Disney DSLR

[Coach81]

So I'm considering upgrading to a DSLR.. but I have some concerns. I would appreciate the following questions answered from some vets:

Thanks in advance:

I will primarily be using the camera on vacation, mostly at Disney.. so..here goes:

a. Will the camera take away from my "vacation time".. i.e. will I be so busy changing lenses..and carrying around my camera bags that my vacation experience will be affected?
b. Will I be able to let an average person use my camera to take a family group picture like I could with my P-N-S?
c. Is the learning curve so much that I will need to commit hours and hours of "practice time" with the camera to become really good with it?
d. Will I need to buy an external Hard Drive due to the "huge" sizes and numbers of pictures that I may be taking with my new "toy"?
e. Is it possible to just use the "kit" lens and a telephoto lens and be "happy" with all your gear.. or will one lens lead to another.. and another.. etc. etc??

Thanks again.. I'm trying to do some homework...

 

[brack]

So I'm considering upgrading to a DSLR.. but I have some concerns. I would appreciate the following questions answered from some vets:

Thanks in advance:

I will primarily be using the camera on vacation, mostly at Disney.. so..here goes:

a. Will the camera take away from my "vacation time".. i.e. will I be so busy changing lenses..and carrying around my camera bags that my vacation experience will be affected?
b. Will I be able to let an average person use my camera to take a family group picture like I could with my P-N-S?
c. Is the learning curve so much that I will need to commit hours and hours of "practice time" with the camera to become really good with it?
d. Will I need to buy an external Hard Drive due to the "huge" sizes and numbers of pictures that I may be taking with my new "toy"?
e. Is it possible to just use the "kit" lens and a telephoto lens and be "happy" with all your gear.. or will one lens lead to another.. and another.. etc. etc??

Thanks again.. I'm trying to do some homework...

a. I've taken an SLR or DSLR to WDW for over 15 years. I believe that it enhances my "vacation time" because I have high quality photos to remember the trips. I rarely change lenses as there really isn't much need. The one I use most does everything I need.

b. Even DSLR's with their auto-everything can be used by anyone with just minimum instruction. I rarely have a problem ... particularly with cast members.

c. You're only going to get better with practice but you can start and still make good photos. 99% of good photography is "seeing" the shot not "taking" the shot.

d. Even if you do buy a big hard drive they are so cheap. I bought a terrabyte for $100 6 months ago and they only get cheaper.

e. You can use only one lens if you want to ... I do!

 

[ukcatfan]

So I'm considering upgrading to a DSLR.. but I have some concerns. I would appreciate the following questions answered from some vets:

Thanks in advance:

I will primarily be using the camera on vacation, mostly at Disney.. so..here goes:

a. Will the camera take away from my "vacation time".. i.e. will I be so busy changing lenses..and carrying around my camera bags that my vacation experience will be affected?
b. Will I be able to let an average person use my camera to take a family group picture like I could with my P-N-S?
c. Is the learning curve so much that I will need to commit hours and hours of "practice time" with the camera to become really good with it?
d. Will I need to buy an external Hard Drive due to the "huge" sizes and numbers of pictures that I may be taking with my new "toy"?
e. Is it possible to just use the "kit" lens and a telephoto lens and be "happy" with all your gear.. or will one lens lead to another.. and another.. etc. etc??

Thanks again.. I'm trying to do some homework...

a. It has not affected me too much. I often am able to do lens changes when we are slowed down or stopped for another reason. I have done many in line changes.

b. Set it up for the shot and then all they really have to do is press the button.

c. It does take some time to get teh most, but it is typically fun time spent.

d. You should be doing this anyway IMO. It is dangerous to leave your data on only one place. I have two removable drives. One for data and one to back that one up.

e. I cannot speak for all brands, but with my 3+ years with Pentax, I am still using the kit lens, the kit telephoto, and a 50mm prime. While I would like an upgraded lens, I am very happy with what I have.

 

[Pea-n-Me]

So I'm considering upgrading to a DSLR.. but I have some concerns. I would appreciate the following questions answered from some vets:

Thanks in advance:

I will primarily be using the camera on vacation, mostly at Disney.. so..here goes:

a. Will the camera take away from my "vacation time".. i.e. will I be so busy changing lenses..and carrying around my camera bags that my vacation experience will be affected?
b. Will I be able to let an average person use my camera to take a family group picture like I could with my P-N-S?
c. Is the learning curve so much that I will need to commit hours and hours of "practice time" with the camera to become really good with it?
d. Will I need to buy an external Hard Drive due to the "huge" sizes and numbers of pictures that I may be taking with my new "toy"?
e. Is it possible to just use the "kit" lens and a telephoto lens and be "happy" with all your gear.. or will one lens lead to another.. and another.. etc. etc??

Thanks again.. I'm trying to do some homework...

There are lots of different kinds and levels of shooters here so you're going to get lots of different answers.

1. Maybe a bit, but in a good way. Photography for our family has become sort of a way of life. We all have cameras and enjoy taking photos in our own way. They afford me more time if there's something special they know I want to shoot or need time to set up, etc. But fortunately now, my kids are old enough to go off on their own a bit so I'm not exactly holding up the parade, lol. But even when they weren't, they didn't really mind. They treasure our photo memories so it's all good. My DH has always been very supportive of my photography hobby, even long before I got a dSLR.

2. Yes, if you set it up.

3. It's up to you how much time you want to put into it. Just know that the more you do, the more you'll enjoy it and the better your images will be. It's addicting. And frustrating at times. And fun. And all kinds of things wrapped into one. I'm going to link you a thread I started here about this very thing, but suffice it to say that I realized quite a ways into it that there are really three things you need to learn in order to get good - and comfortable - at this: 1) photography basics, 2) how to use the camera itself, and 3) post processing skills. But it's relatively easy today because there's so much information available right at our fingertips. It's not like you have to really go far out of your way to learn. I keep books in my car, my pocketbook, my work bag, around the house, etc, so if I have a few minutes I can read a bit and hopefully pick up a new concept.

Not everyone goes as nuts with this as most of us here do. I meet people all the time who've been shooting with a dSLR for years and don't seem to be familiar with concepts I'd consider basic. Last year I was out shooting and a woman came by and told me she was a professional photographer. I showed her what I was shooting and asked her opinion about a setting. She responded that she didn't know, she only shoots on Auto. So it's really individual how much learning you'll require and how far you want to take it, IMO.

4. If you hang out here and start shooting RAW (which are a lot larger than JPEG files, but allow you more creative control over your images), you will probably need to get some extra space, yes.

5. Kits are great but sometimes limited in what they can do. You do find yourself buying other lenses once you find out that you aren't able to capture something you had your heart set on or found challenging, etc, but also some of the people around here (I won't mention any names *a choo* Gdad *cough* Ann *cough cough* Groucho *ahem*) with all their cool gear are really bad influences and force this malady known as Gear Aquisition Syndrome on us.

 

[photo_chick]

A. That is totally up to you and how you shoot. For me, no. I know what lens I want when I head out and rarely change when I'm out walking.

B. If my husband can do it, anyone can do it.

C. If you want consistently good images you need to know your equipment. Know what it can do and how it will react. Be it a point and shoot, a DSLR or a disposable camera.

D, It really depends on your setup. I had about 100 GB worth of images last year with my 8 MP camera. I've got my images on my NAS, but I also have them on a second internal drive on one of my PC's. And they are backed up in three or four other places because I'm paranoid that way. How you store them is totally up to you and your needs.

E. If a kit meets your needs, then stick with it. However, IMO, if you stay with the kit lens and and maybe an entry level tele zoom and never take the camera off auto you could save a bunch of cash and get a full featured point and shoot. You do not need a DSLR to get great shots.

 

[ukcatfan]

E. If a kit meets your needs, then stick with it. However, IMO, if you stay with the kit lens and and maybe an entry level tele zoom and never take the camera off auto you could save a bunch of cash and get a full featured point and shoot. You do not need a DSLR to get great shots.

I agree that a DSLR is not needed for great shots, but disagree with the overall message of this comment. Maybe I am spoiled with the Pentax kit being a really good quality compared to some other brands, but I disagree with this part of the comment 1000%. Also, a DSLR on auto will still outperform a p&s. It is not getting the most out of your camera, but come on, that does not make it a p&s!

 

[disneyboy2003]

a. Will the camera take away from my "vacation time".. i.e. will I be so busy changing lenses..and carrying around my camera bags that my vacation experience will be affected?
e. Is it possible to just use the "kit" lens and a telephoto lens and be "happy" with all your gear.. or will one lens lead to another.. and another.. etc. etc??

I don't find myself switching lenses that often, but when I do, I don't think it actually detracts from my vacation time. I usually have a very good reason to switch lenses, and I try to keep that same lens on the camera for a good period of time.

If you're hesitant about switching lenses and/or carrying too much, one option would be to go for the 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 lens (Canon and Nikon both have this lens). It's a great, all-around travel lens because of the focal length range (from 18-200mm). This one lens can almost replace the combination of your kit lens and your telephoto lens (the telephoto lens usually goes out to 300mm). This lens may not necessarily perform as well in low-light situations, but neither would your kit or telephoto lenses.

 

[photo_chick]

I agree that a DSLR is not needed for great shots, but disagree with the overall message of this comment. Maybe I am spoiled with the Pentax kit being a really good quality compared to some other brands, but I disagree with this part of the comment 1000%. Also, a DSLR on auto will still outperform a p&s. It is not getting the most out of your camera, but come on, that does not make it a p&s!

Actually, if you use a DSLR on auto it is the very definition of a point and shoot.

I used to be of the same opinion, that a DSLR could outperform a point and shoot without question, and a couple of years ago it was very obviously true. I just do not feel it is any longer. There are some very capable, full featured point and shoots out there right now.

 

[Coach81]

I don't find myself switching lenses that often, but when I do, I don't think it actually detracts from my vacation time. I usually have a very good reason to switch lenses, and I try to keep that same lens on the camera for a good period of time.

If you're hesitant about switching lenses and/or carrying too much, one option would be to go for the 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 lens (Canon and Nikon both have this lens). It's a great, all-around travel lens because of the focal length range (from 18-200mm). This one lens can almost replace the combination of your kit lens and your telephoto lens (the telephoto lens usually goes out to 300mm). This lens may not necessarily perform as well in low-light situations, but neither would your kit or telephoto lenses.

If I do take the leap, this may be what I end up doing. I'm glad to see that perhaps one lens could fit most of my needs. I would hate to have to "hold everyone up" due to having to switch lens from time to time.

 

[WVDisGeek]

If I do take the leap, this may be what I end up doing. I'm glad to see that perhaps one lens could fit most of my needs. I would hate to have to "hold everyone up" due to having to switch lens from time to time.

I replied on your other thread, but will here as well. When I bought my Pentax, I got their 18-250mm lens. I used that lens for almost every shot the first trip I took to Disney with the camera and was generally very pleased. I still consider it my first "vacation" lens. It is always in my bag and still spends a fair amount of time on the camera. As I have become more involved in this hobby, the aforementioned bad influence of others on this board (Mark, Gdad, Groucho and others) I have found I have bought a few other lenses for special situations.

As for "holding up the parade", my DW is generally very understanding. We don't have children so that is not an issue. She understands that this is my hobby and I really enjoy shooting at Disney. As such she is patient when we are in the parks. Also, we have the luxury of going every year so we are not as rushed as we used to be to hit "every" ride or show. I also tend to make some time just for me to go and walk around a park or parks by myself (usually at night) just to do photography. My wife allows me that freedom as well.

I have become accustomed to having the camera always on me so that swapping a lens is something that I can do during a lull in a line moving or while we are at lunch. I tend to carry just a few lenses for each park based upon what I want to shoot that day so I tend not to change lenses in the parks all that often anyway.

I agree with others that regardless of the DSLR, you need to do external backups. I am like Kevin in that I have two external drives for backup. I have less than $200 in both and one is a 750G and one is a 1T.

The more time you spend practicing, the better you will learn your camera and the controls. This is important because you will become more comfortable making changes on the fly and in the end, this will lead to more "keeper" shots and shots that will make you smile and remember why you spend money on this hobby!

Best of luck in your decision.

 

[TJCdis]

So I'm considering upgrading to a DSLR.. but I have some concerns. I would appreciate the following questions answered from some vets:

Thanks in advance:

I will primarily be using the camera on vacation, mostly at Disney.. so..here goes:

a. Will the camera take away from my "vacation time".. i.e. will I be so busy changing lenses..and carrying around my camera bags that my vacation experience will be affected?
b. Will I be able to let an average person use my camera to take a family group picture like I could with my P-N-S?
c. Is the learning curve so much that I will need to commit hours and hours of "practice time" with the camera to become really good with it?
d. Will I need to buy an external Hard Drive due to the "huge" sizes and numbers of pictures that I may be taking with my new "toy"?
e. Is it possible to just use the "kit" lens and a telephoto lens and be "happy" with all your gear.. or will one lens lead to another.. and another.. etc. etc??

Thanks again.. I'm trying to do some homework...

Coach,

I had the same concerns last year and went ahead and purchased a DSLR. Never once did I feel it was in the way. Get a convenient case and stick with one lens for the day.

As a newbie on this I spent alot of time reading Ken Rockwell's advice on DSLR's. I might suggest you do a quick google on him and read a bit of his perspective. Great suggestions on what type of lenses, what to look for in a camera and then how to use it.

 

[Coach81]

Thanks so much. I just wish I could "test drive" one to see if it really is what I'm looking for!

 

[Pea-n-Me]

It really doesn't take a lot of time to switch lenses (although there are a few things you need to get into the practice of when you do).

The problem is knowing what lens you want and what settings you need to try to get the shot you're going for. That takes a while. (At least it did for me, having no previous experience with lenses at all.) Which is why it's good to do the trial and error thing at home long before your trip. It helps you learn what each lens does and which will work best for the shot you want.

I bought my camera with two kits to start (14-54 and 45-150 or thereabouts). Although they happen to be very capable kits (Olympus Zuiko), I learned as I began shooting that I did not enjoy having to change lenses, so I, too, wound up buying the 18-180mm f/3.5 (which, on my camera gives me 36-360mm since the magnification factor is 2X). It's generally my "walkaround lens" and I haven't used the kits since. Tonight I pick up my new 50-200 f/2.8 (and hope to add the shorter equivalent soon) so I doubt I'll be using the 18-180 much anymore, but I'll have to see because, again, I've never used one before so I'm not sure how it's going to go. These are just things you learn as you go along.

But yes, changing the lens itself once you know which you want takes hardly no time at all.

 

[Pea-n-Me]

Thanks so much. I just wish I could "test drive" one to see if it really is what I'm looking for!

I remember thinking the same thing, so I don't blame you. If you know anyone who has one, it might be helpful for you to ask if you can see it and hold it, try it out, etc. If you then go with that brand/model, you'll have someone you can to with questions which might prove helpful.

Whatever your choices, it's good to hold them and navigate the menus to see what "feels" right. I had my choices narrowed down to two "on paper", but the one I ultimately chose felt way more natural for me, so I went with that one.

 

[IndyShutterbug]

Just my take on it....

a. I went through some shots from my last trip this weekend, and I noticed I took more shots of my family versus "the world". So, I would have to say it helped remember the trip. It also helps that my 2yo's stroller is large enough that I can store my gear underneath.
b. I still carry a P&S for quick shots that I want to be in. There are tons of places that you set your P&S on to serve as a temp. tripod.
c. As with everything, if you know your equipment it will serve you better. I tend to over learn everything, but the manual is good enough. I also keep an electronic version of the manual for all my cameras on my iphone. It helps when you need to remember what Cn function does what.
d. I always take my laptop and upload every night, so that works for me. I do have a few extra CF cards in my strap in case I get shutter happy.
e. Gear is more addicting than anything you think. I started out with the kit and a 50 1.8.....that didn't last long. I tend to think that if I save for the best equipment, it will last me longer and in the long run will have been worth it. Bodies change every year, but the lens will, if treated right, will last for a lifetime.

 

[brack]

I agree that a DSLR is not needed for great shots, but disagree with the overall message of this comment. Maybe I am spoiled with the Pentax kit being a really good quality compared to some other brands, but I disagree with this part of the comment 1000%. Also, a DSLR on auto will still outperform a p&s. It is not getting the most out of your camera, but come on, that does not make it a p&s!

Actually, if you use a DSLR on auto it is the very definition of a point and shoot.

I used to be of the same opinion, that a DSLR could outperform a point and shoot without question, and a couple of years ago it was very obviously true. I just do not feel it is any longer. There are some very capable, full featured point and shoots out there right now.

Bought my wife a very nice P&S and it does take good photos most of the time. I have even taken it instead of my DSLR because of it's weight and size. Every time it did fail me on certain shots and I had regrets about leaving mine.

 

[ukcatfan]

E. If a kit meets your needs, then stick with it. However, IMO, if you stay with the kit lens and and maybe an entry level tele zoom and never take the camera off auto you could save a bunch of cash and get a full featured point and shoot. You do not need a DSLR to get great shots.

Actually, if you use a DSLR on auto it is the very definition of a point and shoot.

I used to be of the same opinion, that a DSLR could outperform a point and shoot without question, and a couple of years ago it was very obviously true. I just do not feel it is any longer. There are some very capable, full featured point and shoots out there right now.

I am talking about the hardware, not the action. There are some really nice p&s cameras out there with as many controls as a DSLR. The difference is that there are just situations where the hardware of a p&s will fail you when a DSLR will get the shot. This is even with a lowly ole' kit lens. What I really disagree with is that you imply that if you are going to stick with a kit lens you might as well get a p&s camera. Again, you come from the C&N world where the kit lens is not a high build quality (not optically, so no flaming) and I have a Pentax where the kit lens and 50-200mm are pretty nice lenses. They do have limitations and that can sometimes make me not get the shot I always want, but for the money I have not felt compelled to upgrade. If I had gone C&N I believe I would have twice the amount of money in this than I do now.

 

[photo_chick]

I actually came from the Pentax 35mm SLR world LOOOONG before I got my Canon 35mm SLR and DSLR. And I totally agree that Pentax makes better quality entry level glass.

It's really a matter of opinion here. Obviously we both feel strongly about ours.

 

[Coach81]

Thanks everyone! I am now the proud owner of a brand new Nikon D5000 DSLR!!!!

Can't wait to figure out what I'm doing now!!!

 

[mrcricket]

Congratulations! Welcome to the DSLR world. I think you'll find yourself having more fun shooting than ever before. I bought my first DSLR last year and am now looking for the next step up. This can get addictive. Lord, help my wallet.