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[OM] Various topics

Subject: [OM] Various topics
From: Phillip Franklin <pfranklin@xxxxxxxx>
Date: Fri, 03 Dec 1999 02:03:24 -0800
Ebay and bargain equipment:
I see much interest on Ebay here.  Personally I found that purchasing
used equipment requires inspection and some sort of warranty that only a
quality dealer can offer. When I realize that owning a particular piece
of equipment and that the new price can't necessarily be justified, I
will contact some of the top local dealers in the San Diego area that I
have established business.  Usually this will work.  I'm always given a
warranty.  Maybe there are bargains on Ebay but I really don't think
it's worth the risk.  On more than one occasion I have got extremely
good buys by my local dealers.  I figure these dealers are not going to
screw me.  As to new equipment it's hard to beat B&H. Usually when I
need something I need it.  I'm not into shopping for the fun of buying.
Also another source of good used equipment buying direct from other pros
& associates I work with.  Currently I have access to almost all Canon &
Nikon equipment for loan or sale this way.  Of course I offer use of my
OM gear (esp. OM macro stuff which I have much) to my associates who
might need this for a particular job. I can tell you that having access
to a broad range of equipment really gives one an idea of what really
works best for particular jobs.  One realizes right away what they
really need as compared to what they think they need.  

Varifocal zooms versus autozooms:
For me one of the main reasons I like using a zoom is the fact that one
can focus in the highest magnification mode and then adjust the field of
view or composition while in focus. Therefore varifocal (non-autozooms)
are somewhat useless to me. I assume that is why Zuiko zooms are so
popular. I think I recall that was one of the features of the early
Zuiko zooms (75-150) which gave it such good press back in 1974.  In
fact I think this particular Zuiko zoom was one of the first high
quality zooms ever made.

Lens shades & filters:
If you plan on using many different lenses and filters, then I recommend
buying a lens shade system with gel filters.  In the long run you will
be much better off.   These systems will work with all but the widest of
the super wide lenses. They will adapt from the 49mm all the way up to
the 72mm or bigger openings.  They are almost exclusively used in medium
format but I find them great for 35mm. Also when you start using gels
you will learn much about color temperature correction which is
especially suitable for mixed lighting situations.  These systems allow
for mixing gels for the exact color temp. control.

These are just my experiences and ofcourse your mileage may vary. 

Phillip Franklin

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