Archive for September, 2010
iPad for Professional Photographers
0My friends call it the iFad (ho ho), but to me it has become a tool that I use more often then my other Apple computers with the exception of the iPhone. There are limitations to the iPad without doubt but then there are limitations of every product I have; no one questions if the Mac Pro desktop is “portable”, likewise nobody asks if the iPhone can be used to edit 25mb RAW Images!
Where the iPad really works for me is in it’s presentation and 90% of what I do online which is surfing the web.
If you’re a photographer, then don’t wait. Get an iPad now while it’s still new and fresh; remember when the iPhone was new and original? Now it’s quite common.

External microphone for Canon 5D Mark 2, Rode Videomic
2Because I intend to record alot of audio with the HD video from the Canon 5D Mk 2, the built in microphone within the camera is insufficient for my needs. Fortunately Canon have the foresight to include an external microphone jack which means any 3.5mm jack mic can be plugged into to improve the audio.
I’ve gone for the Rode Videomic. I’ve only just purchased it today from Amazon so i wont’ be able to do tests just yet but keep your “ears” open for an upcoming post with video/audio examples.
Update, I’ve just posted a very short video showing some of the subtle differences of the VideoMic.
However, futher exploration of YouTube has revealed slightly longer audio tests using various settings on the Rode VideoMic. See what you think from this chap. Personally, I think the LOW PASS filter setting is more pleasant. I’m not entirely sure what it does though. If you do, then please leave a comment.
Canon 5D Mark 2 Video test with my kitten Toffee
1I’ve been given a Canon 5D mark 2 to play with and I could not think of anything more interesting than my cat. The lens is a 24-105mm F4 L series. I hope you enjoy!
Canon 550D video test
0Just a quick post and very quick edit of some 550D footage I shot this morning around my house.
Canon 550D tests.
0I’m in a very privileged position where I get to teach young local kids in Aylesbury how to be a better photographer. Part of that job is to get the best equipment for them. I recommended the Canon 550D and before we let the camera’s loose on the kids I’ve been getting myself familiar with them. So far I’m very impressed. If I were to compare the 550D to the Nikon D90 (which happens to be a great little camera) I would say the 550D has the slight edge because it can do great video (more of that to come later).
In the meantime, check out these test shots.









Why I believe Canon SLR video smacks Nikon’s arse!
0Yes, once more I’m back on my Canon Vs Nikon video SLR rant again.
Canon have recently released their budget SLR aim at the amateur. I can’t vouch for the photography quality as I think they pretty much trounce Nikon at the lower end anyway, however their video is far superior to anything Nikon have released!! I would even say the 550D video quality is as good as (if not better) than the Nikon D3s video quality!
Take a look at his promotion video released by Canon. It’s amazing!!! Nikon are just not catching up at all! I love my D3, but I want a D3 that can also do high quality HD video! Is that too much to ask???
My faith in Nikon is ebbing away each month as Canon continues to show the old dog how it’s done. For now, I’m a professional photographer and I will stand by Nikon, but I am very tempted to go to the other side. I don’t know how much longer I can stand it.
Wedding video montage shot entirely on Nikon D90
0In one of my recent weddings I photographed, I managed to squeeze in a few moments to capture some video footage, stuck it together using Final Cut Pro in under 30 minutes and added a soundtrack by my very good friend Gary Mullins who happens to be an amazing guitarist.
The NIkon D90 isn’t the best video SLR in the market, but because you can use some impressive glass with it (in this case a Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8) then it beats any compact HD camcorder in my opinion. I’m hoping to get my hands on a Canon 5D mk2 soon so I can continue with my experiments.
Have a look, let me know what you think.
Kindle vs iPad. First ad by Amazon fires at iPad.
0Let the battle between Amazon Kindle and Apple’s iPad commence. Good advert, but I think the woman comes across as a bit snooty.
Adobe Lightroom 3. Editing Wedding photos, the Pro way
1I’m editing at least 6 weddings right now so it’s a busy time, however I thought this was an interesting photo I took with my iPhone which illustrates the just small portion of photos I have to edit.

Cute little girl starts a dance craze!
1A great little video. I won’t spoil it, but it’s great to watch!