Nikon D700/D3, How to program a Button to do Handheld HDR
I am not sure why it was so hard to find some instructions on how to do this.
fyi I even emailed Nikon, and on there Service site they told me it could not be done (they probably did not understand what I wanted to do)
* FIRST, I need to say ... basically all you are doing is assigning BKT to the FUNC button.
Here is a short List of Menu changes to make it simple:
* b2) 1 step
* e6) Flash/speed
* e7) MTR-Under-Over
* f6) Preview button press: BKT
f6) Preview + command dials: BKT
*Set release to Ch
* Press INFO/Preview button and turn dial to 5F
* Set exposure in A mode , I also like to set the ISO
* Focus
* Hold Release button down until it stops firing.
* If more than five shots are required, press the FUNC button to change 5 to 9.
NOW the LONG verson:
imho, programs like PS CS5 combined with LR v3.3 is making it easier to create HDR images.
So, now what you need is your camera (in my case a Nikon D700) to be able to fire off at least three exposures ... EV0, EV-2, EV+2 , a Normal exposure, a 2 stop under , and a 2 stop over file.
and to do it as Quickly and easily as possible. To eliminate as much movement while doing the shot.
The idea of doing it Handheld is to press one button and have it fire off the shots as quickly as possible.
Here's how it is done:
1) what I like to do is make sure to set the ISO value ... and make sure at "that ISO value" the -2 EV shot is not tooo slow of a shutter and is something I can handhold.
* I normally will use Aperture Priority and have the "Shutter value" change on the bracket.
So, selecting a ISO value is finding that balance of Noise and Shutter handhold ability.
2) Depending on how much time I have to set up the shot ... might lock my AF so the AF point does not change. but, most of the time I do not. imho, it's easy enough to make sure my AF point is over a subject that is big enough and will not move. :)
OK, now on setting up the D700/D3
3) Set ... Menu - e5 Auto Bracketing set - AE only
Basically set up to bracket exposure
4) Now to assign the Bracketing to the FUNC button ... on the D700 it would be the bottom button up front on the right.
Set .... Menu - f5 Assign FUNC. button - set "both" LINES * top FUNC. button press to BKT Bracketing burst .... and the * bottom FUNC. button + dials to BKT Auto bracketing
5) I "also" like to set f1 change to Both ... with allows me to turn the shutter switch to the right to both turn on the LCD light and to show INFO on the LCD.
OR you can simply look at the top LCD.
6) So, if you look at the Top LCD , AND then press the FUNC button .. you can roll the Back wheel to set How many Frames you will shoot on a Bracket (set to 5), and use the Front wheel to set the EV value (set to 1) , unfortunately Nikon only lets you bracket at 1 stop increments.
To end up with at least one file at EV-2 and one file EV+2 ... you actually need 5 shots at 1 EV increments.
So, set the Bracket at 5 frames at 1 EV increments ... this will give you "EV0" , EV-1 , "EV-2" , EV+1 , "EV+2" ... but, imho you need only the three files EV0, EV-2, EV+2 (I delete the other two)
7) this last step is not necessary , BUT if you "don't" want to have to count off 5 shots , and have the camera STOP after 5 shots for you ... change the top/left dial to "S" Single shot.
Even at this "S" Single Shot setting , the Nikon D700 will fire off 5 frames at the Highest Rate possible ... when you hold down the shutter.
side note:
Someone discovered that if you set the e5 Auto bracketing set to "flash only" , and then have the PopUP flash DOWN, you will fire them "even" faster , which is aprox. 6 frames per second , without a grip. Yes, this is faster than the 5fps that the D700 is supposed to do "without" a grip. Nice! a FW bug that works in your favor.
NOW ... if you followed me so far ... :)
ALL you need to do now ... when you are walking around ... and want to fire off 5 frames Bracketed:
* Half press to lock your AF , press & hold the FUNC button , then full shutter = The D700 will then fire off 5 frames at full speed and stop , Bracketed.
Now how coool is that !
p.s. After you are DONE shooting HDR, Don't forget to change back ... FUNC button 5 f (5 frames) to 0 ( zero frames ) on BKT.
Press the FUNC button and Back Wheel roll to 0.
....................................................................................
What if you want to HDR bracket properly on a Tripod.
Well, you can add these functions ... (I ADD it to the MY Menu so I can find it fast).
* d9 Exposure Delay mode ... which delays the shutter until 1 second after the mirror is raised.
(just remember to turn this OFF after your HDR shot on a tripod)
* Interval timer shooting ... found on the shooting menu ... You can set this a 1 sec .. and 1x5 shots ( 1 set , 5 shots ) ... so, it will basically fire after you take your hand off it.
Hope this helps someone,
Ross Hamamura http://www.rdhphoto.net/
The Tourist of Light
Friday, February 11, 2011
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Updated version of the Black Rapid DR-1 Double Strap
I owned an older Black Rapid DR-1 Double Strap (before it was stolen) had been using it for over a year.
"HAD" to order another one, period.
It's simply the BEST, if you have to carry two bodys. I use two Nikon D700 (w/grip) , 24-70 f2.8, 70-200 f2.8 VRII , and sb900. anyone that walks around at an Event or Wedding with this gear knows how heavy it can get.
Problem solved with this strap. It just Works!
Comfort and Shooting ease. With PRO durability. This product is made to last.
B&H listing $129.95:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/645448-REG/Black_Rapid_RSD_1BB_RS_DR_1_Double_Strap.html
YES! this DR-1 comes with the New "Solid" D ring FastenR3 !
(I just got one in the mail from B&H)
imho, it is a Huge change. It allows you to "easily" Clip and Un-Clip the bodys with ONE HAND (because the D-ring is a solid piece, and does not move (it was harder to do with the old D-ring). And the Rubber compression washer is thinner and harder = Much better! (the old washer was spongy and thick = junk)
And I think the clip part is slightly better too. I prefer to keep it not locked, for easy/fast Un-Clip.
* the screw section seems smoother to operate,
* the clip harder to mistakenly Un-Clip on it's own when it is not locked (a good feature for me)... I think slightly deeper curve/hook.
The Solid D-ring also helps with a fast Clip on.
B&H LINK to just the NEW D-ring clip , FastenR3 for $ 13.95 ... if you want to update your OLD DR-1 , or any Black Rapid strap , really. :)
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/684526-REG/Black_Rapid_FR_3.html
Because of the great reviews, I also bought the Joey J2 Pocket $ 22.00 , so I can keep my Moble Phone close to my ear. and it's nice to be able to keep my phone in a higher pocket and not in my shorts when doing a beach shoot. :) fyi: it fits the New My touch 4G moble phone. and it seems to have a place in front to clip on a pen, so you can have a note pad too.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/664879-REG/Black_Rapid_RMJ_2BB_JOEY_J2_Pocket_Medium.html
Simply put, this Black Rapid Double Strap is worth every penny :)
That's why I did not hesitate to buy another.
HERE's a BackRapid "Capture Life" Video ... I LOVE my Double strap !
This really show's how it works in action, it brought tears to my eyes LOL
http://www.youtube.com/user/rstrapvideos#p/a/u/1/bamR-_v6r-w
A no brainer purchase.
Ross D. Hamamura
http://www.rdhphoto.net/
The Tourist of Light
"HAD" to order another one, period.
It's simply the BEST, if you have to carry two bodys. I use two Nikon D700 (w/grip) , 24-70 f2.8, 70-200 f2.8 VRII , and sb900. anyone that walks around at an Event or Wedding with this gear knows how heavy it can get.
Problem solved with this strap. It just Works!
Comfort and Shooting ease. With PRO durability. This product is made to last.
B&H listing $129.95:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/645448-REG/Black_Rapid_RSD_1BB_RS_DR_1_Double_Strap.html
YES! this DR-1 comes with the New "Solid" D ring FastenR3 !
(I just got one in the mail from B&H)
imho, it is a Huge change. It allows you to "easily" Clip and Un-Clip the bodys with ONE HAND (because the D-ring is a solid piece, and does not move (it was harder to do with the old D-ring). And the Rubber compression washer is thinner and harder = Much better! (the old washer was spongy and thick = junk)
And I think the clip part is slightly better too. I prefer to keep it not locked, for easy/fast Un-Clip.
* the screw section seems smoother to operate,
* the clip harder to mistakenly Un-Clip on it's own when it is not locked (a good feature for me)... I think slightly deeper curve/hook.
The Solid D-ring also helps with a fast Clip on.
B&H LINK to just the NEW D-ring clip , FastenR3 for $ 13.95 ... if you want to update your OLD DR-1 , or any Black Rapid strap , really. :)
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/684526-REG/Black_Rapid_FR_3.html
Because of the great reviews, I also bought the Joey J2 Pocket $ 22.00 , so I can keep my Moble Phone close to my ear. and it's nice to be able to keep my phone in a higher pocket and not in my shorts when doing a beach shoot. :) fyi: it fits the New My touch 4G moble phone. and it seems to have a place in front to clip on a pen, so you can have a note pad too.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/664879-REG/Black_Rapid_RMJ_2BB_JOEY_J2_Pocket_Medium.html
Simply put, this Black Rapid Double Strap is worth every penny :)
That's why I did not hesitate to buy another.
HERE's a BackRapid "Capture Life" Video ... I LOVE my Double strap !
This really show's how it works in action, it brought tears to my eyes LOL
http://www.youtube.com/user/rstrapvideos#p/a/u/1/bamR-_v6r-w
A no brainer purchase.
Ross D. Hamamura
http://www.rdhphoto.net/
The Tourist of Light
Monday, January 3, 2011
DNG, why I use vs RAW NEF
Every few weeks you always see a thread about "WHY DNG" ?
First it's Adobe :)
My most used programs are Lightroom v3.3 and Photoshop CS5 for images ... both Adobe. duh :)
I have been using DNG from the first Lightroom Beta ... that is how much I trust Adobe to come thru on this format.
and imho, Adobe has come thru with support and development of DNG over the years.
Recently, I have not been keeping up with Adobe development on DNG.
But, here is what I just discovered today.
* DNG now carries within it pretty much all the Edit information you need in the one DNG file. imho, when you are working across a network , with multiple computers , Hard Disks , file formats ... the last thing you want is more than one file for a single RAW file .. we don't need those "stink-ing" sidecar files, that you get with a NEF in LR :). DNG consolidates everything into one file for me.
And you can inbed the original RAW into the DNG if you want. I do not. I do not even keep the old NEF.
Never have, Never will.... and in all the years since the Lightroom Beta I have never had a single problem with a DNG.
My big gripe "Before" v3.3 of Lightroom (which I have expressed on the Adobe forum) ... was it did not have the "Crop" information from Lightroom in the DNG. and working with Lightroom across a Network was not always , what you would expect.
* But, today I was on my laptop ... I went across my WiFi Office network , in Lightroom v3.3 ... imported my DNG files that was partially worked on ...
and AFTER the import ... Lightroom brought up ALL my previous edits , Star ratings ... and CROPs (something it did not do before, "crops") ...
Not sure what version of Lightroom or DNG this changed , but this was a happy discovery today.
At this point , I am not sure if it is better Networking support in Lightroom v3.3 that is doing it ... or the DNG information that is being stored.
My guess is that it's in the DNG ... because that is all I did. Import the DNG files.
Another cool discovery is ... I can keep my edits local ... OR save my edits to the original DNG file "across the network".
and on the "other side" I can Keep my Local Edits , OR "READ" the original file (if I have made changes to it).
Sounds complicated , it's not ... and if you work with files across a Network and do Edits on more than one computer ... OR have an assistant working on "your" files on a network ... you will know what I am talking about.
So, I was happy with DNG before ... now I am even more confident in my decision to convert my RAW Nikon files to DNG and delete the original NEF.
*** Other notes:
On a D700 a DNG file is actually Smaller than a NEF
NEF = 15.3
DNG = 14.0 Med JPG inbed
DNG = 14.9 Large JPG inbed
When I shot OLY ... the differance was larger. the ORF OLY raw was "much" larger than a DNG.
* Interesting info on RAW and DNG (you can go down to the DNG section)
This artical is from 2009 ... things might have changed a little, but still an interesting read.
http://www.libraw.org/articles/2-ways-to-nowhere.html
* on Keeping NEF , just to be safe:
or NEF's, keeping something you never use:
This is interesting ... because I have never felt the need to get any information from a NEF that I did not have in a DNG.
and then, if the image is really important to me ... I would have probably worked it in a PSD file. So, I also have another copy there too.
When I really think about it ... how many times have you gone back on a RAW file.
(yes, when LR went to v3.3 I have reconverted some of my old DNG D700 files shot at very high ISO , for a cleaner noise processing from the Newer version of Lightroom ... but really anything at or below iso1600 was so clean I did not bother lol .... that being said, a D700 DNG processed in LRv3.3 has a 1-Stop improvement of Noise processing vs LR v2 (Adobe rebuilt the processing, and gives you a choice to go with the OLD process or NEW , always go with the NEW) , and the sliders are new and improved , and gives you more control ... that's almost like "upgrading" the already great Nikon FF sensor)
and do you really believe the DIFFERANCE between a DNG file and NEF will be a deal breaker??? Really?
Some client will walk up to you and say ... Hmmm , did you process that RAW from a NEF or DNG? , it looks like you lost some bits of data.
imho, I think it is enough that I am "already" saving my RAW data at 14-bits. and going out to PS CS5 in 16-bit ProPhoto color space (native to LR)
any bits of data that I lose from a NEF to DNG conversion ... I probably have not missed , and certainly did not notice.
Note: I also trust that Adobe will continue to improve this. Why? guess what group of photographers use Lightroom and DNG ... PRO's, and they are a vocal bunch :).
So, in general ... I feel pretty safe.
Any BIG changes that I "really" notice ... happens AFTER the RAW conversion to DNG ... in LR or CS5. Maybe that's just me.
* For me, IF, you are saving your RAW files at "16-bit" , you probably plan on doing some CHANGES ... and "those changes" are what is important to you.
and you ("Me" actually) might not even be concerned with what is "real" or perfectly real (but, it helps, ONLY as a starting point).
a side note: If you "only" show what is real. Are you not "limiting" what you can can express? limiting what you show as your vision, your feelings of what was there? and is "that" being creative?
For me, I just need to get it in there FAST , with a FAST workflow ... and have it Malleable , so you can shape it to your own vision.
I am also a "Expose To The Right" (ETTR) RAW shooter ... so, my OOC (Out Of Camera) JPGs is not what I end up with, just to begin with.
Hope this helps someone,
Ross Hamamura
Tourist of Light :)
http://www.rdhphoto.net/
First it's Adobe :)
My most used programs are Lightroom v3.3 and Photoshop CS5 for images ... both Adobe. duh :)
I have been using DNG from the first Lightroom Beta ... that is how much I trust Adobe to come thru on this format.
and imho, Adobe has come thru with support and development of DNG over the years.
Recently, I have not been keeping up with Adobe development on DNG.
But, here is what I just discovered today.
* DNG now carries within it pretty much all the Edit information you need in the one DNG file. imho, when you are working across a network , with multiple computers , Hard Disks , file formats ... the last thing you want is more than one file for a single RAW file .. we don't need those "stink-ing" sidecar files, that you get with a NEF in LR :). DNG consolidates everything into one file for me.
And you can inbed the original RAW into the DNG if you want. I do not. I do not even keep the old NEF.
Never have, Never will.... and in all the years since the Lightroom Beta I have never had a single problem with a DNG.
My big gripe "Before" v3.3 of Lightroom (which I have expressed on the Adobe forum) ... was it did not have the "Crop" information from Lightroom in the DNG. and working with Lightroom across a Network was not always , what you would expect.
* But, today I was on my laptop ... I went across my WiFi Office network , in Lightroom v3.3 ... imported my DNG files that was partially worked on ...
and AFTER the import ... Lightroom brought up ALL my previous edits , Star ratings ... and CROPs (something it did not do before, "crops") ...
Not sure what version of Lightroom or DNG this changed , but this was a happy discovery today.
At this point , I am not sure if it is better Networking support in Lightroom v3.3 that is doing it ... or the DNG information that is being stored.
My guess is that it's in the DNG ... because that is all I did. Import the DNG files.
Another cool discovery is ... I can keep my edits local ... OR save my edits to the original DNG file "across the network".
and on the "other side" I can Keep my Local Edits , OR "READ" the original file (if I have made changes to it).
Sounds complicated , it's not ... and if you work with files across a Network and do Edits on more than one computer ... OR have an assistant working on "your" files on a network ... you will know what I am talking about.
So, I was happy with DNG before ... now I am even more confident in my decision to convert my RAW Nikon files to DNG and delete the original NEF.
*** Other notes:
On a D700 a DNG file is actually Smaller than a NEF
NEF = 15.3
DNG = 14.0 Med JPG inbed
DNG = 14.9 Large JPG inbed
When I shot OLY ... the differance was larger. the ORF OLY raw was "much" larger than a DNG.
* Interesting info on RAW and DNG (you can go down to the DNG section)
This artical is from 2009 ... things might have changed a little, but still an interesting read.
http://www.libraw.org/articles/2-ways-to-nowhere.html
* on Keeping NEF , just to be safe:
or NEF's, keeping something you never use:
This is interesting ... because I have never felt the need to get any information from a NEF that I did not have in a DNG.
and then, if the image is really important to me ... I would have probably worked it in a PSD file. So, I also have another copy there too.
When I really think about it ... how many times have you gone back on a RAW file.
(yes, when LR went to v3.3 I have reconverted some of my old DNG D700 files shot at very high ISO , for a cleaner noise processing from the Newer version of Lightroom ... but really anything at or below iso1600 was so clean I did not bother lol .... that being said, a D700 DNG processed in LRv3.3 has a 1-Stop improvement of Noise processing vs LR v2 (Adobe rebuilt the processing, and gives you a choice to go with the OLD process or NEW , always go with the NEW) , and the sliders are new and improved , and gives you more control ... that's almost like "upgrading" the already great Nikon FF sensor)
and do you really believe the DIFFERANCE between a DNG file and NEF will be a deal breaker??? Really?
Some client will walk up to you and say ... Hmmm , did you process that RAW from a NEF or DNG? , it looks like you lost some bits of data.
imho, I think it is enough that I am "already" saving my RAW data at 14-bits. and going out to PS CS5 in 16-bit ProPhoto color space (native to LR)
any bits of data that I lose from a NEF to DNG conversion ... I probably have not missed , and certainly did not notice.
Note: I also trust that Adobe will continue to improve this. Why? guess what group of photographers use Lightroom and DNG ... PRO's, and they are a vocal bunch :).
So, in general ... I feel pretty safe.
Any BIG changes that I "really" notice ... happens AFTER the RAW conversion to DNG ... in LR or CS5. Maybe that's just me.
* For me, IF, you are saving your RAW files at "16-bit" , you probably plan on doing some CHANGES ... and "those changes" are what is important to you.
and you ("Me" actually) might not even be concerned with what is "real" or perfectly real (but, it helps, ONLY as a starting point).
a side note: If you "only" show what is real. Are you not "limiting" what you can can express? limiting what you show as your vision, your feelings of what was there? and is "that" being creative?
For me, I just need to get it in there FAST , with a FAST workflow ... and have it Malleable , so you can shape it to your own vision.
I am also a "Expose To The Right" (ETTR) RAW shooter ... so, my OOC (Out Of Camera) JPGs is not what I end up with, just to begin with.
Hope this helps someone,
Ross Hamamura
Tourist of Light :)
http://www.rdhphoto.net/
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Kelia Moniz @ North Shore
Early morning the surf report was basically 1-2 ... was not expecting much ... so, my plan was to shoot something on the beach or close to shore with my Nikon 70-200mm f2.8 , and just have fun.
Knowing full well the last time I was at Pipeline I had a 600mm f2.8 and a 1.4 TC (imho, what you need)
Normally I shoot f5.6 @600mm (and maybe 900 with a TC) ... today I was at f4 , because of Kelia (girl). And unfortunately, only 200mm ... So, I had to make the most of it. (that means a lot of standing at the shoreline lol.
More images in a gallery here:
(I also think the images look better in this gallery, in Slide Show mode= more res)
http://www.rdhphoto.net/Other/Kelia-Moniz-plus-North-Shore/15160159_FKMxC#1133819528_osvbi
a few of the Eyes of Hawaii Photography Club , Kelia Moniz and Tom Servias on the board in front.
Ross Hamamura / Tourist of Light
http://www.rdhphoto.net/
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Sato's Okazuya Saimin Stand ... Best Fried Saimin :) ... and a Big Kahuna bonus shot
Sato's Okazuya Saimin Stand
94-235 Hanawai Circle
Waipahu, HI 96797-3029(808) 677-5503
This is my favoite Fried Saimin.
I have been shooting more and more Resturant AD's lately ...
So, I need to say this first ... I will not be blog-ing on any of those paid shoots.
Just so you know. This was "not" paid.
Will post some Resturant AD images on my site (RDHphoto.net) at some point.
Was in Sato's the other day .. a hole in the wall place.
Had to wait in line for way too long.
It's one of those places with old posters on the wall ... and stuffed animals in there glass case.
Don't ask me why they do that! :)
But, their Fried Saimin ... WoW!
I told another photog that when he is on Oahu ... I will take him here.
So, here is my blog on them ... in case you need to find your way back LOL.
Just so you know ... normally I order the Large Fried Saimin $7.00
But, the two pics on this page are of there $6 - $7 plate lunches with Fried Saimin (instead of Rice)
The Fish is pretty good too.
Shot this natural light ... right at my table ... "Why Not" :)
If you know me ... you know I am not a natural light shooter, for this kind of stuff
The shots was "not bad" ... it is, what it is .... and kinda fit to the Mom & Pop place, it is.
No Food Stylist here ...
Ross Hamamura / http://www.rdhphoto.net/
"Tourist of Light"
Here's a little bonus pic ... just because I was also there recently ...
When at the Airport ... Flying out or in.
I always pick up a Panaolo Beef Briskit Sandwitch (think that's the name) with extra sause, and/or the Garlic Balls .. and the Pizza is good too. :)
Da’ Big Kahuna’s Pizza ‘N Stuffs
550 Paiea Street in the Airport Trade Center
Honolulu, Hawaii 96815
Tel. (808) 833-5588
Well, what might be interesting to some is the exif of this shot:
f8, 70mm, iso6400 ... and I still only got 1/40 ... and this was during the day.
This is straight out of LRv3 ... I should mention also ... there is a one stop improvment on LRv3 vs LRv2 on noise, on the D700 RAW file processing.
imho, a good iso6400 matters :) ... a year ago (pre-D700) I would have never even entertained the "thought" of bumping to iso6400.
It has saved me on many "handhold's".
(I am not a tripod guy ... even on a comercial Food shoot .. I try sometimes ... but, I always end up not using it lol)
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Lighting Class Set up ... what I like
Ok, so I have not blogged in a while :) ... it's been busy ... and I am backed up on my shoots (it's a RAW thing lol)
and ... I learned a few things on the Kona IronMan World Championship shoot ... but, that's another blog lol.
Just organized a recomendation for a Lighting Class Set Up
So, as I tweak it ... thought to Post it ... so I can just LINK to it ... when someone asks.
Here it is:
Style Number / Description / Qty / Cost / Total COST / Web Link (it was on a excel file)
MPEX.com
SX3 Lighting Kit Strobist Starving Student SX3 Lighting Kit
1 $489.99
http://www.mpex.com/browse.cfm/4,12841.html
(this includes two LP160 Flashes .. and pretty much has everyting you need to start)
LP160 LumoPro LP160 Manual Flash
2 $159.95 = $319.90
http://www.mpex.com/browse.cfm/4,14648.html
(If you don't have two flashes already … you will need four total)
LP633 LumoPro LP633 Umbrella Swivel w/ Flash Shoe Adapter
2 $17.99 = $35.98
http://www.mpex.com/browse.cfm/4,11776.html
This is my favorite Umbrella swivel ... because it packs small and is strong. (both important when traveling)
B&H
PHPDBDSK Photoflex Pro-Duty Backdrop Support Kit
2 $199.99 =$399.98
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/556182-REG/Photoflex_DP_SHDBGSPKT.html
This is a PRO Backdrop Stand set at 12'6" Tall , very useful ... and has a bag, AND is not any more for the bag and cross bar ... a relative value. :)
UM-RUT45 Photoflex Convertible Umbrella - White Satin with Removable Black Backing - 45"
2 $29.95 =$59.90
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/42505-REG/Photoflex_UM_RUT45.html
Look at the Reviews on this Umbrella ... 5 stars ... and you will know why I love these.
You can take off "just" a section of the Black Backing ... and shoot thru the open section. Nice!
* Photoflex has also changed the "ribs" on this Umbrella ... to a Nylon/plastic looking materia (=flexable, yet firm enough) .. THIS little new feature, will save you when your stands fall over in the wind. And they "WILL" lol. It's just a matter of time.
It's a "Love It" new feature.
RadioPopper
JRX-KS RadioPopper JrX STUDIO KIT
1 $159.95
http://shop.radiopopper.com/radiopopperjrxstudiokitusca.aspx
JRX-RS RadioPopper JrX Receiver STUDIO
3 $99.95 =$299.85
http://shop.radiopopper.com/radiopopperjrxreceiverstudiousca.aspx
* What is great about this JrX Radio triggers is that they are ROCK solid and work with anything with a Hot Shoe.
* AND can control the Power level of AB studio strobes
Have done a blog on these already ... I own BOTH the PX and JrX studio versions of these Radio Triggers ... So, you know that I LOVE these! and they work ALL the time, Period.
No Way are you going to find something more reliable than these. (and more so , for this price)
I have owned the JrX Studio on the first shipment from RP ... and the PX triggers a month after that (because I was sooo impressed) ... both of these radio triggers have "never" dissapointed.
Thomas Distributing
MH-AAI240 MAHA IMEDION AA 2400MAH RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES 4-pk LOW DISCHARGE
4 packs @ $10.97 =$43.88
http://www.thomasdistributing.com/shop/maha-imedion-aa-2400mah-rechargeable-batteriesbrultra-low-dischargebr4-battery-pack-nimhbr1-free-four-cell-battery-case-p-2096.html?SP_id=&osCsid=u53ohoomk1is3j4dga59jufu46
K-MHC801D-BC MAHA MH-C801D AA - AAA 8 BATTERY PRO CHARGER
1 $68.67
http://www.thomasdistributing.com/shop/maha-mhc801d-aa-aaa-battery-chargerbrdeluxe-8-cell-professional-battery-charger-w-full-lcd-displaybrbrfree-accessory-bag-2-free-eight-cell-battery-holdersbrspecial-price-6897-p-437.html?SP_id=&osCsid=u53ohoomk1is3j4dga59jufu46
* I own the cheaper 800S version of this 8-battery PRO Charger ... because of the smaller plug for Travel (trust me, things add up) ... and the lower cost ... and that it was the newer version ... but, Thomas Dist. does not have it listed right now. (11/10/10)
Have two(2) 4-battery 401FS and a 800S 8-battery PRO Charger ... and they are plugged in all the time. :)
p.s. I love the Thomas Dist. 8-battery case they give away free with the 801/800s chargers. They are now my fav.
Oh, just in case you need Roll paper for your Backdrop stands ... on Oahu, Hawaii
Attco Inc ... a staging supply company near Lagoon Dr at the Airport
Aprox. $50 for a Roll .. about 9 feet wide (forgot how long, but it's enough) ... they have many colors
The roll box is not huge, so it's not that hard to carry with you (or your van).
I like it better for White, than fabric/muslin (which I have Black and Green/Blue) particularly in white because you don't have to steam before use , and when it gets dirty or ugly you can just tear it off and when you roll out a new section it is sooooo Smooth and White :). nice!
http://www.attcoinc.com/
Sandbags (the bag part) from B&H ... so, my lightstands don’t fall over ... you could use other things.
also, note ... they are bright orange ... imho this is important ... so people can see it and don’t trip over it.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/421469-REG/Impact_SBE_18O_Empty_Saddle_Sandbag.html
Should also buy some large Plastic Clips from Lowes in Hawaii ,
Bessey XC-14pc $ 12.98 ... to hold the Roll paper in place :).
This is a Big nylon bag of 14 Plastic Spring Clamps ... 2 - 3in. (which is huge), 2 - 2 in. , 4 - 1 in. , and 6 - 3/4 in. which are cute, small, and moderately useful (and you will not mind if you lose them) they do help pin a green screen flat on backdrop stands. :)
At Amazon on the web:
http://www.amazon.com/Bessey-XC-14PC-Piece-Plastic-Spring/dp/B003XO0MLM
Hope this helps someone,
Ross Hamamura ... Tourist of Light
http://www.rdhphoto.net/
and ... I learned a few things on the Kona IronMan World Championship shoot ... but, that's another blog lol.
Just organized a recomendation for a Lighting Class Set Up
So, as I tweak it ... thought to Post it ... so I can just LINK to it ... when someone asks.
Here it is:
Style Number / Description / Qty / Cost / Total COST / Web Link (it was on a excel file)
MPEX.com
SX3 Lighting Kit Strobist Starving Student SX3 Lighting Kit
1 $489.99
http://www.mpex.com/browse.cfm/4,12841.html
(this includes two LP160 Flashes .. and pretty much has everyting you need to start)
LP160 LumoPro LP160 Manual Flash
2 $159.95 = $319.90
http://www.mpex.com/browse.cfm/4,14648.html
(If you don't have two flashes already … you will need four total)
LP633 LumoPro LP633 Umbrella Swivel w/ Flash Shoe Adapter
2 $17.99 = $35.98
http://www.mpex.com/browse.cfm/4,11776.html
This is my favorite Umbrella swivel ... because it packs small and is strong. (both important when traveling)
B&H
PHPDBDSK Photoflex Pro-Duty Backdrop Support Kit
2 $199.99 =$399.98
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/556182-REG/Photoflex_DP_SHDBGSPKT.html
This is a PRO Backdrop Stand set at 12'6" Tall , very useful ... and has a bag, AND is not any more for the bag and cross bar ... a relative value. :)
UM-RUT45 Photoflex Convertible Umbrella - White Satin with Removable Black Backing - 45"
2 $29.95 =$59.90
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/42505-REG/Photoflex_UM_RUT45.html
Look at the Reviews on this Umbrella ... 5 stars ... and you will know why I love these.
You can take off "just" a section of the Black Backing ... and shoot thru the open section. Nice!
* Photoflex has also changed the "ribs" on this Umbrella ... to a Nylon/plastic looking materia (=flexable, yet firm enough) .. THIS little new feature, will save you when your stands fall over in the wind. And they "WILL" lol. It's just a matter of time.
It's a "Love It" new feature.
RadioPopper
JRX-KS RadioPopper JrX STUDIO KIT
1 $159.95
http://shop.radiopopper.com/radiopopperjrxstudiokitusca.aspx
JRX-RS RadioPopper JrX Receiver STUDIO
3 $99.95 =$299.85
http://shop.radiopopper.com/radiopopperjrxreceiverstudiousca.aspx
* What is great about this JrX Radio triggers is that they are ROCK solid and work with anything with a Hot Shoe.
* AND can control the Power level of AB studio strobes
Have done a blog on these already ... I own BOTH the PX and JrX studio versions of these Radio Triggers ... So, you know that I LOVE these! and they work ALL the time, Period.
No Way are you going to find something more reliable than these. (and more so , for this price)
I have owned the JrX Studio on the first shipment from RP ... and the PX triggers a month after that (because I was sooo impressed) ... both of these radio triggers have "never" dissapointed.
Thomas Distributing
MH-AAI240 MAHA IMEDION AA 2400MAH RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES 4-pk LOW DISCHARGE
4 packs @ $10.97 =$43.88
http://www.thomasdistributing.com/shop/maha-imedion-aa-2400mah-rechargeable-batteriesbrultra-low-dischargebr4-battery-pack-nimhbr1-free-four-cell-battery-case-p-2096.html?SP_id=&osCsid=u53ohoomk1is3j4dga59jufu46
K-MHC801D-BC MAHA MH-C801D AA - AAA 8 BATTERY PRO CHARGER
1 $68.67
http://www.thomasdistributing.com/shop/maha-mhc801d-aa-aaa-battery-chargerbrdeluxe-8-cell-professional-battery-charger-w-full-lcd-displaybrbrfree-accessory-bag-2-free-eight-cell-battery-holdersbrspecial-price-6897-p-437.html?SP_id=&osCsid=u53ohoomk1is3j4dga59jufu46
* I own the cheaper 800S version of this 8-battery PRO Charger ... because of the smaller plug for Travel (trust me, things add up) ... and the lower cost ... and that it was the newer version ... but, Thomas Dist. does not have it listed right now. (11/10/10)
Have two(2) 4-battery 401FS and a 800S 8-battery PRO Charger ... and they are plugged in all the time. :)
p.s. I love the Thomas Dist. 8-battery case they give away free with the 801/800s chargers. They are now my fav.
Oh, just in case you need Roll paper for your Backdrop stands ... on Oahu, Hawaii
Attco Inc ... a staging supply company near Lagoon Dr at the Airport
Aprox. $50 for a Roll .. about 9 feet wide (forgot how long, but it's enough) ... they have many colors
The roll box is not huge, so it's not that hard to carry with you (or your van).
I like it better for White, than fabric/muslin (which I have Black and Green/Blue) particularly in white because you don't have to steam before use , and when it gets dirty or ugly you can just tear it off and when you roll out a new section it is sooooo Smooth and White :). nice!
http://www.attcoinc.com/
Sandbags (the bag part) from B&H ... so, my lightstands don’t fall over ... you could use other things.
also, note ... they are bright orange ... imho this is important ... so people can see it and don’t trip over it.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/421469-REG/Impact_SBE_18O_Empty_Saddle_Sandbag.html
Should also buy some large Plastic Clips from Lowes in Hawaii ,
Bessey XC-14pc $ 12.98 ... to hold the Roll paper in place :).
This is a Big nylon bag of 14 Plastic Spring Clamps ... 2 - 3in. (which is huge), 2 - 2 in. , 4 - 1 in. , and 6 - 3/4 in. which are cute, small, and moderately useful (and you will not mind if you lose them) they do help pin a green screen flat on backdrop stands. :)
At Amazon on the web:
http://www.amazon.com/Bessey-XC-14PC-Piece-Plastic-Spring/dp/B003XO0MLM
Hope this helps someone,
Ross Hamamura ... Tourist of Light
http://www.rdhphoto.net/
Thursday, August 26, 2010
SanDisk Extreme PRO ExpressCard Adapter install in Win7 PRO 64-bit
SanDisk Extreme PRO ExpressCard Adapter install in Win7 PRO 64-bit ...
* Here's a Important tip you might miss ... even though it is right on the install CD:
You MUST have both the CF (Compact Flash Card) AND the SanDisk Extreme PRO Adapter in the ExpressCard Slot BEFORE you start the Installation CD !
It will not run the install without it.
But, if you do that ... it will install quickly and flawlessly on a i7 Quad Core Laptop running Win7 PRO 64-bit OS. Zero issues.
And YES, it's FAST ! Period.
I already know it's FAST. Have read others tests ( http://www.robgalbraith.com/bins/content_page.asp?cid=7-10043-10255 )
But, there is nothing like doing a test yourself. Even though you know it works well. It's nice to stress it a little.
So, first thing I do is format two of my SanDisk Extreme PRO 16gb CF cards in different D700's.
Both, format to 14.9 gb.
Then I upload 14.9gb aprox to both CF cards (which left 96kb open on both cards)
Interestingly it takes more than twice as long to upload to the CF (11:16 min) using the ExpressCard Adapter as it does Downloading to the Laptop 7,200rpm HardDrive , guess it should not be a surprise because the HD is fast, with a large cache.
Laptop is a 17" 1080p ASUS i7 quad core , two(2) 7,200rpm hard drives C: , and D: ... with a ExpressCard slot 34. running Win7 PRO 64-bit.
* I should note ... that I can see why others feel the CF slot guides are too short. IF, you are not careful you "could" damage Pins on the Adapter/Reader.
Another small critique is the ExpressCard sticks out of the Laptop far enough away that it could easily get damaged imho.
My advice is to always: Put the CF card into the SanDisk ExpressCard Adapter "FIRST" , then ... put the ExpressCard Adapter into the ExpressCard 34 slot in the Laptop.
imho, it helps with two issues ... the short card guide (that could damage your pins) ... and, sometimes you might loose your ExpressCard Drive listing in Windows.
* but, it is easily solved by taking out and putting back in the ExpressCard Adapter.
Loading it this way , Kills two birds ... with a sensible technique of loading the CF.
One thing good about the design is , it does look like it will pack easy. My only small concern is it's durability in a bag with other stuff.
The weak link seems to be the metal to plastic connection , right where it sticks out of the Laptop.
Ok, now the Fun part ... my TEST results.
fyi: after each Copy from Extreme PRO CF to Laptop ... I did a Delete >>> Clean Recycle bin >>. then a full shut down and Start up.
Copy being done in Win7 Pro 64-bit and PowerDesk Pro (file Manager).
1) SanDisk Extreme PRO 16gb CF and SanDisk Extreme PRO ExpressCard Adapter via Copy to Laptop took 5:07 min and 5:00 min on the re-test
Anyone that has had to download this amount (14.8 gb) of DNG, NEF, JPG knows how long this could take.
* This is FAST ! Real FAST !
When you are downloading on location ... this kind of Speed makes a differance.
You will notice this kind of speed way before the in camera speed of this card on a Nikon D700/D3 ... shot to shot. (even though the speed is there, even in camera)
Note: I mainly care about CF to Laptop download speed.
I already know the Extreme PRO CF is way fast enough on a D700 for every day shooting. measuring it does not matter to me.
2) Now my old All in One USB Reader ... SanDisk ImageMate 12 in 1 USB and the same CF card ... it does all kinds of cards ...
It's time was a painful 17:40 mins. and 17:29 on the re-test.
3) Internal Multi Card reader on a i7 quad core Dell XPS with two fast 7,200 rpm Hard Drives ... now this was a surprise because I normally do not watch the download.
31:47 mins ! ... I only did this once. That was enough.
It's time to look for a ExpressCard Reader slot add-on for my Desktop ... I think.
The combo of the SanDisk Extreme PRO CF and SanDisk Extreme PRO ExpressCard Adapter was sooo Fast it was not even close.
When you have a Need for Speed.
This combo is it ! ...
SanDisk Extreme PRO CF and SanDisk Extreme PRO ExpressCard Adapter in a ExpressCard 34 slot.
And based on my prior experiance with SanDisk Extreme CF cards and the new SanDisk Extreme PRO CF 16gb card since Nov. 2009 ... these Cards are very reliable. With very good support.
Your in camera speed might be different depending on your Camera's support for UDMA 6.
So, watch for the gotcha there.
Hope this helps ...
Ross Hamamura http://www.rdhphoto.net/
The Tourist of Light :)
* Here's a Important tip you might miss ... even though it is right on the install CD:
You MUST have both the CF (Compact Flash Card) AND the SanDisk Extreme PRO Adapter in the ExpressCard Slot BEFORE you start the Installation CD !
It will not run the install without it.
But, if you do that ... it will install quickly and flawlessly on a i7 Quad Core Laptop running Win7 PRO 64-bit OS. Zero issues.
And YES, it's FAST ! Period.
I already know it's FAST. Have read others tests ( http://www.robgalbraith.com/bins/content_page.asp?cid=7-10043-10255 )
But, there is nothing like doing a test yourself. Even though you know it works well. It's nice to stress it a little.
So, first thing I do is format two of my SanDisk Extreme PRO 16gb CF cards in different D700's.
Both, format to 14.9 gb.
Then I upload 14.9gb aprox to both CF cards (which left 96kb open on both cards)
Interestingly it takes more than twice as long to upload to the CF (11:16 min) using the ExpressCard Adapter as it does Downloading to the Laptop 7,200rpm HardDrive , guess it should not be a surprise because the HD is fast, with a large cache.
Laptop is a 17" 1080p ASUS i7 quad core , two(2) 7,200rpm hard drives C: , and D: ... with a ExpressCard slot 34. running Win7 PRO 64-bit.
* I should note ... that I can see why others feel the CF slot guides are too short. IF, you are not careful you "could" damage Pins on the Adapter/Reader.
Another small critique is the ExpressCard sticks out of the Laptop far enough away that it could easily get damaged imho.
My advice is to always: Put the CF card into the SanDisk ExpressCard Adapter "FIRST" , then ... put the ExpressCard Adapter into the ExpressCard 34 slot in the Laptop.
imho, it helps with two issues ... the short card guide (that could damage your pins) ... and, sometimes you might loose your ExpressCard Drive listing in Windows.
* but, it is easily solved by taking out and putting back in the ExpressCard Adapter.
Loading it this way , Kills two birds ... with a sensible technique of loading the CF.
One thing good about the design is , it does look like it will pack easy. My only small concern is it's durability in a bag with other stuff.
The weak link seems to be the metal to plastic connection , right where it sticks out of the Laptop.
Ok, now the Fun part ... my TEST results.
fyi: after each Copy from Extreme PRO CF to Laptop ... I did a Delete >>> Clean Recycle bin >>. then a full shut down and Start up.
Copy being done in Win7 Pro 64-bit and PowerDesk Pro (file Manager).
1) SanDisk Extreme PRO 16gb CF and SanDisk Extreme PRO ExpressCard Adapter via Copy to Laptop took 5:07 min and 5:00 min on the re-test
Anyone that has had to download this amount (14.8 gb) of DNG, NEF, JPG knows how long this could take.
* This is FAST ! Real FAST !
When you are downloading on location ... this kind of Speed makes a differance.
You will notice this kind of speed way before the in camera speed of this card on a Nikon D700/D3 ... shot to shot. (even though the speed is there, even in camera)
Note: I mainly care about CF to Laptop download speed.
I already know the Extreme PRO CF is way fast enough on a D700 for every day shooting. measuring it does not matter to me.
2) Now my old All in One USB Reader ... SanDisk ImageMate 12 in 1 USB and the same CF card ... it does all kinds of cards ...
It's time was a painful 17:40 mins. and 17:29 on the re-test.
3) Internal Multi Card reader on a i7 quad core Dell XPS with two fast 7,200 rpm Hard Drives ... now this was a surprise because I normally do not watch the download.
31:47 mins ! ... I only did this once. That was enough.
It's time to look for a ExpressCard Reader slot add-on for my Desktop ... I think.
The combo of the SanDisk Extreme PRO CF and SanDisk Extreme PRO ExpressCard Adapter was sooo Fast it was not even close.
When you have a Need for Speed.
This combo is it ! ...
SanDisk Extreme PRO CF and SanDisk Extreme PRO ExpressCard Adapter in a ExpressCard 34 slot.
And based on my prior experiance with SanDisk Extreme CF cards and the new SanDisk Extreme PRO CF 16gb card since Nov. 2009 ... these Cards are very reliable. With very good support.
Your in camera speed might be different depending on your Camera's support for UDMA 6.
So, watch for the gotcha there.
Hope this helps ...
Ross Hamamura http://www.rdhphoto.net/
The Tourist of Light :)
Saturday, August 21, 2010
BackUP ... Off Site Stratagy ... a must do
Any working PRO knows BackUps are a way of life.
On the job (hopefully) via a dual write in your camera (waiting for a new Nikon D800 that has this ... and better yet a CF/SD combo dual slot)
Or using a Portable disk like Wolverine MVP that has a Reader built in ... so you can just plug in your card and download for a fast back up On-site (at job). and it is relatively small for a HD and Reader.
and can fit in a beltbag.
But, back in the office ... I have been loving the "modern" way of Off Site Internet based BackUP!
I should not have to tell you the value of Off Site BackUP. Just think Fire or Robbery. Yes, it could happen to you. (even if you have an Alarm)
IF, your data is important (money) ... Off site BackUP is not an option , it is a MUST.
I use Carbonite. http://www.carbonite.com/
Started thinking about this blog when I was automatically notified that there was a update to do ... which was Fast and Easy. Talking minuites easy. Did not even need a Re-Boot (but I did anyway).
Other wise I forgot about Carbonite.
* Just "Install it, Launch it, Forget about it" ... a quote from the Boston Globe, ... Believe it! :)
Oh, you might want to click on a option: " Display colored status dots on my files and folders "
This tells you in any Windows folder ... what files are Backed up ... which are going to be backed up ... and which will not be ... and just as important , YOU can choose which files are a PRIORITY to BackUP.
imho, Last IN first OUT on BackUps are the way to go.
So, the Back up should go to the most recent unpaid jobs first.
You can easily do this in "any" file manager in windows ... I have used it on WinXP, VISTA, Win7 Home, Win7 PRO.
Easy as Highlight the files you want ... Right mouse click ... go to Carbonite on the Menu ... Click on " Back up this file as soon as possible " ... Easy, DONE!
Things to note: Carbonite by default does NOT back up Video Files, and Program files. You need to choose them. (which for me is a smart default) ...
You can do this with a Ctrl+A to highlight a whole folder and do the Right Mouse click thing to bring up the Menu. and Choose to have Carbonite BackUp anything you want.
Being that I have about 500gb of image files that I feel are a priority ... * this is one thing about Carbonite I don't like. :)
When you first start Backing Up your files Off Site to the Carbonite Secure server ... it trys to Download your files as fast as your Internet connection allows (more or less).
But, here's the wrinkle .... the First 30gb goes fast ... THEN, Carbonite throttles back your download speed ... which is a tad slow for a PRO photog shooting RAW imho.
Have talked to Carbonite about this ... and they don't have a PRO account ... yet. :) Which would allow you to back up faster ... and keep up with your most recent shoots.
Right now I have 400gb on Carbonite and over 100gb still to go ... and this is not even all my data files. and I have been using Carbonite for a year.
fyi: Carbonite only Downloads when the computer is idle.
What I will say is ... the files that are critical , are on Priority and are Downloaded.
* You just need to make sure to "choose" them as " Back up this file as soon as possible ".
So, it's not as bad as it sounds.
I also have a 1tb Network Hard Drive on a gig network ... that I SYNC after a job. So, it only updates the changed files.
(this has saved me , when I did something "bad" other than a delete to a file ... and had to go back to the original file)
>>>>
So, there you go ... this is my new BackUP workflow. Old School "BackUp programs" are "Dead to me". as is multiple Hard Drives and Optical Drive (DVD, Blue-Ray) BackUps.
I have been buying larger and larger HardDrives each year ... and even though they are getting cheaper ... they are not more reliable ... and they are a humbug to take them Off Site, on a regular basis. So, the cost of Carbonite every year is worth it.
This is my workflow:
* Carbonite for the AUTOMATIC , Off Site BackUps ... as my Main BackUP
* Network Drive for after shoot back up ... on a Fast, easy (Memorized settings, in PowerDesk a file manager I love) SYNC of my image Data folder. (this is so, I have a copy ... before I work on the files ... fyi: I also keep the files on the CF cards ... till after the SYNC or after the EDIT)
* Once a week (more like once a month lol) SYNC to a USB 1tb Hard Drive ... so I have a older version back up too.
But, note: Carbonite ALSO has some versions of your Backups ... Off Site. (but, I am not clear on what and how)
* I should also note that I TURN OFF the two external Hard Drives when I am not using them. So, nothing can flow on to them ... like a Virus ... when not in use.
This is handy on the USB SYNC HD ... where I will go a week to a month , on the SYNC (sometimes longer).
The two Hard Drive BackUp's are just paranoia ... because I never really use them ... I go to Carbonite First. It's way toooo easy to Resore. I am talking about using Carbonite's File manager looking utility, find the file , right click, Restore. Done.
And Carbonite does do a SCAN of the files.
Hope this helps someone,
Ross Hamamura http://www.rdhphoto.net/
The Tourist of Light :)
On the job (hopefully) via a dual write in your camera (waiting for a new Nikon D800 that has this ... and better yet a CF/SD combo dual slot)
Or using a Portable disk like Wolverine MVP that has a Reader built in ... so you can just plug in your card and download for a fast back up On-site (at job). and it is relatively small for a HD and Reader.
and can fit in a beltbag.
But, back in the office ... I have been loving the "modern" way of Off Site Internet based BackUP!
I should not have to tell you the value of Off Site BackUP. Just think Fire or Robbery. Yes, it could happen to you. (even if you have an Alarm)
IF, your data is important (money) ... Off site BackUP is not an option , it is a MUST.
I use Carbonite. http://www.carbonite.com/
Started thinking about this blog when I was automatically notified that there was a update to do ... which was Fast and Easy. Talking minuites easy. Did not even need a Re-Boot (but I did anyway).
Other wise I forgot about Carbonite.
* Just "Install it, Launch it, Forget about it" ... a quote from the Boston Globe, ... Believe it! :)
Oh, you might want to click on a option: " Display colored status dots on my files and folders "
This tells you in any Windows folder ... what files are Backed up ... which are going to be backed up ... and which will not be ... and just as important , YOU can choose which files are a PRIORITY to BackUP.
imho, Last IN first OUT on BackUps are the way to go.
So, the Back up should go to the most recent unpaid jobs first.
You can easily do this in "any" file manager in windows ... I have used it on WinXP, VISTA, Win7 Home, Win7 PRO.
Easy as Highlight the files you want ... Right mouse click ... go to Carbonite on the Menu ... Click on " Back up this file as soon as possible " ... Easy, DONE!
Things to note: Carbonite by default does NOT back up Video Files, and Program files. You need to choose them. (which for me is a smart default) ...
You can do this with a Ctrl+A to highlight a whole folder and do the Right Mouse click thing to bring up the Menu. and Choose to have Carbonite BackUp anything you want.
Being that I have about 500gb of image files that I feel are a priority ... * this is one thing about Carbonite I don't like. :)
When you first start Backing Up your files Off Site to the Carbonite Secure server ... it trys to Download your files as fast as your Internet connection allows (more or less).
But, here's the wrinkle .... the First 30gb goes fast ... THEN, Carbonite throttles back your download speed ... which is a tad slow for a PRO photog shooting RAW imho.
Have talked to Carbonite about this ... and they don't have a PRO account ... yet. :) Which would allow you to back up faster ... and keep up with your most recent shoots.
Right now I have 400gb on Carbonite and over 100gb still to go ... and this is not even all my data files. and I have been using Carbonite for a year.
fyi: Carbonite only Downloads when the computer is idle.
What I will say is ... the files that are critical , are on Priority and are Downloaded.
* You just need to make sure to "choose" them as " Back up this file as soon as possible ".
So, it's not as bad as it sounds.
I also have a 1tb Network Hard Drive on a gig network ... that I SYNC after a job. So, it only updates the changed files.
(this has saved me , when I did something "bad" other than a delete to a file ... and had to go back to the original file)
>>>>
So, there you go ... this is my new BackUP workflow. Old School "BackUp programs" are "Dead to me". as is multiple Hard Drives and Optical Drive (DVD, Blue-Ray) BackUps.
I have been buying larger and larger HardDrives each year ... and even though they are getting cheaper ... they are not more reliable ... and they are a humbug to take them Off Site, on a regular basis. So, the cost of Carbonite every year is worth it.
This is my workflow:
* Carbonite for the AUTOMATIC , Off Site BackUps ... as my Main BackUP
* Network Drive for after shoot back up ... on a Fast, easy (Memorized settings, in PowerDesk a file manager I love) SYNC of my image Data folder. (this is so, I have a copy ... before I work on the files ... fyi: I also keep the files on the CF cards ... till after the SYNC or after the EDIT)
* Once a week (more like once a month lol) SYNC to a USB 1tb Hard Drive ... so I have a older version back up too.
But, note: Carbonite ALSO has some versions of your Backups ... Off Site. (but, I am not clear on what and how)
* I should also note that I TURN OFF the two external Hard Drives when I am not using them. So, nothing can flow on to them ... like a Virus ... when not in use.
This is handy on the USB SYNC HD ... where I will go a week to a month , on the SYNC (sometimes longer).
The two Hard Drive BackUp's are just paranoia ... because I never really use them ... I go to Carbonite First. It's way toooo easy to Resore. I am talking about using Carbonite's File manager looking utility, find the file , right click, Restore. Done.
And Carbonite does do a SCAN of the files.
Hope this helps someone,
Ross Hamamura http://www.rdhphoto.net/
The Tourist of Light :)
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