Opinions on the 105-280-R

[Rick]

Advertisement (gone after registration)

Karl, tried my long lenses on the A7R and was both amazed and disappointed. 280/4 APO, 280/2.8 APO, and the 105-280 APO and the results were frustrating. To use a contraption like you show would not be my choice when I can get good sharpness across the entire sensor with the M. The A7R is just too much of a beta and needs another generation before it is ready for prime time. I returned it.

 

But, if you have the time and inclination to experiment with it that is great. I'm not into the Rube Goldberg stuff and that is why I'm into Leica... it is just simple and works. I am just realizing now what a good R-solution the M is. Other DSLRs without a shutter vibration are also great choices, but just not the A7R right now. Maybe, Sony will come up with a solution for the vibration.

 

There is a guy that has a blog or something (not sure where I saw it) and he went to a machine shop and had a heavy brass weight milled and added to the bottom of the A7R and I think he thought it helped with the vibration. It was pretty funny. Just not for me. Sorry.

 

That RRS ball head and graphite tripod (Gitzo Travelr?) you show is not something I would use to shoot the A7R. It needs a heavy Manfroto type tripod and a big ball head. That could help.

[k-hawinkler]

Thanks Rick. I have no comment on what cameras Jaap and you prefer.

 

With regards to the tripod topic it's discussed here.

 

The GetDPI Photography Forums - View Single Post - Shutter Vibration Post #172

The GetDPI Photography Forums - View Single Post - Shutter Vibration Post #185

 

I think this link points in the direction of the dead weight article you mentioned.

 

Sony A7R vibration comparison with Nikon D3 and Sony NEX-7

[jaapv]

It has nothing to do with camera performance. Weight has always been an advantage with long lens use. The M is on the low end of the scale, a big DSLR is better. It is a fine balance to what you can hold comfortably.

Imo there is no higher to top level camera out there that will not give you the image quality one wants. It is all about ergonomics and user interface. All the rest we see here in the forum is angels dancing on a pin.

 

Consider that tele lenses are often used for wildlife and reportage. As long as the subject is static and the underground stable a tripod is preferable. When the shooting situation gets more dynamic a tripod is more of a hindrance.

 

I often walk with my gear. I do not want to schlepp a tripod as well. I have a monopod/walking stick by Novoflex and Leki. That is the best compromise in low light, normally I use a chest pod. In a vehicle a beanbag is far superior. It allows for fast and easy framing and does not snag on seats and fellow passengers. And it does not transmit vehicle vibrations and movement by the springs.

[algrove]

Jaap

 

Some time ago you brought up the bean bag idea and I though it was brilliant solution to that particular type of photography--shooting from open vehicles. Is what I do not remember, do you just take a few with you empty and then fill them on location? If so do they zip closed for this purpose? What sizes of bean bags do you prefer? Do you only place them under the lens or also on top of the lens?

[jaapv]

About 20x 30 cm and I close them with Velcro. On the spot I fill them with beans or rice.

I just lay them on a convenient protrusion and plunk the tripod mount on top. The camera kind of settles into the bag.

 

This is a typical result:

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!

[algrove]

Lovely shot Jaap. It has a 3D look to it. M9 or R9?

[jaapv]

Advertisement (gone after registration)

DMR + Vario Elmar + beanbag in bad light.. Thanks

[michali]

I agree with Jaap about the bean bag. I don't take a tripod on safari with me. For over 30 years I've used a bean bag placed under the lens. I've found that a bean bag filled with Lavazza or Illy coffee beans works the best, the smell of the coffee beans is a real added bonus on those early morning outings! Seriously!

 

Here's a shot with the V/E 105-280 hand held, taken from a boat at sunset with a Sony α 850.

 

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!

[algrove]

I agree with Jaap about the bean bag. I don't take a tripod on safari with me. For over 30 years I've used a bean bag placed under the lens. I've found that a bean bag filled with Lavazza or Illy coffee beans works the best, the smell of the coffee beans is a real added bonus on those early morning outings! Seriously!

 

Here’s a shot with the V/E 105-280 hand held, taken from a boat at sunset with a Sony α 850.

 

Thanks for the coffee bean suggestion. But I want to know if it works even better with a bit of chicory mixed in between the coffee beans?

[michali]

Thanks for the coffee bean suggestion. But I want to know if it works even better with a bit of chicory mixed in between the coffee beans?

 

Nope, just 100% pure Arabica Coffee Beans!

[k-hawinkler]

Nope, just 100% pure Arabica Coffee Beans!

 

Roasted?

[k_g_wolf ✝]

Yes, most others decay and smell differently.

 

 

Best

GEORG