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rixie · Joined: 29 Dec 2007 Posts: 3433 Location: Hampshire, UK

I need to buy some new CF cards for my upcoming trip to Monument Valley :)

I just logged onto Amazon and was staggered by the range available, and now I don't know which ones to buy!

I currently only have a couple of 4GB and one 8GB card, so I thought I would invest in 2 x16GB cards. However, when I looked at what I have, (Sandisk), I have one Ultra, one Ultra II and one Extreme III and Amazon also gave me several other options at varying prices from £35 to £87 - can anyone tell me if there are any noticeable differences?

I have googled and come to the conclusion that, unless I am using video, the only real difference is in the speed the files transfer from card to computer - is that correct?

I am happy with Sandisk, as I have never had any problems with my current cards but I did have a Kingston card that was duff, so it put me off that brand a bit. I haven't tried any other makes but would welcome some input from users of other brands.

I don't know if camera type makes any real difference but I am using a Canon 5d Mk II.

Thanks in advance everyone

ijdema · Joined: 22 Jan 2012 Posts: 164

There is a really big speed difference between types of cf cards. Not only from card to computer but also from buffer to card.

Check this link for comparison tests: http://www.robgalbraith.com/bins/camera_multi_page.asp?cid=6007-9784

rixie · Joined: 29 Dec 2007 Posts: 3433 Location: Hampshire, UK

Thank you ijdema, I did stumble across this chart but I have to confess, it might as well be written in a foreign language!

I guess what I am really asking is would I actually notice a difference and, if I do, is it really to my advantage? Are we talking about the difference between dial-up internet and firbe-optic broadband or are we talking about differences that are so small as to be negligible in the scheme of things?

hhltdave5 · Posted: Fri Mar 09, 2012 10:21 am

Jane, Sandisks are just fine. As mentioned just make sure you get the newer cards and not the very old ones that are really slow. I would never go lower than 20mb per second.

I have some Sandisks and am very happy with them. Hoodman and Lexar cards are also very good.

The main thing to remember is to get cards that are large enough. We will be doing lots of shooting during the workshop so I would suggest having at least the 8gb.

I usually come with about half a dozen cards ranging from 8-16gb. I also bring a card reader and a portable hard drive so I can transfer the images for safe keeping.

The size you bring also can depend on what format you will be shooting in. Many will shoot both jpg and RAW together so space can be eaten up pretty quickly.

Just so you know I am going to be talking to Laurin and Mike about getting some shots that not so many have taken before. There are some areas where I will be moving off the beaten path to get some different shots. Not everyone will want to do the walking but if you are interested make sure you wear the proper clothes and foot gear. I strongly suggest having a good pair of hiking boots or something that will at least give your ankles support and are not flimsy.

hhltdave5 · Posted: Fri Mar 09, 2012 10:28 am

ijdema · Joined: 22 Jan 2012 Posts: 164

You'll only notice a difference when you need to do a burst shot. Bursts will fill your buffer quickly and it takes longer to clear with slower cards so you wont be able to take any shots while waiting.

When you make single shots most of the time then you don't really need to worry about the speed to much.

rixie · Joined: 29 Dec 2007 Posts: 3433 Location: Hampshire, UK

Hi Dave, thanks for your input.

Firstly, I'm bringing my laptop so that I can transfer images at the end of each day. I tend to shoot both raw/jpg together so do you think 2 x 16GB plus the 8GB and 2 x 4GB i already have will be sufficient or should I buy more? I am also ordering a spare battery, as I currently only have one. Are there any other essentials you think I might need?

I'm up for getting something different and I'll arrive with a suitable wardrobe! However, I must warn that I don't have any head for heights and I'm not happy close to the edge of anything - perhaps I should have mentioned this before?!

hhltdave5 · Posted: Fri Mar 09, 2012 10:59 am

rixie · Joined: 29 Dec 2007 Posts: 3433 Location: Hampshire, UK

Thanks Dave, I'm fine if there is a rail and, although I have an issue, I always try not to let it get in the way of things. Not sure you'll get me hanging off any ropes though, even if it is for a perfect stock shot!

I'm going to order 2 x 16GB Sandisk Extreme III and a spare battery now and then I'm off to condense my entire wardrobe so that I am prepared for a hot/cold/wet/dry trip ;)

All I can say is I'm glad British Airways have a reasonable luggage allowance!

hhltdave5 · Posted: Fri Mar 09, 2012 1:07 pm

rixie · Joined: 29 Dec 2007 Posts: 3433 Location: Hampshire, UK

Hi Dave, as it turned out I had to order the Extreme Pro because the others were out of stock.....!

I'll be bringing some cash as well as my credit card! This is my first trip to America and I intend to make the most of it in every way, If you can point me in the direction of a good steak and salad with a nice drop of wine, I may just have to stay for a month!

rinder99 · Posted: Fri Mar 09, 2012 2:41 pm

Good call on the pro Cards Jane. more and fastest is always the best way to go. My D3 has 2 slots. I carry 2 16's. Remember. That whole area is a Navaho indian reservation. no alcohol is sold anywhere, Closest is 110 miles away in Medicine Hat. I bring My own for a nite cap.

rixie · Joined: 29 Dec 2007 Posts: 3433 Location: Hampshire, UK

rinder99 · Posted: Fri Mar 09, 2012 5:51 pm

Mine always rattles.See ya soon.

rixie · Joined: 29 Dec 2007 Posts: 3433 Location: Hampshire, UK