Any Samsung TL500/EX1 users?

[alkemyst]

Just bought this camera (I know about the EX2F as well that was just released). It's one I was looking at a couple years ago actually.

Needed a swivel screen, 24mm wide angle and good low life performance...this seems to have it all (1.8F @24mm, 2.0 @32 and 36mm).

I paid $250 for new in box...a EX2F would be $400. I figure if I have a need to upgrade (initial reports show the EX2F is not a major change, but mostly adds HD video) based on the prices of TL500's I should be able to get most of my money back anyway.

It was supposed to be delivered today 🙁 UPS pushed it to tomorrow and they know not to deliver to the office since the whole building is closed...fortunately I have other packages coming anyway Monday. I usually work from home and my office is 30+ miles away. I'd have made the trip for the camera though.

Those that had / have them, what accessories/tricks do you know have? I have an external charger and a couple batteries coming, a pair of 8GB Extreme (the new Extreme III versions) SDHC cards, and looking into a 52mm adapter to use ND and CPL filters as needed. I'd like a wide angle setup (18mm), but don't know which is good and Samsung's is $80+.

Anyone use a LCD protector or no?

 

[Herr Kutz]

I have one and never saw a need to purchase a screen protector. The screen swivels around to face the body which I think is protection enough.

If you don't like having to remove the lens cap every time you take a photo I would suggest purchasing the auto opening/closing lens cap. I don't have one but it seems useful.

That said, I'm most likely going to sell mine and upgrade to a m43 camera.

 

[FeuerFrei]

^ I agree on the screen. Just flip it around to face the body when shut. It's a sexy AMOLED display, but I'm not worried about mine.

The retractable lens cap the other guy mentioned sounds like a good idea - I routinely forget to remove the cap before powering the camera on. I considered buying that cap once, but the only sellers were in China or thereabouts and there's no way I'm sending my credit card info there. Besides the stock lens cap adds almost no bulk.

Example of aftermarket retractable cap. NOT stock.

Not being a photographer, I only accessorized my TL500 with a tailored case and wall-charger. Frankly, I never use the wall-charger. I just charge in-camera and two full batteries so far is enough to get me through the day. Most of my shooting doesn't require flash. From my experience, I think it would suck batteries like crazy.

I paid tree-fitty for it back in spring of 2011. I'm pretty happy with it and will probably get an EX2F eventually. So glad they released a new generation and didn't drop the model.