The Sad (but true) State of the Photography Industry: A Long Overdue Opine

The Sad (but true) State of the Photography Industry: A Long Overdue Opine

November 5th, Carl Garrard

So, I was on ebay the other day. Saw this listing of a D300s and two lenses for about $425.00. It's brand new, 600 shots on the camera, lenses hardly used. It's such a good deal, I grab it. And then I start to reflect. The more I dig into it, the more I see the picture, a picture and story I've seen a thousand times or more since I got into digital photography...

A photographer buys a brand new D300S, throws away the box, buys two new lenses, puts 600 shots on the camera puts it down and lets the kit sit in a closet for who knows how long, never to be touched again. Years later he or she sells it to a retailer at some point. The camera was neglected so long that the original battery goes bad. The seller adds a third party battery to the kit out of his own pocket and puts it up on ebay for a profit. Sellers take a 10% hit automatically from Ebay, and with free shipping they pay that expense too. 

DSLR's Still Rule: The Affordable Nikon D610 Part II

DSLR's Still Rule: The Affordable Nikon D610 Part II

October 2024, Carl Garrard

Near five years later and part II of  my original review is complete, ta-da! Over the years I have put a lot of miles on a couple of D610's since my first article, and I've learned a lot more small details about this camera I wanted to share. I've also been very busy shooting with other Nikon DSLR's so I'm also able to do a few apples to apples comparisons to other bodies available on the used market. Today the D610 still manages to be a pretty affordable option but used prices on a good condition body are starting to increase quite a bit. I won't do a spoiler, but what I will say right off the bat is that this review is going to be positive considering I still own the D610 today and you can bet it's not gathering dust.

Shout Out to Andrew Reid: "Let's Just Be Honest About it"

I don't normally post articles linking to other sites, so this is a rare moment on the blog. The reason for that is because I have always maintained my complete independence with this blog. Sharing links to my favorites wouldn't seem genuine to me (or you). Unless of course the message was such an important point for the photographic community that I just had to make an exception. So here is the exception, and, it comes from a site that I hardly ever visited over the last decade or so (my impression was that it was a video-centric site only, as opposed to photographic centric). Hats off to Andrew for both of these two videos. One so ahead of it's time, and the other just so on point. I completely relate to both and have been saying the same for sometime myself. Amen Andrew, great job on these.

The Gerald Undone Challenge

IT'S FIXED - EOSHD on stage managed camera reviews & influencers (part 1)

Canon EOS 7D Review: 2023

Canon EOS 7D Review: 2023

December 2023, Carl Garrard

Every once in a while a camera will come along that transcends the normally inevitable barrier of aging. Those cameras, being either film or digital, are relatively far and few between. Yet most of these immortal-like cameras are easily identifiable. One only needs to seek out the loyal and dedicated following they have amongst photographers. One such camera I believe deserves this honor (as you've probably guessed), is the Canon EOS 7D. Of which personally I've owned several copies of over time, and I admire its design just as much as the rest of the loyal dedicated lot out there. Though reading back on my article I wrote in 2018 about this lovely camera was a painful experience. I just didn't hit the mark. Sometimes writing is just like that I guess. Needless to say then I suppose that I don't think that I did the EOS 7D any justice.

Gear Spotlight: Ricoh GR IIIX

Ricoh's GR IIIX is one of the most unique compacts you can buy. It's truly pocketable which makes it excellent for street work, vacation shooting, and even for outdoor enthusiasts needing a fully featured pro level camera in a supremely diminutive all metal case that doesn't weigh you down. It's 40mm equivalent focal length caters to many pro-photographers desire for a field of view that is slightly wider than 50mm but just narrower than 35mm for that goldilocks sweet spot shot. Built in image stabilization seals the deal. Pricing and variations here: RICOH GR IIIX 

Gear Spotlight: Canon EOS SL3 DSLR

Canon's EOS SL3 DSLR is a fantastic entry point into photography which gives you many modern features along with an optical viewfinder for classic style photography- blend that you can't get with a mirrorless system. Another selling point is the much lower price of the body and lenses (used prices are even much lower: Used SL3 Link) and if wifi, small size, and touchscreen are important to you, then you are covered! Browse for many more options/combinations here: CANON EOS REBEL SL3 SALE 

Pentax K-3 Mark III Monochrome Edition Announced!

Pentax K-3 Mark III Monochrome Edition

April 2023, Carl Garrard

Today is a great day for photographers. The worlds first production run Monochrome only DSLR has been announced by Ricoh, the Pentax K-3 Mark III Monochrome. As many here should already know, I have two versions of the K3 Mark III already; the original and the Jet Black edition. When I heard this one was finally going from concept to production, I immediately put myself on the notification/mailer availability list . As my review has already stated, the K3 Mark III is the best APS-C DSLR from any manufacturer to date, and I know this version carries over all of the same traits as I have with the other two. Only this version is an even more unique and special one that will help us all laser focus on tonality, subject, and composition using only grey tones. In addition to that, the high ISO performance, detail, tonality, and dynamic range will all be improved over the original model K-3 III. 

News: Photographylife.com

Just a quick news item for readers I am proud to share with you all. Photographylife.com will soon have a new contributing writer (and moderator) to their site, me! But please don't worry, I will continue this blog as usual and nothing will change here, business as usual. However going forward, I will be also putting efforts into contributing articles/content over at the wonderful Photographylife.com website as well. The folks over there (Nasim, Spencer, etal) are a class act, the articles are top rate, and they adhere to a photography/photographer-first ethical standard that I relate too heavily. I feel this is a great matchup of like-minds and I'm proud to be a new contributing author and member of the team. I will update my blog when I publish articles on the site there as they happen. I am excited, grateful, and proud to be a part of such wonderful company. More to come soon. Stay focused. -Carl

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Pentax K1 Mark III: What Ricoh Should Do Next

Pentax K1 Mark III: What Ricoh Should Do Next

March 2023, Carl Garrard

As I put the finishing touches on my K3 Mark III part IV and V articles, I wanted to take a quick break and discuss what I think should be Ricoh's next move. Slowly over the last eight years or so Ricoh has done a decent job bringing in modern optic full frame lenses for their apex full frame cameras. From ultrawide to macro to super telephoto, they have at least one Pentax branded lens representing each category with their zooms, and they also have a few choice primes being sprinkled in there as well. While modern lens lineup isn't that robust, there are many used options from the full frame film days as well. The point being, Ricoh have enough lenses to support a K1 Mark III as is, and it wouldn't take much for them to kick out a few more choice full frame modern optics either. With that said, I'm not fortune teller but if there was a way to bet in Vegas on what Ricoh are working on currently, I'd throw my money down on a K1 II successor. 

Photographic Central's Future

Photographic Central's Future

March 2023, Carl Garrard

Just shy of nine months ago a career pivot has dominated more of my personal energy and time than I had forecast, thus making for less personal time to complete review projects here on PC than I'd ultimately like. Bread on the table is my number one priority, and something of which I'm sure readers here can relate and understand completely. With that said, I want to mention that I have multiple projects started on older and newer cameras alike and they are all simultaneously in the works. Now I'd love to have nothing but free time to complete all of these projects, especially some that are most near and dear to me, but life doesn't always work out as we plan. Saving any suspense, I have no plans of shutting down my site or to stop writing reviews and articles about camera gear and photography, quite the opposite in fact.

DPReview Shutting Down: Burning A Historic Library

DPReview Shutting Down: Burning A Historic Library

March 2023, Carl Garrard

WTF. That was the first thought I had when I read the headline DPReview was shutting down, as I'm sure many others shared a similar train of thought. I don't know the real reasons for the shut down of the internets largest community of photographic related content and users. Layoffs and cutbacks are not reasons I accept in this case, I repeat, I do not accept this and neither should you. DPReview could easily be sold through crowdfunding, to a highest bidder, the list of alternatives is staggering. And yet, Amazon is just wiping 25 years of information, contribution, wisdom, sharing, you name it... right off the grid. That takes a pretty soulless decision to do something like that, its the equivalent of burning the Vatican or another historic library right to the ground. This news shocked me in a way that hit my core being, and to the point that I couldn't find the words to describe how I was feeling or what I actually wanted to say. Well a good nights sleep is good for the brain and I woke up today pissed. 

Nikon D800 Review: A Legendary Nikon DSLR

Nikon D800 Review: A Legendary Nikon DSLR

March 2023, Carl Garrard

Back in November of 2022, I wrote a small piece about my four favorite Nikon DSLR's. Some of my opinions have changed a bit since then, and some have remained. The reason for these changes is due to spending more quality time with those cameras in that article. I have also added a few more Nikon DSLR's during that time as well. So yeah, I've been busy shooting with a lot with Nikon gear in the last couple of years. And through trial and error I have also continued to fine tune my lens lineup as well. I've ironed out what I want each camera to do for my photography. Much experimentation has resulted in setting up my Nikon's DSLR's with an ideal combination of custom configurations and settings. And during that process something wonderful has happened... an increasing understanding, respect, admiration, and appreciation of the Nikon D800. As it turns out, the D800 happened to be quite a surprise all rounder- something I didn't understand it to be when I first purchased one. NIKON D800 Used Prices

News: Pentax Brand Launching A Film Camera Project (Updated Jan 1, 2023)

Now this is what I call photo industry news. Ricoh has decided to launch a Pentax Brand Film Camera Project: https://news.ricoh-imaging.co.jp/rim_info2/2022/20221220_037861.html

Film popularity has only been increasing while digital popularity has been decreasing. This is a bold and exciting move from Pentax. And while I doubt film will ever become as popular as digital, it has enough popularity and movement to be considered lucrative for the brand- and for photographers alike. Read the article, and great job Pentax!

Update: I decided to add a link to a great video on Pentax cameras, A History of Pentax. I highly recommend watching this video as it is an important sort of addendum to the new announcement from Pentax, and you will not regret time spent soaking up this great information.

A History of Pentax

Happy New Year, and here's hoping for a wonderful 2023. Stay focused.

Pentax K3 III Used and New Pricing

Coming Soon, Parts IV and V

Coming Soon, Review Parts IV and V

November 2022, Carl Garrard

I haven't forgot. Stay tuned. Stay focused.

Pentax K3 III Used and New Pricing

My Favorite Nikon DSLRS: Df, D610, D500, and D800

My Favorite Nikon DSLRS: Df, D610, D500, and D800 

November 2022, Carl Garrard

My inspiration for this article arose from the personal experiences I'vd had over the last few years with my favorite Nikon DSLR's. This article is by no means an attempt to sway anyone's opinion of, nor defend my purchases for, these four Nikon cameras. Rather, I decided that it was important to share my opinions with other photographers. Mostly it is intended for those who are newer to photography or to those photographers that are  reorganizing a new kit. Frankly, at times we can all use some experienced wisdom or insight in order to help us decide on what gear to outfit ourselves with. As such, it's important to anyone reading this to know that I have owned almost every single DSLR in Nikon's inventory (with exception to the D5/6 and D850). In addition, I own multiple camera systems from multiple companies, and for fifteen years I've been reviewing as many digital cameras and lenses on the internet as possible. This does not take into account any and all previous experience I've had prior to reviewing digital cameras online. I have been a photographer for nearly 32 years now (in one form or another). Therefore it's my hope that sharing my thoughts are then at least somewhat helpful to other photographers out there looking for an honest opinion, all whilst simultaneously trying to navigate their way through the maze of gear choices and other opinions in the internet toilet. Trust me, I know it's not easy.

Fujifilm X-PRO 1 Review: A Decade Old, Better Than Ever

Fujifilm X-PRO 1 Review: A Decade Old, Better Than Ever

June 2022, Carl Garrard

Hope you don't mind, but I think a little reminiscing is necessary before I get into the meat of this review. I think that is vital to set up the context of this article. So with that said, lets just jump in and start at the beginning. Way back in January 2012 was the first time that I used the Fujifilm X-Pro1, and I can remember that experience like it was yesterday. It was a chilly early morning in Las Vegas Nevada, I was attending the 2012 CES show after a five hour drive from Southern California. I was one of the first in line to get in the show. When the doors opened I made a beeline straight to the Fujifilm booth. Fortunate or, maybe because I hustled, I was one of the first to be able to spend a couple of productive hours of time with a group of Fujifilm folk there, learning about and testing all their new cameras. Although a couple of hours doesn't sound like a lot of time, trust me when I say that it is, especially when you are attending a packed shoulder to shoulder electronics show event. The experience that I had with the staff there at that counter was very positive, they answered so many of my questions (the best that they could) and never rushed me to give the cameras back. Most of that time was spent with the X-Pro1. Fujifilm X-Pro 1 Used and New Prices

PENTAX K5II Review: If You Had To Pick One...

PENTAX K5II Review: If You Had To Pick One...

May 2022, Carl Garrard

Pentax DSLR's have brought me so many fond memories. But the state of our camera market is such that DSLRs will likely become a rarity one day. Camera manufacturers are beset on mirrorless as the future, and that becomes more evident by the day. Only Pentax has shown a dedication to keeping a DSLR in production, but lets face it, they are a small dedicated brand with a proportionally small but equally dedicated base of photographers. I have always loved Pentax cameras, I've owned every single Pentax DSLR ever made. But the time has come to make room on my shelves. And in doing so I have decided to sell off a huge portion of my camera "collection" that I have from all manufacturers, not just Pentax. In the end, the goal was to keep only my very favorites from each manufacturer I own. 

Canon EOS 1D Mark IV Review 2021 (Part 1)

Canon EOS 1D Mark IV Review 2021 (Part 1)

November 2021, Carl Garrard

  

My review of the 1D Mark IV is a culmination of over two years of proud ownership and experience. Before I dive in though, I must say that it doesn't seem appropriate to write a review about the Canon 1D Mark IV without having first given a nod of  respect to the important heritage of the 1D series digital cameras. All of them have a nearly impeccable reputation amongst the most demanding photographers in their (relatively) short 21 year history. Mostly, this is due to the fact that these same photographers have worked in the most demanding of all situations and climates. Sometimes even life and death situations. And when the reliability of your gear is that important, photographers have consistently reached out for Canon's 1D DSLR's to get the job done. My own personal photography experience has never been as important as life and death, yet the expectations I have of my gear, like many other photographers, are still very high. And when I need a camera to perform better, more consistently, and with the greatest of fluidity, I find that it's nearly impossible to find better cameras than the 1D series for those demands.  Therefore it's my assessment that the numero uno in Canon's naming convention isn't just mere coincidence. It stands for something. They truly are amongst the best cameras that you will ever use.

Pentax K-01: A Marc Newson Sequel?

Pentax K-01: A Marc Newson Sequel?

October 2021, Carl Garrard

 

Of all the digital cameras that have come out in the last two decades or so, Pentax's K-01 is amongst a small and distinguished fraternity of cameras that received the most criticism upon announcement. Yup, it's right up there with the Hassleblad Lunar and HV, which take the top spots as the most repulsive camera offerings of all. But does the K-01 deserve as much criticism as it received? The short answer is equally yes and no. For every faceplant reaction and "wtf?"criticism armchair quarterbacks gave this camera, there are equally as many staunch and loyal supporters of its somewhat radical design. What I'm attempting to do with this article is to find common ground between the two extremes, because often enough the truth can usually be found somewhere in the middle. I will also go out on a limb and propose that Ricoh make a sequel to the K-01 because it had so much potential!

Pentax K3 Mk III Review Series 3

Pentax K3 Mk III Review Series 3

May 2021, Carl Garrard

 

Part III  in the K3 Mk III series, I'll go over build quality, ergonomics, and features. And I just have to take a moment to say that I'm really pleased to be doing a comprehensive review series on this camera. Ricoh's Pentax K3 Mk III is entirely new from the ground up, with every aspect of its design having been redesigned and improved compared to it's K3 predecessors (and previous Pentax DSLRs), one short review would not cut it. Quite honestly there's been more of a learning curve with the K3 Mk III than I expected. Sure it's still mostly familiar like most Pentax DSLRs, but there's a lot of new stuff here. So when I decided to do an in depth review like this, I realized that I really needed to dig into it, report its fine points, and test everything from the ground up. I think that's the only way you're really going to get to know a camera from the outside in. So far, and to my surprise, there haven't been any stick-out-like-a-sore-thumb moments with the K3 Mk III. There have been  no disappointments that reside in my personal deal breaker category.

Pentax K3 Mk III Review Series 2

Pentax K3 Mk III Review Series 2

May 2021, Carl Garrard

 

 

Ricoh's Pentax K3 Mk III is an impressive, gargantuan effort. Especially so considering that the world has been in crazy lock down mode for well over a year now. Despite that, Ricoh has been hard at work behind the scenes. From its engineers to the I.T department, to its marketing department and i's production facilities, Ricoh was on a mission to bring the K3 Mk III to the world. The depth of the effort that went into this camera's release is more apparent the more I spend time reading about it. I don't recall ever seeing so many pro photographers chiming in about a Pentax camera so soon after its release, whether that's the photographers on Ricoh's special website, or all of the others I'm seeing on the net. I'm quickly getting the impression here that the K3 Mk III represents more than just a new DSLR release, it also represents photographers who appreciate a DSLR's unique capabilities and heritage. Ricoh pushed back, and said no to conformity, and I for one, and all for it. I decided that with as much effort that Ricoh made to bring this camera to us, so too will be the effort that I make to review it properly. Feel free to skip past the Open Mic section if you don't want to hear my thoughts on the market reception of the K3 Mk III thus far.

Pentax K3 Mk III Review Series 1

Pentax K3 Mk III Review Series 1

April 2021, Carl Garrard

Pentax (Ricoh) stuck to their guns. Instead of making yet another "me too" mirrorless camera, Ricoh have decided to stick to doing what they do best- make an excellent DSLR. With this iteration of the K3, the wait was definitely worth it. True steps forward in design are under its amazingly tough and weatherproof magnesium shell. Oh you're going to love that grip and rock solid construction. It's a masterpiece. As you know, I have a full suite of Nikon and Canon DSLRS, as well as Pentax. I use whatever camera is suited best. Comparatively Pentax are the best built and most weather proof in their class compared to the other brands. It's just their brand strength, along with being backwards compatible to very old lenses (like Nikon). Pentax's weakness has always been autofocusing speed and tracking when comparing to Canon and Nikon, how will it fair?

Fujifilm's New GFX 100S

Fujifilm's New GFX 100S

February 2021, Carl Garrard 

I've been sort of out of the camera news loop lately, so I didn't see the press release of the new GFX 100S until the day it was announced. Life has been busy, in a good way. In a way I'm kind of glad I didn't catch all the "rumors" or sneak peaks of this camera before it was announced. I'm probably in the minority when I say that I prefer a good surprise to all the leaks and rumors that are so prevalent today. My reaction to the GFX 100S announcement thus was pure excitement and wonder. This wasn't the typical reaction to cameras news, I was genuinely excited and very, very curious. After reading up on the GFX 100S, going over its design with a fine tooth comb, I have to say that this camera is a very special one. I think it has true potential to radically alter the course of professional camera products in the future. In a way, it already has.

Fujifilm X-H1: Hybrid GFX/XT Inspired Excellence

Fujifilm X-H1: Hybrid GFX/XT Inspired Excellence

February 2021, Carl Garrard

When I returned my loaner X-H1 to Fujifilm back in February 2019, it didn't occur to me then that I just sent back my favorite X mount camera ever. And I certainly had no intention to wait two years to write a review about it either. For reasons I still can't explain, the timing to complete a review just didn't feel right. I guess I just wasn't ready to decide what to think about the X-H1 at that time. I knew it's design was a blend of stills and video of sorts, and I knew how Fujifilm were marketing it. Nearly two years on from the day I originally sent the X-H1 back, I know exactly what I want to say about it.

 

Nikon D810 Review Series Part I

Nikon D810 Review Series Part I 

November 2020, Carl Garrard

First, a bit of clarity. Although the title of this review implies that I may write further articles about the D810, please don't count on it. But also, don't discount it happening either. It's important to know that my impression of the D810 continues to evolve the more that I use it, thus, I may decide to have additional observations to note in the future. Consider instead that the title is a place marker. I won't rush or force myself into a writing review anymore, that time has long gone (thankfully). So my practice now is that an article happens when the time is right. After months of experience with the D810... I finally sat down this morning with a cup of black rifle coffee, motivated to condense my thoughts and experiences about the D810 into an article. I don't think I need to explain the reasoning why I'm reviewing an older camera, in my mind the point of relevancy for all interchangeable lens cameras came and went over 10 years ago, and many older cameras are just as relevant today as they were then.

The Magnificent Dozen (Updated List 2020)

The Magnificent Dozen (Updated List 2020)

October 2020, Carl Garrard

 

Since posting the Magnificent Seven article about two years ago (here), I've tested and reviewed more cameras in that time than in any two year period in the past. During which time, a few more cameras  have managed to really stand out as my favorites, so I thought I'd update my all time list to include these as well. As I stated in my first article; in order for a camera to reach my all time favorite list, it has to have several special qualities about it that make it stand out from the rest. There really is no set list of qualities it must have, rather, it must have the right combination of qualities to give it that something special- that at the end of the day makes it a camera that I never want to part with. These are also cameras that constantly beg my attention to be used for whatever subjective reason, and subsequently they are the ones I never lose interest in. Some cameras just have mojo, and it matters not what category they are in, or how expensive they are, they just have... it.

 

Zeiss ZX1: Pre Order Alert (Can it be?!)

Zeiss ZX1: Pre Order Alert (Can it be?!)

October 2020, Carl Garrard

October starts off with some spooky news. It appears as though BHPhoto has sent out pre order available emails on October 4th 2020 to those interested in the Zeiss ZX1- a prototype camera Zeiss unveiled in 2018 that was nearly forgotten. I myself received an email from BHPhoto early this morning. The camera is listed for $6,000.00 on pre-order and according to BHPhoto, should be available soon. To my knowledge it is not available for pre-order on other sites just yet (I did some checking around).  So I'm not entirely sure what BHPhoto are up to here, or, if they know something the rest of the industry hasn't caught up on yet. In case you doubt my sincerity, here is a screen shot from BHPhoto's site, as well as a direct link to the page where you can actually pre-order the Zeiss ZX1. (click on read more)

Photoshop Elements 2020 Deal

Photoshop Elements 2020 Deal
August 2020, Carl Garrard

If you are like me and refuse to buy into a subscription model only to be able to use software you should own, then this quick article will appeal to you. I've been using Photoshop Elements as one of my post processing software solutions since Elements 12, and find it a great little program for quick raw processing, especially for beginners. For more heavy handed work that requires more time and features to resolve final output, I use other raw programs. But I find for most raw processing or general post processing work that Elements is a really good and easy to use product. Adobe still sells it in CD form which is my absolute requirement, and for $59.99, it's a pretty darn good deal if you're using a much older version of Elements, or are new to Elements. Currently I have Elements 15, I've just been updating DNG converter as needed. I can recommend Elements. It's the only Adobe product I enjoy using and the only one I will endorse buying these days. Since I refuse to buy into an auto-subscription model, for this price a CD is a good deal; it provides great value to a photographer and will have free updates at least for a year or so. If you use the link below, you are automatically supporting my site. Regular price is $99.99 so it's been discounted a great deal here.
Adobe Photoshop Elements 2020 [PC/Mac Disc]

Tamron 17-35mm F2.8-4 Di OSD Review: The Lil Secret Wide Angle Lens

Tamron 17-35mm F2.8-4 Di OSD Review
August 2020, Carl Garrard

This lens is a rare fantastic zoom. It so closely rivals prime lens performance offerings in the focal range it covers, that it made me reconsider keeping a couple of my prime lenses. Tamron nailed this one. Optically, good luck to you finding any other UWA lens that performs as well as this one for any where near it's price. Almost indistinguishable when compared to my highly regarded and optically excellent 24mm f/1.8G Nikkor at the same focal length, and its the best 17mm wide angle performance I've seen from any zoom lens yet. I'd pit it against any 17mm prime lens for edge to edge sharpness too. Clearly, this is a "modern optics" lens capable of handling the newer higher resolution sensors. A few test shots in, I knew it was a find immediately. Read on or visit it here:
Tamron 17-35mm F/2.8-4 Di OSD Seriously only $599.99?

Nikon Lineup: The Fantastic Four

Nikon Lineup: The Fantastic Four
August 2020, Carl Garrard

My goal was to update my main working camera kit. Never thought I'd end up using Nikon DSLR's for that task, but using is believing I guess. This is my main four camera set up, and I've other lenses not shown in this picture for each. I have other cameras of course, but these are the ones I'll be relying on for serious photography work only.I will detail which ones they are, and what I think all four are best purposed for.

Quick Spot: Pentax Perfection- The K5IIs

Quick Spot: Pentax Perfection- The K5IIs
August 2020, Carl Garrard

Pentax's K5IIs still remains one of my favorite cameras I've ever used, let alone in the DSLR segment. It's August 2020, and time has not taken it's toll on this beauty of a DSLR. The K5IIs is still an absolute gem, a small and amazingly built camera. It's capable of fantastic image detail because it lacks an AA filter, and its raw files don't feel as strained in post processing as the 24mp chips do. Besides the K70/KP it has the best overall APS-C image quality of any Pentax DSLR and it comes with better than expected video performance if you need it. With this list, the K5IIs is nearly future proof. The only feature it's missing is full compatibility with any KAF4 mount lens, this means the excellent 55-300mm PLM.
Pentax K-5 IIs Body Only (Black)

Photo of the Day- Waxing Gibbous Moon

Waxing Gibbous shot with Nikon D810 and Sigma 100-400mm HSM. 400mm f/8 ISO 100

Nikon D800E First Impressions

Nikon D800E First Impressions
July 2020, Carl Garrard

Prices on used and older pro level DSLR's have all fallen dramatically. Lucky for me, it was time for to upgrade two key areas of my kit. I needed an edge in two key types of photography: Birds in Flight/Action, and Landscape/Low Light. I've already found my perfect combo for bird in flight/action, the D500/Sigma 100-400 HSM. And trust me when I say that finding a camera and lens combination that I deem perfect for this task is so rare that it's only happened once in my life. My D500/Sigma 100-400mm HSM combo is stunning. But I'm here to talk about part II of my quest. Yep, I've set out to find that combo's equal, but this time for landscape/low light work instead. And after much deliberation, weighing practical advantages to cost etc. I decided to give the Nikon D800E a try. The D800E, is a camera I always wanted to try out, and although it was released in Feb of 2012, practically speaking I do not find it dated in the least bit.
Nikon D800E 36.3 MP Best Used Prices

Nikon D500 (Initial Impressions)

Nikon D500 (Initial Impressions)
July 2020, Carl Garrard

(Updated 9-17-2024) Hello Nikon fans! Just wanted to give a quick initial impression of the D500 for Nikon readers while I have my morning coffee. Again, this is only an initial impression and not my full review, which will come later. I've been using the D500 for just over a week now (constantly), which, honestly is plenty of time for me to get mostly familiar with a camera. When you review as many cameras as I do, you pretty much know what you need and like or dislike about a camera almost immediately. Nikon's D500 has been a camera that has intrigued me since its launch in 2016, and with the market going pretty much mirrorless now, I wanted to test a D500 against my other cameras to get a feel for its capability. For those living under a rock, the D500 is the most advanced APS-C (DX) format camera Nikon has ever made, and it's been updated in firmware a couple of times since its release.
Nikon D500 $949.00 Here

Panasonic Lumix G9 Review

Panasonic LUMIX G9 Review
May 2020, Carl Garrard

*G9 has arrived in all of its metal and dial glory

Today's editorial is one based around using a brand new factory fresh Panasonic G9 that incorporates firmware version 2.1 (the latest as of this article date). From the ground up, Panasonic designed its G9 prioritizing the pleas and requirements of still photographers into a true pro level camera. In a way, the G9 is the yin to the GH5's yang; a camera originally designed to prioritize videographers requirements. But, by adding new firmware to an already quietly popular pro level stills oriented camera, Panasonic would blur the line between the two models while simultaneously endearing current owners of the G9. Not only that, but the firmware would create new customers for it as well. Customers like me. The new comprehensive firmware bolsters excellent video quality and functionality, while simultaneously giving it performance boosts in autofocusing for stills photography. The G9 is reborn, an even better camera. Thus, I've named it the G9 Mark II.
PANASONIC LUMIX G9 Current Pricing

Olympus M.Zuiko 12-45mm f/4 PRO Review

Olympus M.Zuiko 12-45mm f/4 PRO Review
May 2020, Carl Garrard

24-90mm f/4 (T) is as near perfect as you can get for a compact zoom. Not only is the zoom range ideal for most subjects, but the close focusing is excellent too. Tie in pro quality build, and near prime optical performance in the entire range, small size, and this lens is a no brainer that brings true practical value to your m4/3 kit. Practical value means you'll appreciate it, and forget all about its price, and zoom range. Other lenses we have in our kit we may wonder why we bought them, not so for this lens. As soon as it was announced, I knew it was a gem that ticked off all the right boxes, price is excellent too (link provided here), as the optical performance alone well compensates for the price you pay. Everything else about this wonderful lens is a bonus beyond that in terms of price. It's a must have you'll not regret purchasing.  In fact, you'll be glad you did, and you'll wonder why there aren't more photographers making a huge deal out of this lens. The old f/2.8 argument is well engrained, goes way back to the film days. F/4 lenses are the real value these days, and they are better than ever.
Olympus M.Zuiko ED 12-45mm F4.0 PRO Lens

Sony A100: Why I Will Always Love It

Sony A100: Why I Will Always Love It
April 2020, Carl Garrard

Konica Minolta's camera business was bought by Sony officially on March 31, 2006, about a year after the two companies agreed to co-develop digital SLR cameras together (July, 2005). Konica Minolta cited that the quickly growing digital camera industry was moving at a pace which, despite their talented staff and excellent technology resources, simply could not keep up with. This was both disconcerting and exciting news alike. On one hand, the Alpha lens mount would survive, and on the other hand a "television electronics company" was taking the reins of a historical and innovative photography company.  Through this merger came Sony's Alpha A100, the very first interchangeable lens camera with the Sony badge on the front. To this day I still consider the A100 to be a Konica Minolta camera, not only because of its resemblance to the Konica Minolta 5D, but because KM employees retained by Sony, designed and built it.

Seems like all that happened yesterday, in a blink of an eye.

Pentax 100 Years of History

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Mystery (Bargain) Enthusiast DSLR

Mystery (Bargain) Enthusiast DSLR
February, 2020, Carl Garrard

Today, I'm going to change things up here. I'm going to introduce a camera in reverse of my normal writing format, one that I find to be a very special bargain for enthusiast and pro level photographers. Of course, you could just scroll down to the bottom of this article to find out what camera I'm talking about, but wouldn't that would negate the very fun of a short mystery review? I promise, it isn't long, you can wait to be surprised. Assuming you have some restraint and haven't looked yet, I'll get on  talking about a very special camera that is a ridiculous deal for shutterbugs.

DSLR's Still Rule: The Afffordable Nikon D610 Part I

DSLR's Still Rule: The Affordable Nikon D610 Part I
January 2020, Carl Garrard

One of my favorite DSLR cameras to rely on for serious outdoor photo work in the past has faithfully been my Canon 6D. Matched with the 24-70mm L f/4 lens, it's a compact, easy to use, comfortable combo with image quality that sings. As written here previously, the 6D is one of my top seven favorite cameras of all time. I've never desired to replace it for the work I bought it for, nor wondered if I ever would. Over time it hasn't been my first choice for all outdoor though, such as action work of any kind. Today, Canon and Nikon's newer fast focusing AF-P/USM II 70-300mm lenses out there are lighter, quieter, and more compact than the high end pro lenses (like my 70-300mm L). Nikon's especially has given me reason to look further into a system for this task. Their lens is weather sealed, while Canon's 70-300mm IS II USM isn't. It's also not rugged enough for my needs. So both the 6D and  that lens left me wanting to fill a niche Canon couldn't fill- a lightweight semi-pro set up for action photography.

Nikon D610 Current Retail and Used Pricing

What Happens Now?

What Happens Now?
January 2020, Carl Garrard

As the camera market settles down to court only the remaining pro's and shutterbugs; as it was during the film era, I've been inclined to wonder what will happen after sales and profits finally level out. There's no denying the power of the larger portion of the market that targets smartphone users. Only a pro, or dedicated shutterbug will want to use cameras for still or video work going forward. I do believe we are already at that point in time.As such, I believe that camera companies will have to start changing designs of cameras dramatically to cater to the specific needs of shutterbugs simply because they outnumber the pro's handily- and sales matter. Example: one only has to look to Fujifilm to see what making throwback design has done for the growth of its camera division. In less than 10 years time since the X mount came to the market, Fujifilm has become a major player in digital.

Photo of the Day: Winter Sunset 2019

December 10th 2019 (Panasonic FZ300). I've shot this silhouette several times, yet I think this background is the best of them all to date. Always go back to your favorite places to shoot. Photo © Carl Garrard

Ricoh Bring Gunmetal Back!

Ricoh Bring Gunmetal Back!
December 2019, Carl Garrard

Ricoh's Pentax branded Prestige Edition Gun Metal K3 is arguably the best special edition color ever, for any camera or any manufacturer. In the days when everything counts to sell a camera, manufacturers need to pay attention to the reaction from its' photographers more than ever. I don't think I saw a single comment on the net that wasn't full blast in support for this limited edition color. Ricoh, please make your new upcoming DSLR for next year in this fine Gun Metal color. Why we haven't seen more cameras with a color like this is beyond me, but at least Fujifilm did it with the XPRO 2 (or as similar color). Only 2,000 units were produced in this color world wide. Are you one of the lucky owners of this K3? I say more of this color, what say you? 

This is Digital Photography Review Today.

This is Digital Photography Review Today.
December 2019, Carl Garrard

Today, I deleted as much information on my account at Digital Photography Review that I was able too, I've said goodbye to that site, permanently. I had been a contributing member of that site for well over a decade. The reason? I was "sandboxed" by DPR staff for, frankly, being honest and asking questions about why they removed (shadowed) comments from a controversial Sony article they posted. In the comments section they were questioned or commented on by many members about their apparent bias towards the brand. I asked twice, on a forum post. I only asked twice because my first post didn't appear the next day when I checked on it. Thinking it was "user error" I asked the same question again. Then, "Mako" the moderator, tells me that I have violated some rule in which users are not allowed to question why posts are removed, and sandboxed me. I didn't ask about a post, I asked about a comment section in a Sony article. I was not warned at all, I was simply "sandboxed". In other words silenced. Thou shall not question DPR decisioning, apparently.

Nikon D610 vs. Canon 6D?

Nikon D610 vs. Canon 6D?
October 2019, Carl Garrard

Readers may be surprised to see that I'm writing about a Nikon DSLR. This site is almost void of any Nikon articles in general. Although I haven't been a fan of many of Nikon's cameras (none of the Coolpix cameras for example), there are a couple that I have liked a lot. Nikon's D80 and D90 are two such cameras that made sense to me and that I enjoy using. And lately I picked up a Fujifilm S5 PRO, which I adore, built around the bombastic D200 body.  That lead to me being curious about their full frame offerings. And after much debate and weighing pros and cons, I ended up getting the D610 that addresses a couple of my beloved 6D's short comings.

 

Finally Something Better: Fujifilm XPRO3

Finally Something Better: Fujifilm XPRO3
October 2019, Carl Garrard

I'll keep this short. Bravo to Fujifilm for being brave enough to make a camera like this. The camera market has changed and they know it. It was time to also court photographers with products that are more specific to certain types of photography, but most importantly products that encourage photographers to get back to the fundamentals. The market has long been flooded with cameras (cough mirrorless/DSLR's) that all do the exact same thing. Hiding the main screen without eliminating it is a gentle reminder to keep your eye to the finder.

Pre-order here: Fujifilm X-Pro3 Mirrorless Digital Camera - Dura Black (Body Only)

From left to right: Durablack Ti, Black Ti, Durasilver Ti.  XPRO "Three" Indeed.

Panasonic's Lumix GH3 and the 14-140mm II

Panasonic's Lumix GH3 and the 14-140mm II
October 2019, Carl Garrard

Yesterday I took the GH3 and 14-140mm II lens out for a hike. I've never used any of the GH series cameras, so recently I  purchased the GH3 in near new condition, boxed, for less than $300.00 USD. For a camera that used to sell for $1,300.00, this is quite a bargain. It's metal construction is top notch, it's weather sealed (splash proof), and has electronics that are quite capable even today. It's really a do it all camera, and when paired up with the 14-140mm II (second version) lens, you have a weather sealed lightweight combo that gives you a 28-280mm equivalent focal range. I wasn't so impressed with the lens of the FZ2500, so I wanted to see how this combination would do in comparison. Practically, there's not a whole lot of difference between 280mm and 480mm in terms of field of view.
Panasonic GH3  or Panasonic 14-140mm II f/3.5-5.6 Lens

Camera Conspiracies Rules!

Casey has one of the funniest channels on YouTube. It's refreshing to watch some unfiltered fun, and gives you a nice dose of happiness. He doesn't limit his content to talking just about cameras or ribbing "loser" photographers either. Take a peek, see if you agree like everyone else already does. If you don't, the Canon cripple hammer will come for you (he took over for the Grim Reaper). You don't even have to like cameras at all to enjoy his channel. Don't forget to subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwxgo62w72LxZDA1fTibdYg



Stay focused.
-Carl