It's the best of digital photography, as Michael and I talk about the best new lens for Nikon DSLRs, the best laptop for photographers, and Popular Photography's best camera for 2008.
Among today's hot topics:
- Nikon's awesome new prime lens for cropped-sensor DSLRs, the super-sexy AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G. OK, maybe the name isn't very sexy, but the lens is.
- The crazily tricked out Thinkpad W700, a laptop that automatically calibrates its own monitor, has a built-in Wacom tablet and even a second screen. A dual screen laptop? Insane!
- Popular Photography has chosen the Panasonic G1 its Camera of the Year. Uh, the what now? Yes, Pop Photo goes out on a limb and proclaims the "micro four thirds" system The Next Best Thing. To which I say "meh."
- DPReview.com has a 40 page review of the Canon 5D Mark II. And although the editors give the camera their highest rating, they don't seem to give it any credit for its outstanding and industry-leading HD video capability. Where's the love, DPReview?
SmugMug is our favorite site for sharing and - should you chose to accept this assignment - selling your photos. SmugMug has two fantastic offers just for our listeners:
- 50% off your SmugMug service at any level (enter code "Flickr" at checkout). This is a fantastic discount and you should take advantage of it in time to share your holiday photos!
- A free camera strap to any listener of Digital Photography Life: This one is just crazy. A high-quality camera strap that replaces the neck-slicing piece of canvas that your camera's manufacturer condescended to include with your DSLR. Get your freebie here.
Remember, when it's time to do the chores, we're no where to be seen, but you can find us everywhere, including:
That W700 laptop looks great Scott. I was looking at one before Christmas and seriously considered buying it. I think the price is good in comparison to the feature list but I just worry about all the things that could go wrong on a machine like that. Its a lot of faith in one machine....Kevin Mullins
Posted by: Kevin Mullins | February 23, 2009 at 01:49 PM
I'll ask again here .... Whoever one the Lensbaby?
Posted by: Frank A | February 26, 2009 at 10:10 PM
Kevin, you are correct that a lot can go wrong on a machine like that. I will say that I've had Thinkpads before, though, and if you buy their extended warranty, they do repair them pretty quickly and with great diligence. They came to my house three times in a week with more parts trying to get my last machine working. I bought the onsite insurance, which wasn't cheap, but was worth it. But I always buy the extended warranties for laptops - they are just too vulnerable.
Frank, I thought I responded to you on the last show's notes, but I don't see my post. Lost in the tubes? Sorry. We're planning on announcing a bunch of winners on the next show - we want to surprise the winners while they're listening. If they're listening. They better be listening! Smile. Are you in the running for the Lensbaby? If so, good luck!
Posted by: Scott Sherman | February 27, 2009 at 04:28 AM
Yes, I'm in the running! THANKS.
Posted by: Frank A | February 27, 2009 at 08:54 PM