nkpstudios's stats
- Review count222
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- First reviewJanuary 9, 2015
- Last reviewJune 30, 2024
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- Average rating4.3
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- Answer count49
- Helpfulness votes63
- First answerSeptember 12, 2016
- Last answerAugust 6, 2021
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Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens: Get sharp, clear photos with this Canon medium telephoto lens that delivers vibrant color and clarity with fast, quiet focusing. The 85mm focal length draws attention to your subject and transforms the background into a soft blur for professional-quality portraits and impeccably detailed close-up shots.
Customer Rating
5
Great value and quality!
on January 9, 2015
Posted by: nkpstudios
Verified Purchase:Yes
The Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 II USM lens is a moderate weight (15 oz), very well built lens. It does not come with the appropriate hood, the Canon ET-65 III. You get both a lens cap and a mount cap, all packed inside tight conformal foam to protect the lens during shipping. There's also a very brief manual and the usual warranty paperwork.
The lens offers AF and manual focus, and allows manual focus even when AF is set to on, a very useful feature for low-light and other challenging focus situations. This is a USM lens, and as a direct consequence focus is fast and precise, just as you'd expect.
The AF/Manual switch is in a reasonable location, close to the camera body. There is a range indication on the barrel of the lens behind a transparent window which serves to keep dust and debris out of the workings of the lens. Manual focus is controlled with a broad, easy to manage textured ring about mid-body on the lens. During focus, nothing external on the lens body moves or rotates, so there are no complications for using polarizing filters, and no concerns about the lens "pumping" air and so causing dust contamination in either the lens or camera with use.
The lens lacks any form of image stabilization. IS is showing up in more and more lenses, though for the price... perhaps this is one of the justifications for building IS into the camera body. I'm sure that this design wouldn't be anywhere near its current price point with IS added to the build. One last point is that since the lens is a fairly fast design, perhaps there is less overall need for IS (though that argument falls completely apart the first time you *do* need it!)
It takes a 58mm filter, though I highly recommend the use of the ET-65 III hood rather than a filter; filter use should be limited to polarizers, neutral density filters and so on, rather than keeping a filter on the lens with the idea of protecting it. Here's why: filters create a flat surface over the end of the lens that can (and often does) create low-level reflections. These are most apparent in low-light shots, but they are almost always there. In the case of a UV filter, no other benefit is gained (UV can't get through the lens system anyway) other than physical protection. The hood, however, keeps the lens out of harms way quite effectively, and it increases contrast and reduces flare at the same time by preventing light from entering the lens at high angles of attack. I have shot with both hoods and filters, and after decades of experience, I have to come down firmly on the side of hood technique. It only takes one shot ruined by a filter reflection to wake up to this reality; and hoods never, ever compromise an image. They're simply the best way to go. Finally, the hood for this lens is inexpensive, well worth the extra few dollars it costs.
Aperture is controlled by an 8-blade system. The available f-stops range from f/1.8 wide open to f/22.0 fully stopped down. MTF (sharpness) peaks at f/5.6, and vignetting is almost gone by that setting.
On my camera, an EOS 50D, resolution loss from diffraction effects begin at f/7.6, so in many ways, the "sweet spot" for this lens for me lands naturally at f/5.6. On a camera with a lesser sensel density such as the 40D, diffraction doesn't set in until higher f-stops, but you're beginning to lose sharpness from other effects, so I'd still call the sweet spot as f/5.6 (which also provides a fairly extensive depth of field) for shots where detail is the primary consideration.
For portraits, you'll want to go right for f/1.8 if lighting conditions allow in order to take advantage of the shallow and pleasing DOF isolation this lens is famous for; background blur is very soft yet very strong, while the in focus region remains deep enough to keep the important features of the face in focus from ear to nose. The loss of MTF at f/1.8 is noticeable, especially once you get a feel for how the lens performs at f/5.6, but in my opinion, the compromise is perfectly acceptable in a portrait context. There's another benefit as well; at 85mm, and especially on a crop body like the 40D or 50D, this lens allows you to get some distance from your subject which tends to make them more comfortable, while giving you the modest compression that is the hallmark of any telephoto lens. Portraits "pop" and backgrounds blur away with commendable speed. Head-and-shoulders work will put you at about eight feet, and as the lens can focus down to just under three feet, this gives you considerable control over framing without ever running into a limit imposed by the lens design.
This is also a truly excellent lens for not-very-wide field astrophotography, although at critical focus and maximum aperture, chromatic aberration will make itself felt on the brightest stars, which you will then have to compensate for. I have successfully used this lens to capture the the Orion nebula, Andromeda galaxy, Triangulum galaxy, and a number of other astro objects that range from the easy to the difficult, all using no more than a standard (non-tracking) tripod, this lens, and the EOS 50D. On a crop body, 85mm (136mm effective FOV) is definitely the place to be to compromise between star trailing and magnification, and the f/1.8 aperture allows fast enough exposures to eliminate trailing at ISO 1600 and above.
I carry this lens nested in a large camera bag (a Tamrac 5612 Pro 12, *highly* recommended); I rarely put the lens on the camera until I am ready to use it, and when I am done, I take it right back off, cap it, and bag it without wasting any time or motion. I do both the assembly and disassembly "blind" in the bag, using the bag top to shield the camera and lens from the wind and environment as best I can manage. The lens has a raised alignment dot that makes blind assembly practical. It's the size of the overall investment that drives this behavior, of course; both the camera and a lens like this deserves -- demands -- good care and that is just what I try to provide.
Physically speaking, this lens isn't as large as you might think. Canon did a great job of packing a lot of glass (nine elements in seven groups) into a decent form factor of 3" diameter by 2.8" long; even with the hood mounted, this lens provides a fraction of the intimidation factor of, for instance, the 70-200mm f/2.8L. But at 85mm, it can still "get in there" and catch a lot of action without forcing you to crop to extremes. It's light enough that you can shoot for quite a while before fatigue sets in, an issue that will rear its head in any situation that goes on a while, like a wedding or a play (and that low-light capability is great for stage work, where a flash annoys literally everyone.) Plus it is black, and so looks more like it is designed as part of the same camera system, unlike the L's with the white bodies. That's also less distracting in a dark theater.
I can honestly say that this is definitely one of my favorite lenses. I have a fair collection of primes to compare it to, some of which are L glass, and I've got some great L zooms as well; yet for portraits, I inevitably turn to this specific lens as it outperforms everything else I own in the successful shooting methodologies I find myself returning to over and over. Frankly, at the price, I think it is perfectly fair to characterize this lens as a "must-have"; if you're ever going to shoot a portrait, trust me, this is the lens you want (even over the 85mm f/1.2L, which has far too narrow a depth of field for most reasonable portraiture, though you can't beat it for light-gathering.) Like Canon's 100mm f/2.8 macro lens, the 85mm f/1.8 is one of those where you're left scratching your head as to why it doesn't have an "L" designation. It is an outstanding performer.
If Canon were to re-do this lens, I'd like to see them add image stabilization, and perhaps some modern anti-CA elements, as this is the one area where this lens occasionally bites the photographer in high-contrast situations. Until that day, though, this lens is unmatched by anything else in Canon's line for price/performance, and I can't imagine anyone ever regretting its purchase.
My Best Buy number: 0596454577
My Best Buy number: 0596454577
I would recommend this to a friend!
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59of 59voted this as helpful.
Charge and display your DUALSHOCK 4 wireless controllers with the officially licensed Charging Station for PlayStation 4. Charging is an ease - Simply place the DUALSHOCK 4 on either side of the station, and click down to see the LED base light up to indicate charging level. When fully charged, click down to release contact and simply leave the controller on the station. Feel confident your controllers are always ready to game as it charges on display alongside of your PS4 console
Customer Rating
4
No more wired charging
on January 9, 2015
Posted by: nkpstudios
Verified Purchase:Yes
This is the best charger on the market. It utilizes the port underneath the controller rather than the micro USB on top. The controller's light is the indicator of charging and when it is finished. Charging it will pulse amber and when it is full it will turn off. No trying to line up the port on the controller to charge is a breeze. Click down to charge, click down to separate the controller from the charger. No complaints and it is an OFFICIAL PS4 accessory.
My Best Buy number: 0596454577
My Best Buy number: 0596454577
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Record high-definition video footage and crisp still images with this Sony AX100 4K flash memory camcorder that features Optical SteadyShot image stabilization to minimize blur. Built-in Wi-Fi lets you wirelessly transfer files.
How many minutes can you record with a 128gb memory cord.
Until you run out of space or the battery runs out. This depends on numerous factors like recording quality, EVF vs Live View LCD, battery size, etc. Do some research since there are various recording formats that allow for different file sizes. The Sony website has a plethora of information.
6 years, 10 months ago
by
nkpstudios
Record high-definition video footage and crisp still images with this Sony AX100 4K flash memory camcorder that features Optical SteadyShot image stabilization to minimize blur. Built-in Wi-Fi lets you wirelessly transfer files.
Why so much money?
REALLY? There are other options available that provide 4K for the customers with budget in mind. This is a prosumer camcorder that has some professional features not found in lower end camcorders.
6 years, 10 months ago
by
nkpstudios
Record high-definition video footage and crisp still images with this Sony AX100 4K flash memory camcorder that features Optical SteadyShot image stabilization to minimize blur. Built-in Wi-Fi lets you wirelessly transfer files.
Does this camera have a shotgun mic mount or how would you connect a RODE VideoMic to it?
Your question isn't really clear because you are asking about microphone mounts in general. I will attempt to provide useful information I hope will help. This camera does have the ability to use external microphones. You can use a Sony microphone that is compatible with MIS and not need any other adapters. The FDR-AX100 uses a proprietary Sony Multi-Interface Shoe (MIS) rather than an industry standard cold/hot shoe. You are able to mount a RODE VideoMic or any other mic to the shoe but you must first purchase a MIS to Cold Shoe adapter. Once you put this adapter on, you can then mount any standard cold/hot shoe mounted microphone to the Sony camera.
The microphone input is a standard 3.5mm stereo mini-jack. If you are looking to use XLR microphones you will need either a XLR-3.5mm stereo adapter or an external sound recorder.
The microphone input is a standard 3.5mm stereo mini-jack. If you are looking to use XLR microphones you will need either a XLR-3.5mm stereo adapter or an external sound recorder.
6 years, 10 months ago
by
nkpstudios
Light up your gameplay with this Corsair RGB RAPIDFIRE mechanical gaming keyboard, featuring LED backlit keys in multiple colors. Create a customized key set, and take the shot accurately with the fast actuation of Cherry MX Speed RGB switches. This Corsair RGB RAPIDFIRE mechanical gaming keyboard uses USB for easy connectivity.
Has spanish layout?
Not the keys themselves when you buy it, but I am sure you can buy them separately since the key caps come off.
6 years, 11 months ago
by
nkpstudios
Light up your gameplay with this Corsair RGB RAPIDFIRE mechanical gaming keyboard, featuring LED backlit keys in multiple colors. Create a customized key set, and take the shot accurately with the fast actuation of Cherry MX Speed RGB switches. This Corsair RGB RAPIDFIRE mechanical gaming keyboard uses USB for easy connectivity.
I asked this about another keyboard. Is the lighting compatable with the ASUS RGB Aura. So I won't have to adjust the keyboard after making colors work for the case?
No it is not. If you want AuraSync you need to buy the Claymore from Asus. This RGB keyboard is customized and managed by Corsair Cue Software.
6 years, 11 months ago
by
nkpstudios
Power your gaming machine with this EVGA GeForce graphics card. Its NVIDIA G-SYNC technology reduces lag and eliminates screen tearing to produce smooth, lifelike images, while its GPU Boost 3.0 feature maximizes clock speed to push its performance to the limits. This EVGA GeForce graphics card comes optimized for VR games.
this car is compatible with motherboard Ga z170x UD5 ?
Yes. It really matters the size of your case. It is a long card so you will need at least the following available in your case:
Height: 4.66in - 118.48mm
Length: 10.6in - 269.2mm
Width: Dual Slot
Height: 4.66in - 118.48mm
Length: 10.6in - 269.2mm
Width: Dual Slot
7 years ago
by
nkpstudios
Track your heart rate, listen to music or talk hands-free on these JBL in-ear headphones. The ergonomic ear tips twist into your ear and stay in place with TwistLock technology without causing discomfort. These durable, sweat-proof JBL in-ear headphones have a battery life of up to 5 hours and come with a one-year MapMyFitness premium membership.
Why would I buy these over the beats wireless ? $60 dollars more for what?
No I would not. I own both of these headsets. The $60 more can be essentially broken down as $30 for the 1yr subscription to MapMyRun app and $30 for the heart rate monitor function. I still find myself wearing my PowerBeats because of sound quality.
7 years, 5 months ago
by
nkpstudios
Track your heart rate, listen to music or talk hands-free on these JBL in-ear headphones. The ergonomic ear tips twist into your ear and stay in place with TwistLock technology without causing discomfort. These durable, sweat-proof JBL in-ear headphones have a battery life of up to 5 hours and come with a one-year MapMyFitness premium membership.
How would these headphones work for boxing ?
Two words... GET THEM. The twist lock works great. If you have the right ear tips on, these will NOT move. No matter how much head movement unless you are sparring you obviously do not want to get punched in the ear or side of the head :)
7 years, 5 months ago
by
nkpstudios
This Pioneer BDR-XD05S external drive allows you to archive up to 128GB of data on BD-R QL media and up to 100GB of data on BD-R TL media, plus supports DVD and CD formats, so you can burn your favorite movies and music to discs.
What cable to I need to connect to surface dock? 3.0 male to 3.0 male?
You plug this drive into the surface dock like any other USB device and it will work. Nothing special
7 years, 6 months ago
by
nkpstudios
This Pioneer BDR-XD05S external drive allows you to archive up to 128GB of data on BD-R QL media and up to 100GB of data on BD-R TL media, plus supports DVD and CD formats, so you can burn your favorite movies and music to discs.