Recent content by Mark Ross

Hi - I've been away a while as I lost interest in photography. Now getting back into it and looking to sell some of my older gear and replace it with some more modern stuff, so it would be great if I could regain access! Thanks.

My DS214 goes to sleep when not in use (all the lights go off and the power button flashes slowly). I guess "low power mode" must be some other power saving feature, although not sure exactly what it does.

I'd get a circular polariser first as that's the one filter you can't recreate when post processing or by combining multiple exposures. I like the Marumi polarisers - very good quality and not as expensive as some of the other brands. If you want to blur water you will need an ND filter...

I have the DS214 and am very happy with it. I spent a long time comparing the various 2 bay models before I decided. You can compare the differences on the Synology website here https://www.synology.com/en-uk/products/compare/DS215+/DS214/DS214play/DS215j The play version has a better Intel CPU...

I've just picked up the Sigma 50mm - was surprised at how heavy it was for a relatively small lens! Must be some serious glass in there! Anyway, will be trying it out soon and will post photos.

I tried my 100mm macro and whilst it's good for feet / hand shots, for general shots it's a bit too long. So I'm going to give the Sigma 50mm a go I think.

Ah I already have the 100mm f2.8L macro - didn't think to try that. Will give it a go!

As other people have said, I find the best option is to add photo gear to home insurance. When I was researching it a few years ago it was much cheaper than insuring separately with someone like Photoguard. You mention that you haven't got accidental damage on your current household policy, but...

I only have 14mm, 16-35mm and 100mm and 400mm at the moment so trying them at 50mm isn't an option!

I've have just become a Dad and am wanting to get some decent photos of my little lad. My main experience is landscape photography, so I don't have a lot of portrait experience and definitely no baby portrait experience. I'm thinking of getting a more suitable lens and am considering the Sigma...

For milky way photos, lens is most important. You might struggle to get a decent milky way photo with a kit lens. You really need a wide angle lens with at least f2.8 aperture. This website has loads of useful info http://www.lonelyspeck.com/astrophotography-101/

I always use Marumi filters - they are cheaper than some of the more well known brands and very good quality. The DHG Super filter (which I use) came joint first in this test http://www.lenstip.com/115.4-article-polarizing_filters_test_Results_and_summary.html

I use the Hitech holder with the Hitech WA adapter ring on my 16-35 f2.8 and it works fine.

I have been using the Hitech filters for several years without any major problems, although I haven't ever used Lee so can't compare them. The only issue I have is that they do scratch quite easily, so you do have to treat them carefully. I use them with the Hitech holder.