I purchased a Canon 1Ds MkIII as soon as it became available but I was very disappointed with it and at the beginning I thought that my lack of skill was the overriding problem but things did not improve with the passing of time. Autofocus failed on a regular basis and in many cases the camera froze and this was especially true when I employed third part lenses. The captured images often proved to be very noisy even at ISO100. Sometimes it failed in hot weather.
The Canon 1Ds Mark III was a groundbreaking camera when it was released, but it did have known issues all of which I encountered.
Known Problems and Issues
Autofocus Issues: The 1Ds Mark III's autofocus system, while advanced for its time, was prone to inconsistencies. This was especially noticeable with third-party lenses, where compatibility wasn't always guaranteed. It's worth noting that many modern mirrorless cameras have vastly superior autofocus, making this a major drawback of the 1Ds MkIII today.
Camera Freezing: Firmware issues were a known problem in earlier 1Ds Mark III models. These could cause freezing, especially under specific circumstances like when using third-party lenses or in unusual shooting conditions.
Canon did release firmware updates to address some of these problems, however my camera is running the latest firmware.
Noise at Low ISO: Compared to modern sensors, the 1Ds Mark III's image quality at low ISOs isn't stellar. The advancement in sensor technology means that today's cameras handle noise significantly better.
Heat Issues: Some users reported camera malfunctions in hot weather due to overheating. This might be less of a concern in cooler climates like Ireland.
Usability in 2024 if you ever consider buying a used body.
The 1Ds Mark III is still a capable camera but with significant caveats:
Manual Focus Reliability: If you're comfortable with manual focus, the 1Ds Mark III can deliver stunning images, especially for studio and controlled environments. Its larger sensor still offers advantages in some situations.
Legacy Value: The 1Ds Mark III holds a certain historical appeal for collectors and those interested in the era of professional DSLRs it represents.
Limited Situations: In 2024, a camera like this becomes increasingly niche. You'll likely find yourself limited to landscapes, posed portraiture, or well-lit studio work where its sensor size and image quality shine, and manual focus is less of a burden.
If have one should You Keep Using It?
It depends on your needs and how it fits into your photography:
Learning Tool: The 1Ds Mark III can be a great manual photography learning tool due to its robust build and relatively simple control scheme.
Specific Needs: If you primarily shoot in controlled situations where speed and autofocus aren't essential, it can still yield beautiful results.
Sentimental Value: If the camera holds sentimental value, or you enjoy working with older technology, keeping it is perfectly valid.
Color Science vs. Sony A7R
Canon cameras are often praised for their colour science, but this is subjective. Some find Canon colours more pleasing 'out of the box,' while Sony's color profiles offer greater flexibility in post-processing. There's no definitive "better," only what works for your preferences.
Technical Details
Sensor: 21.1 Megapixel Full-Frame CMOS
ISO Range: 100-3200 (expandable)
Autofocus: 45-point AF system
Released: 2007
The Canon 1Ds Mark III was a groundbreaking camera when it was released, but it did have known issues all of which I encountered.
Known Problems and Issues
Autofocus Issues: The 1Ds Mark III's autofocus system, while advanced for its time, was prone to inconsistencies. This was especially noticeable with third-party lenses, where compatibility wasn't always guaranteed. It's worth noting that many modern mirrorless cameras have vastly superior autofocus, making this a major drawback of the 1Ds MkIII today.
Camera Freezing: Firmware issues were a known problem in earlier 1Ds Mark III models. These could cause freezing, especially under specific circumstances like when using third-party lenses or in unusual shooting conditions.
Canon did release firmware updates to address some of these problems, however my camera is running the latest firmware.
Noise at Low ISO: Compared to modern sensors, the 1Ds Mark III's image quality at low ISOs isn't stellar. The advancement in sensor technology means that today's cameras handle noise significantly better.
Heat Issues: Some users reported camera malfunctions in hot weather due to overheating. This might be less of a concern in cooler climates like Ireland.
Usability in 2024 if you ever consider buying a used body.
The 1Ds Mark III is still a capable camera but with significant caveats:
Manual Focus Reliability: If you're comfortable with manual focus, the 1Ds Mark III can deliver stunning images, especially for studio and controlled environments. Its larger sensor still offers advantages in some situations.
Legacy Value: The 1Ds Mark III holds a certain historical appeal for collectors and those interested in the era of professional DSLRs it represents.
Limited Situations: In 2024, a camera like this becomes increasingly niche. You'll likely find yourself limited to landscapes, posed portraiture, or well-lit studio work where its sensor size and image quality shine, and manual focus is less of a burden.
If have one should You Keep Using It?
It depends on your needs and how it fits into your photography:
Learning Tool: The 1Ds Mark III can be a great manual photography learning tool due to its robust build and relatively simple control scheme.
Specific Needs: If you primarily shoot in controlled situations where speed and autofocus aren't essential, it can still yield beautiful results.
Sentimental Value: If the camera holds sentimental value, or you enjoy working with older technology, keeping it is perfectly valid.
Color Science vs. Sony A7R
Canon cameras are often praised for their colour science, but this is subjective. Some find Canon colours more pleasing 'out of the box,' while Sony's color profiles offer greater flexibility in post-processing. There's no definitive "better," only what works for your preferences.
Technical Details
Sensor: 21.1 Megapixel Full-Frame CMOS
ISO Range: 100-3200 (expandable)
Autofocus: 45-point AF system
Released: 2007
February 2024 Menu
Docking Stations
DublinBikes, a popular bike-sharing service in Dublin, provides convenient access to bicycles for both residents and visitors.
Docking Stations 103, 104, and 105: These three docking stations are strategically placed near the TU campus (Technological University Dublin) in the Grangegorman area. The proximity of these stations suggests that there might indeed be a high demand for bikes in this location. Having multiple stations close together ensures that users can easily find an available bike or return one without having to travel far.
The stations are situated on Upper Grangegorman and Lower Grangegorman, making them accessible to students, faculty, and nearby residents.
The Grangegorman area in Dublin has undergone significant redevelopment in recent years.
Key points about the area include:
TU Dublin Campus: The consolidated Technological University Dublin campus at Grangegorman is a major centre for education, bringing thousands of students and staff to the area daily.
Luas Green Line: The tram line provides fast and convenient public transport connections to the city centre, creating a multimodal transport network.
Regeneration: The wider Grangegorman redevelopment project has revitalised the area with a mix of educational, residential, and some commercial buildings, increasing the population density and need for transport options.
Docking Stations 103, 104, and 105: These three docking stations are strategically placed near the TU campus (Technological University Dublin) in the Grangegorman area. The proximity of these stations suggests that there might indeed be a high demand for bikes in this location. Having multiple stations close together ensures that users can easily find an available bike or return one without having to travel far.
The stations are situated on Upper Grangegorman and Lower Grangegorman, making them accessible to students, faculty, and nearby residents.
The Grangegorman area in Dublin has undergone significant redevelopment in recent years.
Key points about the area include:
TU Dublin Campus: The consolidated Technological University Dublin campus at Grangegorman is a major centre for education, bringing thousands of students and staff to the area daily.
Luas Green Line: The tram line provides fast and convenient public transport connections to the city centre, creating a multimodal transport network.
Regeneration: The wider Grangegorman redevelopment project has revitalised the area with a mix of educational, residential, and some commercial buildings, increasing the population density and need for transport options.
TU Academic Hub
The Academic Hub at TU Dublin in Grangegorman promises to be a transformative addition to the campus. This ambitious project will culminate in a 12,600 square meter, state-of-the-art building designed to house an extensive range of student and staff support services. The Career Development Centre, Assistive Technologies, Maths Learning Centre, and Academic Writing Centre will all find a new home in this centralised location.
By consolidating TU Dublin's seven library sites into this single comprehensive facility, the Academic Hub will enhance student access to vital resources and support networks.
This landmark development represents a significant investment of over €70 million by the Irish government into tertiary education. Funding comes from a strategic combination of TU Dublin property sales and exchequer funding made available through the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.
Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Simon Harris TD, marked the occasion on January 11th by stating, "Today marks another major step in the advancement of TU Dublin as we move forward with a new Academic Hub & Library on this ever-growing campus. The Academic Hub, which thoughtfully incorporates the historic North House into its design, is a truly exciting and impressive development. Consolidating seven library sites into this single, state-of-the-art facility will provide students and staff with exceptional resources to achieve their best."
Additional Details (based on personal research):
Architect: O'Donnell + Tuomey
Building Features: The Academic Hub may include a vibrant ground floor with student services, a café, exhibition space, and a Learning Commons while offering views across the city from its upper levels.
Sustainability: The Academic Hub could incorporate sustainable building practices to reduce its environmental impact.
By consolidating TU Dublin's seven library sites into this single comprehensive facility, the Academic Hub will enhance student access to vital resources and support networks.
This landmark development represents a significant investment of over €70 million by the Irish government into tertiary education. Funding comes from a strategic combination of TU Dublin property sales and exchequer funding made available through the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.
Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Simon Harris TD, marked the occasion on January 11th by stating, "Today marks another major step in the advancement of TU Dublin as we move forward with a new Academic Hub & Library on this ever-growing campus. The Academic Hub, which thoughtfully incorporates the historic North House into its design, is a truly exciting and impressive development. Consolidating seven library sites into this single, state-of-the-art facility will provide students and staff with exceptional resources to achieve their best."
Additional Details (based on personal research):
Architect: O'Donnell + Tuomey
Building Features: The Academic Hub may include a vibrant ground floor with student services, a café, exhibition space, and a Learning Commons while offering views across the city from its upper levels.
Sustainability: The Academic Hub could incorporate sustainable building practices to reduce its environmental impact.
The East Quad
Designed by renowned architect Decimus Burton in the 1830s, the Knockmaroon Gate Lodge presents a classic, symmetrical design. It boasts ornate iron gates, octagonal-shaped stone piers, and decorative lamps. Once a gatekeeper's residence, it now plays a more decorative role at the edge of the park.
The name 'Knockmaroon' has its roots in the Irish language and reveals a glimpse into the area's landscape long ago:
"Cnoc": This means 'hill' in Irish, very likely referring to the raised ground the Knockmaroon Gate is located on.
"Marún": The meaning of this word is less certain. Some sources translate it as 'sea pink', a type of flowering plant. It's possible this plant once grew abundantly on the hillside. Others believe it may be linked to an old Irish word for 'sweet herbs', which could also have thrived in the area.
Despite the translations, the true origins of the name 'Knockmaroon' remain slightly shrouded in the mists of time. There is no single definitive record, lending an extra layer of charm to this historic landmark.
The Knockmaroon Gate Lodge is located at the Knockmaroon Gate entrance to Phoenix Park. You can stroll past and admire its architecture. If you're interested in learning more, the biodiversity centre nearby sometimes includes information on the park's history, including its gate lodges.
Mount Sackville School is located nearby. The school was founded in 1890 by the Sisters of St Joseph of Cluny, an order established by Blessed Anne Marie Javouhey. However, the school is named “Mount Sackville” because it was the name of a house that was sold to the nuns. The spirit and values of Blessed Anne Marie Javouhey are deeply ingrained in the ethos and educational philosophy of the school. Her dedication to education, her desire to help people of all races, and her devotion to helping those who were suffering are principles that continue to guide the school’s mission and practices. So, while the name “Sackville” relates to the geographical location of the school in Dublin, the influence of Blessed Anne Marie Javouhey is fundamental to the school’s identity and operations.
The name 'Knockmaroon' has its roots in the Irish language and reveals a glimpse into the area's landscape long ago:
"Cnoc": This means 'hill' in Irish, very likely referring to the raised ground the Knockmaroon Gate is located on.
"Marún": The meaning of this word is less certain. Some sources translate it as 'sea pink', a type of flowering plant. It's possible this plant once grew abundantly on the hillside. Others believe it may be linked to an old Irish word for 'sweet herbs', which could also have thrived in the area.
Despite the translations, the true origins of the name 'Knockmaroon' remain slightly shrouded in the mists of time. There is no single definitive record, lending an extra layer of charm to this historic landmark.
The Knockmaroon Gate Lodge is located at the Knockmaroon Gate entrance to Phoenix Park. You can stroll past and admire its architecture. If you're interested in learning more, the biodiversity centre nearby sometimes includes information on the park's history, including its gate lodges.
Mount Sackville School is located nearby. The school was founded in 1890 by the Sisters of St Joseph of Cluny, an order established by Blessed Anne Marie Javouhey. However, the school is named “Mount Sackville” because it was the name of a house that was sold to the nuns. The spirit and values of Blessed Anne Marie Javouhey are deeply ingrained in the ethos and educational philosophy of the school. Her dedication to education, her desire to help people of all races, and her devotion to helping those who were suffering are principles that continue to guide the school’s mission and practices. So, while the name “Sackville” relates to the geographical location of the school in Dublin, the influence of Blessed Anne Marie Javouhey is fundamental to the school’s identity and operations.
MARCH 2024
February 2024 Menu
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