M8 pretty harsh test

[dannirr]

Advertisement (gone after registration)

OK - I have posted some pictures from my "harsh test" in Namibia.

 

First. some info:

 

1.) I took 2 M8 bodies - one with the 28/35/50 TriElma and one with the 18/18/21 Wide TriElmar

2.) I NEVER removed either lens while there, and kept the cameras in ziplocks at all times unless in use

3.) I used a 486 on the TE, but not on the WATE. Lens detection was ON on both bodies.

4.) I used 1.09 firmware, shooting DNG + jpg

5.) Very light and quick processing in ACR / PS3 with some "spotting" - no where near the work I would do if I were to make a print, but I wanted to get something up here - so very quick level adjustments, some spotting, resizing and minimal sharpening was all they got - no color manipulaitons at all and no profiles used

6.) I used Lexar Proff 2GB and Transcend 4GB cards without problems

 

About the environment:

 

This is the sandiest place on Earth. It is the world's oldest desert with the highest sand dunes - some are over 1200 fett high. There is no way to protect yourself from the sand - it gets in everywhere. Although I never removed a lens, I had dirt on my sensors that was not there before. How? I have no clue but it happened.

 

To get an idea of the place, I posted a short video clip taken in the Deadvlei while I was shooting - remember - this is noty dust, it is sand that stings every part of exposed flesh:

 

 

My opinions:

 

The M8's did a fantastic job. I had no camera failures or malfunctions. They were light to hike with. Lens combination (both TE's) was ideal. The WATE was terrific - without the IR filter as I believe it should be used at this time.

 

Here is the link to flickr where I have posted about a dozen shots - all resized and resolution reduced:

 

dannirr's slideshow on Flickr

 

Here is one example.

 

All the best,

 

Danni

Welcome, dear visitor! As registered member you'd see an image here…

Simply register for free here – We are always happy to welcome new members!

[ken_tanaka]

Thank you for following-up with that report, Danni. I am not generally a rock-and-tree photography enthusiast, particularly where either is hard to find. But I have to say your Namibia images are absolutely captivating. Scene selections, your use of nasty-butt contrasts and tonalities, and your framing choices really poke a stick in the viewer's eye. Uncommonly good work from a location that's become an increasingly common photo site. Bravo! (And bravo to the M8, too!)

[Guest maddin]

Fantastic! Even though knowing that buying M8 for myself wouldn't automatically result in anything close to your work I will reactivate my frozen order now. Thanks!

[blakley]

These are just wonderful. Thanks so much for posting them; it's an inspiration to visit the place. I'm happy to hear your M8s performed as expected - they certainly supported your vision.

[like2fiddle]

Very nice photos; Thank you for sharing. Glad to see the M8 handled that harsh environment.