Digital Camera Gift Ideas

Tamron AF 18 200mm f 3 5 6 3 XR Di II LD Aspherical IF Macro Zoom Lens for Canon Digital SLR Cameras

Designed for exclusive use on Canon digital SLR cameras with smaller-size imagers, this Tamron AF 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 Di-II aspherical macro zoom lens is ideal for a host of situations. The high-power zoom lens–which offers an equivalent focal length of 28-300mm in 35mm format–adds versatility to your lens menu, zooming from a true wide perspective to an ultra tele zoom, all in an amazingly easy-to-use design. As a result, the lens is ideal for everything from landscape shots to sports and wildlife photography. The lens also incorporates several of Tamron’s proprietary core technologies, including aspherical elements that minimize chromatic aberration, a multiple cam mechanism, and an integrated focus cam design. The technologies combine to create the world’s lightest, most compact 11.1x digital zoom lens. Other features include an angle of view of 75 to 7 degrees, a minimum focusing distance of 17.7 inches, and a 62mm filter diameter. All Tamron lenses carry a six-year warranty.

Note: The Tamron AF 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 XR Di-II zoom lens is not designed for conventional cameras or digital cameras with image sensors larger than 24mm x 16mm.

Specifications

• Focal length: 18-200mm
• Maximum aperture: f/3.5-6.3
• Lens construction: 15 elements in 13 groups
• Angle of view: 75 to 7 degrees
• Type of zooming: Rotation
• Diaphragm blades: 7
• Minimum aperture: f/22
• Minimum focusing distance: 17.7 inches
• Macro magnification ratio: 1:3.7 (at f=200mm)
• Filter size: 62mm
• Corresponding mounts: Canon
• Lens hood: Yes, flower shaped
• Dimensions: 2.9 inches in diameter and 3.3 inches long
• Weight: 14 ounces
• Warranty: 6 years

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Tamron Lense
I am a novice photographer. Alot I do not know. I ordered this Tamron lense thru Amazon. When it arrived (timely), it caused my camera (Canon Rebel Xti)to shut down. Would not work. I contacted Tamron and explained the “error msg” I was getting from the camera and after brief conversation w/tech person at Tamron it was determined that the lens was flawed and for me to contact Amazon and explain this and get a replacement lens. Uh-Oh, right? Let me tell you that a call to Amazon was all it took. A new lens was shipped that day express mail (free of charge) with an authorization label to send the faulty lens back in the same box with charges reversed to them. The new Tamron lens arrived and is working beautifully on my camera. Bottom line? This is a fine lens and Amazon (in my opinion) is one great and reliable company that I will use without hesitation.

1 Star Very fuzzy
Disappointed with the lens. Not clear at all and very slow to focus. I returned it immediately.

1 Star Slow focus
I am a professional wedding photographer and I tried this lens on my canon 7D at my daughter’s Halloween party at school. I’m glad I didn’t bring it to a wedding off the bat. The room (as most school rooms are) is well lit from windows and the florescents were on – the lens couldn’t pick up on the dark costumes to grab fast enough. It hunted a lot and I lost some shots. At the widest, there was A LOT of blur around the edges. Not a crisp shot. I returned it today (after receiving it the day before yesterday). I do have another Tamron zoom that is slow to focus, but this one was much slower in lower light – would not have worked at a wedding ceremony (especially a church) nor a reception.

4 Stars Upgraded from stock lense
I bought this lens to upgrade from the lense that came with my Rebel XTI. I used the “old” lens (18-50mm) on a two week trip to Scandinavia last year and did not bring a longer one due to luggage limits. I bought this one for a three week trip around the Canadian Maritimes this fall and it provided much more flexibility in the shots I could take using just one lens. As for improved quality of the photos, I guess its hard to say since I sharpen all of my photos and when framing an image in the view finder, I allow for a little cropping during post-processing in Photoshop. I much prefer it to the original lens for the range of shots I can take while travelling without having to switch out lenses.

1 Star Bad Leans
I don’t recommend this Leans, the one I got it is not sharp and all the pic it takes are soft and not sharp

maybe the one I received is like this but I can write a review for the product I got

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Canon Speedlite 430EX II Flash for Canon Digital SLR Cameras

Bringing a new level of versatility and capability to flash photography, the Speedlite 430EX II features a powerful flash (guide number of 141 ft./43m at ISO 100) with a fast recycling time in a compact, durable body. A one-touch quick-lock mechanism makes it easy to attach or detach the 430EX II from the camera and a metal foot has been added for strength and durability. Flash controls can now be set through the camera’s LCD screen on compatible EOS Digital SLR cameras. The Speedlite 430EX II is also quieter, recycle time is 20 percent faster (as compared to the 430EX) and since it is compatible with Canon’s wireless E-TTL, it can be used as an affordable “slave unit.”

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Case needs a belt loop
Not much to add that hasn’t been said, but I wish the storage case had a belt loop. It wouldn’t add more than pennies to the cost, but would let you carry it on your belt when you need it but don’t want it mounted full time, or let you run your camera bag strap through it when space in the bag’s at a premium. Still five stars.

4 Stars Canon 430EX II
The Canon 430EX II. Using the unit with the Canon SX1 IS and works very well. Controls easy to work. The LCD is large enough, but in low light a little hard to read. Some of the functions can not be used with the SX1, but for my use it’s no problem. The way the unit locks on to the camera is much better then turning the screw knob I had on my 540EZ. I looked at the 580EX, but that is a bit to large for the SX1. I think it’s a good flash for the amature or pro. Ordered from Amazon and had the unit in 3 days.

5 Stars yes please
Great flash, enough said. Small in size and in price when it comes to new flash units. Works great, especially since I do not need anything bigger!

5 Stars Canon Speedlite 430EX II
Obviously, goes well with the EOS cameras. I’ve only had it for less than a week, so I’m still learning how to use the large number of features. These features provide a lot of flexibility, especially when coupled with all of the different camera modes. Recycle time and battery consumption also seem to be good, again given the short amount of time I’ve been using it (but a lot of test shots). I’ve gotten good results with flash coverage as far as 30′ (which may not be its limit, but it’s as much as I’ve used so far). The low light focus assist is a great benefit in speeding up the camera’s focus under those conditions. It’s not a small unit, but not unwieldy, either. The rotate/bounce really helps to soften the sometimes harsh flash light. This seems to be a great addition to my EOS camera.

4 Stars Very Good overall
Before I bought this item, I did a little research by reading reviews from people who’ve purchased this particular flash as well as asking those with more experience. I was told that the 430EX was a good flash to get started with–and they were right. I use a Canon Rebel XSi(450D) and I tried looking at the 580 but it looked much too massive for it. Although the 580 has features that the 430 doesn’t, I’m not a professional photographer that owns a studio for portraits and stuff, so I decided on the simpler model. I love the fact that it swivels up and down, left to right to achieve certain lighting effects that you wouldn’t get with lower-end flashes. I was a tiny bit disappointed that the light it emits isn’t much stronger that the built-in flash, BUT in order to be fair, I haven’t had the opportunity to discover its maximum potential yet. There is a shutter synchro function (as well as other functions) that I haven’t played around with, and when I do, I’d be sure tell you all about it. Overall, its a good flash to own and I’d recommend it to those who, like me, are just getting started learning the fine art of photography.

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Canon Speedlite 270EX Flash for Canon Digital SLR Cameras

Perfect for expanding your creative options on compact cameras and entry-level EOS DSLRs, Canon’s Speedlite 270EX adds power and flexibility for enhanced flash photography anywhere. Light, compact and small enough to fit in your pocket, Speedlite 270EX features 2-step coverage for 28mm and 50mm focal lengths, plus a highly useful bounce-flash function for amazingly easy, polished results. An indispensable complement to your Canon camera, Speedlite 270EX is a perfect extension of your photographic genius.

User Ratings and Reviews

4 Stars Speedlite 270 EX
This flash was purchased to use on my canon G9 and I did not want something too large. The 270 EX is the perfect size for this and all G series cameras. The tilt head is also an added benefit for bounce flash. I find this flash to be more than adequate for interior shots and would not shot without it.

5 Stars Nice compact flash to take anywhere
I bought the 270EX to add to my Powershot SX10IS. Using the flash unit is simple: snap on, turn on, aim, fire. That’s it. Have two AAs handy. That’s all you need. No knobs, no digital settings, no programming of any kind. No frills. But this little unit will do the job. Since the SX10IS is now my backup camera, the 270EX provides the portability and basic added service I need. No professional shots with this speedlite. But pictures with the SX10IS are so much better illuminated now and not overly harshly. I also use a diffuser and I recommend you use one too, if you eventually settle on this little unit. The price is right and the results just perfect for the kind of photography the 270EX is designed for. Give this flash a serious consideration. You won’t be disappointed.

4 Stars simple, affordable, easy.
I have a Canon PowerShot Pro1 and I’m working on upgrading it with some accessories. This is the first accessory flash I’ve ever owned and I’ve found it to be quite capable, especially considering its relatively inexpensive price tag (compared to other more “professional” models).

The flash runs on two AA batteries, so it’s easy to carry spares and pop new ones in in just a few seconds, even while you’re on the go. The unit slides easily onto my Canon camera, but will not mount up to my old 35mm Minolta. I had been under the misguided impression that all ‘hot shoe’ fittings were universal across the camera world and I was proven quite wrong. Anyway, once mounted, the flip of a small switch locks the flash securely to the camera. The flash also comes with a protective nylon-feeling bag in which to store the unit when not in use.

The flash is quite versatile for a beginner or intermediate photographer as the flash output is fully adjustable (through your camera’s menu settings). The flash itself has physically adjustable settings for regular “straight on” flash photography, as well as telephoto pictures. The flash will also tilt upwards to varying angles to allow you to ‘bounce’ the flash off the ceiling in order to create a softer, more natural overhead lighting effect instead of blasting your subject straight on with a blinding flash.

I’ve taken nearly 200 photos on my first set of batteries, and I am noticing that the flash takes quite a while to warm up initially, however once warm, it seems to recycle in between shots at a reasonably quick rate.

In summary, if you want to expand your Canon D-SLR camera’s flexibility and usefulness without dropping $400-500 on an accessory flash, this is the one for you. This unit has a smaller size and a smaller price tag than many other models, but packs a lot of punch.

5 Stars Great entry level flash
Perfect flash for my new Canon SX20IS. Compact size and easy controls with the ability to bounce the flash.

5 Stars Speedlite 270EX – nice little package
I’m really happy with this flash. I tested it against my 430EX in my livingroom by bouncing both off the sloped ceiling. I tested both with and without a diffuser. I have an Omnibounce for the 430EX and a Zeikos diffuser for the 270EX. The 270EX did just as well as the 430EX with consideration to exposure, albeit the 430EX took no time to recycle and the 270 about 1-2 seconds. No recycle time if shooting straight ahead. Not bad for such a small package. Fits my G11 and SX10 very nicely. At less than 1/3 the size of the 430EX it’s very light and easy to carry.

Couple of caveats –

270EX has no manual controls so flash exposure must be done with the camera.

The head doesn’t swivel so the camera cannot be used in the portrait position if you want to bounce the flash off the ceiling. You can bounce it off the wall though if side lighting. Bouncing off the ceiling can be accomplished by using a hot shoe adapter cord and removing the flash from the camera and then aim the flash at the ceiling.

Although the 270EX isn’t as powerful as the 430 series, extra reach can be obtained by bumping up the camera’s ISO one notch.

All in all a powerful flash for it’s size.

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Canon LP E6 Battery Pack for Canon 5D Mark II Digital SLR

compatible with select Canon digital SLR cameras * rated at 7.2V, 1800mAh * no “memory effect” — may be partially charged without reducing battery capacity * compatible with Canon LC-E6 battery charger *

User Ratings and Reviews

2 Stars just a battery that does what it should
WAY too expensive for what it is: just a rechargeable battery that is worth about $5. Canon should be proud of themselves for EXTREME price gouging. They could charge $10 for this item, make a huge profit doing so, and not alienate their customers.

The electrical capacity is ok, but not great. And the “smart” feature is slightly better than useless. Yes, it is nice to see how much charge is remaining, but that feature is not worth the $50+ that Canon robs you for.

I tried a generic battery for about $10 (including its own charger), but that battery was physically slightly too big and it jammed in the camera and had to be pried out. This Canon battery fits properly, so I’m stuck buying Canon batteries until I can find a generic that fits.

5 Stars One just isn’t enough…
For anyone who thinks this battery is expensive, I say “You must be new to digital photography!”. Ever since I got a camcorder a decade ago, then later started using little digital cameras, and now finally the Canon EOS 5D Mark II, battery power has been an issue. Gone are the days of mechanical SLR’s with little button batteries for the meter!

Today’s electronic image-making devices use major power. Without a good battery, you have nothing but a brick. I have developed a habit of having plenty of power available. I purchased the battery grip so I could put two batteries in the camera, and have the AA-battery clip in reserve. I want to take pictures not drive tent stakes with my brick!

These batteries provide plenty of power to shoot. But as the manual warns, the more you review your images, the more you use Image Stabilization; the more you auto-focus, the faster the batteries will drain. And if it’s cold outside…. You want to have power to spare if you’re serious about making images. These are the batteries you want. Don’t fool yourself into saving a couple dollars on a generic battery – you will not get a real savings. They don’t provide as many charge cycles and they don’t report their status as well. It’s not worth the savings!

5 Stars Buy Canon or go home!
Buy this Canon brand battery for you 5D Mark ll. It’s worth the price for the battery info feature of your Mark ll. Go Canon or go home!

5 Stars Great product
Great product from Canon. Very satisfied.

Canon LP-E6 Battery Pack for Canon 5D Mark II Digital SLR

5 Stars good and high quality battery for reasonable price
I bought this one for ~$60 on amazon. It’s a bargain already since its original price (last year) was $120 and up. This is a high quality, high capacity battery with some integrated information chip (which show you the history of battery, recharge, no. of shots taken, etc.). It’s not something luxury – just a “nice to have” feature.

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Canon EF S 55 250mm f 4 0 5 6 IS Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon Digital SLR Cameras

Bring your photographic subjects closer with this Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS Image Stabilizer Telephoto Zoom Lens. It is designed with Canon’s Optical Image Stabilizer technology and is compact and light. This high zoom ratio lens is equivalent to a focal length of 88-400mm in the 35mm format (when used on Canon EOS cameras compatible with EF-S lenses). The image stabilizer effect is equivalent to a shutter speed about 4 stops faster than the same size lens without Image Stabilizer. In other words, if the slowest shutter speed you could formerly hold a 250mm lens steadily was 1/250th of a second, with Canon’s 4-stop stabilization correction, you could hand-hold at shutter speeds as slow as 1/15th of a second. It also uses a UD-glass lens element to correct chromatic aberration for excellent image quality throughout the zoom range. Filter Size – 58mm Max. Diameter – x Length 2.8 in. x 4.3 in./70 x 108mm (maximum lens length) Weight – 13.8 oz./390g Canon 1 year limited warranty

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Very impressive lens
I did a lot of research prior to buying this lens. I have a Canon Rebel XSI, and the combination of this camera and the 55mm to 250 mm telephoto lens is excellent. The image quality is very, very good. I purchased it from Quality Photo through Amazon.com and I couldn’t be happier with the experience. Great price, fast delivery.

E.F. Stone

Fitchburg, Ma.

4 Stars Great value.
I received this lens in a package with my T1i. I think it compliments the kit lens (18-55mm) immensely. Now I have everything covered from wide to telephoto. The IS works very well even out to 250mm. I can hand hold most shots @250mm in daylight. Photos of the moon at night are incredible. You can what seems like every detail of every crater. Great value for the money!

5 Stars Good stable lens
I’m still learning what this lens likes and doesn’t like. For example, it does vignette sometimes but I can see that ahead of time and I just back off full telephoto a bit.

If you’re a novice, don’t forget to turn off the IS when using a tripod. And just because there is IS, it doesn’t mean there won’t be hand shake problems at less than 1/250th speed.

Set camera to center focus so that you get what you want in focus. I use Auto focus 98% of the time. The lens is very responsive and you have to be careful to focus on what you really want. Got some nice sharp photos of small, fast birds in flight and some dogs on a dead run.

Color quality seems good for the most part. Occasionally I get something with a bluish tinge but I think that’s the camera rather than the tele since other pics of the same area at the same time were fine.

As one reviewer said somewhere, get to know what the lens will and won’t do.

I’m really pleased with the price and the results. I don’t want to spend $1000 on a lens since this is a hobby not a profession.

5 Stars I love this lens
This is the first lens I used other than the lens that came with my EOS Rebel XS kit and I love it. I bought it for my family trip to Walt Disney World and it performed better than I expected. The auto focus can be a little slow but not that bad to deal with. Picture quality is really good. Over all I am happy with the purchase.

5 Stars Cannon EF-S 55-225mm Lens Review
This lens was a gift for my girlfriend who is an avid, professional photographer. It was an instant hit with her. The picture quality of this lens with the image stabilization was second to none. Also, the ease of use of the lens was excellent. Finally, Cannon is an excellent company with excellent manufacturing. This lens was a good buy and a very good product.

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