Because all other were never close to become a point of contention (for now)or discussion against Nikon. OK, back to the "second DSLR body" discussion. Now, it can be an analytical one. One that rips everything out onto a silver platter. Maybe, that's what I will do tonight. Enough chatter. The Canon 50D, in my opinion, is a failure. Its foolish attempt to pack all 15 million pixels onto that small APC sensor is just plain stupidity. In fact, noise performance of the Canon 50D got so bad it's realistically worse than the predecessor Canon 40D!

Hmm...no wonder the Canon 60D is coming this fall! And as a stop gap, I have never seen canon release so many firmware patches within such close time intervals. But, in all, I still think a clearance Canon 40D can sufficiently complement the Nikon D90. Here's how. The Canon 40D's 6.3 FPS may give Nikon D90 owners some additional separation with tighter shots intervals. Maybe, the sturdier body can be used in slightly harsher environment. In addition, I gladly welcome the 9 cross-type AF sensors (compared to only one on the Nikon D90) of this candidate, together with her 14-bit A/D conversion engine. The silent shooting mode is also a plus in my review.

What da ye know! The Canon 40D is a Nikon D200 killer after all! And one that did quite well against it. price wise, they are identical too!

The True Value of a Second DSLR Body - Part I

Well, Scott (Fellow Nikon D90 enthusiast)brought up a valuable point today, together with reason and choice for a second DSLR body. First off, a second body minimize the need for one to swap lens while shooting, giving one higher up-time to catch that right moment when it surfaces.

With that, the price you pay is obviously a heavier encumbrance. And in return, one would hope to perhaps obtain a more balanced view about photography - even a better appreciation of the strength of other camera makers (if any). I am definitely not in favor economically and realistically to own two sets of identical reach lenses if I were to move with two camera makers concurrently.

Now, let's just take Canon as a potential candidate for our discussion...Objectively speaking, Canon seems to offer a higher ISO sensor firmware, even though many believe its nearly impossible to use them at anything beyond 3200. Secondly, her EF range of 70-300 F/4 USM starts at an affordable $900! This favorable price variance seems to also extend to her EF 50mm F/1.4 USM, EF 85mm F/1.8 USM. Perhaps, its an apple and pear comparison but they are after all, still fruits!

Shutter frame rate is another consideration that seems to warrant some attention. The Canon xxD series seems to still maintain a over 6 FPS ratings while upping the ante in the shutter speed department with a 1/8000 second snap rate. Magnesium alloy body is an optional feature to me as opposed to wanting a decent weather sealing property.

Just for Fun - Switching to Canon For a Secondary DSLR Body?

Think about this for a moment and refrain from jeering upon this idea - Try out to own a Canon DSLR as your secondary camera! As I mention before, there are always pros and cons of owning two camps. You have to be pretty specific what you want each camp to do for you.

And as far as Canon is concern, its divest glass range will definitely prove useful if you seek, say, a longer reach at 800mm (Sorry Nikon). I was just thinking along the line to get say the inexpensive Canon 500D I put off last week. Yes, its very primitive and yes, its shoddy in construction, but I am only seeking for the core sensor engine that's worth using together with Canon's vast offering of cheaper glass!

Well, its just a thought but one that definitely has a certain weight in the whole equation of hunting down a second DSLR body.

Basis (or Excuses?) for Upgrading from Nikon D90

So the rumor is true after all! The successor of the Nikon D300 DX is finally coming! Frankly, I am quite ready to upgrade my body, making the Nikon D90 as a backup camera of mine, but what exactly is the justification?

Here's what I believe warrants an upgrade (if you can convince yourself with a valid claim)

1. 51-point AF engine (for sports or fast action capture)
   
2. Weather sealing (not that you will dump it in the bathtub to proof a point)
   
3. Magnesium Alloy framework (are we doubling it as our home hammer?)
   
4. Heavier (for stable handling or a better workout?)
   
5. 1005 pixel RGB sensor (against 420 found in Nikon D90)
   
6. 1/8000 second second speed (for lightning chasers?)
   
7. 6-8fps (Hmm...sports photography anyone?)
   
8. Higher Pixel count - maybe around 15-18 MP (are we printing floor-standing posters?)
   
9. Pro-looking body size (Ego kicking in? Or a dose of inferiority complex?)
   
10. 14-bit A/D pixel conversion (good one! To give 16,384 color toning range per pixel)
    
11. Multi-stage 16-bit image processing (further cut noise distortion. Good one too)
    
12. More buttons to press (ease of setting camera functions)
    

This is also assumed that what's on Nikon D90 (especially video recording) is also brought into the new DX leader body (Nikon D400 if that's what it will be called)

How Tough is Nikon D90 Actually?

This is what we can expect from our Nikon D90!



Who needs weather sealing when the Nikon D90 can thaw back to life on the heated car radiator after a deep-freeze night out?

Sample Content from The Hot Shoe Dairies

So you can't wait? Fine by me. Download a sample chapter of Joe's book [here].

Have a read. If its cool, buy it!

Strobist Blog Review and SB-900 Findings

If you, like me, has recently up your flash arsenal to the Nikon Speedlight SB-900, you would also be in a cave somewhere, learning how to better shoot with this big flash gun. If you have not visited Strobist Blog on my favorite link section, you should.

I mean, there's just too much to digest about flash photography and replicating other people's content here is just absurd. So, I would rather write about snippets of "gems" I found while using the SB-900 on this blog, while heavily relying on Strobist's blog to do the talking.

Here's what I found so far...the Nikon SB-900 can reach good distance if you push its flash rating to 1/1 (as opposed to the default 1/128). Say 100 feet to say the least if you want. This effectively help me shoot without my tripod completely! So, I now have the option to carry my flash or my tripod.

Secondly, on my Nikkor 70-300mm G lens, the Nikon SB-900 does not automatically "shape" the flash beam. You have to manually adjust the DX ZOOM M to 200mm to manually get those beams to converge. On the kit lens, its fully automatic. Thirdly, the provided color filters work wonders on night indoor shots! The Nikon D90 is equipped to obtain filter information when the filter is attached seamlessly.

Lastly, I now have the confidence to shoot at 1/200 second hand held (while focusing at 200mm) with the flash attached! This totally removes the need for a tripod. Talk about mobility!

Nikon D90 Awarded Best Digital SLR Advanced Award

Drum roll please...and the best digital SLR advanced award goes to...the Nikon D90!

It's indeed an honor to obtain this greatly coveted TIPA award 2009.

Check out the full award winners [here]

Side Track #5 - Camera From the Fourth Universe

I call this a paradigm shift in the consulting field but you could well be looking at the future of photography. Do pardon me as I am still baffled by what this product actually is; a video camera or a camera or both.

Critics bowed down to their product range, ingenuity and sense of humility from this more advanced form of image capturing. It kinda remind me of the NERF gun I bought for the boys - fully modular modules configurable in a lego format to adapt to your shooting needs.

I leave it to your imagination.

Check it out [here]

Official - Nikon Overtaken Canon in Market Share in 2008!

Nikon has announced that it is now the UK's leading manufacturer of DSLRs.

Speaking at the UK launch of the company's flagship D3X camera, the company boasted of a prosperous year, which has seen Nikon's DSLR sales growth expand by 333 per cent, compared 2004/05 figures.

The official announcement is that Nikon is "number one for share by volume in the UK, Europe, USA and Japan on 1st December 2008."

The impressive figure of 333 per cent is mainly due to Nikon in recent years getting aggressive in the DSLR market, making sure that everyone from first-time DSLR buyers to high-end professionals have the option to buy a Nikon-branded camera. This includes the recently launched Nikon D3X.

In my opinion, Nikon must have done something right for a change...

Read full story [here]

What Nikon Professional Uses for Their Work

Once in a while, its good to know if you want to shoot with the result of the pros, you jolly well use what they use....for a start. Composition skills, experience and ability to improvise and assess scene aside, at least you know you are getting there with the right lens.

I personally believe the Nikon D90 has identical capability as the Nikon D300 and with the right lens, we may well be seeing the summit of decent picture quality. Here's what the pros swear by each day

Canon 500D Bites The Dust Against Nikon D90

Never was I more surprised when Digital Review pitched the newly launched Canon T1i (500D) against the Nikon D90 and declared the Nikon D90 a winner!

In the department of focus speed, battery life, degree of customization, ergonomics, you name it, Nikon D90 came out the winner. Read the wow complete story [here]

When Nikon D90 is Not Enough - Full-frame Advantage

At the current limitation of technology, the law of diminishing return will be in set in on non full frame-sized sensors at about 15 MP. And if you ask me, is pretty much today.

But what exactly does full-frame sensors offer besides significantly more expensive glass and body? As far as I am aware of, one advantage - superior images at higher mega-pixel level.

All in all, the APS-C cameras and lenses in the Canon, Nikon, and Sony systems can provide comparable imaging quality at less cost and almost always reduced size and weight. But if you require extremely high-resolution images, if you make really big enlargements, or if you want great leeway in cropping deep into an image, you’ll want a high-megapixel full-frame DSLR.

Sorry Canon & Sony - Nikon D90 Rocks!

In an independent lab test conducted by DxO lab, a collection of three similar tier cameras were benchmarked.

The test result is shown in the table above.

Need I say more?

I encourage you to visit DxO lab as it allows me to discover that indeed, Nikon D300 overall performance is still lower than Nikon D90!