Which camera?

[Marvin Mattelson]

I'm very very happy with my Nikon D70. The color is quite beautiful (better than film to my eye) and the detail is very good. It has more features than the Canon Rebel. I don't know if the new Canon 20D is worth 50% more. There isn't a big difference between 6 and 8 megapixels.

If the 20D has a significantly greater dynamic range than the D70 it could be worth the difference. I doubt this is the case but you'd have to look into it to find out.

The quality of the lenses have a more significant impact on image quality than megapixel numbers. Coupled with my Epson R800 I get extremely beautiful prints. I would also recommend getting the Nikon Capture software to adjust raw files.

If you already have either Nikon or Cannon lenses this might influence your decision.

Hope this helps.

[Julie Deane]

PC Magazine's newest issue discusses their picks for cameras: they list two for digital SLR - the Canon Rebel and the Nikon D70. But of the two, the highest recommendation goes to the Nikon D70.

[Rui Manuel]

Bob:

No doubt that the Nikon D70 is a GREAT machine. I know the Nikon D70 very well since I used to borrow one from a friend,
while I'm waiting for my Canon D20 to be released from the distributors.

The diference in the megapixels is not that much if you want the bigger format(RAW's), but is indeed important when you do crop work, for example, to get a specific person out from a group of several persons.

But there are other differences in the Canon D20 which puts it above the Nikon D70:

- 9(!) Focus Points
- Shooter speed: D20 is even better than the D70
- 5 frames per second (up to 23 continuos photos in JPEG Large/Fine format) is FABULOUS to get that special
expression in a portrait or to photograh Nature(wich is also one of my interests)
- Very important: the entire range of possible lens is much bigger on Canon than on Nikon D70
- Less(or even less) noise in the photo on the D20 when using high ISO's(Sensivity to light) (never forget this point on a digi camera).
- Price(at www.pcmall.com) Canon EOS-20D: $1594.00, Nikon D70: $1299.00. It worths the diference.
... and there is more, have a try on the net reviews.

So, the point is:

1 - do you see a digi camera just for your portraiture? -> go for the Nikon D70
2 - do you see a digi camera as a toy to have fun in your entire life(which is my case)? -> go for the Canon EOS-20D.

Make your decision.
Rui.

[Marvin Mattelson]

The cost of the D70 without a lens is $999. The additional $300 will get you the kit lens.

Even though I got the kit lens (18-70) I like the 70-300 zoom better. I can shoot the full figure and zoom in on any details. For $300 this lens is a great buy. For about $900 you can buy an 80-200 zoom which I have learned is sharper still. In retrospect, I should have bought this lens.

Remember, whatever camera you buy will be obsolete in three years. By then you'll be buying 22 megapixel cameras for $1000. You'll still have your lenses though, so you'll want to make an informed decision about which manufacturer you want to be tethered to.

[Michele Rushworth]

Can anyone tell me what the battery pack and charger options are for the Nikon D70?

I'd obviously like something that lasts long and can recharge quickly. Do these typically come with the camera body and/or the "kit" or are they purchased separately?

[Mike McCarty]

Greetings to all from the Sunshine state,

I too am very satisfied with my D70. I held out with film a very long time. It was like pulling up to the space shuttle launch site in my Ford Pinto and trading titles.

Michele,

I purchased the D70 kit from my local retailer for $1299. The kit came with the following as described in the specs from Digital Photography Review .

Power:

[Michele Rushworth]

Thanks, Mike.

Where in Florida are you? Have you found a spot to call home yet?