What does this mean?

[LeslieS]

Lenses that are smart, that talk with the camera about their specific optical designs and imaging information. Lenses, particularly zoom lenses have some distortion. This is true of all manufacturers. Zuiko Digital Lenses store data in the header portion of the digital file allowing for software-assisted correction of anomalies including pin cushion and barrel distortion.

Sorry, I am researching cameras. Not really sure how fancy I want to get or need. I came across this paragraph about smart lenses. I take it digital lenses are different than regular lenses? I don't know anything about photography, but would like to get a camera that challenges me to learn a little more and will still be useful as my skills grow.

The camera that was written about is the Olympus E-volt E-500.

 

[Pedro]

Leslie,

For the most part, lenses have chips on the mounts that help the camera communicate with the lens. That's how the camera knows what lens and focal length it's using. At least that's for SLR's. I would imagine that point and shoots have everything within the lens.

Honestly, it's more of a marketing thing. I take it you are not a professional, so i wouldn't really worry about it. Are you looking to get the olympus?

 

[LeslieS]

lol - definitely not a professional, but I might take a class. I would prefer a private instructor for a couple of sessions.

I saw the olympus at J and R on sale - of course sale ended today. It did get me thinking about what kind of camera I should get. At this point, I really have no idea so I am just doing research.

Any reccommendations would be welcome!

 

[Pedro]

Leslie,

I think the greatest teacher is yourself. Get a book or two to learn the basics, as well as the more advanced functions. Then start shooting. After a while you will see what works, and what doesn't. Use that instructor money towards the cam purchase.

As far as recommendations, i am partial to Nikon, for that's what i use. Canon is good too. If you are thinking of doing this serious, stay with the top 2.

What is your budget at this time? If you don't want to say it publicaly, you can Pm me.

Good luck in your search.

 

[jhale]

Leslie,

I agree with Pedro. I have some photo books you can borrow to get started.
I learned by reading a ton then assisting with photographers in the city.

 

[LeslieS]

OK, so Cannon or Nikon.

Sadly, I have never been very good with budgets - why put limitations on yourself I am more interested in buying the right camera for me. I am kind of afraid of too many bells and whistles. I don't want to be overwhelmed by functions and not enjoy my camera.

Like I said, I do want to be slightly challenged and to be able to grow my skills. I looked up the Nikon D200, but that seemed like it might be too much camera for a beginner. What do you guys think?

 

[jhale]

I think the d200 is a good camera to shoot with whether your starting out
or experienced.

All of the dig slr's are going to have a lot of bells and whistles as you put it. you'll soon figure out how you want to use the camera.

are you set on a digital camera? what do you want to do with the photos you take, print wise?

 

[LeslieS]

Is there a difference in print quality?

It seems that dig is better for photoshopping and sending to friends via e-mail. What is the advantage of film?

I am not sure how I want to use the camera yet.

I definitely want to take tank shots

I used to just walk around and take pictures all the time with an old Pentax 35mm that my parents gave me. After I moved to NY, it needed repair, and unfortunately I never got around to it. I never really learned how to use the camera properly, but I did get some pretty cool pictures. I will probably do more of the same with the new camera.

 

[jhale]

if you wanted to make really large prints I would use film.

digital is definitely more convenient for photoshoping, no scanning required.

I love that fact about digital. I hated having to scan everything.