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Monthly Archives: February 2010 My good friend and fellow photographer Kimberly Jarman hired me a couple weeks ago to photograph her ENTIRE family. Kim wanted to give her whole clan a memorable gift for Christmas and she thought up the idea of having semi-formal (and fun) family portraits done for them. Isn’t that the best gift?! I was extremely...
February 26, 2010 - 4:57 pm
love these!! :) Great images Jen! The last image is my fav too.  In January, I had the chance to meet and photograph the Stein family. They live in the Silverleaf community, so we went over to the Country Club there to take some family portraits and to capture some fun candids as well. They brought their ADORABLE dog Nelson along for some of the photos Paul and... by jenjoaz no comments  For any women who have pondered scheduling a boudoir session, I have one spot open on Tuesday, April 6th during the day in Scottsdale. Please email me for more details if you are interested. While boudoir sessions are very popular, and I have some brides who express an interest in this, I think there are... by jenjoaz no comments  First let me apologize to my clients and all the non-photographers who read my blog, because this post will likely bore you to death. It’s a technical (and long) one regarding equipment that other photographers might appreciate, but for the rest of you, feel free to skip this one. I wanted to share my thoughts... by jenjoaz 21 comments
July 15, 2010 - 11:11 am
Excellent review.
July 10, 2010 - 8:00 am
I want to thank you for a start, for taking the time to write your article. It is of particular interest to me, as not only do I own both these cameras, and have issues with both. I am also a wedding photographer who made exactly the same decision as you based on the same articles. I purchased the 1d4 for 2 reasons, the 5d2 autofocus is ancient, I need to be able to select the AF I want in a second. And I wanted the high ISO, low noise capabilities of the 1d4. Right now I’m thinking the 7d would’ve had my bank account in much better shape and saved me a lot of grief.
July 6, 2010 - 8:12 am
Not sure about the glowing reviews on the 1D MK IV with regard to sharp images and faster focusing. Is this camera much of an improvement from the 5D2 in terms of focusing and sharp images. My experience so far is to the contrary. To me the idea of shipping the camera and or lenses to canon for calibration is an indication of a salient technical and or functionality issue. Besides, this is an unnecessary time expense.
June 5, 2010 - 8:39 am
Mark, you are very welcome! Glad it worked. Using back-focus button method is SO much better for locking the focus I find. Also, I tend to use the center-point focus with the 5DMKII and recompose, but love, love, love the 45 movable focus points on the 1D Mark IV. They are usually spot on and super sharp and I can selectively spot-focus on any area. I just accidentally used my 5DMKII instead of the IDMKIV for a moment when the bride and groom walked back down the aisle and it just stinks in comparison. Missed half of the shots due to it hunting all over the place or focusing on the people BEHIND the B &G :-(
June 4, 2010 - 5:24 pm
Hey Jennifer – I haven’t sent my lenses in for calibration, and I think after sending the body in 3x now, it’s probably good advice (Canon’s requested them as well if this last adjustment doesn’t work) though have not had a chance yet to test the repair. As for the back focus button, I got it! I usually try and use the outer focus points for focusing (single shot) and just hold the shutter button down after focusing and then maybe a slight re-compose. I can see where your method holds the focus without having to grab for it again. Using the shutter for focus, I do so and hold it while re-composing, then never fully release it after the first frame (keeps the focus locked) if I’m going to fire off more and nothing’s in need of another focus grab. I’ll try your method next time; thanks for the explanation.
May 18, 2010 - 7:51 pm
This is really a great camera for a professional.
May 17, 2010 - 12:14 pm
Hey Mark – Its funny because I had the exact opposite experience you have had. My Mark IV has been suburb on focusing – 95% tack sharp. I had the same issues you had with my 5d mark ii – backfocusing all the time. Have you had your lenses calibrated? They likely need to be calibrated for your Mark IV. My 70-200 just went soft on me last week and needs to be calibrated again. The advantage of the rear focus button is that you can lock in on your subject and then recompose your lens to change your composition, keeping the first thing you locked in on in focus. The shutter button wont allow you to recompose in the same way, meaning you would need to compose your shot first then focus, since every time you press the shutter down the focus would change. Granted, with the quick and easy way to change the 45 focus points on the mark iv, its not as necessary, but once you get used to switching your focus lock to your back exposure button, you’ll likely never go back. It’s in the custom functions. You just need to exchange what the exposure lock button and the shutter button functions do. I hope that helps!
May 13, 2010 - 8:13 am
I’ve shot with the 5D MKI while waiting patiently for Canon to release another camera with a mature focus system and better responsiveness than the 5D variants. Purchased the 1D MK IV as it seemed to have it all, but have been frustrated by focusing problems. My outer points were producing erratic focus results; soft and front focused, and never really pulling in anything sharp. Sent the camera in to Canon for repair, and while they acknowledge the problem and repaired it, it’s back for a second time as images are still not sharp. Even with using just the center point, tripod, mirror lockup and cable release, images are not as sharp as my 5D. Despite all the glowing reviews of the camera, I have come across another wedding photographer who’s having the exact same problems as mine; maybe just a bad run of cameras. Also, since I shoot Manually, what’s the advantage of using the rear focus button and re-composing over the shutter button? I don’t see how this would solve or change anything. Thanks.
April 1, 2010 - 6:07 pm
Hi Jennifer. Thanks so much for the review. I own the 1D Mark III and have since it came out a few years ago. Originally I though it was just me missing the shot until I read about the focusing issues the camera was having. It’s still my only camera so I really can’t send it in and be without it for the weeks that it takes to get the repairs needed. But really the problem hasn’t been that bad. I’m now about to buy a new camera and other than the focus issues, I love my 1D and am considering the Mark IV. Your review really helped push me further down that path. I can’t wait to get my hands on it. btw, I’m sure you figured it out already but the FEL is the Flash Exposure Lock. So thus why it’s by the shutter release button. Thanks again for your great review.
March 25, 2010 - 9:48 pm
I still love my EOS 1D Mark II (big body). I have a 5dMarkII but I guess I haven’t had TOO much trouble with it, although I have noticed some focus issues on occasion, but I do front button focus. hummmm. Also, use your batteries until they are DEAD DEAD then charge them up fully. I never stick a battery on a charger half full I don’t care what they tell you about battery memory. My batteries last a LONG time and I even have the crappy old kind. I’m vigilant about this with my cell phones too and my batteries last a long time. Never use a car charger. I like to charge my battery fully 1-2 times a year then click *refresh* and let the battery die down and then recharge it. I don’t know… it works for me. :) I am considering moving to Nikon. I used to shoot Nikon and their cameras just have the buttons in the RIGHT places–Ergo-nomic!! I LOVE the D3.
March 4, 2010 - 2:14 pm
Hi Jennifer-I also have photgraphed weddings with a Canon 5dII and was disappointed with the percentage of sharp images I was getting from the camera in low light situations. I traded in my 5dmkII for a 1Dmk4 about one month ago and just completed my first wedding with the camera last week. I must say I am so happy with the quality and color this camera is capable of delivering that I am not sorry I no longer have the 5dmkII. The ability to get excellent image quality in low light situations is a wonderful advantage since this was almost impossible with the 5DmkII. I enjoyed reading you post about your experience since mine has been similar to yours. I went from a 20d to a 5D1 to a 5dmkII and now a 1dmk4. My feeling is there is no perfect camera. The camera that best meets your needs is the perfect camera for you. Thanks for sharing your experience.
March 3, 2010 - 9:28 pm
I just saw this expanded review on this camera and wanted to post the link for those interested: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/find/newsLetter/Canon-Mark-IV.jsp
February 25, 2010 - 9:25 am
Thanks for your feedback Timon. I had heard the previous 1 series cameras had issues but Im glad to know you havent had any issues with your 5D. I dont want anyone to think that its all the cameras or that its a widespread issue or complaint with Canon. Perhaps I just got a bad one. For the most part I really like my 5DMKII, and there are several things button wise I like better about it. I do use the back-button focusing technique with both cameras, meaning I do not use the shutter button to focus, but rather the exposure lock button.
February 25, 2010 - 9:14 am
Hi Jennifer, I had focusing issues with the original Mark II. I owned two of them and was frustrated with the exact symptoms you described of the 5DMII. I have owned one 5D Mark II for a year now and have had no issues with the focusing. I have been very pleased with the sharpness. However, I learned from another photographer to use the back button for focusing which I always use so I am not sure if I would have the same problem you were having using the shutter button for focusing as well. This is the first time I heard of problems with it which makes me nervous because I just ordered a second 5DMII and am expecting it to arrive today. I considered the Mark IV for its high ISO but wasn’t sure that I needed to go that big this go around.
February 22, 2010 - 8:16 pm
Thank you so much for your review currently Ive been wanting a full sensor and have been debating about nikon d700 or 5d II Ive been going back and fourth with this and you helped out alot!
February 20, 2010 - 12:09 am
Thank you so much for the review. Was curious about the new ID mark IV. I love my 4D mark II but am always curious about the up and coming.
February 19, 2010 - 11:16 am
Hi Rick – I am completely satisfied as far as portraits go. The camera is equally good, if not better, at high ISO’s, like the 5D MK II. – Jennifer
February 17, 2010 - 9:00 pm
Thank you for your post. It was very valuable to me because I have been considering the 5D Mark II but have been concerned with the focusing issues that I have been reading about. And the 1D MarkIV has many nice features. I have been on the fence; due to I love to shoot both sports and portraits. Are you completely satisfied with the 1D Mark IV for portraits? Noise would be one of my concerns of the 1D Mark IV for not being a full frame camera.
February 16, 2010 - 8:20 pm
Lizzie – now that you say that, I think those other focal points have also lit up on occasion, but I’ll have to watch for that from now on. I think its the camera’s way of saying this is what is currently most in focus in the scene. Mine produced higher than usual out-of-focus/overly soft or complete misfire issues, even after having lenses all calibrated for that camera – another important thing I’ve read about. Something to do with the sensor and all those megapixels in how all the lenses will work ideally with that camera.
February 16, 2010 - 6:21 pm
Thanks for this post Jen! I just bought the 5D Mark II about a month ago, and it seems to have this really weird focusing thing going on! I use the back-focus button with the center button/recompose, and for some reason sometimes (not always–seems to do it mostly if shooting something dark) more than just the center focus point lights up: sometimes other focus points light up too and sometimes it’s just a slight flicker while other times the other focus points completely light up. However, it doesn’t really seem to change the actual focus point, I think it just likes to do that to drive me crazy. Even though I don’t seem to have anything more than usual out of focus, it’s always in the back of my head if that’s causing any type of focus issues. I’ve checked my settings over and over and I don’t think those other focus points should be lighting up! I’m just curious if you ever had that experience with your MKII!
February 16, 2010 - 5:13 pm
Let me just say thank you for this review from all of us photogs out here reading this post like it’s a juicy novel! I just made the switch from Nikon to Canon and it is such a PITA to revamp your equipment!  I’ve been playing with a few of the free actions from Totally Rad Actions and loved the way these two looked processed this way. Combo of Troy action & bag of dirt texture, masked out (removed) from them. What do you think? It’s kind of sultry! Im typically not a big fan of washed out images,... by jenjoaz no comments  Kiley and Daniel, who are getting married this fall, rocked their recent engagement session! I had a lot of fun with them over in Old Town Scottsdale, where I shoot a great deal mostly because my clients see my sessions from there and like the look of it. It was fun trying to find new... by jenjoaz 12 comments
February 11, 2010 - 10:05 am
SO gorgeous – both of you! I’m like Katie – I got weepy! :) xoc
February 10, 2010 - 9:39 pm
Gorgeous, gorgeous photos. You definitely captured their spirit.
February 10, 2010 - 9:44 am
Kiley – you’re all grown up!! How did that happen so fast??? Seems like we were all just at Encanto Park’s Kiddieland and now you’re almost married! You look absolutely beautiful and oh, so happy. And you got yourself a really handsome husband-to-be. Can’t wait for the wedding pictures!! Love, Les
February 9, 2010 - 8:53 pm
Ok, My little Kiley is supposed to still be 8 and like hanging out with her Aunt Lynn…and especially not liking boys yet. That being said, WOW! You two are a beautiful couple and your photographer did an outstanding job (especially with her new camera). It’s hard to see my little Kiley all grown up, but it’s so nice to see such a wonderful couple. Love to both of you. Aunt Lynn
February 9, 2010 - 8:26 pm
WOW! These are so incredible…Kiley you look like a model! They are so intense and beautiful! I love them all!
February 9, 2010 - 6:49 pm
I am so glad Kiley sent me this link, they both look great in every single shot, and I love the composition of the photos. Kiley looks beautiful as always, and I have never seen my brother look so handsome. Thank you for posting these!
February 9, 2010 - 6:48 pm
Jennifer…wow! I have known Kiley since she was 3 years old, and never has she been as beautiful and happy as she looks in these pictures. Wonderful job! Can’t wait to see you at the wedding with Something Blue Events! Great, great photographs.
February 9, 2010 - 5:29 pm
Kiley & Daniel’s pictures are beautiful. What a great photo shoot! I was a bit teary (so sappy, I know). You are all grown up,Dad is beaming from heaven at his little girl.
February 9, 2010 - 5:21 pm
I absolutely LOVE these pictures of Kiley and Daniel!! I have lots of favorites and can’t pick just one. Jennifer you did an amazing job capturing this beautiful couple. You can see their love, happiness, and ability to have a fun time radiating in each shot. Can’t wait for all the wedding photos.
February 9, 2010 - 5:07 pm
These are fantastic Jen!!! The one towards the end before the big tree shot made me cry. You really have a magnificent way of capturing couples love for each other. I can’t wait to see these two on their wedding day.
February 9, 2010 - 4:47 pm
Mrs. Brown (oops, Mrs. O’Melia) you have a lovely daughter.
February 9, 2010 - 4:33 pm
Absolutely stunning photos even if I am absolutely partial to these two! Kelly Sifferman |
by jenjoaz
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