To minimise the likelihood of data loss, I purchased a Transcend USB 500GB external harddisk, even though I burn my photos and datafiles onto DVD. After connecting this device to the PC, you can press a button on it that initiates file synchronisation or backup. It so simple to use!
When shooting outdoors, I find the Crumpler 7MDH a little inadequate, especially when I want to use my superzoom Sigma 150-500mm lens. I needed a sling-type bag that allows for quick retrieval to equipment, and at the same time can also be setup like a backpack. After doing my research, I settled for the Kata 3N1-30. You can see it below compared to my existing smaller Lowepro Photo Runner and Crumpler 7MDH.
Read my review at DPreview and see more pictures of the bag.
I finally decided to buy this as it makes it easier to hold the camera for portrait shots and gives a good balance when paired with long lenses, like my Sigma 150-500mm. Also, it raises the speed of my D700 to 8fps and extends the battery life. At the same time, I purchased a Maha PowerEx 8-cell charger and 12 pcs 2700 mAh batteries.
You can see my D700 with the MB-D10 attached.....
My DSLR lens arsenal is now strengthened with the new super-tele zoom Sigma 150-500mm f5-6.3 APO DG OS. This will be very useful for my travel and nature pics. When I bought it, the shopkeeper was surprised how light it was. It is well made and is quite handholdable, balancing nicely on my Nikon D700. With its built-in optical stabiliser, shooting at max zoom is not a problem, with the image becoming almost rock-steady in the viewfinder after a second or so once it kicks-in. So far, my initial tests showed that the lens performed well, focusing accurately and quickly, with sharp images that are rich in contrast and natural in colour. I liked that the zoom ring is a little stiff - this makes it stay in place and not creep. A further zoom lock switch makes for safe lugging around. As a bonus, it fits in snugly unmounted into my Crumpler 7MDH with the rest of my photo equipment! It costs me an affordable RM 3,840 and is certainly an eye-turner...
Take a look at my Sigma monster....
I fancied a more elaborate flash diffuser than the one provided with the Nikon SB-800. Mainly needed it for better outdoor night pics and also indoor shots of portraits with softer shadows. I liked the idea of Gary Fong's new Whaletail, but it costs a bomb. I discovered a clone version which performs virtually the same, yet costs almost a 1/3 of the real thing.
See some test pics of the Whaletail clone...
I just bought this lens, having decided to delay my purchase of the Nikkor 70-200mm f2.8 VR, since there were rumours of an upgraded version to appear possibly in PMA 2009. In any case, the Sigma offers 1:1 macro and can double as a portrait lens. My initial tests of it on my Nikon D700 showed that it delivered excellent sharpness and quick focusing, with typical Sigma colour and contrasts. It also feels lighter than the similarly sized Nikkor 24-70mm f2.8. With a great build quality, a pinch-style lens cap, and removable tripod collar, for the price of RM 2,350, I think this lens is a steal.
You can browse several more pics of the Sigma 150mm lens....
