THINK TANK DIGITAL HOLSTER 50

Think Tank Digital Holster 50, originally uploaded by ryamane.

Got myself a new camera bag, the Think Tank Digital Holster 50. It fits my 70-200mm f/2.8 lens on a pro spec-ed body, with either hood on or inversed.

Thus far I used it a couple of times and find it very comfortable to sling across the shoulder. I haven't try wearing it on my belt system yet though. Getting the camera in and out of the holster is slow coz the holster is kinda tight for the lens and as it suspends freely, its hard to get the camera and lens into the holster without bracing it against something. Plus its hard to zip up when thick straps are attached, like R straps or thick neoprene straps from Op-tech.

Also, be careful when putting it down, let it laid down by its side instead of trying to stand it upright. It will most certainly tip over and crash your lens and camera.

Overall I like it and will be keeping it. It gives me the ability to carry long lens attached without having to pick my big bags.

MY NEW FLASHGUN

D700 /w 14-24mm & SB900, originally uploaded by jarvisphotography.

Got myself a new flash. Nikon's current flagship model, the SB900 Speedlight. The biggest and meanest and grossly overpriced. Played with it around and the performance is great. I am in love with the interface immediately, far more superior than my SB800.

The manual is thick for a flash, looks more like a manual for camera than a flash unit. Flipping through the pages bores me, its easier to figure it out by using it.

Ken Rockwell says its more of a video game than a flash; I usually take KR's reviews with a pinch of salt, since his prompt to sweeping statements and overly conceited views, but this I agree with him; with 8 buttons, 1 rotary dial and 1 toggle switch, the SB900 might be overwhelming for someone new to flash guns. But if you are a regular flash user; eg coming from SB800; you will acclimate within an hour of playing around with it.

Looking forward to using it on the field.

NEW YEAR RESOLUTION 2010

I wish for a more focused direction.

Get the basics work out and put them in place.

Make do with what I can get for the moment.

I can't complain much at this stage, its needed.

And its for the good of the next stage.

Call it foundation building. Since I already dig a hole, some of the work's already done.

I will reassess again come mid year, if the works at the next level can commence, or if its better to take things slower.

Too many variables at this point of time to schedule things, though the plan is relatively clear.

Budgeting needs to be done too, perhaps there will be things to give up on, to meet that budget.

I will fine tune along the way.