Nikon vs. Canon Shooting

[Carlton]

Recently, a large photography firm has hired me to help out with some big jobs coming up. They want me to use their Canon gear. As a long time Nikon user, I have never used Canon gear. So, for those who have used both, are there any tips to give, to help out with the learning curve of Canon products.
They use the Mark II and top lenses.

We will be shooting sports (state track event). Thanks!

[Harv]

You might want to drop Jeff M a private message. I suggest a PM as he is not on the forum every day but will get notice of the PM in his email. Jeff has been using a 1D MkIIn and a 300 f/2.8L IS lens to photograph sports since last year, including track events. He's a very nice guy and I'm sure he would be happy to share whatever he can.

[Jeff M]

First ...
Thanks Harv for the kind words.

As to the Nikon to Canon question...it's really not hard to adjust. You just need some time with the camera. I came from a D2x and Nikon lenses, but had no trouble adjusting. To be fair, I was a long time Canon EOS film user, so maybe it wasn't as hard for me.
I'd spend some time with the manual.
Aside from that, I suggest you PM - Jeff JTPhoto -, as he shoots with a MKIIn, also..and can tell you in more detail how to set the camera, via custom functions.
The custom functions are very important, and can really help if set correctly.
For example, I think it's CN #4, where the * button on back of camera can be set to focus, instead of pressing the shutter halfway. This is VERY helpful to me.
There are several other functions, if you would PM Jeff JTPhoto, or just post here, I'm sure he would be glad to help you in more detail.

[Kevin]

Carlton, check out this thread: Mk2 info thread (http://www.pixel-shooter.com/forum/showthread.php?t=5051)

It has some discussion about settings as well as some external links that may also be helpful.

[Carlton]

Great, thanks everyone. I didn't think it would be a major shift. I've used Canon film cameras and didn't have any remorse. Nothing against Canon..just something different. Who knows...I may get turned on and make a switch:brows:.

I'll be using it for 3 weeks, so I should get pretty used to it.

[Rudi]

Carlton, as has been said before, it's pretty easy! Just like with Nikon, you have to point that shiny glass thing well away from your face, and press a little button on top of the camera. :D The rest will come to you pretty quickly - different menus and such, but they're both DSLR camera systems...

If there is anything specific you need help with, don't be afraid to ask, but I think that once you pick the camera up, it will not be a hard transition to make. :)

[stilllearning]

I look at it a little like switching which hand you use for eating. Maybe not that extreme but once get use to the layout you shouldn't have any problems. Well maybe just one. Make sure you rememer which camera you have in hand. I once took 20 seconds to try to figure out why my indoor flash shots with my canon were getting motion blur. Forgot to switch it to Manual from A. :err: :biggrin:

[Carlton]

Thanks again for the advice. I just got an email today that they want me to bring my gear along now, as they are going to have more help than they expected (they will have 10 or 11 photographers there).
I wonder if they know that all my lenses are manuel focus :err:.

I guess I'll be in the more stagnet group.

[Jonathan]

I wont restate what the others had already said. I found the switch quite easy with some practice and time. I would be more concerned with post process and workflow. I will say the hardest thing for me was getting used to the opposite effects of zooming in and out and manual focusing in and out...as they are backwards.

[Carlton]

Well, I had my first taste with the big dog. At first, it was a bit awkward photographing with something that feels like a brick and having attached a 300 f/2.8 with a 1.4tc. I did have the pleasure of having a monopod (thank God). The first images were not the best, but after getting use to the camera and the action, it went well. The Canons sure are fast and focus very well.
If I did a lot of action, the Mark II would be a must have.