Jaguar - Richard Swanner

Photo: Richard Swanner

Richard Swanner is an Entrepreneur spending most of his time in Sales. But as you can see from this stunning capture, he can easily wear the title of Wildlife Photographer. Here he has an image of a beautiful Jaguar, which is the third largest feline (hey, we all remember Zoobooks, right?).

Richard is based in Richland, California and has a gallery full of great images. Richard's gallery.

Gear: Canon 1Ds MkII | 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II

Canon Mode Dial Modification

Canon has announced that it will offer a $100 service to the 7D and 5D Mark II camera bodies. The modification includes adding a lock mechanism to the mode dial. Some users have reported that the dial could easily turn to a different setting while using the camera. On Canon's website, it states:
"This modification is available, for a fee, to owners of these cameras who would prefer a Mode Dial which locks in place and can’t be accidentally moved during normal camera operation."
The words "during normal operation" make this seem like a flaw in the design, but in reality most users do not need a locking dial. Still, many will attest this should be a free fix rather than an "upgrade." And the feature does come standard on the 60D. I think it would be great of Canon to give new customers the option when ordering a body, which would carry a much lesser fee.

Canon 70-200mm f/2.8 IS II USM

img from B&H Photo

Last week Canon released the highly anticipated revision of their flagship lens, the 70-200mm f/2.8 IS II USM. This lens is very similar to the original 70-200 on the outside, other than the larger focusing ring. The real goodies are hidden. Such features as an even faster, quieter auto focus, new CPU and a generous 23 elements make this THE lens to have. Owners of the original 70-200 don't see much need to upgrade, especially given the $2499USD price tag; but to those that were considering purchasing a nice zoom lens and have the extra cash, this lens may be the way to go. And don't expect the price to drop on either of these lenses, at least not for another couple months.

The lens is currently shipping from Adorama and B&H Photo.

Click here for the specs from Canon.