I shipped both of my cameras and all my lenses in to Nikon for cleaning and calibration yesterday.
And because I didn't want to be without a camera, I rented one.
A Canon 7D and a Canon 50mm f1.2.
Yes, Canon.
And I guess it doesn't matter that I shot Canon for over 10 years prior to the last three years of shooting Nikon...because I couldn't take a good shot with it to save my soul. (Granted, it just arrived this evening and I only had about 20 minutes to shoot with it while simultaneously trying to read the camera manual and referee an ongoing argument between my kids.)
And trust me, it has nothing to do with the camera (It's a lovely camera.) and everything to do with the person operating it.
I feel like I'm all thumbs.
Like I don't even know how to shoot.
And no, I'm not switching back to Canon. I just wanted some time to familiarize myself with the Canon 7D since it's a camera that I recommend so frequently to my Canon-shooting students.
And besides, switching camera brands (again) is considered grounds for divorce in my house.
So it looks like I'm a Nikon-girl for life.
And if you're reading this Josh Downs...I promise to send back the Canon (after I've loved on it for awhile.)
That reminds me...I need to get my cameras cleaned and calibrated before the wedding season starts! I bet you get used to your 'new' camera in next to no time...but maybe not too used to it for the sake of your marriage! Have fun!
Posted by: Jack | January 25, 2012 at 09:20 PM
Have fun playing with that 7D! You will get the hang of it in no time :)
Posted by: Aurora | January 25, 2012 at 09:28 PM
I love renting equipment! I think I might be getting addicted to it. lol Who do you rent though? I have been having great luck with Borrow Lenses. I am hoping to someday be quick enough to get a seat in your photography class! For right now I will just keep playing and reading my manual on my new D7000.
Posted by: Kay Drenth | January 25, 2012 at 09:42 PM
What are you talking about. That shot looks great. Oh and you're funny!
Posted by: Mel | January 26, 2012 at 01:46 AM
Lol if you have a question pick up the phone and call I have read the Manuel and most of the time I can getbit figured out. Now if I could just nail focus! Love you Karen Russell
Posted by: Bonnie garcia | January 26, 2012 at 04:14 AM
I don't mean to start a long debate about canon vs nikon, but I can't help but wonder if there are more green undertones in the canon images. I shoot with canon and I struggle so much with skin tones! It's driving me nuts! It seems to me that my favorite nikon shooters have much softwr and creamier skin tones. If you have time to weigh in on that, I would greatly appreciate it!
Posted by: Vera | January 26, 2012 at 04:46 AM
I love my Canon, and although it's not 'professional', it makes me happy when i am able to shoot. And thanks to you, I do that more and more!
Posted by: Tera | January 26, 2012 at 06:12 AM
I can't wait to ready your review. I'm still with my 50D, but I'm sure in the next few years I'll be needing a new camera. But then I guess by then there will be something new out.
Posted by: Kelli | January 26, 2012 at 08:12 AM
I bought the Canon Rebel xsi, but after seeing and shooting Nikon that 2 of my friends have, I have complete camera envy. I think the Nikon focuses and shoots faster, plus the video option and the extreme ISO I've seen really makes me want to change... but it could lead to divorce in my house too. :) (well, not really, but at least counselling!)
Posted by: Yvonne | January 26, 2012 at 09:28 AM
Karen, why did you feel the need to ship everything back for cleaning and calibration? Was the focus falling off from the focus point you had selected? Did you do any special tests? I do remember the D700 flying off the car story! Just curious...had mine for over 2 yrs now and wondering if the focus is a little off lately on mine too. Thanks!
Posted by: Jen S | January 26, 2012 at 09:52 AM
Thank you for sharing your amazing idea of renting when the main camera is in the shop.
Thank you for that!!
Posted by: Miz Boo | January 26, 2012 at 10:52 AM
Karen, I think my canon needs the same TLC. Does canon offer those services as well or where is a good place to send it? I don't have a local camera shop near me. Thanks!!
Posted by: Tracy | January 26, 2012 at 11:46 AM
Interested to hear your thoughts on the 7D~ that's the camera on my wish list...
Posted by: Rachelle S | January 26, 2012 at 04:41 PM
You make me laugh......go the 7D and 50mm f1.2 ... good to get skilled up for all those hungry Canon user students... Regards Kathy A, Brisbane, Australia
Posted by: Kathy | January 26, 2012 at 05:28 PM
I have the Canon 7d...it was my 15th anniversary gift from my hubs. I love it, or I would if I had ANY CLUE how to use it to take a picture on any setting aside from automatic. I even took a basic photography class, but it wasn't basic enough for me! ;)
Posted by: Kellie | January 26, 2012 at 06:56 PM
Hi Karen, I am considering the 7D since you have recommended it to your students, so I'm hoping you'll post some of the things you like about it.
Posted by: audrey | January 27, 2012 at 07:36 AM
http://happyhomefairy.com/2012/01/27/photo-valentine-ideas-for-happy-buddies/
Karen, Check out this blog for cute Valentine scripture cards-so fun for lunchboxes, etc-and the work is all done for you!!!
Posted by: Christina | January 28, 2012 at 11:27 AM
If my fantastic photos could be 1 tenth of your all thumbs ones I'd be ever so grateful.
Me, Fran - 'a facebook user' lol
Posted by: A Facebook User | February 05, 2012 at 08:25 PM