The K20D instruction manual recommends that we use the crop factor multiplier as the basis for calculating the minimum hand holdable shutter speed.

So 100mm lens x 1.5 = 150mm with a shutter speed of at least 1/150 sec.

No need to multiply again by 1.5, but to be on the safe side by all means go one step faster than the suggested minimum.

Of course SR changes that somewhat, but I always take a few shots to choose the sharpest anyway. The ability of individuals to safely hand hold varies enormously, from day to day as well as from person to person.

I actually use IE8 and Firefox, but the former does tend to be more compatible with some websites. Therefore I use both for different purposes.

However, to be fair, don't forget that there are many users out there that are not very computer-orientated and they will not have thought of changing from the IE that came installed on their machines. For those users, upgrading to IE8 from the Microsoft website will be of benefit.

I did try Opera, but didn't like it, far too flashy and not any quicker on my PC. Ask my son Michael though and he is a great Opera fan!

Hi Prem

A group meet is only an occasional thing here at PU, but I'm sure you'd find people to help you and you would feel welcome and included.

Have you considered joining a Photographic Society? Many now cater properly for newcomers to digital photography and it could be a useful way to get "up to speed" quickly.

Otherwise, buy magazines, work through the CD/DVD tutorials, find a good book.....and any queations you have fee free to post them here on the forum!

Hope that helps!

IE7 users might think of upgrading to IE8, which is considerably faster.

That's actually very true, but partly because when the K7 was new all the stocks were new and arrived at the weakest time. These stocks will now be in the system for a while, so when the Pound strengthens there will be a delay before prices readjust as new stocks come in.

If it looks good, it is good....

The speed varies depending on the demand and other factors, so it won't be a fixed figure every time.

Afraid not. Nothing.....

I had a bit of time, so I thought I'd add my version to the mix:
[IMG]http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff250/johnriley1uk/034-Kerry-Test.jpg[/IMG]

Here's my result:
[IMG]http://www.speedtest.net/result/521391916.png[/IMG]