We're thinking about buying our first DSLR ... trying to decide between Nikon D200 or Canon EOS 20D. (The last camera we bought was Nikon Coolpix 8400) ... right now, we don't have any lenses for DSLR ... based on this, would you recommend getting the Nikon D200 or Canon EOS 20D?

Thank you!

Michaela

We're thinking about buying our first DSLR ... trying to decide between Nikon D200 or Canon EOS 20D. (The last camera we bought was Nikon Coolpix 8400) ... right now, we don't have any lenses for DSLR ... based on this, would you recommend getting the Nikon D200 or Canon EOS 20D?

Thank you!

Michaela

The usual advice when choosing a DSLR system is: Go into the shop, take both cameras in your hands, see which you feel most comfortable with, which one you understand best. As you already have a Coolpix you will certainly have less problems adapting to the D200.

BTW the EOS 20D is due for replacement in a couple of months. You might find that the price drops sharply soon.

Charles

That's probably the best advice - either camera can give you great results. A couple of general differences as I see them:

Nikon has a more accurate flash system. If you're using flash a lot, this will really make a difference. There's also that 10.5mm fisheye lens that can be corrected in Nikon Capture software to give you an image with something like a 122 degree angle of view. They seem to be better with wide lenses in general, sticking with one sensor size (1.5x) over Canon's three (1x, 1.3x and 1.6x). Nikon puts a spot meter into most of their SLR bodies too.

Canon seems to have the edge with high-ISO noise, but supposedly the D200 is catching up. ISO3200 files from newer Canon DSLR's are really impressive. They also have that 24mm f1.4 lens and a bigger selection of IS lenses (Nikon calls the same thing VR).

That's probably the best advice - either camera can give you great results. A couple of general differences as I see them:

Nikon has a more accurate flash system. If you're using flash a lot, this will really make a difference. There's also that 10.5mm fisheye lens that can be corrected in Nikon Capture software to give you an image with something like a 122 degree angle of view. They seem to be better with wide lenses in general, sticking with one sensor size (1.5x) over Canon's three (1x, 1.3x and 1.6x). Nikon puts a spot meter into most of their SLR bodies too.

Canon seems to have the edge with high-ISO noise, but supposedly the D200 is catching up. ISO3200 files from newer Canon DSLR's are really impressive. They also have that 24mm f1.4 lens and a bigger selection of IS lenses (Nikon calls the same thing VR).

Chasseurs d'Images this month says the the D200 has the best flash system, the best exposure system, the best focussing system and the best body. But that just gives Canon a target to better with their next camera.

Canon and Nikon have different philosophies. Canon is opportunist. They bring out a new model assembled from parts they have under development every six months. Nikon is conservative. Each time they bring out a finished product with a life of three-four years.

If you follow this forum (or others) keenly and you only want the latest and greatest gear then buy Canon. You'll go crazy waiting for Nikon to come out for something. If on the other hand you want a carefully developed tool that you will appreciate for years then buy Nikon.

Charles