Gear News and Reviews

I’ve often thought that finding a good camera bag is often more difficult than choosing a new lens or a new body.  Forget trying to find the ‘perfect’ bag.  To my knowledge such a thing does not exist. I am sure that I can speak for many photographers and say that we are also bag-aholics.  If you’re reading this and feel comfortable sharing, leave a comment and tell us how many bags you have.

No, this is not the Crumpler 7 Million Dollar home, but it is the closest I've come to finding the perfect bag is this well worn Domke F-3X. It has it's flaws, but is still my most used bag.

The closest I’ve come to finding the perfect bag is the Domke F-3X.  It lacks a lot of items that make a good bag good, but it’s been consistently at my side more often than any other bag.  Now, it’s faded, frayed, stained, smashed and somewhat dirty, but it remains my go-to bag.

This photo shows a fully packed bag with two camera systems and additional lenses. Normally I wouldn't pack it this tight, but it's nice to know that it can handle all that gear.

In my search for a good day bag I was looking for a messenger style bag that could hold a body (or two) and a few lenses in relative comfort.  After reading bag reviews and trying on bag after bag I settled on the Crumpler 7 Million Dollar Home (7MDH).  It was a messenger style bag that met most of my requirements.

A peek inside the Crumpler 7 Million Dollar Home. In this photo it is packed for a flight. Normally I wouldn't be carrying around a large headphone case.

First, I like messenger style bags for the ease of access and changing lenses on the fly.  I’ve never been a fan of backpack style bags, but I understand their benefits in certain circumstances.  Second, the 7MDH wasn’t too big, I didn’t want the option of carrying every lens I own, because I would probably do just that, carry every lens I own.  Third, it was sleek.  It doesn’t have too many protruding pockets, zippers, hooks, flaps, etc…  And finally, I like a black bag, because it’s slightly less conspicuous.

In the past I’ve been a fan of more traditional camera bags such as Tamrac, Lowepro, and Domke.  Billingham is just too rich for my blood.  I started to notice more and more people carrying Crumpler bags and thought I’d take a look.  I liked what I saw.  They appear to have excellent craftsmanship.  The material is a high quality nylon mesh that looks like it can take quite a beating.  Only time will tell since this bag is new to me.  The lining feels like a high density foam that should cushion moderate falls or bumps.  The inner compartment comes with the usual dividers that can be configured in nearly any imaginable configuration.

From the Crumpler website:

Water resistant 900D shell & 300D Ripstop lining, 1 x external pocket w/ internal mesh pocket, 2 x internal side pockets, 2 x external accessory attachment straps, 1 x mesh zip pocket under clip & Velcro release flap, padded & Brushed Nylon lined main compartment w/ 8 x configurable dividers, plastic stiffening layer in base, carry handle, adjustable shoulder strap & shoulder pad.

With some of the gear removed you can see the the contents a little better. It should be noted that this bag has excellent padding all around. It adds to the bulk of the bag, but offers the obvious protection if dropped.

The only drawback I have found so far is the way the front snaps closed.  The fittings on the top flap are recessed into the lining of the front flap just a little and this makes it hard to connect to the other quick release snap.  This isn’t a deal breaker though.  Other than that, there is little not to like about this bag.

The Crumpler 7MDH unpacked.

An itemized list of contents:

• Canon 5D MkII
• 16-35 f/2.8L II (mounted)
• 70-200 f/4L IS
• 50mm f/1.4
• Panasonic Lumix GH1
• Lumix 14-140mm OIS (mounted)
• Lumix 7-14mm
• Lumix 20mm f/1.7
• Bose QC15 headphones
• iPhone
• Extra 5D battery
• Compact flash cards x2
• Small homemade follow focus for 50mm
• LCDVF
• Joby SLR Zoom Gorillapod

The front pocket wasn’t packed, but could easily hold airline tickets, passport and a small book.

This isn’t what I would normally pack for day’s outing.  This particular pack was for a two week European trip, so I’m cramming as much as I can into the smallest space possible.

GNAR Rating: 4-Stars

At the time of writing the 7 Million Dollar Home sells for approximately $140.

Crumpler 7 Million Dollar Home

This portion of the review will highlight some changes to Part I due to the arrival of the production version of the LCDVF.  I will quickly re-address the Build Quality, Aesthetics and Mounting Systems.

Production version of LCDVF mounted to Canon 5D MkII

Build Quality

Both products have proven to be solid enough to withstand any day-to-day abuse that a viewfinder might see.  The Zacuto still appears to have a heartier build of the two.  The fit and finish of each is of equal standards, which is to say that they both demonstrate a high level of craftsmanship.  Winner: Draw

Aesthetics

This area hasn’t changed from the pre-production model to the production model of the LCDVF.  For my taste, I prefer the sleekness of the LCDVF over the boxy, industrial look of the Z-Finder V2.  Winner: LCDVF

Mounting System

I was very pleased to see the use of magnets in the LCDVF system.  Although the original copy I tested had somewhat weak magnets, the production version has a much more robust magnetic mount that equals the grip of the Z-Finder.  The Z-Finder uses a simple plastic mount and adhesive tape to secure it to your LCD.  Now, the LCDVF has adopted a similar system with a metal frame and adhesive mount.  However, the metal frame of the LCDVF system has a thinner profile than the Z-Finder.  After mounting the LCDVF it is hardly noticeable compared to the higher ridges of the Zacuto product.  The new magnetic system along with the thin profile metal frame have given the LCDVF system a huge advantage.  Winner: LCDVF

What you read above was a re-assessment of the Build Quality, Aesthetics and Mounting System.  Now I’ll continue to Part II, the portion everyone has been waiting for…   How do they work?

Optics

Both the Z-Finder and the LCDVF use high quality optics.  I could not see any difference in either system.  Both systems offered bright, clear, crisp resolution.  For some reason the Z-Finder tended to fog up faster that the LCDVF, but Zacuto counters this with the availability of anti-fog tissues which work remarkably well.  One very important distinction between these two is that the Z-Finder has a diopter built into their system.  I’m guess that this adds quite considerably to its hefty price.  If you have perfect vision or wear contacts then the lack of a diopter in the LCDVF shouldn’t be an issue.  I wear glasses to correct my myopia (nearsightedness) and use the LCDVF without contacts or glasses without any problems.  I image if you suffer from hyperopia (farsightedness) you may have issues using the LCDVF with the unaided eye.

One interesting difference between the two is the way you view the screen.  The optical portion of the Z-Finder is much closer to the camera’s LCD than the LCDVF’s.  This has two effects.  First, the image is more magnified; which is the main purpose of buying a LCD viewing aide in the first place.  Second, with the enlarged image you loose sight of the corners of your screen.  This is hard to describe, so please refer to the photos.  The LCDVF’s optics are placed further back, giving you a less magnified view, but retaining full view of the LCD.  There are pros and cons for each approach.  Winner: Draw

This is the view as seen through the Z-Finder V2. The missing corners are slightly exagerated due to the placement of the camera taking the photograph, but gives you an idea of what the missing corners will look like.

View as seen through the LCDVF. All corners of the LCD are visible.

Comfort

Each system uses a soft rubber eyecup to block ambient light.  The Z-Finder’s eyecup is noticeably larger than the LCDVF eyecup.  In use, each one was equally comfortable.  Things change quite a bit with the inclusion of a microfiber eye cushion.  Tonis, the creator of the LCDVF, includes a microfiber eye cushion with each LCDVF.  Once the eye cushion is added the comfort level is raised dramatically in favor of the LCDVF.  Winner: LCDVF

LCDVF with included eye cushion.

Cost and Warranty

At the time of this review the Zacuto Z-Finder V2 is selling for $395 and the LCDVF is on sale for $159 (normally $179).  The LCDVF comes with a two year warranty.  Although there is a great difference in price, it should be noted that the Z-Finder V2 does come with a lifetime warranty.

Conclusion

Trying to achieve focus by looking at 1,000,000 tiny dots on a 3” LCD monitor from 18” away is nearly impossible for me.  Several people learned to adapt the Hoodman Hoodloop to the rear of their V-DSLRs with various mounting methods.  It wasn’t long before companies jumped in with specifically designed LCD view finders to aid the videographer achieve critical focus.  I’ll conclude this review by saying both systems presented here are head and shoulders above the results you’ll get by trying to focus without an optical aide.

To make things worse, with a V-DSLR we have the luxury of taking advantage of Canon and Nikon’s availability of fast primes that give you an extremely shallow depth of field.  Working with such a shallow DOF means that focus is even more critical.

Some type of a viewing system is critical for using a video DSLR.  For me I’m going to be keeping the LCDVF.  Both products are remarkably good in aiding you shoot video, but in the end money has to be a consideration and at $159, the LCDVF offers everything the Z-Finder does, with the exception of a diopter, for 60% less.

GNAR Rating: (Zacuto Z-Finder V2) 4-Stars

GNAR Rating: (LCDVF) 4-Stars

Overall Winner: LCDVF

There are three possibilities for shooting video with the Canon 5D MkII.

1. LCD only.  This obviously is the cheapest way to go about shooting video, but there are drawbacks.  Focusing is not as accurate and the presence of harsh ambient lighting may obscure the LCD.
2. External monitor.  I don’t have any experience shooting this way so I can’t fairly make any judgments using this method.  The one thing I can say is that there seems to be a considerable expense and the bulkiness of your rig may prevent you from shooting in some situations.
3. LCD viewing device.  Currently, Hoodloop 3.0, Zacuto and LCDVF make devices that attach to the LCD and magnify the screen and at the same time block ambient light from hitting the LCD.  Additionally, these three systems allow for an extra point of contact with the camera body allowing for a slightly more stable platform.

For the purposes of this review we’ll be looking at the LCDVF and Zacuto Z-Finder V2.

In the box

Zacuto Z-Finder V2 ($395) – Box includes the lanyard, mounting piece and instructions.  I also had anti-fog wipes included in mine even though I didn’t purchase them.  This was a pleasant added bonus.

LCDVF ($159) – The box included a lanyard, the mounting bracket and a very comfortable eye cushion.  The manufacturer as a bonus included the eye cushion.  Nice touch.

Build quality

Both products are made with a hardened plastic that appears nearly unbreakable, unless you purposefully set out to destroy them.  Both products look like they would easily survive the wear and tear of everyday use and possibly the occasional drop.  As a precaution to dropping the Zacuto or LCDVF, each manufacture has included a lanyard as a means of protection from drops.  When it comes to build quality and durability both meet the needs of the job, but the Zacuto product looks like the most durable of the two.  Winner: Zacuto

Zacuto Z-Finder V2 (left) and the LCDVF (right)

Aesthetics

Aesthetics do not really mean much for functionality, but it does mean something.  Each of viewfinders takes a different approach.  The Zacuto looks boxy and industrial whereas the LCDVF has a more refined, slender look.  This is a personal taste issue, but I prefer the smooth, more refined look of the LCDVF. Winner: LCDVF

Mounting systems

The LCDVF has a unique approach here.   After mounting the metal bracket the LCDVF adheres to the camera with magnets.  Magnets and electronic do not mix well, but I’ve been assured by the manufacture that the magnets used on the LCDVF are well with the safe limits of using them with the 5D MkII.  The Zacuto uses a plastic frame that attaches to the camera’s LCD screen with tape.  After peeling the tape on the Zacuto it is recommended that a heavy weight is place over the plastic frame to help make the best possible seal.  In my opinion the simplicity of the Zacuto system seems to be the better solutions.  It also has a stronger fit to the camera body and is less likely to accidently bumped off during shooting.  I like the idea of the magnets, but the size, fit, security and bulk of the metal bracket system is a drawback for me.  Winner: Zacuto

Arguably so. The Canon 85mm f/1.2L Mk II is the most recent version of this nearly holy lens. When photographers are given a choice this has to be on everyone’s short list for portrait or low-light photography. Not that Canon’s other 85mm lens (85mm f/1.8) isn’t good. In fact some may prefer the f/1.8 because of its faster focus speed and it is about 1/6 of the price.

The portrait lens of choice.

Back to the lens in question. The lens will set you back a few $$$$, but the results can’t be matched with any other Canon lens. I used this for a number of portrait shoots, and it’s never failed to please clients. Even to the untrained eye there is a special quality about the images shot with the 85L. The bokeh is unbeatable and the sharpness even wide open is impressive (Although I have to say Canon’s 135mm f/2L is sharper wide open, but that’s another story).

Can't get enough of all that glass.

Besides shooting portraits, the lens naturally excels at low-light photography. Wide open @ f/1.2 and the ISO set to 800 you can walk around any downtown street and shoot with only ambient lighting. It’s almost surreal the amount of light the lens captures. If you want to use it during the day wide open, be sure to throw on a good neutral density filter in front of it. Otherwise you’ll be shooting with some outrageous shutter speeds. My body is maxed out at only 1/4000th which is easy to hit on a sunny day.

A look at the rear.

Are there any drawbacks? Sure, there are a few. Mentioned earlier, it is relatively slow at acquiring focus. Yes, the price is steep, but keep in mind the demand on the used market keeps this lens’ resale value high. The speech I always give my wife is that, “I can always sell it for almost what I paid for it.” At just over 2lbs it’s heavy too. Finally, there is some vignetting at f/1.2. Vignetting is the least of my concerns though since it’s automatically corrected on some of Canon’s newer bodies or easily corrected through just about all editing software.

This image was taken at f/1.2 as an example of the shallow DOF you'll be playing with.

I’m not sure if this is a drawback. When you’re shooting at f/1.2, and why wouldn’t you since you got this lens over the f/1.8 version, the DOF is extremely thin. At times it’s almost too thin. If you’re shooting a portrait at f/1.2 you will often have one eye in focus and the other eye out of focus if the subject’s eyes aren’t exactly on the plane of focus. Most likely you bought this lens for the razor thin DOF, but it can bite you if you’re not careful.

Color reproduction, contrast and sharpness are outstanding.

Beautiful bokeh in every image.

GNAR Rating: 5-Stars

*As a side note I wanted to add that I’m not one to sit around in my basement and shoot resolution charts all day.  I have fallen victim to that in the past and it quickly lost its novelty.  My preferred method of assessing if a lens is performing as it should is to actually use it.  I realize that there is a whole community of people that enjoy shooting test charts and analyzing the data with 100% and 200% crops.  If you are looking for a lens review that has countless MTF charts, graphs, numbers,data there are plenty of sites to choose from.  I just won’t be providing any here.  I hope you understand.

The Shared Library

Many of you have households with more than one computer.  One of them is most likely your ‘main’ machine that manages all of you media files such as music, movies, TV shows, etc.  In our house my wife has her laptop, I have my laptop and we have an iMac in our office that serves as our ‘main’ computer.  This is the machine that downloads our iTunes subscriptions, music and movies.

However, everyone knows that it’s much more comfortable to watch your movies and TV shows on the couch or in your favorite La-Z Boy instead of sitting at your desk.  Previously, we had to copy the media files we wanted to watch/listen to to a thumb-drive and then transfer them to one of our laptops.  I was looking for a more sensible way of doing this without third party software.  I liked the way iTunes categorized my files and I was already familiar with the iTunes interface so when I found out that Home Sharing was available as part of the iTunes 9 upgrade I gave it a try.  Perfect, seamless, exactly what I was looking for.

To turn on shared libraries, find the Advanced menu.

To activate Home Sharing, start iTunes and find the Advanced menu.  Scroll down to Turn On Home Sharing, at this point you’ll be prompted for a password.  Enter your password and on the left-hand side of your iTunes window you’ll see Shared.  Under Shared you’ll see a list of your authorized libraries.

Choose your music, movie or TV show, wait for a few seconds for it to buffer and you’re set.  Enjoy!

GNAR Rating: 5-Stars

If you’re like me you’ve probably download WAY too many applications for your iPhone.  I’ve downloaded some application simply because they were free and I might need them at some point. All of this has left me with a total of 99 apps to manage, most of which I don’t ever use.

Once they’ve all been downloaded and installed I spend more and more time trying to find an application among the 5 or 6 different screens. Before the iTunes 9 release I would try and manually manage my app placement by physically dragging the apps around from screen to screen. An unnecessarily tedious operation. Thankfully, iTunes 9 has an app manager that helps you organize iPhone screens.

iTunes 9 applications screen is a tremendous help for keeping your apps organized on your iPhone.

Once your iPhone is plugged in, click on your phone in the left-hand column and select the Applications tab. Once there, you’ll see a virtual screen that mimics what is currently installed on your iPhone. You may organize your apps by: Name, Category or Date. After you’ve listed your apps in the desired format simply drag your application over to the virtual iPhone screens displayed to the right.

That small addition to iTunes 9 has made a world of difference for keep all these apps organized.  Thank you iTunes.

GNAR Rating: 5-Stars

Zero Image 6x9 Pinhole camera with exposed 120 BW film wrapped around it.

Zero Image 6×9 pinhole To start with, this camera looks like a piece of art.  The Zero Image is beautifully hand crafted from Teak by a group in Hong Kong.  Zero Image makes a variety of pinhole cameras, but it was the versatility of the 6×9 that caught my eye.  With movable slats inside you have the option shooting 6×4.5, 6×6, 6×7 or in a panoramic 6×9 format.  The camera uses medium format 120 or 220 film.  With an f-stop of 235 you’re guaranteed to have nearly everything in the frame in focus from the nearest object to infinity.  I opted for the Deluxe version which adds a few more brass bits such as a cable release adapter and level.  Shooting with a pinhole camera takes some guesswork, which is part of the fun of it all.  Exposure can be as quick as 1 second on the brightest days with 400ASA film to as long as a few minutes.  I use the strictly scientific method of hand holding the shutter open and counting aloud to myself: one-thousand one……one-thousand two……one-thousand three…..  (very scientific indeed) This camera is one of a kind.

An exposure along the Champs Elysees

It is a unique piece of equipment that brings you back to the roots of photography.  Images couldn’t be less sharp compared to modern gear, but sharpness is not what you’re looking for when you use this camera.  With patience, it delivers beautiful images with a ghostly feel.

Some lunch in Siena?

Here, the Zero Image 6x9 is being used in Egypt. Amazingly, through the humidity of shooting in Singapore and the extreme dry heat of the Egyptian deserts, the camera never expanded or retracted and has remained light tight to this day.

GNAR Rating: 4-Stars