What Photography Related Item Have You Bought or Sold This Week?

[Dean Wilson]

T-Max 100 (36 exp.) T-Max 400 (36 exp.) and 25a filter for my Minolta SR-T201 (and perhaps my Pentax P3n) doing landscape.

It has been a couple years, but I feel if I try film again, I might slow down and evaluate the scene longer before pressing the shutter.

 

[PKM-UK]

I’ve bought the Loupedeck CT (Creative Tool) - primarily for use with Lightroom Classic, but also for Photoshop and DxO PhotoLab 7/ FilmPack 7 (though the latter two only offer very limited control options). I’m also using it with macOS applications - Mail, Safari, Numbers, Apple Music and Notes to varying degrees.

Development of my set-up/ use continues, but so far it has been (a) fun and (b) worthwhile. The software and available permutations are not perfect and certain limitations definitely apply. I’ve also experienced a few crashes of the Loupedeck CT, but re-boot and recovery have been swift and it’s generally stable in use.

(The Loupedeck software is quite good fun in itself - and can been downloaded free, then 'developed' without the need for the actual hardware).

It's early days in terms of refining my set-ups (which will almost certainly be an ongoing thing), but samples are shown below for general information.

Phil


Loupedeck CT - the 6 side Dials can be turned/ pushed, the 4x3 matrix screen Buttons are touch/ haptic and the main jog Dial has a touch screen. Most elements can be given various assignments, with multiple Dial/ Button and Wheel set ups / pages for each 'Profile' and 'Workspace'. User actions can be defined, but these mostly rely on having associated keyboard shortcuts/ presets. (There are other options, such as scripting, which I haven't explored).

I've set these workspaces up to suit my workflow/ preferences (note some of the actions/ icons shown are my creations) - trial and error development continues...

 

[Dean Wilson]

I’ve bought the Loupedeck CT (Creative Tool)

I have thought many times on getting a Loupedeck, but that's as far as it gets. I have also looked at a Wacom Intuos Pro. I don't know anyone who has one I could try before I buy.

My biggest editing hassle is finetune editing with a clunky mouse!

Keep up updated my friend.

 

[Bryan Conner]

I purchased an isdt LP2 Air charger for my LP-E6 batteries. I had problems with my Nitecore UCN2 charger not working properly with some a couple of my batteries. Granted, I do not have any Canon batteries any longer, but have 4 Patona batteries (which are wonderful) and 2 Neewer batteries. All of these batteries work without a hitch in my Canon charger, but I like to use a double charger since I am a battery grip user.

The isdt LP2 Air charger is pretty unique. It can charge LP-E6NH, LP-E12, and LP-E17 batteries without any adapters etc. It is small, uses usb-c PD for power, not included so you have to either already have a USB-C PD adapter or you have to buy one. I bought one to be dedicated to this charger.

The charger also has an app (Android and Apple) which provides all charging data in real time while charging. The app also allows the user to change configurations such as whether to beep or not to notify when it is finished charging etc. Since the charger has the app for a smartphone, the charger itself is small since it doesn't have any type of display, only two very small LEDs to indicate charging or not charging etc.

It charged all of my batteries, 2 at a time, in a little less than 2 hours per pair. The batteries were discharged to whatever level a Canon EOS R stops working and needs new batteries (around 2% I think).

So far, I am very pleased with it. You can check it out here https://www.isdt.co/lp2air.html

 

[PKM-UK]

I have thought many times on getting a Loupedeck, but that's as far as it gets. I have also looked at a Wacom Intuos Pro. I don't know anyone who has one I could try before I buy.

My biggest editing hassle is finetune editing with a clunky mouse!

Keep up updated my friend.

Hi Dean,

No problem, will do. If you have any specific questions - such as can it do ‘a’ or ‘b’, let me know and I’ll have a go (hopefully you won’t get to ‘z’ - user ability limitations will also apply…). If you download their software and want to look at my custom set-ups, I can make them available via Dropbox (bear in mind they’re personal to me, my preferences/ workflow and a work in progress).

I’m using the Loupedeck in conjunction with a mouse and keyboard (it definitely wouldn’t replace the former for things like brush work/ picking things - IMHO - and it’s also needed for any menu items/ settings the Loupedeck can’t be used for), In terms of ‘vs a tablet’, I did try a Wacom some time back, but couldn’t get on with it (though many people do).

Phil

 

[mziese]

Wow, hard weeks for my wallet,

- a new rig belt.
-Canon mobile photo printer 1500er
- two additional batteries
- Davinci Resolve speed editor and Studio license.
- K&F Stativ 215cm
- Flightcase for all Equipment
- Filter set for my DJI Air 2s
- Filter set for GoPro 7 black

I know most is not related to the R6 but makes the wallet empty.

I think I need a bigger house, next.

BR,

Michael

 

[MrSparks999]

Been a good boy this week, and havent bought anything. Only because i am saving for the RF200-800 when it goes in sale in March.

 

[Dean Wilson]

i am saving for the RF200-800 when it goes in sale in March

That method doesn't work for me...I'd rather spend my kids inheritance.

 

[PKM-UK]

I have thought many times on getting a Loupedeck, but that's as far as it gets. I have also looked at a Wacom Intuos Pro. I don't know anyone who has one I could try before I buy.

My biggest editing hassle is finetune editing with a clunky mouse!

Keep up updated my friend.

Hi Dean,

As requested - a sort of update thingy...

A couple of weeks in (plus a couple more playing with the software before I got the hardware) and the Loupedeck CT is a definite keeper for me.

As per my original post, I primarily use if for my photo related tasks, but I've also been gradually adding extra functionality for my other software.

Plus points - excellent for repetitive tasks (some involving multiple inputs) which can be carried out with a single button press, for things like opening/ navigating between apps, using dials to adjust settings - and for other tasks such as levelling/ sizing crops and zooming. Sample program profiles are provided, but I have created my own profiles and workspaces with custom keyboard shortcuts/ dial assignments and (latterly) a couple of AppleScripts. You can also customise things like the button matrix/ dial screen icons/ labelling (endless fun!).

Negatives - very few really. It will occasionally crash (swift recovery). There are limitations, some things could be better implemented and it's not '100% perfect' - but neither am I - be prepared to adapt and devise workarounds to irksome issues.

Bottom line - this is, basically, a super-neat input device, it does not replace a mouse/ keyboard (IMHO) - but it works with them in a very satisfying way.

Any investment you make in evaluating your needs/ workflow and customising the Loupedeck will be richly rewarded with grin inducing slickness, but make no mistake - this does require both time and thought. If you can forgive the occasional technical glitch - it is all very rewarding. Once you're up to speed it can certainly save time - but as importantly it really does add to the fun. My take - others views may differ. (We're both right).

The usual caveats apply - there are things I know, things I don't know and things I don't know that I don't know. I'm also happy fiddling around with tech and developing stuff - it's as much a part of my hobby as taking and creating images. Importantly, I have no deadlines to meet, or any clients to please.

Make of this what you will and - as I've mentioned - let me know if you have any specific questions and I'll do my best to answer them.

Phil

1. My LrC Library Module Workspace is used for weeding/ initial 'pre-processing', including sending selected raw files to DxO PhotoLab (via Plug-in) and the initial tweaks to the DNG files when they are exported back to LrC from DxO. (Also shown are some of the available customisation options).

2. My LrC Develop Module Workspace has multiple dial pages (forward/ backward navigation via button '2'/ Fn '2') which allows me to use just my left hand to make most basic settings adjustments. I can also invoke my favourite presets and send images off to Photoshop/ Topaz Photo AI. (Also shown are the LrC customisation options - some of which, such as Develop Presets, are brought across from LrC).

3. My LrC 'export workspace' allows me to quickly filter sets of image files and export them via the most frequently used LrC export presets.

4. My Photoshop workspace allows me to invoke some of my custom PS actions and assists me to carry out some of my regular tasks - e.g. quickly moving between layer blending options/ adjusting opacity, resizing images and stuff like adjusting brush size/ flow.

5. My DxO PhotoLab Elite Workspace. There are fewer shortcut options for DxO PL, but this workspace allows me to do certain regular tasks such as returning to LrC (a frequent back-and-forth 'app juggle' with my initial raw files processing workflow) and now includes some of my AppleScript actions.

 

[Chris Summers]

Nothing for my R system but I did get a 720 nm Hoya filter for my M5 that I converted to 590 nm infrared. I also placed an order for an 850 nm filter on Ebay from a store in China. They had some good prices and I figured for the $19 I would give it a try, if it's crap then I am not out much.

 

[Dean Wilson]

if it's crap then I am not out much.

I did that with a B & H purchase for a Pinhole Body Cap, although it is an EF mount I decided to get the EF-RF adapter. Either with the adapter (or without...still fits) the photos lack any degree of sharpness. $29 (US): Absolutely trash.

HOWEVER, I do now have an EF-RF adapter...without any EF glass.

 

[Bryan Conner]

I picked up a a like new, used Sunwayfoto GH-Pro-II geared tripod head. So far, I really like the precision and control that it offers. Plus, it is only about 50 grams heavier than my Linhof Profi II ballhead/quick release plate combo. I will hang on to the Linhof for a while longer just to make sure the geared head and I get along ok long-term.

 

[AntonLargiader]

Some eBay items:
- A used Flex TT5 trigger. The TT5s are great bargains now for people wanting Pocketwizard compatible E-TTL triggers.
- A batteryless Vagabond Mini. Providing it works right, with a new battery will be less than 2/3 the price of new.
- Einstein E640 without bulb and dome. With them, total cost $230.

 

[BasilFawlty]

I picked up a a like new, used Sunwayfoto GH-Pro-II geared tripod head. So far, I really like the precision and control that it offers. Plus, it is only about 50 grams heavier than my Linhof Profi II ballhead/quick release plate combo. I will hang on to the Linhof for a while longer just to make sure the geared head and I get along ok long-term.

I just bought the "+" version of that gear head about two weeks ago. The only difference between the GH-Pro-II and the GH-Pro-II+ is that the "plus" version has a geared top panning head that allows an additional degree of fine adjustment. I bought mine new from Have only been out with it once, but so far I really like it over a ball head for purposes of getting accurate composition for architecture and landscapes. I actually bought it with night sky panos in mind, but have not had a chance to try it out for that yet. It seems to be very well built and I'm hoping that it holds up over time.

 

[BasilFawlty]

A couple weeks ago, as I mentioned in a reply to Bryan Conner, I bought a SunWayPhoto GH-PRO-II+ gear head. This week, (a couple of days ago), I decided it was time to get a serious tripod. (actually I decided it a long time ago, but only recently pulled the trigger). I just bought a ProMediaGear TR344LBL. It's not their beefiest tripod (that would be their 42 series), but I felt it would be perfect for my use cases. The "34" denotes it has 34mm diameter upper legs. The second ""4" denotes it has four leg sections, the first L denotes "long", being that fully extended iy is a whopping 71", and the "BL" denotes that this version ships with a leveling base. This was my no means a cheap tripod, but by signing up for their email list I was able to get 10% off, plus there was no tax charged and shipping was free.

I've heard it said many times over the years that people will spend thousands on a good camera and great lenses, but then will go cheap when buying a tripod. I'm kinda guilty of that. A few years ago, when I was really getting into digital photography in a serious way, I was buying thousands of dollars worth of camera gear (7D Mark II, 5D Mark IV and several lenses, etc). But when it came to a tripod, I ended up with a mid-sized Sirui Carbon Fiber Tripod. I felt that it was a good compromise between price, stability and portability. It wasn't what I'd call "cheap" at around $450, but most of the serious "big name" tripods were much more expensive.

It's not that the Sirui tripod is a bad tripod, but there have been many times when I really needed something a little beefier and a bit more stable and less susceptible to vibrations (like shooting on windy days, or in the middle of a stream with rushing water, etc). For those instances where I need something much lighter and compact (like hiking on long hikes) I also have a Heipi Travel Tripod that I bought during their kickstarter campaign at a deep discount. So, I'll be selling my Sirui.

 

[Chris Summers]

I got a few new toys this week but all of them were for my Canon M mirrorless system. A new shoulder/messenger bag and a set of four 72mm infrared filters for my converted M5 body.

 

[Bryan Conner]

I just bought the "+" version of that gear head about two weeks ago. The only difference between the GH-Pro-II and the GH-Pro-II+ is that the "plus" version has a geared top panning head that allows an additional degree of fine adjustment. I bought mine new from Have only been out with it once, but so far I really like it over a ball head for purposes of getting accurate composition for architecture and landscapes. I actually bought it with night sky panos in mind, but have not had a chance to try it out for that yet. It seems to be very well built and I'm hoping that it holds up over time.

I wanted to get the + version, but it was only available from a Chinese supplier, shipped from China. And I didn't want the hassle and extra cost that my local customs officials would provide. Plus, I got my non + for about 100€ less than the cost of a new one. And it really does look new, in the box with all accessories except for the arca-swiss plate which I don't need.

I do wish that it had a lever-style quick release clamp instead of the type that you twist to tighten. I will probably figure out a way to install one, but that will come later. I want to give myself a chance to get used to it the way it came from Sunwayfoto.

 

[BasilFawlty]

I wanted to get the + version, but it was only available from a Chinese supplier, shipped from China. And I didn't want the hassle and extra cost that my local customs officials would provide. Plus, I got my non + for about 100€ less than the cost of a new one. And it really does look new, in the box with all accessories except for the arca-swiss plate which I don't need.

I do wish that it had a lever-style quick release clamp instead of the type that you twist to tighten. I will probably figure out a way to install one, but that will come later. I want to give myself a chance to get used to it the way it came from Sunwayfoto.

I was lucky to find mine at a US store, Adorama, based in New York.

 

[Dwardski]

I've just bought a fairly beefy (138W) imuto power bank and a 65W Ugreen PD charger to, well, charge it. It's very early days yet, so I haven't done much with them, but I'll let you know my initial thoughts - a "mini-review", if you will - if people are interested...

 

[Chris Summers]

Used up the last of some funds I had from selling off some older gear a few months ago. I ordered a super wide angle lens for my Canon M mirrorless system, a Venus Optics Laowa 9mm f/2.8 lens in the Canon M mount. I own the Canon EF-M 11-22mm lens and use it a lot, especially with my infrared converted camera but thought the 9mm would be a nice lens for those ultra wide shots. 9mm on a crop sensor is around 14.4mm on full frame.

 

[JCBigler]

I just ordered an R7. Should be here today.

Getting ready for the eclipse, and I want to get a bunch of test shots and have plenty of time to learn the camera before the eclipse.

 

[Chris Summers]

I've been wanting to get the new 200-800mm when it becomes more available. But I have an agreement with my wife to keep my hobby as cost neutral as possible. So this week I sold 5 shotguns and a rifle and netted just over $2200. So now I have enough for the lens and maybe something else. Truth of the matter these were all hunting weapons and I'd rather shoot pictures of birds now than bring them home for dinner.

I used my R and RF 24-105 to photograph all the guns to send to the buyer. This one earned my just over a grand as it's a rather rare model with a nice walnut stock.

 

[RW2024]

I bought a Sky Watcher Star Adventurer GTI mount yesterday. It arrived this morning. Dropping off at UPS tonight to return.
Decided I didn't want to invest in a guide scope, camera & power source to get it to perform correctly (see reviews).
Guess I will dig out my old goto C8 mount and see if I can get it running.

 

[TonyB]

Just sold the R7 kit, APS-C just wasn’t for me, and bought a R6mkII.

 

[RedCobra]

Just sold my R7

 

[Chris Summers]

I bought a UV filter for my new Venus Laowa 9mm lens for my Canon M6 MkII. Sadly, Venus Optics has such a close fit on their bayonet lens hood that it can not be used if the filter is on. Oh well, I can always return in to Amazon.

 

[Bryan Conner]

I've been wanting to get the new 200-800mm when it becomes more available. But I have an agreement with my wife to keep my hobby as cost neutral as possible. So this week I sold 5 shotguns and a rifle and netted just over $2200. So now I have enough for the lens and maybe something else. Truth of the matter these were all hunting weapons and I'd rather shoot pictures of birds now than bring them home for dinner.

I used my R and RF 24-105 to photograph all the guns to send to the buyer. This one earned my just over a grand as it's a rather rare model with a nice walnut stock.

View attachment 25605

I did the exact same thing in the mid 1990's. I sold all of my guns, around 10 if I remember correctly, and invested in a camera body and 2 lenses. The last day I sat in a deer stand with a gun, I realized that if I shot a deer, I would have to do a lot of work afterwards to get it ready for processing etc. And I still had venison in the freezer from the last season. So only sat in the stand the rest of that evening and enjoyed nature. I do not have any problem at all with responsible hunting, it is just that I choose to do it with a camera now.

Nice Remington there, I agree that is a nice stock.

 

[Dwardski]

Just bought a secondhand RF 24-70 f2.8 lens. Excitedly waiting for it to arrive...

 

[Dwardski]

Also, I've bought a 16 TB HDD for photo backup purposes, together with an Orico 5-bay HDD dock to replace a dual-bay one which kept dropping off the USB bus during backup sessions. Finally, as the old dock included an SD card reader and the new one doesn't, I've bought a ProGrade reader (which also has a CF Type B slot, so I'll at last be able to transfer my photos easily, and not have to use FTP).

Oh, and I'm off to The Photography Show next weekend, where I'll no doubt buy something to celebrate my 65th birthday. Watch this space...

 

[Photofarmer]

Replacement lightning trigger "strike finder" and a portabrace raincover

Niether avaialble in oz b@h