Testing out new Nikon AFS 85mm F/1.4 Lens

Posted by KhoKing on Friday Mar 9, 2012 Under Family, Photography

Nikon 85mm f1.4 lens is often referred to as the “Portrait Lens”. An ultimate lens for whoever wants to do best portrait shots.

But…is it truly needed? Can you actually shoot at F1.4?

Having the chance to test out the AFS 85mm F1.4 lens today, so I did some family shots. What can be more meaningful taking your own family member’s shots than others? :P

The purpose of owning a 85mm F1.4 lens is to use the F1.4 aperture, instead of stopping down to F2.8 or F4 or even F5.6…but of course a faster lens does help brighten up the viewfinder of your camera, making shooting more fun.

So…I did some shots with aperture set at F1.4, just to test out how sharp the lens is…and how possible it is to use such shallow aperture in portrait shots.

This is one of the shot that I took. Focus is on Lydia’s eye on the left.

This is 100% crop.

To be frank, I am surprised by the sharpness the lens produced, and of course thanks to the D3S great focus module that is able to keep the subject in focus!

I have owned and tried several others Nikon 85mm lens. Eg. AFD 85mm F1.4, AFD 85mm F1.8, AIS 85mm F1.4, AIS 85mm F2. I have sold them all, as I find the those lenses were too long when use on 1.5x cropped sensor, and is very difficult to keep up with the focus / sharpness in actual shot.

Focused on Emmanuel’s eye on the right, but as he kept moving…so is a bit hard to shoot. Anyhow, the camera and lens still able to freeze the motion.

Another shot with Megumi doing her homework.

Thanks to the AFS motor (Silent Wave), the lens focus fast, silent and accurately on my D3S. I have to mention D3S here as different camera will have different AF performance. Also, on D3S, the true 85mm focal length is materialized, and a true KING of portrait lens is shown.

Though just a brief testing with the lens, I must say I am impressed. My thought of 85mm F1.4 impossible to use has now changed, and I shall enjoy shooting more at F1.4 if I owned this lens in future. :)

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Nikon D800 Sample Photos

Posted by KhoKing on Tuesday Feb 14, 2012 Under Photography

Below are from Nikon website.

  • これらの画像データは、サンプル品で撮影したものです。
  • これらの画像データの著作権は株式会社ニコンに帰属します。
撮影カメラ
D800
シャッタースピード
1 秒
絞り値
f/8
焦点距離
15mm
測光モード
マルチパターン測光
撮影モード
マニュアル
撮像感度
ISO 100
ホワイトバランス
色温度 (5,000 K)
ピクチャーコントロール
スタンダード
画質モード
RAW (14-bit)
レンズ
AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED

撮影カメラ:D800
シャッタースピード:1 秒
絞り値:f/8
焦点距離:15mm
測光モード:マルチパターン測光
撮影モード:マニュアル
撮像感度:ISO 100
ホワイトバランス:色温度 (5,000 K)
ピクチャーコントロール:スタンダード
画質モード:RAW (14-bit)
レンズ:AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED

詳細情報の表示:
ONOFF
©: Benjamin Antony Monn
撮影カメラ
D800
シャッタースピード
1/200 秒
絞り値
f/4.5
焦点距離
160mm
測光モード
マルチパターン測光
撮影モード
マニュアル
撮像感度
ISO 640
ホワイトバランス
オート2
ピクチャーコントロール
「スタンダード」で撮影後、Capture NX 2で「ポートレート」に変換
画質モード
RAW (14-bit)
レンズ
AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II

撮影カメラ:D800
シャッタースピード:1/200 秒
絞り値:f/4.5
焦点距離:160mm
測光モード:マルチパターン測光
撮影モード:マニュアル
撮像感度:ISO 640
ホワイトバランス:オート2
ピクチャーコントロール:「スタンダード」で撮影後、Capture NX 2で「ポートレート」に変換
画質モード:RAW (14-bit)
レンズ:AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II

詳細情報の表示:
ONOFF
©: Cliff Mautner
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The cheapest (read low price) lens for your D3s!

Posted by KhoKing on Sunday Feb 12, 2012 Under Photography

The cheapest Nikon lens that you can get for your D3s…

While not a bit down grading the quality of your D3s.

Sharp, sharp, SHARP!

This lens by no mean is of cheapo built. For me it is solid, with metal rear mount. Of course, the use of plastic, but that makes the lens light and of course cut down the production cost hence consumer is able to enjoy such great lens at great price!

Nikon 50mm f/1.8D AF Nikkor Autofocus Lens

Nikon 50mm f/1.8D AF Nikkor Autofocus Lens

Used to be made in Japan during the old days…the one mounted on my D3s is the Made in Japan version, but is the AF none-D version. What is D? It is actually an extra technology Nikon embedded in the lens, to be able to give the Distance information to your camera, hence able to do 3D-Matrix Metering, and is said to be able to give more accurate result in exposure to your photo.

Nikon has recently released a new version of the 50mm F1.8 Lens, the AF-S version, which built in silent wave motor, making it compatible with entry entry level DSLRs (D3000, D3100, D5000, D5100…etc.).

Nikon 50mm f/1.8G AF-S Nikkor Lens

Nikon 50mm f/1.8G AF-S Nikkor Lens

Price? Almost double of the AFD version, what a pity. Reviews said that the AFS version is able to produce a better bokeh quality. Built quality does feel better than the AFD version.

If you don’t have any 50mm lens yet, go ahead and get one! Get and USE it!

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Searched up and down…in and out…some said can use, some said cannot.

I gave up…reading.

Went and took out a  Jobo SD/SDHC/SDxC to CF card Type II Adapter to try for myself on the D3s. No, cannot fit. The Type II adapter is just half a mm too thick. There is no way you are going to be able to insert a Type II card into a Type I slot.

http://shashinki.com/shop/images/JOBO-SDCF.jpg

Piled open the  Jobo SD/SDHC/SDxC to CF card Type II Adapter, figured out if I can throw away the casing, there might be chance that I will still be able to insert the adapter into the D3s Type I slot.

After some careful surgery on the Jobo, it is now naked. I slot in a Sandisk SDHC memory card into the Jobo adapter, then carefully insert it into my D3s. It is a try an error process, as without the CF rails at the side, you can’t really tell if you have inserted the card correctly into the PINSsssss of the CF slot in the camera. Warning! If you accidentally bent or broken the CF pins inside the camera, it is going to cost you $$$ to get it repaired! I figured out that since D3s has TWO CF slots, so I can just risk one slot for my experiment. :P

After some effort, I was able to insert the Jobo adapter into the D3s. Yes, it works! D3s can immediately detect and read the SDHC card in the Jobo adapter. Shooting is fine as well, all photos are recorded perfectly onto the card.

Now it comes to the main purpose of the experiment. Getting Eye-Fi to work on my D3s!

This is actually the easier part, as there is no modification required on the Eye-Fi. Just slot in the Eye-Fi to the Jobo naked adapter, then carefully insert it to the D3s, and done.

But…before that, you need to actually setup the Eye-Fi on your computer. It is an easy process as well. Just plug in the Eye-Fi card to your computer with a supplied USB adapter, and the software inside the Eye-Fi will prompt you for installation. Just follow the screen instructions and you are done.

Now…does Eye-Fi works? Yes, it does! In fact is works like wonders!

This is how the Eye-Fi Center software looks like. No, you don’t need it as a photo sorter or whatever, just use it to configure the setting of your Eye-Fi.

The Eye-Fi card that I used is the best version from Eye-Fi:  Eye-Fi 8GB Pro X2 SDHC Memory Card

http://shashinki.com/shop/images/EF-PROX2-8GB.jpg

With the capability of transferring RAW file, and some other advanced features. (read comparison at Eye-Fi website: http://www.eye.fi/products/compare-cards)

In short, as a summary, Eye-Fi + Naked Jobu SD/CF Adapter, works like wonders! Transfer speed is amazingly fast via home wireless network! A 3-4MB Jpeg file is transferred within 5 seconds. RAW file is less than 10 seconds. I am impressed! I saved lots of my time for product shots, without having to pull out the memory card, plug into my card reader, then computer, then copy to my computer, then only I can edit. See how many steps and time it saves!

For those who do studio works, I can imagine Eye-Fi being a real helper in your studio work!

A note on D3 / D3s user. Make sure you set your D3s “Auto Meter Off Delay” to 1 minute or longer. Default is 6s. The reason is because after shooting, Eye-Fi needs the camera to provide it powers to transmit the files via home wireless network to your computer.

For Android or iPhone user, you can download Eye-Fi app from the market. Installed to your phone, configure it and you can then have Eye-Fi sending images to your phone while shooting! (You need to enable WiFi on your phone to connect to Eye-Fi wireless network).

It works! It works like wonders! Amazing product, amazing technology. I am impressed. :)

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My Armor for the D3s…

Posted by KhoKing on Monday Feb 6, 2012 Under Photography

A few things that I added immediately to my new toy are:

1. Hand strap

I get so frustrated with the normal strap recently, it always got in the way between my eye and the viewfinder, where I have to adjust here and there or push it aside during shooting. I don’t put strap over my shoulder or neck that often nowadays, as I prefer to either carry it on my hand, or put it inside my shoulder bag.

So, I took out a Matin Hand Strap that I used to use on my D700, and lug it back to my new toy D3s.

Matin Hand Grip "CREPIS" (Dark Brown) with Self-Standing Stand! (Genuine Cow Leather, Made in Korea!)

Matin Hand Grip "CREPIS" (Dark Brown) with Self-Standing Stand! (Genuine Cow Leather, Made in Korea!)

This is a very high quality hand grip from Matin, made in Korea. Genuine leather, self standing stand, soft and durable. Did I mentioned it smells good too! (yeah when still new, the leather smell)

This is how you hold the camera with the hand grip on.

See, even if you open wide your hand, the camera still secure.

I don’t use the self-standing bottom as in the picture above, as I need an Arcas Swiss plate on my camera body bottom in order to mount my camera on the Photo Clam ballhead that I often use.

PhotoClam has a dedicated plate for Nikon D3, D3s and D3x. A perfect fit specially made based on the bottom contour of the D3 series. Will not move an mm after mounted.  You an use it as a protection to your camera bottom also, worry-free of scratching your camera bottom.

The other good thing about the Photo Clam plate is that it comes with a dovetail at both ends of the plate.

Photo Clam PC-D3-UP for Nikon D3, D3x, D3s DSLR Cameras

Photo Clam PC-D3-UP for Nikon D3, D3x, D3s DSLR Cameras

With the dovetail, you can put strap over it and in my case, I can get rid of the Matin self-standing bottom and put the hand grip strap directly over the dovetail.

The tripod I use often is the Jusino AX-254C Carbon Fibre Series 4 sections tripod. I like the little RED add-on to the tripod, so I choose the Red colour model.

Jusino AX-254 Ruby Red Professional Traveller Series 4-Sections Tripod (Max Load 12kg)

Jusino AX-254 Ruby Red Professional Traveller Series 4-Sections Tripod (Max Load 12kg)

The ballhead I use is not Jusino, but Photo Clam PC-33NS.

Photo Clam Professional Ballhead PC-33NS with Spirit Level (Black) (Maximum Load 30kg) (Free Jusino QR Plate!)

Photo Clam Professional Ballhead PC-33NS with Spirit Level (Black) (Maximum Load 30kg) (Free Jusino QR Plate!)

Photo Clam ballhead PC-33NS above can withstand 30kg load. I have a video demoing the performance of the ballhead and tripod holding a Nikon 300mm F/2.8 Lens.

This is how it looks after being setup.

Ok, that’s TWO things I put on the D3s immediately.

(In case you wonder how can a Canon white lens be mounted on a Nikon body? No that is not a Canon lens but Nikon limited edition Nikkor AF-S 28-70mm F/2.8 White / Grey Colour lens.)

A tip on using hand grip, or should I say my personnel preference. DO NOT TIE THE STRAP TOO TIGHT! Putting the strap too tight will restrict the movement of your fingers and palm, end up uncomfortable and hard to maneuver your fingers to access the buttons on your camera. This was what I did and I end up putting the strap in my drawer than using it.

Let it loose, so that you hand and move freely and easily. The strap is supposed to help you grab your camera firmer, or give you more confident in holding your camera with just one hand.

I thought about a screen protector…or should I said THREE (one on top, one at back main LCD, and one at back lower smaller LCD). I later decided not to, as I don’t like to reduce the clearance of the LCD with something sticking over it. A camera is bought to use, not to keep. I am not going to keep the screens in perfect prestige condition for the next buyer.

Don’t buy a camera with mind thinking that you are going to sell it off later.

 

Tags : | 3 comments

Playing with a Nikon D3s

Posted by KhoKing on Sunday Feb 5, 2012 Under Photography

Have the chance to try out a Nikon D3s recently. I have been a Nikon user for over 10 years, since the film era. My thought is that Nikon always put the best in their flagship model, and in this case, the Nikon D3s is the Nikon current flagship model available in the market.

Many has said that Nikon D700 is the little brother to Nikon D3s (or D3), and many said that Nikon D700 is same as Nikon D3 in terms of performance, with the advantage of a smaller body. I own a Nikon D700, and I thought the same as well (that I don’t need a D3s).

How wrong I was…until I tried out the Nikon D3s…

(Update: I am now the owner of the D3s…)

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I can touch the sky…reach the sun…

Posted by KhoKing on Monday Jul 18, 2011 Under Photography

Took this a few weeks back at my backyard…

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We have been advertising in HWM for more than a year. One of the most popular IT magazine in Malaysia.

May 2011 coverage.

There is an interview conducted by HWM to me (Dr. Koh) in this month issue as well. For those who want to know a little bit more about ShaShinKi…feel free to click the picture below. :)

:)

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ShaShinKi & Jusino Tripod in Digital Camera Magazine (May 2011)

Posted by KhoKing on Saturday May 21, 2011 Under Photography

In the past few years we have been advertising in Digital Camera Magazine every month.

This month issue…May 2011.

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My New Toys! Yup…more than 1… :P

Posted by KhoKing on Sunday Apr 24, 2011 Under Photography

Got some new toys for myself recently…was planning for a holiday this year, so have to upgrade my already very old Nikon D200. (Many was surprised that I am still using Nikon D200…hahaa…it is still a great camera.)

So…what did I get? Not many actually, but some items which I have wanted.

Nikon D700, D300s or D7000?

Yes, I have wanted a full frame DSLRs. I have wanted a Nikon D3s, in fact my wife have already ordered one from Nikon Malaysia for me, but later I decided not to take it (out of the box). RM15k for a DSLR is too much for me, since I am only shooting for fun and most are just family shots. I told my wife that I want D4 when it comes out later.

However, oversea holiday has pushed me to consider upgrading my Nikon D200. High ISO performance of Nikon D200 is quite disappointing. Anything at ISO800 or above is NOT usable in my opinion. Not just because of noise but the colour cast.

Now the choice is Nikon D700 (FX), D300s (DX) or D7000 (DX). I want video actually, as I find it convenient and good to have from time to time. Too bad D700 is without this feature. I definitely prefer D300s more than the D7000, as I like bigger size camera and I feel that D300s response faster than D7000 in terms of AF and focus lock accuracy. It is OK if you disagreed. :)

Now I have a “PROBLEM”. One of my beloved lens, the WHITE AFS 28-70mm F/2.8 is a full frame lens and in order to use this lens effectively, it should be used in FULL FRAME mode. 28-70mm zoom is a very common and convenient range in full frame, but in DX mode, it becomes 42-105mm. Not wide enough for sure and will need another lens to back it up. I am not saying that the 28-70mm lens performs poorly in DX mode, but the useful focal length should be 28-70mm instead of 42-105mm.

Because of the above, my preference is more towards D700.

Few days ago, a dealer friend called me and asked about changing system from Nikon to Canon (not me, but he wanted to change). To cut the story short, he wanted to sell off his D700…etc. I told him about my intention of getting a D700, so he said why not get his? Shutter count is less than 15k (D700 can last for 150k), condition is near new. The timing is perfect for me, so I accepted the deal and he posted his entire Nikon set to me few days later.

So…the toy is finally revealed. A Nikon D700. :)

As can be seen in the picture, condition is satisfying. Of course as an used item, there are some used mark on the camera for sure, but nothing major. I tested the camera, checked and cleaned with damp cloth. I am happy with the purchase. :)

You can see the above a Nikon 60mm lens. Ok, let’s take a clearly look from another angle…

Nikon AFD 60mm F/2.8 Micro

It is the AFD 60mm F/2.8 macro lens. Yes, the D version. :) This lens has been my favorite lens for all purpose shots. I have used it a lot since my film day, and WOW by the sharpness and contrast that produced by the lens! If you want the best Nikon lens, try this. You won’t be disappointed! I am glad to have it once again at a good price (no, not from the dealer friend but from another seller). Condition is around 80% new, but the important part is that the glass is clean and clear.

Matin Hand Grip “CREPIS”

Did you notice something on the handgrip?

Yes, that’s the Matin Hand Grip “CREPIS”. Very elegantly made, very good cow leather material, made in Korea. There are black and dark brown colour available, and I chose the dark brown version for my own use.

Why hand grip? I makes holding the camera much more easier, especially when you are using a heavy setup. Yeah, D700 is heavy.

The added extra benefit of the Matin Hand Grip “CREPIS” is the foot stand at the bottom. In many occasion when I want to put my camera onto a table or floor, I have to tilt my camera tilt and the lens front is touching the ground. This causes the lens front or hood to get in contact with the ground and can be scratched easily. With the self-standing foot from the Matin Hand Grip “CREPIS”, the camera can stand on its own even with the AFS 28-70mm f/2.8 heavy lens.

Phottix BP-D700 Battery Grip

I have big hands, so I prefer to have a battery grip on my camera to make holding firmer. I didn’t add one to my D200 as a third party grip was not available by then (5 years ago). Now, great quality near to original battery grip can be bought at less than half the price of the original, so I put one onto my D700. Yes, it is the Phottix BP-D700 battery grip.

The good thing about the battery grip is that there is an extra shutter release on the battery grip, and there is a Nintendo pad on the battery grip too for easy navigation of the focus point or menu selection. As compared to the bigger Nintendo pad on the camera body, the small pad is much easier to navigate! Try it and you will know what I mean.

There are some other toys but I haven’t decided if I want to keep them or sell them off. The above are keepers for the time-being. :)

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My friend called me just now…saying why on newspaper didn’t invite him…hahaa…

Humbly yours…

This is the first time I am on newspaper. Glad that it comes out quite satisfactory, thanks to Sin Chew Jit Poh, Sin Chew Plus editor, Mr. Lee Yoke Loong (李昱龍). The interview was conducted in KL a week + ago, I am glad that Mr. Lee has the article ready in such a short period.

Sin Chew Jit Poh, date 20th April 2011 (Wednesday)

Me on the cover of Sin Chew Plus…

The inner page.

Thanks!

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Fujifilm FinePix X100

Posted by KhoKing on Tuesday Mar 8, 2011 Under Photography

A very sexy camera that many are now waiting for the release of it…

It won’t be cheap to many…estimated to be RM3k to RM5k…so many more expensive than the average P&S digicam. However, if compared to Leica X1 (RM7k), this Fujifilm becomes a bargain.

Going to release in April 2011 in Malaysia. Do check out!

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Samyang announces 8mm F3.5 Fish-eye for Sony NEX-VG10

Posted by KhoKing on Saturday Mar 5, 2011 Under Photography

Samyang, an emerging company in the photography world, has made its way into many photographer’s pocket with its low price yet sturdy construction and high performance of its manual focus lenses!

There are so many online reviews showing the great performance of Samyang 14mm, 85mm and even 8mm fisheye lenses!

Samyang, a Korean company, once again creates its own way, different from the others…introducing another new lens!

Samyang announces 8mm F3.5 Fish-eye for Sony NEX-VG10

Kraków, February 28 2011 – Delta company, the sole distributor of Samyang Optics for Poland and Europe, wishes to inform about the release of the manual Samyang 8mm f/3.5 FISH-EYE CS VG10 lens. The new lens comes with the bayonet mount and has been designed especially for Sony NEX-VG10 digital camcorder.

Due to its unique construction, the bayonet mount has been adjusted to ensure possibly wide field of vision without producing the vignetting effect. Just like in other lenses manufactured for filming purposes, aperture can be easily and smoothly adjusted.

New Samyang 8mm f/3.5 FISH-EYE CS VG10 lens will be officially introduced during the forthcoming Focus on Imaging fairs held in Birmingham. Exact date of the release as well as the product’s retail price will be given later.

Samyang lenses are available @ ShaShinKi

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Short Review on Canon EF-S 18-200mm IS Lens

Posted by KhoKing on Saturday Mar 5, 2011 Under Photography

It has been a long time that I did not write any product review…or lens review.

Since it is Saturday today, and feeling quite relaxing…hence I decided to take out my Canon EF-S 18-200mm IS lens and give is a spin at my home compound (not yet a garden…).

Camera used was Canon EOS 50D. Personally I find Canon photos to be colder temperature than Nikon, which looks to me more bluish in Canon than yellowish in Nikon (warmer). No good or bad, depending on one’s preference.

Built Quality

Not exceptional, or should I just say it is ordinary plastic built. It does feel quite solid in hand though. When extending, it becomes quite long.

Image Stalizer

It works very well. When pressing the shutter release half way to auto focus on the camera, IS kicks in. If you did not AF, I believe IS is at rest, as I can see image from the viewfinder starts jumping. IS is not on continuous mode as to save battery life I believe. Anyhow, we only need IS when shooting. Below shot is taken with IS on.

Another shot, which I decided to go lower angle and shoot.

Sharpness

The lens is sharp. I am surprised by the detail it delivers with such a long superzoom. I used to have bad thought on superzoom, but this Canon EFS 18-200mm IS proves that superzoom can deliver decent photos too! Click on the photos above and you can see details of the grass well. Focus is pin sharp without front or back focus on the lens that I owned. Check out the photo below too! Focus was on the flower on the right.

Minimum Focusing Distance

I am really surprised on how CLOSE this lens can go! On specs it wrote 45cm. During the short brief test, I can go very close even at 200mm! As per shot above and below, the flowers are just right in front of me!

Bokeh

I think this is where the lens shaded…not really beautiful smooth bokeh. A bit distracting in fact.

Focusing Speed

Two words: Lightning fast!

You really need to test out the lens yourself to see how fast it focuses! When shooting the photo above, by focusing back fence (infinity) and front flower (close to minimum focusing distance of 45cm), then lens can immediately snap into focus in LIGHTNING FAST speed! No hunting! No delay! Canon is by no doubt one of (if not the KING) the fastest focusing system in the world!

Conclusion


Nikon has introduced their first superzoom (AFS 18-200mm VR) many years back, as was such a big hit in the market back then (Many sellers sell at Ebay at much higher than Nikon SRP due to shortage of the lens and too high demand!).

Canon has finally come out with a superzoom. Not very popular among photographers or Canon users, maybe not many have tried or tested it. As a superzoom from 18mm till 200mm, it is an ideal lens for traveling. Focusing is super fast, images produced are sharp. A bit lack down is on the BOKEH part.

RECOMMENDED

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ShaShinKi™

Posted by KhoKing on Saturday Mar 5, 2011 Under Photography

Yes, we have trademarked our brand:

ShaShinKi

This is our continuously commitment to our customers to show and prove of our seriousness in the business, in building up our brand and reputation in the photographic industry.

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New Staff…More Products!

Posted by KhoKing on Wednesday Mar 2, 2011 Under Photography

Finally…got a new staff at ShaShinKi to assist in uploading all the latest and hottest gadgets in the photography world at no time to our online shop (www.shashinki.com)!

http://shashinki.com/logo/shashinki-shop-logo.gif

With daily work become busier and busier, it is hard for me alone to keep up with all the new released of cameras and accessories by manufacturers around the world. Now that we have a dedicated staff for the job, you can be sure that we will be able to offer you with more items that will excite you always!

Check out:

http://shashinki.com/shop/products_new.php

More than 5300 active products online and growing! :)

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ShaShinKi Product Image “Available Soon”

Posted by KhoKing on Tuesday Mar 1, 2011 Under Computer / IT, Photography

Some ShaShinKi products we couldn’t get the images in time, but have to upload the product immediately. Hence the temporary image below.

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ShaShinKi November and December 2010 Photo Contest Winner Photos were published in Feb 2011 Hardware Magazine (Malaysia)!

Magazine Cover

kkk_5411.JPG

The Contest Winner’s Photos! November 2010 and December 2010!

November 2010 – Theme (Light)
Winner: CHAN KIN SENG
Prize: Jusino Professional Tripod – LS-253 Titan Series Model + BT01 Ballhead

December 2010 – Theme (Bokeh)
Winner: Tan Hock Soon
Prize: Jusino Professional Tripod – LS-254 Titan Series Model + BT01 Ballhead

kkk_5412.JPG

ShaShinKi Jusino Ads and Black Rapid New Products Coverage

kkk_5413.JPG

Tags : | 2 comments

A gift? A lens? A GREAT WHITE LENS!

Posted by KhoKing on Friday Dec 17, 2010 Under Photography

Got this as a gift from one of my customer, or should I call it a donation?

nikonafzm2870mmf28difedgray.jpg

A customer asked me to help selling his Nikon AFS 28-70mm F/2.8 Lens, a rare WHITE or Grey colour version. He has not been using the lens for years, hence condition unknown.

Upon receiving his lens, I tested it myself. Sadly, some problems with the lens. The AFS motor seems to be of faulty. Focusing ring and zoom ring seems to be stuck. Still can use the lens in manual focus, but that is such a waste. After discussing with the customer, we agreed to send the lens to Nikon Malaysia for a check.

Few days later, Nikon Malaysia came back to me with a quote. AFS motor is faulty and the main circuit board is faulty as well. Those two things required full replacement. The cost of repairing the lens is as much if not more than what a black version of the lens would have worth in the used market. So I consulted my customer on that issue and he decided not to go for the repair. Taking the lens back from Nikon Malaysia we will still have to pay for the checking fee and postage, hence my customer decided to just DONATE the lens to me if I want to pursue with the repair myself. After some considerations, I decided to just go ahead and repair the lens and keep the lens for my own use after the repair. External and glass condition of the lens is actually near new or like new. It is such a pity if the lens is put to sleep or dissembled as part just like that.

Updated with some photos of my actual lens

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Just a snap shot to see the focus accuracy and sharpness as well as bokeh of the lens.

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It took Nikon Malaysia quite some time (1 month +) to get the lens done. Parts have to be imported from Japan so it is an expected duration. In fact, I would say the repair is quite fast already. I just received the lens back few days ago from Nikon Malaysia and after testing it on my Nikon D200 (yeah…I am still using this antic camera) the performance is really refreshing! Focusing is fast and silent! Everything works out well and picture is sharp and contrasty! I finally have a good lens myself…can now retired my faithful Tamron SP 17-50mm F2.8 lens (it has gone through snow, wind, sand, sea, mountain, farm…).

If you want to read more about this lens, please click the link below:

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MAHA POWEREX 2010 Christmas & New Year Sales!

Posted by KhoKing on Wednesday Dec 8, 2010 Under Computer / IT, Photography

 

MAHA POWEREX

2010 Christmas & New Year Sales! Free Bag or Maha Imedion 2400 (4AAI240BH) Batteries!

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Free Gift/s comes with the following Promotional package/s till 31st Jan 2011 or while stock last only!

  • C204W (Free bag)
  • C401FS (Free bag)
  • C9000 (Free bag) (Free 4pcs Imedion 2400 batteries! Worth RM58!)
  • C801D (Free bag) (Free 4pcs Imedion 2400 batteries! Worth RM58!)
  • C800S (Free bag) (Free 4pcs Imedion 2400 batteries! Worth RM58!)
  • C808M (Free 2 x MH-4AAI240BH)
  • C204W + 8AA of Maha PoweREx 2700 or 8AA of Imedion 2400 (Free bag) (Free 4pcs Imedion 2400 batteries! Worth RM58!)
  • C401FS + 8AA of Maha PoweREx 2700 or 8AA of Imedion 2400 (Free bag) (Free 4pcs Imedion 2400 batteries! Worth RM58!)

Purchase at:

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Don’t Under Estimate me…Jusino AX-255 + BH-02

Posted by KhoKing on Saturday Nov 20, 2010 Under Photography

I might look small…I priced low…but don’t under estimate me!

I am STRONG!

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ShaShinKi Photo Competition – November 2010 (Theme: Light!)

Posted by KhoKing on Tuesday Nov 2, 2010 Under Photography

ShaShinKi Photo Competition – November 2010 (Theme: Light!)

Theme:

  • Light! 

(Show the impact & power of Light! It can be artificial light from flash, real sunlight, moonlight, torchlight…etc.!)

Prize:

Jusino LS-253 Professional Titan Quick Lock Series 3-Sections Tripod (Max Load 12kg) with BT-01 Professional Ballhead with Arca Swiss Quick Release System (QR Plate Included) (Max Load 8kg)

Important Dates:

  • Submission: Now – 20th November 2010 (11.59pm Google Gmail Malaysia Time)
  • Voting: 25th – 30th Nov 2010
  • Winner Announcement: 1st – 7th Dec 2010 @

   http://www.facebook.com/shashinki

Guidelines:

  • File Format / Size: Jpeg Only, File size: 200kb to 1MB (minimum 1000px on the width)
  • Subject of the Email must be:

ShaShinKi Photo Contest – NOV 2010 – YOUR NAME

  • Email your entry to sskcontest@gmail.com. One photographer is allowed only one entry per contest per theme per month.
  • Do not include a watermark in your image, this is to ensure unbiased voting later on.
  • No borders/frames are allowed.
  • Winner must submit Original FULL Resolution File to claim winning prize.
  • Photographer must type “Agree to ShaShinKi Photo Competition Terms and Conditions” when submitting / emailing the photo to the contest. Without the above phrase, entry will be disqualified. Please read ShaShinKi Photo Competition Terms and Conditions at:

   http://www.facebook.com/notes/shashinki/shashinki-photo-competitions-terms-and-conditions/16461909356120

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Nikon D3s or wait?

Posted by KhoKing on Tuesday Oct 26, 2010 Under Photography

If I took the D3s now…I won’t be able to afford the upgrade when D4 comes out (rumors said summer 2011). I am using D200 now, which I use it very roughly and sparingly.

Hmm…should I wait?

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There is a D3s sitting on the rack waiving me to take it out…do I need higher megapixel? 1080i HD video? Hmm…

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Available at:
http://shashinki.com/shop/photo-clam-korea-m-154.html

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Jusino Tripod Height comparison – AX-253 and AX-284

Posted by KhoKing on Saturday Oct 9, 2010 Under Photography

Jusino AX-253 Professional Traveller Series 3-Sections Tripod (Max Load 12kg) with BT-02 Professional Ballhead with Arca Swiss Quick Release System (QR Plate Included) (Max Load 15kg)

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Yours truly with the AX-284 model.

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JJC PD-3 Softbox on Canon EX 430 II Speedlite

Posted by KhoKing on Saturday Oct 9, 2010 Under Photography

A portable softbox for speedlight!

First step, put on the HOLDER. It comes with velcro (spring type). No glue, no gum!

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Front few after the attachment of the holder. See the reflector inner silver surface that helps to concentrate and bounce the light.

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Attached the Softbox to the Holder via velcro. Again, no glue, no gum.

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Another view. Basically, you are ready to FLASH!

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Available at:

http://shashinki.com/shop/universal-flash-softbox-external-speedlight-flash-p-6223.html

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Shop Front Page Update @ ShaShinKi

Posted by KhoKing on Sunday Sep 12, 2010 Under Photography

Got some free time during this Raya holiday, so managed to do some clean up @ ShaShinKi store.

There are 3 major update that you will see on the shop front page, and several minor ones (for you to discover).

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Clean Up 1 – Search Box @ Header

I have wanted this for a long time, finally able to do the codes and make the move. The old search box is at the upper right column, which has now been removed as I want to make the right column shorter with less items there.

Clean Up 2 – Top Menu

This should be a minor one, just doing some cleaning and tidying work. Not perfect yet until I figured out what to do next.

Clean Up 3 – Used Corner

ShaShinKi Used Corner is getting hotter and hotter, so I figured it would be good to put a dedicated BOX to promote our USED Corner so that it gives more exposure and better visibility to the products that YOU consigned with us.

There are some other cleaning work that has been done like tidying up pages, changing some colours of tables…etc. One that worth mention is the Shopping Guides at ShaShinKi, which has been updated with our latest look and design.

Thank you for dropping by and we hope these minor updates can make your shopping experience @ ShaShinKi a better one! :)

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 ShaShinKi Appointed as

 

Official Distributor of Jusino Professional Tripod
 Jusino Tripod

Jusino professional tripod and support system are manufactured by Zhongshan Baoyi Plastic & Metal Products Factory, founded in November 1999. Specialize on producing metal products, Zhongshan Baoyi obtains good reputation in home country China and international markets for its high quality and competitive price. Since 2002, Zhongshan Baoyi has been OEMed products for many countries including United States, Korea, Japan and Asia countries.Zhongshan BaoYi Photo Enterprise Co., Ltd. Established in 2008 through 10 years effort and advance, and have searched out our own brand — “Jusino” professional tripods and heads.

 

Introductory price!

http://shashinki.com/shop/jusino-m-163.html

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Maha Introduces PowerEx Imedion 2400!
 
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Powerex IMEDION Batteries – “Ready When You Are” – Now Even Better!

Maha Energy, the maker of Powerex batteries and chargers, announces a major performance upgrade of its IMEDION battery: the AA size rechargeable battery gets a 14% capacity boost from 2100 to 2400 mAh, without compromising longevity or reliability.

A common problem that plagues rechargeable batteries is the need to recharge them about once every one to three months even if not used. Maha tackled this issue by developing advanced electrode materials to reduce the rate of power loss during storage. As a result, the IMEDION batteries retain up to 85% of its charge even after one year of storage (at a room temperature of 20 deg C). The IMEDION batteries are shipped fully-charged and ready-to-use.

The IMEDION batteries differ from the competition in that they boast a longer lifetime as well as increased power retention under warmer environments. The IMEDION batteries can be recharged for hundreds of times and perform extraordinarily well at elevated temperatures. In addition, the IMEDION batteries feature a low-impedance design and can deliver a high burst of current, suitable for camera flashes, remote control cars, and more.

The IMEDION batteries are fully compatible with all Powerex chargers.

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About Maha Energy
Founded in 1993, Maha Energy Corporation designs, manufactures and markets batteries and chargers under one roof. Armed with a robust core technology portfolio and a precision manufacturing operation, Maha seeks to provide consumers, professional and companies with the state-of-the-art power solutions.

Malaysia’s Sole Distributor
SHASHINKI DOT COM
www.shashinki.com | shop@shashinki.com | 07-5589122

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Capacity by time since charged

Maha Imedion scores highest in holding charge inside a battery from day 1 to months! Maha Imedion also shows as the highest capacity among the other LSD batteries in the market!

Review 1

Imedion being the blue line with the highest score!

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(Source: http://protog.com.au/blog/index.php/low-self-discharge-rechargeable-aa-battery-test-results/)

Quote from the Original Reviewer (archae86):

Among the AA cells the Maha IMEDION have the best 4-week results. The Kodak are respectable second, and low price and high availability will make them the preferred choice for many.

Review 2

Imedion being the green line with the highest score!

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Sorted summary capacity mAh data:

AA low self-discharge NiMH
battery initial 1-hour 1-week 4-week 3-month 3m/1h%
IME 1831 2186 2053 2008 1940 89% MAHA IMEDION 2100 mAh
KPC 1723 2124 2021 1950 1874 88% Kodak Pre-Charged 2100 mAh
GRY 1687 2116 1992 1938 1872 88% GP Recyko 2100 mAh
DPC 1515 2010 1906 1857 1821 91% Duracell Precharged 2100 mAH
HYB 1619 2026 1918 1870 1808 89% Hybrio by Ultralast 2100 mAh
AMX 1645 2078 1936 1856 1784 86% Ansmann Max-e 2100 mAh
ENO 1189 2017 1904 1854 1768 88% Nexcell EnergyON 2000 mAh
ENL 1438 1980 1847 1811 1746 88% Eneloop by Sanyo 2000 mAh
RHY 1738 2021 1867 1795 1716 85% Hybrid by Ray-O-Vac 2100 mAh
RSK 1505 2024 1868 1808 1705 84% Radio Shack pre-charged 2000 mAHr
ACC 1737 2022 1899 1790 1696 84% Acculoop 2100 mAh
TPE 1009 1932 1847 1795 1590 82% Titanium Power Enduro 2100 mAh

AA ordinary NiMH
battery initial 1-hour 1-week 4-week 3-month 3m/1h%
PW20 * 1963 1804 1677 1259 64% Powerex 2000 mAh NiMH
LC20 * 1727 1595 1498 1212 70% LaCrosse 2000 mAh NiMH
KOD * 2072 1917 1673 1012 49% Kodak 2100 mAh NiMH
SY23 * 2091 1899 1615 888 42% Sanyo 2300 mAh NiMH
TI26 * 2001 1745 1495 781 39% Titanium 2600 mAh NiMH
RAY * 1579 1471 1273 605 38% Ray-O-Vac 1600 mAh NiMH
NEX * 1239 1211 978 533 43% NEXcell 2200 mAh NiMH
TI24 * 2109 1859 836 0 0% Titanium 2400 mAh NiMH

-500 hours capacity as delivered
0 hours zero-time capacity after at least three cycles
168 hours–one-week capacity
672 hours–four-week capacity
2184 hours–three-month capacity

(Source: http://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/772566)

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