KNOCK-OFF PRINTER AND COPIER TONER ISSUES

Just a comment on knock-off toner cartridges.  Around the studio, I have an HP printer and a Canon Copier.

I like to order spare cartridges ahead of time and have then ready when the toner runs out, as opposed to having to get them in a panic.

Twice in recent memory I had a bad experience with OEM knock-off cartridges.  I ordered a "Canon" from Amazon, and it turned out to be a knock-off.  It did not function at all.  When I returned it, Amazon gave only a partial refund because it was over 30 days out from when I ordered it.  I got punished by Amazon for thinking ahead.

A similar issue arose with an HP cartridge for the printer.

I went to B&H and found out that their brand name cartridges are competitively priced and they work. 

Lesson learned: no more knock-offs.  Best to order manufacturere original as it saves return postage, aggravation and gets yo0u functionality.  A small price to pay.  We may still be subject to the return policies but the odds are better that they will work with the original manufacturer.
JA

DPREVIEW on the Lightroom Catalog

DPREVIEW on the Lightroom Catalog.  Good stuff if you are not already up to speed.  Happy New Year.
JA

http://www.dpreview.com/articles/2252058931/the-lightroom-catalog

Canon 6D DSLR - Wow!

Canon has introduced the 6D.  I held it in my hand the other day and it is the coolest thing since sliced bread.  Full Frame Sensor for less than $2100 at B&H.

It has 20MP resolution, GPS and WI FI.  Say goodbye to tethering via cable. Magnesium body, but unfortunately, it only has an SD card.  CF is going the way of the flood.  FYI, you cannot buy a CF EYE FI card and EYE FI does not support the adapters that physically accommodate the cards.
JA

http://www.canonrumors.com/2012/09/canon-announced-the-canon-eos-6d-dslr/

Canon Refurbished Lens and Speedlite Site

Last time, we wrote about the availability of Canon Refurbished cameras.  This time I found the Refurbished Lens and Speedlite site.

As before, you need to ask yourself if you really "need" a "new" lens.  Canon lenses tend to be very durable.  There are deals to be had in this secondary market, and they come with a limited 90 Canon warranty.   The selection is dynamic, but a good place look.

Here is an example: the very fine Canon EF-S 10-22 was being offered for $688.   The B&H price is currently $859.  "You decide."
JA

Canon Refurbished Cameras

Much of the time, you may not "need" a "new" camera.  Perhaps you need a backup body to your current main camera, or a backup to one you have in an underwater housing.  Or you want to upgrade without having to pay the current price.

Sure there is e-bay, but you may be rolling the dice.

Here is an alternative:  Canon Refurbished Cameras

Photo Plus Expo and Canon EOS-M

Went to PHOTO PLUS EXPO on Friday at the Javitz Convention Center.  This reports to be the largest Pro/Am Photo event in the country.  Seemed to me to be less than in the past.  Seems to be a reflection on the economy.

Did not see a bunch of folks participate.  Apple and Adobe used to be major anchors of the event.  I will not call out the others I missed.  

While I still lust for a Leica M9, that is strictly arm candy.  The biggest innovation for me is the new Canon EOS-M.  APS-C size sensor.  Being a dyed-in-the-wool Canon guy, this may prove to be a game changer for the UNDERWATER MARKET.  Compact and has a bright 3" screen.  Here is the deal breaker.  With a $200 adapter, it can use the entire line of your existing Canon EF and EF-S lenses.  

The biggest problem for UNDERWATER PHOTOGRAPHERS (other than maintenance and flooding) has been brightness of the viewfinder.  When the old Canon F-1 went away with their interchangeable Speedfinders, I have been railing against the gods.  The problem may be solved with this new model.

This has SLR quality in a P&S SIZE, using your existing suite of lenses.  I am not going to rush out and buy it, have no need, but if I were starting out today, this would be a STRONG consideration.  Now if someone adapts the Nikonos 15mm's we have in our attics.

JA

KLEBAN CAT PHOTOGRAPH

Speaking of photographing animals, check out my FUN STUFF BLOG POST.   A humorous visual tribute to Kleban, the cartoonist.
JA