Was in Denver last week for work stuff, and I planned to rent a vehicle for the week for photography in the evenings. Flew in to DIA, rented a Tahoe (they were out of anything smaller), and it wasn't steering right. So, I told the dude at the guard shack, and he told me to rent another. Went back to the lot, and they told me to grab another Tahoe. Moved my stuff to the new vehicle and took off for Colorado Springs to shoot gog. Got to the hotel to unload my gear...no camera bag. I left it in the first vehicle (breaking out in a total body sweat)!! Long story short, the next renter apparently needed roughly $2,500 in photography equipment, and the people at the car rental facility are completely clueless. I lost everything except my tripod. Obviously, the trip pretty much blew after that.
So, now I get to start over - camera, lenses, filters, compact flash cards, etc. I only had a Rebel XT and was planning an upgrade to possibly a 40D or 5D at some point, but now I've got to buy everything. So, if you had to start from scratch, which direction would you go? I really can't justify more than $2-3K over the next year or so for this little hobby.
Posted by Mel Ladewig on April 15, 2008 at 5:49 PM
Honestly I'd still go with Canon for now. Its not just the body but the whole system or more importantly the parts you think you'll use. Assuming that you shoot mainly landscape and won't be buying the 5D, I'd still go for the rebel, but a newer one. I suppose that it is now the XSi. At ISO 100 there really isn't much IQ gain if any on the 40D. It just depends on whether you need the features that the 40D provides. On top of that, the rebel provides the lightest starting point.
I'd buy a
Rebel XSi $900
Ultrawide EF-S zoom $500-650
Normal EF-S zoom $600-1000
70-200 f4L or 70-300 IS $600
Buying the lower cost options leaves you with $400 for accessories.
So sorry for your loss. Did you have any insurance? Home owners might help cover some of it. I carry a commercial policy through NANPA/Chubb that would cover any loss.
I agree with Mels recommendations. If you are in the Denver area I can loan you a Canon 20D til you get back on your feet again. Give me a call if you are interested.
RichieV
Posted by Paul Martin on April 15, 2008 at 6:14 PM
Chad,
You've just experience my worst nightmare, I feel your pain man. But at least by starting over you can try and improve on what you had. I'm assuming that you are still wishing to stick to Canon gear, so I will work around that.
A 5D would be the way I'd go, however, it would take up more than half your budget for the body alone. But if you wanted to make it simple you could buy the 5D + 24-105 "kit" for roughly $2800. That would only leave you a couple hundred for CF cards, etc. The best basic kit for a 5D would be a 17-40, 70-200 f/4 and a fast prime like a 50mm f/1.4 or 1.8. That would put you over your budget. If you really want to go to a full frame sensor, I would just by another crop sensor camera now and wait until the 5D gets replaced -- assuming that it will get replaced eventually. The only problem with that is the replacement will probably cost over 3k and the 5D is about 1k cheaper. The 5D right now is a fantastic camera, and if you went that route I'm sure you would be really happy with what you can get out of it -- despite its age. So unless you don't mind spending the money now I would spend the money on great lenses now and wait for the 5D replacement. If I were you, I might opt for a cheaper camera, like an XTi and then buy the best glass that fits in my budget. For a wides you could go with a Tokina 12-24 (or Canon 10-22 or Sigma 10-22), mid range would be a Canon 24-70, 24-105 or Tamron 28-75 and for the longer end any of Canon's 70-200's are great or you could go with a 70-300 IS. Sigma also makes a good 70-200. For me, 200 mm on a crop camera was long enough, but you could also look at the 100-400 is you need more on the long end. With those lenses, with the exception of the wide zoom, you would still be set for a full frame sensor later on and when you are ready to switch, selling the wide zoom should be fairly easy. Luckily CF cards are getting cheap, and you can usually find filters for reasonable prices.
Of course, you could also look at Nikon's offerings -- the D300 is a mighty nice camera
Good luck, if you have any other questions about gear I'm sure there are plenty of people willing to spend your $ here!
Posted by Paul Wegemann on April 15, 2008 at 6:16 PM
I'm sorry for your loss too, Chad. I think Mel's suggestions are good ones. You could save even more if you were to go for the Rebel XTi, which I've seen on the web for just over $500 for the body. This would still be an upgrade from your XT. And don't be afraid of used gear. I've been happy with KEH.
BTW, poking around on B&H, I found the 5D being offered with the 24-105L for $2900. Considering that the price for the lens is just over $1k, this doesn't seem too bad. Best of luck whichever way you go.
Update: Paul M. and I must have been typing at the same time. His ideas are good ones too.
I'm a Canon guy and have been since the dark ages. However, if I had to start all over, I think I'd go with Sony. The Alpha 700 (12 MP) is their current top of the line camera and it runs around $1,300/body only. They've also got a decent compliment of Zeiss glass, too. The build quality is excellent and Sony seems determined to compete with Canon and Nikon in product quality, but at a much more reasonable price.
If Sony isn't an option I think I would wait for the 5DII to be released and then I'd pick up a 5D at a crazy low price. If you need a couple lenses to get you by I've got a Tokina 20-35 and 28-70 you can borrow for as long as you need them. Send me an email if you're interested.
Posted by Derek Sedillo on April 15, 2008 at 8:53 PM
Yes,
I am currently waiting to upgrade my old Canon 10D to the new 5D II which is projected to be out this Fall.
But Sony is really putting out some great new products. They recently purchased Minolta and are utilizing Minolta engineering combined with Sony's sensors. And the Alpha mount works with some very nice Minolta lenses as well as the new class leading Sony Zeiss glass. That is really a killer combo.
Nikon is actually appealing as well. They have just released the new 14-24, 24-70 and 70-200. All of which are designed to handle their next generation of FF DSLRs and perform *very* well based on their reviews (outperform Canon equivalents). The 14-24 even outperforms Canon's newest 14L II prime. Check out this review: http://www.16-9.net/lens_tests/nikon_14_24mm_1/nikon14_24mm_a.html
Nikon and Sony have better performing lenses especially in the wide to mid range. And lenses are really the most important part of a system for the long run IMO. DSLRs are constantly evolving. Canon used to be the only FF player. Now Nikon and Sony are entering this FF arena. And this competition will help to drive FF prices down.
So I am really torn as to whether I will stay with Canon. The main reasons for me to stay with Canon are my current lenses and their affordable FF 5D. The new image stabilized 24mp Sony A900 FF is due out this year. So I may end up going that way instead if it reviews well. But if I were to start all over I would go with Nikon or Sony for their lenses which are class leading.
What about Olympus? It seems like everyone shoots Canon in here...I currently shoot with the Olympus E-1 (mainly landscapes/outdoors) and love it. Olympus just released their flagship E-3. This camera with their new 12-60 lens (24-120mm coverage) is supposedly fantastic. I'm sure you are aware of the downsides to the Olympus system (higher noise at higher ISOs), but if landscape is your main subject, that really shouldn't be an issue. Also, Olympus has two lower-end models...the just-released E420 and the highly-regarded E510.
On a side note, I would be willing to sell my Olympus E-1 and 14-54 (28-108 mm coverage) for a really good price. If this is inappropriate for this forum, I apologize.
Most importantly, sorry to hear about your loss. That is definitely not an easy thing to deal with.
Posted by Bill Pelzmann on April 16, 2008 at 11:21 AM
Sorry to hear about that loss, Chad. I know the feeling when you suddenly realize you are missing something. I left a laptop at the security check at DIA and didn't know it until I got to my destination later that day! My saga, however, had a better ending.
Given your budget limitations, I think the 5D provides the best buy available and it is certainly no compromise for image quality. And the prices keep dropping in anticipation of a replacement.
I'm sick to my stomach just thinking about starting over! Check your home insurance - you may be covered if you're a "hobbyist".
Good Luck!
Posted by Derek Sedillo on April 16, 2008 at 2:38 PM
This is really an unfortunate situation that could happen to any us really. And I don't feel prepared for it if it does.
I have always wondered about this kind of gear insurance 'as a hobbiest.' I guess I need to talk to my insurance agent. But I wonder if this is something that would normally fall under an umbrella policy?
I guess if you are a 'Pro' it sounds like you need a separate policy or rider? Is that normally the case?
Posted by Kalin Wilson on April 16, 2008 at 3:22 PM
Chad, What a bummer! I can empathize. I fretted over checking my camera gear on my Oregon trip last weekend and what I would do if it all got lost. I'm covered but replacing everything would be a pain, especially my LF lenses. But that would fund my 5D purchase!
Derek, My insurance is through USAA. I have a personal property policy that covers replacement on all of my gear. They don't cover professional usage, so I'd have to go with NANPA/Chubb for professional equipment coverage but USAA is quite a bit cheaper. Other carriers probably have something similar.
Good luck!
Posted by Craig Schultz on April 16, 2008 at 3:44 PM
Chad, I'm with Bret. I've been a Canon owner since the beginning, but if I was able to start over from scratch I'd probably switch to Nikon or Sony at this point. Canon just drags their feet endlessly and the incremental upgrades are just pathetic. You can pretty much guarantee that a full frame Sony and Nikon at 24MP will be out by the end of the year; stabilized no less (in the Sony).
I'd say Nikon has the edge at the moment due to their history in camera's and that new wide angle zoom. Of course, that lens alone would be 2/3 of your budget. But Nikon just seems to have way more features in their body and have been much more aggressive in their body designs/pricing. This will probably continue, so I'd go Nikon now.
I have both the Canon XT and XTi, so if you want to get either of those I'd highly recommend the XTi, since it fixes most of the gripes I had with the XT. Some day Canon will implement a flash commander in the built-in flash, then at least we will be on par with Nikon in that department.
I want to thank everyone for the advice and especially thank those who have generously offered to lend equipment. You all are great! However, I could never borrow from anyone and enjoy using it, out of fear that something like this could occur. I am going to file a claim on my homeowner's policy, but it's got a $1K deductible. Still, it's a start. And, I wouldn't normally file a claim on something this small if I hadn't been with the same company for 15 years and NOT claimed many things I could have. I've been told by the agent that it is covered and that filing a claim will not affect my premiums. After I've replaced some of this stuff, I'm definitely going to check into getting a policy specifically for my photo gear.
As far as the gear, you guys have really put some good options on the table. I guess I'll start the research on these recommendations. I really hate to leave Canon, but I guess now would be the time to do it. The worst thing about the timing of all this is that I've got a work-related trip to Sacramento coming up in a couple of weeks, and I'd planned to visit Yosemite and Lake Tahoe. Life lesson #1,136 and counting...
Posted by Derek Sedillo on April 16, 2008 at 9:12 PM
Oh Man Chad,
Yosemite and Tahoe without a camera would be torture for me. Two weeks isn't much time either. If you are a research nut like myself you probably couldn't just go out and buy some gear right away, especially if if you are considering Nikon, Sony, et al as well as Canon. That is a larger long term decision.
As an alternative how about just picking up one of the better P&S cameras that have come out recently. Jack Brauer just did a review of three of them. Can't remember the models. But that would at least give you something to use in a smaller form factor in the mean time.
Derek, I've got an older Sony P&S with Zeiss lens that takes decent shots. But, I'll probably get laughed out of the park when people see it mounted on my Manfrotto tripod. Son of a $%#&! I just realized I also lost the mounting plate for the ballhead, as it was attached to the camera.
Posted by Derek Sedillo on April 16, 2008 at 10:33 PM
Chad, while I was in the Tetons on a hike with my wife and three children I asked my wife to carry my new CF tripod since I had our baby daughter on my back. It was light so she didn't mind. But it turns out she sat it down in an out house and forgot it. Dooh!!! So I ended up shooting in the Tetons at my dream locations with a wobbly baby stroller much to the enjoyment of the photo workshops at Oxbow Bend and the like.
We eventually discovered later that a cleaning crew found it and took it to the post office lost and found area in Moose which didn't open until the last day of our trip 'after' sunrise. But I guess I just rolled with all the fun others were having at my expense. Hey, I was still in one of the most beautiful places on earth. So I made the best of it. Lesson #1038 - don't let your wife carry your tripod.
Also sorry to hear of your loss! This brings up memories of a similar incident - very scary at the time. I had just flown in to SFO for a commercial shoot the next day. I ended up leaving my gear bag on the back seat of the shuttle bus! Arrggh!! Once I got the rental car (by then about 5 pm), I hurried over to the shuttle company "bus barn" nearby. Fortunately, there were a couple maintenance guys there, who got me in touch with the manager. Some nice person(!!!) turned in the gear and it had been placed in the safe. I certainly learned lesson #1039 that day!!
By the way, I wouldn't join NANPA just for their insurance (there's plenty of other good reasons, though ), but their equipment insurance can't be beat when compared to other commercial group plans. It's currently $0.023 times the replacement cost (which you define). The minimum/year billing is $250, so this would cover up to $10,869 in equipment. The deductible is $500.
Don't have that much gear or not shooting commercially? Then I'd highly recommend a chat with your insurance company to make sure your homeowners insurance covers it. You may need an extra "rider", if not. Best to determine this up front!
Derek, that sounds like something that would happen to me. My wife, however, belongs to the you-brought-it, you-carry-it crowd. You should post some of your stroller photos.
Ken, thanks for posting that. I'm glad there are other photographers out there who have had certain "moments".
Be careful if you get a rider with your homeowners insurance. I used to have one with my policy and luckily never had to use it. But if you do a quick google search you will quickly see that many have had real problems with these policies.
I got the Nanpa policy cause I couldnt find anything bad written about it on the net. Just the opposite. And it is 'all risks' meaning that it covers more than 'stolen' gear.
RichieV
Posted by Derek Sedillo on April 17, 2008 at 3:25 PM
I wish I would have taken a picture of the guys/gals laughing there butts off at Oxbow Bend. After getting fed up with the stroller tripod I resorted to shooting from the ground with my camera on top of my bag. Here is a shot with that setup: http://landandseaphoto.smugmug.com/photos/233068934_YomMF-XL.jpg
There was a lot of wind and the only way to avoid the grass movement with a long exposure was you guessed it - using a tripod. Of course the 20+ other photographers all had tripods including the workshop folks.
Thanks, Richie, I will definitely do some homework. Of course, a lot will depend on how my current homeowner's policy handles this. The adjuster has already called twice wanting my statement, so it will be interesting to see how anxious they are when it comes time to write a check.
Derek, I really like the third one lots - very nice light. But, it looks like you may have had the stroller in the water.
I've been lurking on this site for a couple of months but never posted before. Felt really bad when I read your post. I'm a novice and therefore can't make really informed recommendations, but if you want to start over with an inexpensive basic DSLR body, you can get a Nikon refurb D40 with the 18-55mm kit lens from Adorama.com for $399.00. This body is compatible with Nikon's 18-200 VR lens too, plus many others of course. For LOTS of exhaustive well-covered equipment reviews and ideas (Nikon and Canon extensively, plus some other brands), have you tried reading the technical reviews on kenrockwell.com?
Best of luck,
Heather Nilson
Posted by Bill Pelzmann on April 17, 2008 at 9:10 PM
Chad, I'd be interested in hearing how your homeowner's policy handles this situation.
It should be instructive for the forum members who are considering the need for extra insurance.
I generally prefer to be "self-insured", but after accumulating a certain amount of equipment, I felt a non-pro policy specifically covering my camera gear, at FULL replacement cost, made me feel much more comfortable.
I know my homeowner's policy would cover a loss, but that policy depreciates gear. So, I figure my claims check would be awfully small. Especially considering how quickly digital bodies depreciate. Although good lenses fare better on the resale market, I'm sure they probably use some standard depreciation table to estimate their current "value".
For my situation:
Depreciated Value - Insurance deductable = Not worth risk of policy cancellation.
Good luck on your negotiations.
Posted by Rene Pirolt on April 17, 2008 at 9:48 PM
Chad
In many circumstances the credit card company you used to pay for the rental car will cover losses due to damage or theft. I would give them a call.
Umm which car rental co re-rented a defective car without going through it and reporting back to you your equipment loss? Wow, i don't want to rent from who ever that was. Please give details.
As for advice on Camera's Go anything above 10Mp and full 35mm Frame if you can. On the Nikon Side of the world, I like the D300 or the FujiFilm S5Pro that I use at work. D300 is faster but if you don't need Sports shooting speed, the S5pro is a great buy and stay with Nikon Lenses for it, no Sigma, Tamron or Tokina lenses.
Heather, thanks for the response! I've been to that site before, but it's been a long time. He recommends the Canon 5D for landscape, and I can't find any argument with that. I'll look a little deeper at some of these other models.
Bill, I finally talked with my adjuster, and it reminded me of an appeal hearing. She recorded my entire statement, very formal like, but was also quite nice. If I understand correctly, my policy will also consider replacement cost, minus deductible, minus depreciation on the initial payout. After I have purchased replacement equipment and have provided copies of the receipts to the insurance company, they will then pay out the depreciation. In other words, if I take the money and go on vacation, it's replacement minus depreciation. If I actually replace the equipment, I'm only out my deductible. So far, I'm happy with that.
I had to file a police report with the Denver police, which I was able to do online. Luckily, I found my registration materials and was able to provide serial numbers on the camera and lenses. My advice to everyone is to keep a running inventory, with serial numbers, of your gear on a spreadsheet or something, and keep all of your receipts in a file. I can't find all of my receipts for compact flash cards and filters, but I've got all the major ones (which is surprising considering we moved last November, and I'm still not settled in).
Rene', I had forgotten that some cards offer certain protections such as this, and I'll check it out.
James, the lot attendant claims he test-drove the vehicle after I left, but he had a perplexed look on his face when I came back and told him I thought I now knew what was wrong with the vehicle. I think the previous driver left the 4-wheel drive engaged, and that was causing the problems when turning the vehicle on concrete. The company is Thrifty, and there were other irregularities with the rental. According to the desk people, the guard shack guy should have issued a new contract on the second vehicle, but he just wrote "exchange" on my original. When I first returned, they didn't know where the vehicle was, i.e. on the lot or rented out. After 30-45 minutes, they figured it out. I can feel my blood pressure rising just thinking about it.
Posted by Scott Buckel on April 18, 2008 at 9:57 PM
Chad - sorry about your loss!
I can readily vouch for having a rider on my home owers policy. I have filed two claims. I dropped my D1X and 600 mm lens once and they paid for the repair very quickly - this was a repair of $4210. I was dumb on a trip once and left my camera bag on the trunk of a friend's car, it fell off and them a big truck ran over the bag. They replaced all of the gear at suggested retail price. My policy never increased in price.
For many insurance companies pro use means you make the majority of your income from photography, so if you shoot only part time, you would be able to use the home owners policy. Well, at least that is what Allstate and State Farm agents told me.
Thanks, everyone, for all of the advice and stories. I know some of you are curious as to how everything turned out. The insurance company has already cut a check for replacement cost minus around $450 in depreciation. When I have replaced my gear, I will forward copies of receipts to the company, and they will pay the remaining $450. I've already ordered my basics and went slightly over my $3K budget.
I really wanted the 5D, but there's no way I could get by with just a 17-40. Overall, I'm still just a little sick over the loss, but I'll have a better kit than what I started with and something to build on.
Discussion
28 repliesWas in Denver last week for work stuff, and I planned to rent a vehicle for the week for photography in the evenings. Flew in to DIA, rented a Tahoe (they were out of anything smaller), and it wasn't steering right. So, I told the dude at the guard shack, and he told me to rent another. Went back to the lot, and they told me to grab another Tahoe. Moved my stuff to the new vehicle and took off for Colorado Springs to shoot gog. Got to the hotel to unload my gear...no camera bag. I left it in the first vehicle (breaking out in a total body sweat)!!
So, now I get to start over - camera, lenses, filters, compact flash cards, etc. I only had a Rebel XT and was planning an upgrade to possibly a 40D or 5D at some point, but now I've got to buy everything. So, if you had to start from scratch, which direction would you go? I really can't justify more than $2-3K over the next year or so for this little hobby.
I'd buy a
Rebel XSi $900
Ultrawide EF-S zoom $500-650
Normal EF-S zoom $600-1000
70-200 f4L or 70-300 IS $600
Buying the lower cost options leaves you with $400 for accessories.
So sorry for your loss. Did you have any insurance? Home owners might help cover some of it. I carry a commercial policy through NANPA/Chubb that would cover any loss.
I agree with Mels recommendations. If you are in the Denver area I can loan you a Canon 20D til you get back on your feet again. Give me a call if you are interested.
RichieV
You've just experience my worst nightmare, I feel your pain man. But at least by starting over you can try and improve on what you had. I'm assuming that you are still wishing to stick to Canon gear, so I will work around that.
A 5D would be the way I'd go, however, it would take up more than half your budget for the body alone. But if you wanted to make it simple you could buy the 5D + 24-105 "kit" for roughly $2800. That would only leave you a couple hundred for CF cards, etc. The best basic kit for a 5D would be a 17-40, 70-200 f/4 and a fast prime like a 50mm f/1.4 or 1.8. That would put you over your budget. If you really want to go to a full frame sensor, I would just by another crop sensor camera now and wait until the 5D gets replaced -- assuming that it will get replaced eventually. The only problem with that is the replacement will probably cost over 3k and the 5D is about 1k cheaper. The 5D right now is a fantastic camera, and if you went that route I'm sure you would be really happy with what you can get out of it -- despite its age. So unless you don't mind spending the money now I would spend the money on great lenses now and wait for the 5D replacement. If I were you, I might opt for a cheaper camera, like an XTi and then buy the best glass that fits in my budget. For a wides you could go with a Tokina 12-24 (or Canon 10-22 or Sigma 10-22), mid range would be a Canon 24-70, 24-105 or Tamron 28-75 and for the longer end any of Canon's 70-200's are great or you could go with a 70-300 IS. Sigma also makes a good 70-200. For me, 200 mm on a crop camera was long enough, but you could also look at the 100-400 is you need more on the long end. With those lenses, with the exception of the wide zoom, you would still be set for a full frame sensor later on and when you are ready to switch, selling the wide zoom should be fairly easy. Luckily CF cards are getting cheap, and you can usually find filters for reasonable prices.
Of course, you could also look at Nikon's offerings -- the D300 is a mighty nice camera
Good luck, if you have any other questions about gear I'm sure there are plenty of people willing to spend your $ here!
BTW, poking around on B&H, I found the 5D being offered with the 24-105L for $2900. Considering that the price for the lens is just over $1k, this doesn't seem too bad. Best of luck whichever way you go.
Update: Paul M. and I must have been typing at the same time. His ideas are good ones too.
If Sony isn't an option I think I would wait for the 5DII to be released and then I'd pick up a 5D at a crazy low price. If you need a couple lenses to get you by I've got a Tokina 20-35 and 28-70 you can borrow for as long as you need them. Send me an email if you're interested.
I am currently waiting to upgrade my old Canon 10D to the new 5D II which is projected to be out this Fall.
But Sony is really putting out some great new products. They recently purchased Minolta and are utilizing Minolta engineering combined with Sony's sensors. And the Alpha mount works with some very nice Minolta lenses as well as the new class leading Sony Zeiss glass. That is really a killer combo.
Best Buy just dropped the price of the A700 by 20%. It shares the same sensor as the Nikon D300. You can see the thread about it here:http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/readflat.asp?forum=1037&thread=27538461
Nikon is actually appealing as well. They have just released the new 14-24, 24-70 and 70-200. All of which are designed to handle their next generation of FF DSLRs and perform *very* well based on their reviews (outperform Canon equivalents). The 14-24 even outperforms Canon's newest 14L II prime. Check out this review: http://www.16-9.net/lens_tests/nikon_14_24mm_1/nikon14_24mm_a.html
Nikon and Sony have better performing lenses especially in the wide to mid range. And lenses are really the most important part of a system for the long run IMO. DSLRs are constantly evolving. Canon used to be the only FF player. Now Nikon and Sony are entering this FF arena. And this competition will help to drive FF prices down.
So I am really torn as to whether I will stay with Canon. The main reasons for me to stay with Canon are my current lenses and their affordable FF 5D. The new image stabilized 24mp Sony A900 FF is due out this year. So I may end up going that way instead if it reviews well. But if I were to start all over I would go with Nikon or Sony for their lenses which are class leading.
On a side note, I would be willing to sell my Olympus E-1 and 14-54 (28-108 mm coverage) for a really good price. If this is inappropriate for this forum, I apologize.
Most importantly, sorry to hear about your loss. That is definitely not an easy thing to deal with.
Given your budget limitations, I think the 5D provides the best buy available and it is certainly no compromise for image quality. And the prices keep dropping in anticipation of a replacement.
Good Luck!
I have always wondered about this kind of gear insurance 'as a hobbiest.' I guess I need to talk to my insurance agent. But I wonder if this is something that would normally fall under an umbrella policy?
I guess if you are a 'Pro' it sounds like you need a separate policy or rider? Is that normally the case?
Derek, My insurance is through USAA. I have a personal property policy that covers replacement on all of my gear. They don't cover professional usage, so I'd have to go with NANPA/Chubb for professional equipment coverage but USAA is quite a bit cheaper. Other carriers probably have something similar.
Good luck!
I'd say Nikon has the edge at the moment due to their history in camera's and that new wide angle zoom. Of course, that lens alone would be 2/3 of your budget. But Nikon just seems to have way more features in their body and have been much more aggressive in their body designs/pricing. This will probably continue, so I'd go Nikon now.
I have both the Canon XT and XTi, so if you want to get either of those I'd highly recommend the XTi, since it fixes most of the gripes I had with the XT. Some day Canon will implement a flash commander in the built-in flash, then at least we will be on par with Nikon in that department.
Craig
I want to thank everyone for the advice and especially thank those who have generously offered to lend equipment. You all are great! However, I could never borrow from anyone and enjoy using it, out of fear that something like this could occur. I am going to file a claim on my homeowner's policy, but it's got a $1K deductible. Still, it's a start. And, I wouldn't normally file a claim on something this small if I hadn't been with the same company for 15 years and NOT claimed many things I could have. I've been told by the agent that it is covered and that filing a claim will not affect my premiums. After I've replaced some of this stuff, I'm definitely going to check into getting a policy specifically for my photo gear.
As far as the gear, you guys have really put some good options on the table. I guess I'll start the research on these recommendations. I really hate to leave Canon, but I guess now would be the time to do it. The worst thing about the timing of all this is that I've got a work-related trip to Sacramento coming up in a couple of weeks, and I'd planned to visit Yosemite and Lake Tahoe. Life lesson #1,136 and counting...
Yosemite and Tahoe without a camera would be torture for me. Two weeks isn't much time either. If you are a research nut like myself you probably couldn't just go out and buy some gear right away, especially if if you are considering Nikon, Sony, et al as well as Canon. That is a larger long term decision.
As an alternative how about just picking up one of the better P&S cameras that have come out recently. Jack Brauer just did a review of three of them. Can't remember the models. But that would at least give you something to use in a smaller form factor in the mean time.
We eventually discovered later that a cleaning crew found it and took it to the post office lost and found area in Moose which didn't open until the last day of our trip 'after' sunrise. But I guess I just rolled with all the fun others were having at my expense. Hey, I was still in one of the most beautiful places on earth. So I made the best of it. Lesson #1038 - don't let your wife carry your tripod.
Also sorry to hear of your loss! This brings up memories of a similar incident - very scary at the time. I had just flown in to SFO for a commercial shoot the next day. I ended up leaving my gear bag on the back seat of the shuttle bus! Arrggh!! Once I got the rental car (by then about 5 pm), I hurried over to the shuttle company "bus barn" nearby. Fortunately, there were a couple maintenance guys there, who got me in touch with the manager. Some nice person(!!!) turned in the gear and it had been placed in the safe. I certainly learned lesson #1039 that day!!
By the way, I wouldn't join NANPA just for their insurance (there's plenty of other good reasons, though
Don't have that much gear or not shooting commercially? Then I'd highly recommend a chat with your insurance company to make sure your homeowners insurance covers it. You may need an extra "rider", if not. Best to determine this up front!
Ken
Derek, that sounds like something that would happen to me. My wife, however, belongs to the you-brought-it, you-carry-it crowd. You should post some of your stroller photos.
Ken, thanks for posting that. I'm glad there are other photographers out there who have had certain "moments".
Be careful if you get a rider with your homeowners insurance. I used to have one with my policy and luckily never had to use it. But if you do a quick google search you will quickly see that many have had real problems with these policies.
I got the Nanpa policy cause I couldnt find anything bad written about it on the net. Just the opposite. And it is 'all risks' meaning that it covers more than 'stolen' gear.
RichieV
Here are a few from 'the stroller tripod'
http://landandseaphoto.smugmug.com/photos/233072272_Pvjdy-XL.jpg
http://landandseaphoto.smugmug.com/photos/233070809_3Mp4J-XL.jpg
http://landandseaphoto.smugmug.com/photos/233061457_fvWMR-XL.jpg
I wish I would have taken a picture of the guys/gals laughing there butts off at Oxbow Bend. After getting fed up with the stroller tripod I resorted to shooting from the ground with my camera on top of my bag. Here is a shot with that setup:
http://landandseaphoto.smugmug.com/photos/233068934_YomMF-XL.jpg
There was a lot of wind and the only way to avoid the grass movement with a long exposure was you guessed it - using a tripod. Of course the 20+ other photographers all had tripods including the workshop folks.
Derek, I really like the third one lots - very nice light. But, it looks like you may have had the stroller in the water.
I've been lurking on this site for a couple of months but never posted before. Felt really bad when I read your post. I'm a novice and therefore can't make really informed recommendations, but if you want to start over with an inexpensive basic DSLR body, you can get a Nikon refurb D40 with the 18-55mm kit lens from Adorama.com for $399.00. This body is compatible with Nikon's 18-200 VR lens too, plus many others of course. For LOTS of exhaustive well-covered equipment reviews and ideas (Nikon and Canon extensively, plus some other brands), have you tried reading the technical reviews on kenrockwell.com?
Best of luck,
Heather Nilson
It should be instructive for the forum members who are considering the need for extra insurance.
I generally prefer to be "self-insured", but after accumulating a certain amount of equipment, I felt a non-pro policy specifically covering my camera gear, at FULL replacement cost, made me feel much more comfortable.
I know my homeowner's policy would cover a loss, but that policy depreciates gear. So, I figure my claims check would be awfully small. Especially considering how quickly digital bodies depreciate. Although good lenses fare better on the resale market, I'm sure they probably use some standard depreciation table to estimate their current "value".
For my situation:
Depreciated Value - Insurance deductable = Not worth risk of policy cancellation.
Good luck on your negotiations.
In many circumstances the credit card company you used to pay for the rental car will cover losses due to damage or theft. I would give them a call.
Best of luck,
Rene
As for advice on Camera's Go anything above 10Mp and full 35mm Frame if you can. On the Nikon Side of the world, I like the D300 or the FujiFilm S5Pro that I use at work. D300 is faster but if you don't need Sports shooting speed, the S5pro is a great buy and stay with Nikon Lenses for it, no Sigma, Tamron or Tokina lenses.
Heather, thanks for the response! I've been to that site before, but it's been a long time. He recommends the Canon 5D for landscape, and I can't find any argument with that.
Bill, I finally talked with my adjuster, and it reminded me of an appeal hearing. She recorded my entire statement, very formal like, but was also quite nice. If I understand correctly, my policy will also consider replacement cost, minus deductible, minus depreciation on the initial payout. After I have purchased replacement equipment and have provided copies of the receipts to the insurance company, they will then pay out the depreciation. In other words, if I take the money and go on vacation, it's replacement minus depreciation. If I actually replace the equipment, I'm only out my deductible. So far, I'm happy with that.
I had to file a police report with the Denver police, which I was able to do online. Luckily, I found my registration materials and was able to provide serial numbers on the camera and lenses. My advice to everyone is to keep a running inventory, with serial numbers, of your gear on a spreadsheet or something, and keep all of your receipts in a file. I can't find all of my receipts for compact flash cards and filters, but I've got all the major ones (which is surprising considering we moved last November, and I'm still not settled in).
Rene', I had forgotten that some cards offer certain protections such as this, and I'll check it out.
James, the lot attendant claims he test-drove the vehicle after I left, but he had a perplexed look on his face when I came back and told him I thought I now knew what was wrong with the vehicle. I think the previous driver left the 4-wheel drive engaged, and that was causing the problems when turning the vehicle on concrete. The company is Thrifty, and there were other irregularities with the rental. According to the desk people, the guard shack guy should have issued a new contract on the second vehicle, but he just wrote "exchange" on my original. When I first returned, they didn't know where the vehicle was, i.e. on the lot or rented out. After 30-45 minutes, they figured it out. I can feel my blood pressure rising just thinking about it.
I can readily vouch for having a rider on my home owers policy. I have filed two claims. I dropped my D1X and 600 mm lens once and they paid for the repair very quickly - this was a repair of $4210. I was dumb on a trip once and left my camera bag on the trunk of a friend's car, it fell off and them a big truck ran over the bag. They replaced all of the gear at suggested retail price. My policy never increased in price.
For many insurance companies pro use means you make the majority of your income from photography, so if you shoot only part time, you would be able to use the home owners policy. Well, at least that is what Allstate and State Farm agents told me.
Scott
Thanks, everyone, for all of the advice and stories. I know some of you are curious as to how everything turned out. The insurance company has already cut a check for replacement cost minus around $450 in depreciation. When I have replaced my gear, I will forward copies of receipts to the company, and they will pay the remaining $450. I've already ordered my basics and went slightly over my $3K budget.
Canon 40D
17-40 4L
70-200 2.8L
Remote shutter release
Sandisk 8GB CF
Tamrac photo backpack
quick-release plate for ballhead
No filters, extra batteries, etc.
I really wanted the 5D, but there's no way I could get by with just a 17-40. Overall, I'm still just a little sick over the loss, but I'll have a better kit than what I started with and something to build on.