I've just bought a used 18-55WR as a backup to my DA17-70, haven't used it so far and considering how good the DA17-70 probably rarely will but this thread has just prompted me into at least doing a couple of comparision shots!!

Simon

I've heard that high quality UV filters can improve contrast and therefore apparent sharpness - this seems to depend very much on the coating that the actual lens has though, if it's a poor one the superior coating of the high quality filter can apparently improve things. My thinking though is that on modern and high spec pentax lenses this isn't often going to be the case

Simon

Hood - not only does it help to reduce flare it can also improve contrast, a UV filter does neither of these and it could be argued it doesn't really provide any benefit

Simon

I've tried a few - Photography Monthly, Amateur Photographer, What digital camera, Digital photo but only very selectively if any of the articles catch my eye. I just subscribed to Digital Photogapher, only because they are offering 3 issues for £1 so thought I'd give it a look.

Unfortunately most of the mags just seem to churn out the same articles, be nice to see one break the mould!!

Simon

One thing that hasn't been mentioned so far regarding making a successful website is SEO - for all the effort you might put into making a slick and professional looking website it's of little use if no one comes across it. SEO takes even more time than building a website and never ends.

Simon

I'm currently on a Netbook so my feedback is based on that...

Unfortunately I can hardly read the text on the site, a bit too small and the font doesn't help either - I also agree about the "enter site" too, get rid of it as it will put people off visiting your site which is a shame because it has some great content!!

Just my thoughts

Simon

I find a monopod really useful when hiking as it provides that extra stability to ensure pin sharp images, especially when the wind is trying to blow you off the mountain.

I have a Slik Pro Pod 381CF (superceeded by 382 CF) and use it with the Manfrotto 234RC head - it's excellent and pretty lightweight although it's also a bit on the expensive side for a monopod

I previously used the Redsnapper monopod which is very sturdy, only swapped to reduce the weight I'm carrying and it would certainly get my recommendation

Simon

Now sold

Easiest thing to do is send me an email via my website address and I'll send you my Paypal details so you can pay by Paypal gift if that's ok?

[email protected]

Hi Will,

It is still available - I'd take £50, it currently sells for £75 on Amazon

Thanks

Simon