elk

[waltesefalcon]

One thing I kinda struggle with are action shots. Most of the time I try to adhere to the rule of threes, but when composing a photo while the subject is moving that's just too tough for me. Here are a few shots of these three elk I saw on my way to work this momorning. The buffalo are just a bonus.

 

[GregW]

Hi Walter,
What I see is the shots are too wide. The elks are incidental. I'd suggest cropping way in, move in closer next time or get a longer lens.

 

[GregW]

Here I have moved the elk's head to the left and top thirds.

 

[waltesefalcon]

Okay Greg, I've cropped these two, as they seemed the most apt for it. What do you think?

When it comes to lens and equipment, I'm pretty limited; I'm taking all of my photos on my cell phone. One of these days I'll buy a proper camera but that's a ways off.

 

[DrEntropy]

Walt, you've got opportunity to make some stunning images, even on your way to and from work!

There are options for camera gear that can produce stunning results with less-than "professional" prices if you decide you want to pursue the making of really unique shots. Those elk photos are to die for with resolution with what's around for what would have been long dollars just a few years ago.

The "paparazi" are all shifting to the latest, greatest mirrorless gear and literally dumping the last gen DSLR's and optics, most of which are capable to produce some astounding photos.

 

[waltesefalcon]

Thank you Doc.

If you were in the market for a used camera, what would you look for?

 

[DrEntropy]

If you were in the market for a used camera, what would you look for?

I guess it depends on a couple things: Intended purpose and cost. Personally, the decision was made decades ago, I made my bean money as a pro mostly using Nikons. Gave it up in the mid-to-late '90's but still have all the glass and gear. Just in the last couple years realized I missed doing it, now just using it as "therapy." Started poking around for a DSLR, no intent to seek work for money. Settled for used APS-C "crop sensor" bodies so the old lens collection would still be useful. D7500 bodies filled the use and cost parameters for us. Got those and some nice AF lenses mostly using E-Bay.

If you've no "prior commitment" you could do worse than the Nikon or Canon crop-sensor bodies and lenses offered on E-Bay. Or even the full-frame sensor offerings from either if you want to go "all in" with higher resolution. But I would stay with either of those two manufacturers, primarily for the availability of lenses and other stuff at what I consider skinny money. But do look for lens interchangeability. No fixed-lens cameras. Give yourself room to expand as you go, the versatility may seem a bit more costly in the beginning but if you get "bit" it'll pay off.

And another thought: the all-in-one glass like zooms with amazing ratios are compromise, stay with shorter ratio zooms, consider primes as well. Much better image sharpness IMHO. Tho some of the more expensive zoom glass is amazing too if you have th' lolly to pony up. Let that come later.

The other guys here will hopefully add ideas, expand on my opinions.

 

[DrEntropy]

Played a bit with your elk photo, hope you don't mind.

 

[waltesefalcon]

I'm only ever going to play around, and do so on a budget, so used will be a necessity. Ebay is what I was thinking, but my knowledge is limited. A few years ago I was looking and Bas suggest Canon, having your opinion is nice because I know you have an extensive background in photography.

 

[DrEntropy]

Oft called that "background" evidence of an ill-spent youth.

You can't go wrong with either system. As I stated, my choice was due to having used Nikons for decades back in the film days. Getting up to speed with the DSLR's is all new to me as far as the capabilities go. Basics didn't change, just the means to get what I want the end to be. You'll be starting "fresh" so you could get either system and adapt to it.

 

[DrEntropy]

...'course I'm gonna suggest a Nikon...

Look at D7200 & D7500 (crop-sensor, APS-C) bodies. Good bang for the buck IMO. A good lens is their 18~140mm as a "starter" optic.

 

[waltesefalcon]

After a quick search it looks like a D7200 would be doable in the near future.

 

[Basil]

...'course I'm gonna suggest a Nikon...

Look at D7200 & D7500 (crop-sensor, APS-C) bodies. Good bang for the buck IMO. A good lens is their 18~140mm as a "starter" optic.

And of course I would suggest a Canon
Specifically, I Canon mirrorless. Probably, if you'r not looking to spend a ton of money, a refurbished Canon EOS R or EOS RP. Or, if you prefer crop season, the EOS R7 or R10.

 

[DrEntropy]

And of course I would suggest a Canon

Predictably...

Or, if you prefer crop season, the EOS R7 or R10.

MUST...

RESIST...

I will post no jokes about harvesting tools... nope, not me.

 

[Basil]

Predictably...

MUST...

RESIST...

I will post no jokes about harvesting tools... nope, not me.

The man who invented auto correct has died. His funfair is next monkey.

 

[Horsemits]

One thing I kinda struggle with are action shots. Most of the time I try to adhere to the rule of threes, but when composing a photo while the subject is moving that's just too tough for me. Here are a few shots of these three elk I saw on my way to work this momorning. The buffalo are just a bonus.
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These are amazing creatures. Interesting poses!

 

[waltesefalcon]

Doc, this one's just for you. Go ahead and let out those harvesting tool jokes.

 

[waltesefalcon]

These are amazing creatures. Interesting poses!

They are natural strutters and aren't all that great at following direction.

 

[Horsemits]

They are natural strutters and aren't all that great at following direction.

I like your description. It's as if they have attitude!

 

[waltesefalcon]

I like your description. It's as if they have attitude!

Oh, they do.

Longhorn are much easier to work with, they follow direction like cattle.