new to digital help please (Page 2): Re: batteries... Go for a camera that is powered by AA batteries rather than a proprietary battery. AA rechargeables, especially the new NiZn...

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new to digital help please

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Dec 26, 2011 08:45:31 #

Uuglypher Loc: South Dakota (East River)

Re: batteries...
Go for a camera that is powered by AA batteries rather than a proprietary battery. AA rechargeables, especially the new NiZn rechargeables, beat the camera-specific proprietary batteries hands down! Why? When you forget your charged back-up battery you can always buy some AA batteries at the closest convenience store!
Dave, East River, SD

Dec 26, 2011 08:52:03 #

Wabbit Loc: Arizona Desert

RocketScientist wrote:

I picked up a Canon S3 IS that surprised me with the picture quality and the macro pictures it would grab. It even has a Super Macro mode that let you get about an inch from the subject. I spent about $75 on it on a CraigsList deal.

Great choice for macro shots if for no other reason, "the articulating screen". The op may want to check out this avenue. Many folks say it's not needed and they break easily but in my opinion the articulating screen is indispensable.

Dec 26, 2011 08:56:40 #

arphot Loc: Massachusetts

dragonfist wrote:

In looking over the replies I noted one thing missing. No matter which camera you buy be sure to set the white balance on the camera for the type of light you are using to illuminate the subject. As you are new to digital you probably haven't thought about it.

Good point . . . Auto WB (white balance) doesn't always work.

Check out Street Photography section of our forum.

Dec 26, 2011 10:02:31 #

rayford2 Loc: New Bethlehem, PA

Uuglypher wrote:

I had an Olympus that used 4 those "AA" batteries. What a pain those things are loading singly, one up one down...especially in a moving conveyance.
Although it's true "AA" batteries are found everywhere, if you compare the cost of these things compared to the "battery packs" (which are replaced much quicker) that can be found on Ebay, including NOS, they aren't that expensive. Having 4 spare packs is more convenient than a bunch of batteries that can get mixed up. A lot of those "AA" chargers are suspect too.

P.S. Most smaller stores only sell Carbon-Zinc or Alkaline "AA"'s. Some devices discourage their use and these types don't have much life when used in photographic equipment. Not supposed to recharge them, either.

Dec 26, 2011 10:19:04 #

rebeil Loc: florida

Did you get my information on the Canon powershot I am selling for $75 rebeil2@ij.net

Dec 26, 2011 10:27:48 #

Wabbit Loc: Arizona Desert

rayford2 wrote:

quote=Uuglypher Re: batteries... br Go for a came... (show quote)

I've got both and of course installing one large battery verses 2 or 4 small ones would be easier in the dark, but I've never had a problem differentiating between the positive and negative .... that's because I'm a "rocket scientist" and I know a bump when I seez one.

I've got a MAHA C-401FS charger, and a draw full of the new low drain rechargeable AA's and recommend them highly. My MAHA has worked flawlessly for the last few years. MAHA designed an excellent product, they still manufacture this charger.

AA's have come a long way and my flash guns still rely on them, don't know of any Nikon guns with proprietaries yet.

It may never happen to you but .... if you run out of juice because you lost your spare or your charger malfunctions you'll be shit out of luck .... but "not with AA's".

I have and still use a Canon S3is, uses AA's, and recommend it highly.

Dec 26, 2011 10:30:05 #

Wabbit Loc: Arizona Desert

rebeil wrote:

Did you get my information on the Canon powershot I am selling for $75 rebeil2@ij.net

Which model Powershot do you have?

Dec 26, 2011 10:33:28 #

rebeil Loc: florida

A590 IS

Dec 26, 2011 10:34:13 #

Uuglypher Loc: South Dakota (East River)

"Having 4 spare packs is more convenient than a bunch of batteries that can get mixed up. A lot of those "AA" chargers are suspect too."

Keeping Charged vs. Discharged AA batteries identified? Here's a couple of hints: save Rx pill bottles that will hold 4 AA batteries. Discharged? Positive ends down. ..... Charged? Positive ends up!
Or...
Use rubber bands to hold groups of three or four batteries together. If discharged, place some positive end up, some with negative ends up. If charged, place the positive ends of all in the bunch in the same direction. Keep each group of three or four in separate plastic sandwich bags.

To keep charged and discharged battery pacs identified? Wrap a rubber band around the "middle" if discharged, around the "ends" if charged. Most battery pacs have their contacts at one "end"...which by process of elimination identifies the other (opposite) "end".

Problem solved.

Dave Graham
East River, SD

Dec 26, 2011 10:44:36 #

Uuglypher Loc: South Dakota (East River)

Yep! I have a Powershot A 590-IS as well. Great for macr/close-ups and super reliable. It's been my P&S-in-the-shotgun-seat- of-choice for the past 4 years. Also use it for digiscoping.

Dave in East River, SD.

Dec 26, 2011 10:57:44 #

Sensei

I use a Canon Power Shot SX200, for most of the shots taken for our auctions. I like the 12x zoom and the ability to hang it on my belt. I also carry it with me, in addition to any other camera, I might lug around. You should find one in your price range, without much of a problem. I have photographed both pocket knives and diecast cars using one. I generally shoot them on a foam rubber background. They are available at most dollar stores, in packs of assorted colors. Because there is a lot of junk around on site at an auction house, I use a three part folding cardboard available at most hobby shops or art supply stores. To an extent this can block the background as well as give you some control of the light. You can either get a color that matches the foam you are using, or in black or white. I prefer the white as a general background. Be sure to get one that is not glossy.

Check out Infrared Photography section of our forum.

Dec 26, 2011 11:16:57 #