пятница, 14 мая 2010 г.
What can you buy SLR cameras
What can you buy
Heskolko years ago we began to appear in the camera known firms, and among fans began to appear on the idea of buying. At present in Moscow and some large cities in Russia emerged more or less normal market cameras. To buy no automatic SLR a good company with one objective now should be about $ 250 (approximately equivalent to the price Zenith AIC). To buy a good camera with autofocus and zoom lens company first row should be about $ 600. Also note that sometimes “the appetite comes with eating, and in addition to the camera lens with staff still want to buy additional lenses, various accessories, such as flash (without the normal flash shot in color in a room is difficult). All this will require additional costs (different, accessories for Canon / Nikon are much more expensive than the accessories Yashica).
As a price guide for foreign-made cameras in this article are the average of Moscow prices. The price range for the camera in Moscow can reach 50 percent in Russia and CIS it even more.
Summary firms
Provides “five” Japanese firms are Canon, Minolta, Nikon, Olympus, Pentax (alphabetically), Kyocera (released Contax / Yashica), Leica, and the company’s “second line”, for example, Ricoh, Sigma, Vivitar, etc. n. Contax and Leica – the oldest brands of high quality professional 35 mm photography. Their cameras are very expensive (from about $ 1000 for body). Optics same way, Contax lenses supplied by Zeiss. Descriptions of cameras of this class are beyond the scope of this article. Companies ‘second line’ under-represented here, this creates certain problems. The quality of cameras these firms is high. Hedorogaya manual camera from this company – a great alternative to Zenith. The Five dominates the world market. All of these firms is very high class, if someone speaks about some of them are bad – do not believe him. Currently, the lion’s share of the market for professional 35 mm cameras in this class supervise Nikon and Canon. This only indicates that the top models of these two firms have some features that make professional photographers feel more confident with them. If you do not need to shoot a series at a speed of 5 (10) frames per second, and if you do not plan on 365 days a year to shoot several films a day in various difficult conditions, etc., the Pentax / Minolta / Olympus anything for you worse. Olympus, though, because of its range of models (their emphasis is on the SLR with built-in lenses and reliable professional SLRs without AF, which are used in various tricky areas such as medicine, astronomy) from the five drops. Detailed specifications of cameras in this article describes are not about them, you can read in other sections of our magazine.
I would like to mention a few moments. The first – the market cameras are very conservative, and therefore very difficult to change the company. That is, if a person buys a camera of some firms, it would have to buy accessories for it. Sell them and move the camera of another company (especially in our conditions) will be very difficult. “They live” normal camera for a long time, 10 years as a minimum, morally outdated too slowly, some special cells, such as manual Nikon FM2, in general, is unlikely to become obsolete in the near future. The second point – the breakthroughs in technology are unlikely, and the characteristics of cells in a similar price range. The third point – there are so many people are fixated on another company (usually or Nikon, or Canon), and accordingly, they are absolutely not adequate, it makes sense to treat their opinion with great care. Such people can meet in different places, and among the authors of magazines, and among sellers at the store. Talk about what the company is better, absolutely meaningless. You can only compare specific models, each has its pluses and minuses. Talk about a serious superiority of optics which is a firm “five” is also usually inspired by myths, each of the firms have different optics, including excellent. Fourth – if you buy works very much subjective factors, such as design, the presence of cameras of the company of friends / acquaintances, the possibility of buying, assortment of accessories, etc. Finally, and most importantly, do not get hung up on photo devices, even an inexpensive manual camera lets you make great shots. We have repeatedly encountered cases when, soon after buying the people there was a desire to change something in our view, this is usually not justified, and better think about what you want to buy the camera, rather than after. Also, when buying a camera should be borne in mind that if you buy multiple lenses, flash and other accessories, the hardware costs (body) will be not so much a part of your kit.
Options of SLR cameras (part 2)
What are my options
1. If you have experience shooting SLR cameras, then for about $ 250-300 (price expensive P & S cameras) you can buy a good is not an automatic camera. It is necessary to sum greatly depends on what options you have purchases. In our country, photographic equipment is quite expensive when buying in countries such as USA / Japan / Singapore, you can save or buy something more advanced. We also price dispersion is very large (up to 50 per cent). The options here are some, in any case, most likely it will be a camera without autofocus. Its most important point – at what grade cameras stop. There are two main options – electronic or mechanical camera. Manual will have only TTL, in e may be some sort of automation (eg, aperture priority). Ha our opinion, in this case it is better to take a mechanical camera in this price range it is safer. Mechanical cells typically do not have automatics, it imposes some limitations on their use. In electronic cameras in this class as Automatic not very developed, such as TTL metering for shooting with flash is usually absent.
Its most common in our low-cost options for mechanics – a Yashica FX3 super 2000, Pentax K1000 (already discontinued). Hedavno came across Ricoh KR-5 III, Ricoh KR-5 Super II, Soligor SR-200 PK. Pentax, Ricoh, Soligor are mount K, and therefore up to them, our optics. Hedorogie electronic versions – so, for example, Yashica 108/109, Pentax P-30T, Minolta X-300, Praktica BX20S (these a little more expensive). Case here is provided by Pentax at the end of 1997, camera Pentax MZ-M, it is structurally similar to their autofocus series. Regarding optics, if you want to meet in the $ 250-300 is likely to have to take the lens with fixed focal length (50 mm). Zoom-lenses are more expensive. When buying inexpensive zoom-lens please note that they have a small aperture, and therefore may create some difficulties for manual focusing, especially in low light and if you have vision problems. Each of these companies produces a relatively wide range of accessories, ie, problems with your purchase, for example, outbreaks of these cameras will not. Also for the money you can not take the new camera, but the purchase must be vigilant, and it is desirable to invite a person versed in the mechanics.
2. If you expect to spend on buying the camera for about $ 600, you might think about buying the camera known firm with autofocus and zoom-lens. Most of these cameras allow you to shoot both novices and people with great experience.
It can be roughly classified body as follows:
- “Mirror P & S” – Canon EOS 5000, Minolta Dynax 300si.
- “Hachalny level” -
a) Pentax MZ-50,
b) Canon 500N (Rebel G), Minolta Dynax 500si super, Nikon F60, Pentax MZ-10;
c) Minolta 505si, 505si super. - Middle class -
a) Canon EOS 50 (e) (no spot metering);
b) Minolta 600si, Pentax MZ-5 (5n), MZ-3, Nikon F601;
c) Nikon F70 (this is slightly more expensive). - Semi-camera – Minolta Dynax 700si, 800si, Canon EOS 5, Pentax Z-1P.
- Occupational camera -
a) Canon EOS 3, Nikon F90x, Nikon F100, Minolta Dynax 9.
b) Top-camera – Nikon F5, Canon EOS 1N, 1N RS.
The classification is very tentative. For example, a company release camera Minolta 505si and 505si Super even more complicated by the possibility of classification. These chambers by e-stuffing actually correspond to cells of the middle class, but their constructive corresponds to an entry-level cameras. On the other hand camera Pentax MZ-50 (and even Pentax MZ-M) are constructive, close to the upper chamber in the line MZ – Pentax MZ-3. Basic principles of classification follows. “Mirror P & S”, as a rule, do not have manual modes. In view of the fact that the price of this camera is not much different from the price of cameras “entry level”, and if you want or want to do in the future somehow intervene in the process of installing the exhibition, this camera is not for you. If you believe you ever want to fully trust the automation – that is what you need. “Hachalny level” in quotation marks, because it is a very good camera. This is the right camera, but lightweight, that is, they, for example, may be a composite mount, low-power motor, little bands, measured. Recently, though there was a tendency to functional nasysheniyu similar cameras. SLRs of this class sold the most in the world, their reliability is high. The price of such cameras with a lens in its class is about $ 600.
The middle class has all of that put – a complete set of automation, spot metering, the possibility of a correction, usually bracketing, quite a powerful motor, a metal mount.
Semi, in contrast to professional, more use of composites, are less persuasive constructive (no protection from water, for example) have built-in flash (Minolta Dynax 9, also has a built-in flash). That is, functionally, they are pretty close to a professional, but they share a bit less (though they have it very, very high). Also, semi-professional cameras have a program exposure (eg, “sports”, “portrait”), in professional cameras such regimes may not be as they are designed for professionals who like things are not needed. This camera with one lens, the appropriate class will cost around $ 1300. Professional cameras are designed for shooting in different conditions several films a day for several years, the resource is guaranteed by the shutter is at the level of 100-150 thousand. The usual suspects produced a large variety of accessories needed in professional work, such as interchangeable focusing screen. “Normal” cells known firms, in principle, also have a very good performance in different conditions, just a manufacturer is not “guarantee”.
When buying a camera often pay attention to the fact that many of them are widely used composite materials. The quality of modern composites high enough, they, for example, are used in ski bindings. That is, if you do not expect to use heavy lenses and change them often, even the presence of composites in the bayonet should not embarrass you. Also, you should not confuse the place of production cells, even in China, famous firms can maintain the high quality of assembly.
To give advice on that, the camera of a class to stay, very difficult. Home – decide what you want, and how opportunities for you to critical and which are not. Hikakih reason you do not have to overpay. Before you decide what you want, think what you intend to shoot, it will help you answer most questions.
Optics of SLR cameras
Optics
Camera optics not live without. There are two possible sale of digital SLR cameras, the first option is when the housing is sold separately and separate lenses, the second option when the producers or sellers complement set (kit) from the body and lens. Optika greatly complicates the choice (because of the need to take into account the range and price range of optics). Which set of optics to have, everyone decides for himself. You can do 1-2 relatively inexpensive zoom-lens, but you can buy a range of professional lenses with fixed focal length. Hedorogaya zoom-optics limits the ability of the photographer. For example, portraits usually take off with a small depth of field, using such optics is difficult. Ha our opinion, the best variant – it 1-2 zoom-lens and 1-2 lenses with fixed focal length. And do not forget that the main thing – start to withdraw, and the optics can always purchase a sweat. Also, after buying a lens you will be much better to understand what else you need.
All well-known companies produce excellent optics. Objectives of each firm can be divided into three groups – entry level, intermediate and professional. Each of these groups commonly contain both lenses with fixed focal length and zoom-lens. At the prices it looks like, for example, in Canon, as follows: Entry Level – $ 100 – $ 300, average – $ 400 – $ 600, Senior (series lenses L) – from about $ 1000 (on the order of magnitude). The situation at other companies may differ, for example, professional optics from Canon is usually more expensive than the Nikon, and the optics of the middle class more expensive than a Nikon. Lenses primary level may have a plastic case and plastic lens mount, not to have the distance scale, the average level – at least has a metal mount, usually also has a metal casing and professional – is expensive lenses with metal frame. Optical quality is good even for entry-level zoom, so they are, in principle, performed at a high level, and only have disadvantages such as – at higher magnifications shows drop in permits for the edges, to behave differently at different apertures and focal lengths (in the case zoom). Lens average tend to have significantly better constructs, their optical quality is better. When designing an expensive professional optics used special materials (eg, fluorite elements) and technology (aspherical elements), it allows to achieve excellent results. Recently, significantly improved the quality of professional zoom lenses such as 28 (35) -70/2.8 or 70 (80) -200/2.8, the quality is very high even at full aperture, and they work equally well for the entire zoom range. These lenses are commonplace. Distinguish professional lens can even print of 10×15. That is, if people can afford to buy such a lens, he did not regret the money spent.
The range of optics in all firms, rather large. Least of all lenses from Pentax (but under the optics mount K release and other firms, we are really talking only about a mechanical interoperability standard for electronic contacts is not here), most probably, from Canon (the company is very clear stand in three different set of lenses ). Optics for these companies also produce “third” of the company, such as Tamron, Tokina. These optics are cheaper, but quality (optical and mechanical), it is different, it is necessary to deal with the specific objective and not particularly trust the catchy advertising claims manufacturers. Also, sometimes compatibility problems, for example, not once ever read about the problems with non-native optics from Canon (some lenses do not work or work correctly on some models of buildings). Also began to produce cheap 28-200 lens type, which do not provide high quality, especially to increase more than 10×15.
Previously, as a full (first) lens is usually chosen by a lens with focal length of 50 mm, are usually chosen zoom type 28-80/35-105 or more expensive options 24-85/28-105/35-135. When you first think of the lens of his plans for the future. In their view of the choices can be simplified. If you do not expect to buy additional lenses, then make decisions based on the fact that you’re more likely to withdraw. If you want to buy a second lens telephoto type of 100-300, as a first reasonable to buy 24-85 or 28-105, but if you want to later buy a wide angle lens such as 20-35, as a first better to use 35-135 .
Writing Board, on the lens of class to stay, is also very difficult. Features Lens weakly formalized. From the descriptions and schedules are often very difficult to understand what and how, and such descriptions are not so easy to find. Tests conducted by various magazines, are often unreliable, or not entirely correct. Ha our view, as a first lens advisable to buy one of the “native” lenses that are recommended by the manufacturer for the camera. The second, more expensive option – to buy a camera lens for the next (higher) class. Once you start to shoot it, you begin to understand what and how, and in the future it will be easier to make choices.
I would also like to note the following. When you buy things like a general rule – the thing is expensive, the better it is, exceptions are extremely rare (we are not talking about price distortions, which are with us). That is, if you, for whatever reasons to buy an inexpensive lens of a “third” firms do not expect anything outstanding, but often (especially when printing 10×15 photo-paragraph) is not a bad option. Also do not forget about the existence of optics with fixed focal length, inexpensive zoom-lens in spite of great versatility, have a number of fundamental limitations.
In addition to the widely used lenses exist several types of specialized. Its most famous of them – macro-and soft-lenses.
Macro-lenses are used to shoot small objects on a scale of 1:1 or 1:2. Often the question arises – which means that the inscription on some Macro zoom-lenses, and whether such a facility to replace the current Macro-lens with fixed focal length. Typically, this endorsement means nothing more that the lens can take in the scale close to 1:2 (1:4). Hastoyaschie Macro-lenses have a special optical scheme, designed for shooting small objects at close distances.
Also available in supplementary lenses for macro (close-up lens) (allows you to reduce the minimum focusing distance, dress up on the lens) and the extension of the ring (extension tube) (installed between the camera and lens), which can also bring the object of shooting. Typically, in order that would begin the introduction to the exciting world Macro-shooting them enough. After filming with their help it will be easier to decide to buy Macro-lens.
Soft-lens can optically soften the picture, this possibility is very helpful, for example, when Filming portraits. For instance, the Canon is EF135/2.8 with Softfocus, from Nikon – AF 105/2.0 DC D, and AF 135/2.0 DC D.
To increase the lens focal length (usually long-focus) using tele (mounted between the camera and lens). When using the focal length is usually increased by 2 or 1,4 times (the relative aperture is reduced to the appropriate (2 or 1,4) the number of times). When using quality optical system decreases. However, some firms developed converters, which, when used with professional optics allow to obtain excellent results.
Features of each of the firms (Canon)
Features of each of the firms “five” (the firm are in alphabetical order)
Canon
Current line EOS cameras from Canon is as follows (with increasing complexity): 5000, 500N (Rebel G), 1950 (ELAN II), 50E (ELAN IIE), (A2), 5 (A2E), 3 (in Blainville September 1998), 1N, 1N RS, are given in parentheses American names (the Canon some U.S. models have minor differences). Canon produces a great range of lenses and other accessories. Canon’s first with the development of cells began to build a motor for focusing, a lens (in 1987), resulting in no need of mechanical drive from the camera body. Moreover, it allowed a camera with a very fast autofocus system. Later, Nikon, too, began to produce such lenses (currently they only released a professional optics with motors). Canon with Minolta began to use multi-point AF. Also, it was designed Canon eye-control (control point of focus with pupil photographer), is used in the EOS 3 (45 points), EOS 5 and EOS 50E.
To control the outbreak of the firm Canon is using the most advanced mode E-TTL. Canon launches four lens with optical image stabilization (have an index IS), these lenses allow you to shoot without a “shake” when using fairly slow shutter speeds (up to 1 / 15 to 300 mm). Also produced lenses with optic axis tilt opportunity and prospects of the shift (the name of such lenses starts with TS-E), such lenses, for example, can get rid of perspective distortions when photographing architecture. Reflex produced at two factories in Japan, senior, junior in Taiwan.
Minolta
Line of cameras with AF as follows: a series of chambers called Dynax, in America Maxxum. Consists of the following models – 300si, 500si (Maxxum 400 si in America), 500si Super (in American, it appeared late and called the Maxxum 500si), 505si, 505si Super (Blainville in mid-1998), 600si, 700si (not performed ), 800si, Dynax 9 (replaced in autumn 1998 camera 9xi). Also available in models without AF – an X-300 and X-700. Minolta has released the first system of cameras with AF, occurred in 1986 (before that were only a few cameras with AF), and a long time multi-point autofocus system. Older Minolta SLR cameras are the regime “Eye Start”, ie dim when approaching the camera to the eye, they also have a special opportunity to read maps that are written additional software (in its latest camera 800si Minolta declined the opportunity). Very strong position in the production of devices Minolta metering (spot-, color-, flashmeter’ov). Optics Minolta is known for its quality. 9xi, 800si, 700si, 600si produced in Japan, 300si, which are sold in Moscow, usually made in China.
Nikon
Current line cameras with AF is as follows – F50 (N50), F601 (N6006), F60 (Blainville, in July 1998 to replace the F50), F70 (N70), F90X (N90S), F100 (Blainville, in November 1998) F5. After the release of F60 F50 and F601 release stopped, but they are still available. Also produced the camera without AF – FE10, FM10, FM2, F3. FE10/FM10 – inexpensive camera that produces a lot of evidence is not Nikon (the company itself Nikon on this issue does not give any comments). FM2 – an excellent purely mechanical camera (for example, has a shutter speed of 1 / 4000), more at one firm of such cameras in this price range there, purely mechanical Contax / Leica is worth significantly more expensive. F3 produced since 1980 and is considered a very convenient camera for studio shots, in which the AF is not needed. Also, Nikon SLR cameras produced for underwater filming and optics for large format cameras. In the Nikon camera was first used multispectral measurement.
Manufacturer Nikon has never changed the mechanics mount SLR cameras. In 1996 Blainville lenses with a motor inside for quick focusing (autumn 1998 presented similar zoom-obektvy 28-70/2.8 and 80-200/2.8). Nikon holds a special pricing / marketing policy, the emphasis shifted toward expensive models of shells and optics. There is a perception that Nikon cameras are more reliable. Ha our view, the moment it probably applies to its top-Series F3, F4, F5, but not more than, the level of technology in recent years has leveled off. “Senior” reflex produced in Japan, F50, F601 now, apparently, in Thailand (the Japanese versions are also sometimes found on sale), some lenses are manufactured in China.
Olympus
Releases SLR camera with built-in lens model IS-200 (replaced by the summer of 1997 IS-100), IS-3000 (IS-3). Also produces excellent SLR camera without autofocus OM-4Ti and OM-3Ti, these cameras have a variety of accessories for use with telescopes, medical equipment, etc. Olympus – optical group, the quality optics they are very high.
Pentax
Models with AF – MZ-1950 (ZX-50), MZ-1910 (ZX-10), MZ-5 (ZX-5), MZ-5n (ZX-5n), MZ-3 (available in Japan), Z1 -P (PZ1-P). Models without AF – is now out of production, expensive Pentax LX (camera in the class of Nikon F3, but less known for a number of reasons) and cheap Pentax K-1000, P-30T. Most recently was released Pentax MZ-M, neavtofokusnaya camera structurally close to the autofocus series MZ. The company also produces a Pentax medium format camera, including world’s first autofocus medium format SLR camera Pentax 645N.
From the standpoint of cost / opportunity is very good camera is PZ-1P. Unfortunately, the Pentax in Russia are not very well, the truth of the recent improvement in the situation and hope that this is a very worthy company will rightfully deserves her place on the market. Hekotorye cameras allow you to automatically change the focal length zoom-lenses. Pentax mount uses K, line native autofocus optics is not very large, but all you need to have very good quality. Using our optics AF cameras from Pentax, in some cases can lead to problems with electronic cameras. Plants from Pentax in different countries, including China / Vietnam.
Canon T90
Despite the appearance of EOS system and that it was the last professional camera Canon Manual focus and the latest professional camera, ispolzuyaschaya FD mount. In T90 There have been numerous new technological solutions, which are still used in modern SLR cameras
Canon T90- Flagship T-series film single lens reflex cameras, Released in 1986.
Despite the appearance of EOS system and that it was the last professional camera Canon Manual focus and the latest professional camera, ispolzuyaschaya FD mount. In T90 There have been numerous new technological solutions, which are still used in modern SLR cameras.
Metering
For T90 Canon has developed a new system of metering. Although not included the new regime, but has collected a number of regimes in a single system. Profiles Metering (Spot, average and partial) are switched by pressing and turning the wheel.
Canon PowerShot G10
If we compare the new model Canon G10 digital compact with the world of “soap-boxes”, then we cumbersome and, in particular, heavy camera, because its weight is comparable to the lightest SLR cameras. If you plan to always carry this camera with you, it is better to get a big and sturdy pocket or small purse. On the other hand, a large body is much better ergonomics compared with compact models because Canon G10 is a set of mechanical controls to help users quickly make the necessary settings without finding the desired option on the screen or in the menu. Some appreciate the optical viewfinder, a relatively large size, which facilitates the sight. However, few illusions feed should not be, the viewfinder of this type is still not very accurate. Therefore, the screen remains the primary means of sight, better than them and use. The more that Canon G10 it big and very good quality. The only pity is that the screen does not swivel, unlike previous models.
Canon PowerShot G10 | Introduction
Camera is equipped with a sensor larger size than most compact models, but the permission of the G10 is much as 14 megapixels, which, in our opinion, very much! Even too much if you plan to shoot in modes with high sensitivity. On the other side, the theoretical resolution is very high, it actually deceive, if you want to get a very detalizovannye shots in low sensitivity mode. But we still come back to this.
Can record images in JPEG format with different resolutions and three quality levels, but also can save images in RAW, although this format is rather unwieldy – up to 20 MB per photo. In general, if you decide to shoot in RAW, it does not prevent the stock up a set of memory cards. As well, the lens focal length starts with a wide angle 28 mm and 140 mm telephoto end (in dollars), it is perfectly consistent with this model camera. In any case, it is better than 35-210 mm in G9. As might be expected, the lens is stabilized, but we would like to get a little more intensity, especially at long focal lengths.
Canon PowerShot G10 | Shooting modes
As might be expected, Canon G10 supports a fully automatic mode with a set of “trendy” features such as face recognition. However, this camera is suitable and for photographers who want to control all the parameters shooting. The camera has shutter speed priority mode, aperture, as well as hand, and used this aperture with values from 2,8 to 8 (in wide angle). However, it should be remembered that the most closed diaphragm (5,6 and will lose resolution because of the effect of diffraction. Therefore, we recommend using these provisions carefully, so that you are not disappointed. Otherwise, we would like to emphasize the good ergonomics in general, which ensures effective use of the camera, all the major controls fall comfortably under the fingers, and G10 behaves quite responsive. Naturally some restrictions, such as packet shooting, which is added more for the species. In this regard, SLR cameras, even the entry level, remain unsurpassed.
Canon PowerShot G10 | Practical tests
In regimes with a low sensitivity of all the 14.7 megapixel presence felt, and effective resolution, complemented by image processing system Canon, is very high. This concerns practically the whole area of the image in the corners we have not observed any significant weaknesses. Distortion is too small and hardly visible in the telephoto – great advantage for demanding users. On the other hand, in the wide angle you can see the chromatic aberration is the distance from the center of the picture. Too bad Canon did not go through the Panasonic, where they are corrected automatically. Of course, all this can be done later on the computer using appropriate software. For example, we got very good results following treatment Lightroom.
When lifting sensitivity situation becomes not so idyllic. “Noise” quickly manifests itself in the photographs, aided by a large number of pixels the sensor. Of course, everything is relative, and for pictures of a reasonable size, you can use all the standard range of sensitivity up to ISO 1600 (though, it is better to avoid a special regime of ISO 3200). But, of course, in these conditions does not expect to get details of 14.7 megapixels. In modes with high sensitivity camera Panasonic LX3 (Comparable model in the same category) is much more powerful.
In regimes with a low sensitivity of all the 14.7 megapixel presence felt, and effective resolution, complemented by image processing system Canon, is very high. This concerns practically the whole area of the image in the corners we have not observed any significant weaknesses. Distortion is too small and hardly visible in the telephoto – great advantage for demanding users. On the other hand, in the wide angle you can see the chromatic aberration is the distance from the center of the picture. Too bad Canon did not go through the Panasonic, where they are corrected automatically. Of course, all this can be done later on the computer using appropriate software. For example, we got very good results following treatment Lightroom.
When lifting sensitivity situation becomes not so idyllic. “Noise” quickly manifests itself in the photographs, aided by a large number of pixels the sensor. Of course, everything is relative, and for pictures of a reasonable size, you can use all the standard range of sensitivity up to ISO 1600 (though, it is better to avoid a special regime of ISO 3200). But, of course, in these conditions does not expect to get details of 14.7 megapixels. In modes with high sensitivity camera Panasonic LX3 (Comparable model in the same category) is much more powerful.
воскресенье, 2 мая 2010 г.
How to choose web-camera
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In the past, when computers were large and small screens, the acquisition of even the most unpretentious webcam overflowed in a fairly expensive purchase. Then GHZ with gigabytes prevailed in the IT industry, justice has finally prevailed after - now the webcam is quite affordable for the ordinary user.
The webcam, as its name implies, is intended solely for multimedia network applications, in which the base rate is not on the quality of the transmitted data (sound and image), and the rate of transmission. This last aspect is very important for low-speed lines, with which more rich our national internet (especially on the periphery).
The web-cameras for multiple applications, ranging from custom videoconferencing on the internet to simple telemetry devices (eg, web camera can be used as a component of a homemade alarm system).
Typically, the camera is attached software that helps to squeeze out every conceivable device and is not very possible: recording video and audio (if separate or built-in microphone), broadcasting video over the network, create web albums and folders of photos, work with mail, and multimedia applications. In addition, the Internet is not difficult to find a suitable third-party software.
Well, now down to business.
Connecting to a computer. Gone are the good times when webcams were sold bundled with a special video capture card or connect to a computer via the parallel port. Now almost all devices used popular USB-port. Sometimes there are also a webcam, use wireless data transmission technology.
When buying, pay attention to the version of USB. With the support only USB 1.1 will be satisfied with a modest-quality video: 640 x 480 pixels at 15 frames per second. The larger data stream USB 1.1 pass, alas, not. For 30 frames per second will focus on USB 2.0.
Another point: as in older versions of Microsoft Windows do not have adequate support USB-interface, the choice of camera users have been slow. It is possible that the only way out will upgrade the system.
Qualitative characteristics. We will not specifically focus on this point, because for Internet video conferencing with his head enough resolution of 320 x 240 pixels. Standard 640 x 480 pixels, which offer all the cameras are ideal for recording small video clips that can be sent by e-mail. The most expensive models have a matrix of 1,3 million pixels and can do large-scale photographs.
Additional functions. Built-in microphone, now have almost all the budget webcam models. The presence of digital zoom and automatic face tracking do work with a webcam more comfortable and pleasant, although slightly increases the cost.
Form Factor. As the popularity of laptops and LCD displays is growing, many manufacturers began to offer web-cameras, which are conveniently mounted on the housing of the LCD monitor or laptop.
Well, let's, based on the above data, let's make a rough configuration of two web-cameras: the budget option, and as far as "featured" model.
In an economical series of falls webcam with VGA-resolution (640 x 480 pixels), Manual Focus, without built-in microphone and the interface with USB 1.1. This option is ideal for home video and for novice users.
Those who are not accustomed to saving, we recommend to choose a Web camera with a resolution of 1.3 megapixels, built-in microphone, who knows how to approach the subject with a digital zoom and possessing an automatic face tracking user. Typically, these devices support USB 2.0 and are equipped with advanced software.
четверг, 25 марта 2010 г.
Article on monochrome video surveillance cameras
The most common today are the monochrome camera, put it in simple language the camera with black and white optics. Clear that these cells perceive and transmit a signal video images in two basic colors: black and white. At first glance, this seems out of date, since there are already cameras with color recording. However, the monochrome video surveillance cameras, there is one positive, and perhaps most important nuance. Black and white CCTV cameras have a tendency to perceive the invisible infrared radiation that can produce high-quality photography, both in daylight and at night. Color cameras also do not possess such a property in night scenes are almost useless.
So it turns out that the choice of surveillance cameras, you should pay, especially for its intended use. If you are going to rent some space or territory only during daytime, the color analog video camera will be quite convenient for you. Otherwise, if necessary round the clock surveillance is to acquire monochrome camera.
How to choose filters for the camera
Filter represents a device that is the most common
variant is screwed to the front lens and the lens is used to
obtain various effects, or to retain or any range
light waves (color, UV), or for a proportional reduction
transmitted light (ND - neutral density), or to exclude light
waves of a certain polarization (polarization).
Filter - UV (HAZE) or SKY
First of all, it is mechanical protection of the lens. In this case, the filter - a piece of
glass cost 20-50 dollars can practically "save" the lens, which
expensive it in 10-20-30 times. In addition, the filter can be without fear of damage
wipe the lens, it protects against dirt, dust and spray the object itself. It
has a serious plus, because without a filter to protect against dust, splashing
lens have to close the lid all the time. What speed does not
adds.
Use a UV filter or SKY as a permanent portable and has a protective
sense and the fact that these filters eliminate the maintenance of color balance in
blue when shooting in bright sunlight and in other situations. Human eye
unlike the film is not sensitive to UV radiation and the part does not see this blue.
Detaining UV radiation filters to remove excess cold-blue flowers from
frame.
Mitigation (vague) filters
Produced under different names (soft, mist, foggy, etc.). Softens
image, making it slightly blurry. Lower contrast. Very useful when
portraits and landscapes of the morning, especially in the lateral or posterolateral
illumination. These filters are divided by the intensity of weak, medium and strong.
Since no standard, different manufacturers of their own ideas about the power
impact. So choose the best filters in the presence "of their
camcorder. It is recommended to pay attention to the options for low and medium
graduation, as a strong "fog" in the frame is not always pleasant.
Shaded filters
This filter, in which part of the area (about half) is colored
neutral gray or any color dye, and the other - net. Gray
shaded filters help to get a more spectacular image when shooting
landscapes where pritemnyayut sky. Red or orange filter will be shaded
very useful when shooting stunning sunsets.
Polarizing filter
In bright sun and cloudless sky, this filter appreciably pritemnyaet "sky
makes it dark blue. In conjunction with snow or sea view it looks
great. In addition, the polarizing filter eliminates most of the glare
water, glass and other glossy non-metallic surfaces. This allows
see through the camera what the naked eye can not see because of
strong reflections. For example, the river bottom under the water surface covered with shallow
ripples, or the dummy behind the glass display cases, which reflects the whole street.
The polarizer also "extinguishes" flashing on the grass, leaves, trees, and some
fruit, whose color is pure and saturated, as the promotional pictures.
Try to remove sunlit oranges or tomatoes through a polarizing
filter and without it - and you will feel the difference!
"Star" filters
allow to obtain the luminous rays from all the bright objects. Differ
mainly the number of those same rays. Night streets with lanterns and illuminated
advertising, the candle on the table, highlight on a glass of champagne - it's just "Musi-pusi"
some! But quickly bored. So, buying a "star" - not
overuse.
"Spectral" filters
also operate mainly in the brightest parts of the image, making them
radiate "rainbow" or "halo". Very impressive. But bored even faster than
asterisk.
So much talk about filters. The following discussion focuses on the more serious
optical nozzles.
Wide nozzle (wide angle)
expanding field of view lens. Being in a confined space, not
very easy to shoot interiors or group of people. Even when fully
opened zoom frame is one or one and a half man. And to
take action, the operator has to constantly "throw" the camera with a
character to another. All this leads to unnecessary fuss. Image obtained
"antsy" and uninteresting. In general, SHU-nozzle can be useful when traveling
on a cruise ship or a train, in museums, guided tours through the narrow streets
European or eastern cities and even thousands of similar situations.
Wide angle to distinguish the relative width of the frame without it, the width of the frame with
such. The lower this ratio - the better. 0.7 - is not bad, 0.6 --
ok. 0.45 - too much, give the effect of so-called "fish eyes", but in
some cases is very good. For example, try to avoid the subject
a circle, imitating circled the camera - very helpful, reducing almost twice
yaw angle camera in the hands of the operator, and visually by the same increasing
radius of the trajectory of an imaginary camera.
Telenasadka
But if you want to visit the safari park or other place where there
opportunity to see interesting animals and birds, then you, first of all, you
think about buying telenasadki the lens of your camera. This detail
allows to increase the maximum amount of the zoom lens has a 1,7-2 times. A
is when shooting animals, when close to an object is difficult or impossible,
very well worth it. By telenasadke you may have to purchase more and
hood - the lens device that limits the penetration of solar skew
rays on the front lens cap.
When shooting with telenasadkoy, however, the situation is not as easy as working with
"wide angle". Videolyubitel Everyone knows that at the maximum "hitting"
picture becomes unstable. Image Stabilizer, even very good,
not very helpful. And when worn telenasadke stability will be even less.
Watch this "movie" is simply impossible. One way out - use a tripod.
Anamorphic attachments
In many cells, if we want to get an image format 16х9,
image is obtained by a simple truncation of the upper and lower fields. In addition to narrowing
angle of view is further loss of clarity. Anamorphic attachments
help get rid of this loss, allowing the horizontal cover more
wide angle, just needed to ensure that images captured in
frame format 4x3 installation mounting project 16х9 gave the correct
proportions of the picture. Immediately warned: (1) These nozzles are very expensive. (2)
Many cameras have installed in the viewfinder for a nozzle. So
putting on and removing the nozzle anamorphic format 3x4 (and should be removed from such
attachment) you'll see in the viewfinder flattened laterally picture.
All the stories about the deterioration of picture quality due to additional "noise" in
optical system are mainly attributed to the days long past, when there was no
available technology complex enlightenment to the modern glass and cheap
crafts, which are made of is not the best glass with bubbles and often do not have
enlightenment, or have a one-sided illumination, and that poor-quality,
which is easily destroyed. It advocates a second opinion is often
oriented to advice, made almost in the pre-war literature or
domestic sources, which are oriented to the domestic same level
quality and technology of manufacturing of filters and optics.
When selecting a filter you should trust the products of companies
B + W, Tiffen, Hoya, brand filters such as Canon, Pentax, Nikon or
Minolta. Not bad to make sure that before you is not fake. It happens so rarely,
but mention it is. It is quite easy, but in such cases is
make purchases in stores that have a large assortment of filters.
The only filter, even in a beautiful box, but anyone who has not
Also known as better not to buy. Also, you should pay attention to packaging,
accuracy of manufacturing and other external signs, such as the right
spelling of the name of the company. Filter, especially UV or polarizing,
desirable to have a multilayer coating, which is often called
MC-MultiCoating.
In general, in my opinion, a good filter "verified" the company does not worsen
image quality so much that it was possible to see at all. Therefore
I recommend all fans (pro yourself will understand what's what), along with the lens
acquire and filter - UV or SKY. When buying always look like
nozzle behaves on your camera, some on the market quality
very low.
Article about a webcam in the newspaper "Evening Moscow"
In nature, you can watch without leaving home.
Modern web cameras allow to observe the animals directly from home.
Screams are heard from the room: grunt, Ryki ... Frightened mum opened the door.
But do not worry - it just went wild boars. At trough gathered for dinner the whole flock. Pigs less pushing each other at the trough and slurp loudly with pleasure. Leader pushes impudent young. Effect of full. Like a movie, but the momentary happening completely changes the experience. It was like she was sitting in an ambush. And now my back knocking the drop, and my feet get wet ...
Hide and seek with the rabbits
Modern technology allows you to travel around the world without leaving home. For you have trampled all paths other researchers: biologists, zoologists, meteorologists and just lovers of nature.
They found the camera in a bird's nest in the zoo, on submerged reefs. You just turn on your computer, go to the desired page, sit comfortably in a chair - and watch "a movie about zverushek. For example, watch for Strix in the nest or the elephants, that's just now reaching to the stream.
Webcams are different. Some show "live video". Picture me with such frequency that you will not notice the frame. Picture clear, sounds are transmitted with virtually no distortion.
There are cameras, where image is changed less frequently: every 30 seconds, every minute or even once every 6 hours (web camera, fixing a solar flare). Sound can be absent altogether. But the look is no less interesting. After using the camera can see what else you do not see at all. That right now there was a surge in solar activity. And the camera mounted on the satellite, captured rushed to the side of the Earth prominence.
There are controlled chamber. Clicking on the button on the keyboard, you can move the image left and right, zoom in or remote.
Control the camera in the aviary with the rabbits like playing hide and seek. You - driving, and you need to find a crouching animal. After a couple of minutes to search and it appears that the rabbit calmly chewing a carrot in the cage (it will show other web-camera), in his cage and was not released.
Night camera or set in dark places (eg in clusters) operate in the infrared mode. If instead of the image on the screen black, it does not necessarily mean that the apparatus had broken down. Check the time zone, suddenly at the end of the world overnight?
Internet star has become a mother
White stripes-glare - Somewhere near the camera in a hollow tree spider weaves a web. On sparse bed of feathers lay an egg and a little startled several light lumps. Clara lives here, the owl of the genus Strix. The man who invented her name, is lost in the pages of the forum monitors Estonian website "Calendar of Nature.
In the diary of events you can see that on the first day of spring Clara laid an egg. A week later, there were already five.
At first Clara was an exemplary mother, a long absent herself from the nest, leaving eggs in the cold at night without supervision. Condemnatory posts on the forum owl forced to think again: it is densely sat on the eggs and practically ceased to fly out of the hollow.
A fortnight ago there was a tragedy. Marten climbed into the slot and took the egg. But the remaining four - survived. Last week, a forum zapestrel joyful message: "Our web-Star became a mother." Hatched sovyat Claire hides from the audience, obscures its wings as a hen-hen.
On the existence of webcams Clara, apparently unaware. It is worth it to talk (sitting at home in front of the monitor), as Clara immediately turns his head and looks directly at you eye-saucers.
Monitor Strix want round the clock.
The problem is that the owls - night bird, and you in the morning - at work.
The whole world in the palm
- I was amazed how much you can see in real time: the animal world, different cities and countries, - says Denis Trofimov, creator of the site www.geocam.ruTo date, perhaps the most complete directory in RuNet webcams. - I started collecting interesting links.
When they have accumulated too much, decided to organize data and make a site.
Site a little over a year. But in the catalog are more than 1000 webcams placed throughout the world. More than 4 thousand people stare per day on the site. Denis every day testing the camera. Special program tells how long have not been tested. If it is interrupted, it is noted.
Why does the camera stop working? In a powerful online channel and the associated hardware needed money. And often all rests on the enthusiasm. Webcams steal, break, with them have accidents. Last year in New Zealand at the camera because of the hurricane tree fell.
The volcano Etna equipment flooded by lava.
- And that in general can be seen through a webcam, without leaving home? - I inquire.
- Yes, the whole world! - Sure Denis. - From the simplest microscope laboratory of the Washington Zoo to the planet Earth from space. You can see the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Vatican, Kizhi, the Pantheon in Rome, Mecca, home of Santa Claus in Lapland, the Milan Cathedral ...
Webcams - not just entertainment. There are of them and the real benefits. Window into the nature of the child may be interested in geography, biology, astronomy. And an adult can easily find out what the weather at the resorts, and receive a lot of other useful information.
For many people, cameras on the Internet - the only opportunity to see distant lands, or, conversely, to return to the places they are associated with memories. "I look at the Czech Republic, where she lived before. Can you add the camera Orenburg? This is my home "- asked one of the visitors copyright.
According to statistics, the most popular webcams, of course, those who shoot animals. Among them is the constant "windows of nature, and there are seasonal (for example, in the nests of storks). By the way, now is the time to watch storks. They just arrived.
Help "BM"
The first ever webcam was launched in 1991, showed the coffee in one of the rooms at Cambridge University (lazy IT staff wanted to know, not over whether the coffee on the floor above, before climbing behind him). She worked until 22 August 2001 The last photograph made this camera can still be seen on its home page on the Internet.