New camera thoughts

[farmer_rob]

The d7000 has exposure bracketing - only 3 steps though. (The d200 to d90 seems a strange step though - there would always be useability things you'd miss. I can see why the d7000 works for you over the d90.)

[arthurking83]

There are 'operational' aspects of a device that never seem to get commented on by many people that do reviews, simply because they've never used those capabilities.

For example, (and this is just me, because of my particular list of wants). That 10 pin plug found on the front of the Dxxx and Dx series cameras is a feature that probably just couldn't live without now.
Even tho my only use for it is for connecting my GPS to the D300 and the D90 and D7000 also have GPS connectivity too, it's the manner in which Nikon implemented the connectivity on the D90 and D7000 that has me turned off.
The D90 and D7000 have their connectors on the side access panel, hidden behind a rubber grommet. having this connector on the side is basically asking for trouble if you move around a lot, or handle the camera frequently. makes handholding whilst the GPS connected a PITA. I usually tend to leave the GPS connected to the camera more often that not, and as I see it, the D90/7000 system woudl make that both annoying and possible conditions for something to go wrong(most likely in the form of a snapped connector).
One of my priorities is usability of the device, I'd give up native IR remote any day to have one of those 10pin connectors fitted to the D7000. I have both the IR remote for my old D70 and I have a few variants of aftermarket remotes for my D300 too, and for both usability and ability and value for money, the aftermarket devices always win out. Whilst the Nikon IR system is handy to have, the aftermarket systems are a lot better in their implementations and ability in terms of distance and reliability of operation in the field. In some situations the IR nature of the Nikon remote can either misfire or in rare and very specific situations fire unexpectedly(I have a TV remote that operates the Nikon IR remote system on my D70s).
I remember once when the ML remote just refused to operate on a bright and hot sunny day out in the desert areas past Mildura(Lake Mungo) at about 2-5meters distance. Whether due to the bright sunny conditions or heat or distance, I don't know, it just didn't work
But the placement of the connectors on the side of the camera is a killer negative for me.

The D7000 definitely looks to have a slight edge in terms of higher ISO quality(which is always something to place a lot of importance on), but from the images I've seen(so far) the D300s sensor(and hence D90 sensor) seems to have slightly better grain quality at the lower ISO value(of 100) which is seen mainly in the blue channel and in the shadow areas. Of course careful and controlled PP can easily take care of those aspects, but I like to keep PP to a minimum(usually zero) level.
I'm generally one of the gear head types that gets annoyed with increasing pixel numbers in camera, if it means any hit in quality compared to the lower pixel cameras.

[farmer_rob]

...
One of my priorities is usability of the device, I'd give up native IR remote any day to have one of those 10pin connectors fitted to the D7000....

But for me, the IR remote is a key feature, as I do not want to have multiple remotes or a new remote (I recognise there are issues with the IR system though.) However, I would like to have the functionality behind the 10-pin connector. There is no reason for them to be mutually exclusive.

...But the placement of the connectors on the side of the camera is a killer negative for me.

But this is because you have established a handling process based on the d300. I have a handling process based on a d40x. I'll change with the d7000. You'll change with the d700 replacement (because FX will be an advantage for you that overrides other considerations, and you'll finally crack when they bring out the replacement )

Slightly OT - why do they need a gazillion different connectors? Why not just usb and perhaps fire-wire for video out? I will *NEVER* use the HDMI connector, and am unlikely to use video out. I'd like to hook up my garmin GPS (but the camera does does not understand the garmin USB protocol, nor can it be connected anyway), and I'd like to be able to hook up a pocket wizard (which requires the 10-pin connector AFAIK).

...
The D7000 definitely looks to have a slight edge in terms of higher ISO quality(which is always something to place a lot of importance on), but from the images I've seen(so far) the D300s sensor(and hence D90 sensor) seems to have slightly better grain quality at the lower ISO value(of 100) which is seen mainly in the blue channel and in the shadow areas. Of course careful and controlled PP can easily take care of those aspects, but I like to keep PP to a minimum(usually zero) level.
I'm generally one of the gear head types that gets annoyed with increasing pixel numbers in camera, if it means any hit in quality compared to the lower pixel cameras.

Hmmm... I think that is a fairly subjective analysis regarding the grain, and don't agree that there is a hit in quality. Greater pixel density is going to inherently change things at a pixel-peeping level. I don't agree with "better or worse" though.

[Obes]

I actually prefer the connector on the side. My D200 annoys me with the front facing connectors. I get why you are saying it tho, but it's just not for me. It'd be even better with a right angle connector. (Wonder if they exist 3rd party)
Yes the IR remote is a PITA I too have experienced it's lack of reliability in daylight. Hence why I use my wired one way more. And if I need to be in front of the camera I use a timer. (I am hoping the 3rd party grips have some expanded functionality maybe a radio trigger or improved IR, the Nikon grip seems very expensive for what it does).

And the D7000, to me, doesn't have that many connectors when compared to say the D200.
Yes it has the video cable and DHMI that'll never use but they are things someone like my parents or in-laws would use.
But the GPS connector doubles as the wired remote connector, with a pass through! (nice!) I Use it.
And it has USB, I use it.
I am not sure you could get more minimalist then that... you could get rid of USB and force people to use card readers.
I also like that all my little toys for the D90 work with the D7000.

(random extra comment the GP-1 can actually be hooked up to your PC as well).

[farmer_rob]

I rely on the USB connector, but just think everything should be done through it .

Obviously, the 9 pin - GPS - connector also provides access to the range of non-IR remotes. Hopefully I can get the right cable to work with a pocket wizard.

[colinl]

Well I'm still no closer to being able to make the choice. I do like the idea of a good build quality and the D300s has a good reputation in this. I think it may have the edge in speed and accuracy of metering? The D7000 looks like it has better low light performance, which is also important. The D7000 also has the better video, although this for me is just a nice to have option rather than an a needed feature.

[farmer_rob]

"Paralysis by Analysis"
Is this going to be your last body purchase? I think you are placing too much emphasis on minor detail. Have you handled both cameras? For me, the two cameras are sufficiently similar that emotional considerations were more important - "newest/hot" camera, won't be superseded for 12 months (hopefully), "more MP" vs Great camera, 12 months old, but based on older design, "fewer MP". My bet is you will go with the d300s - it's what you want, but you just can't quite get over the newness of the d7000. (And my drivers are not necessarily your drivers.)

As for "speed and accuracy of metering" - WRT speed of metering, everything is fast. Arguably, some are faster but I don't think it makes *any* difference. I can't tell that the d7000 is any "faster" than the d40x in reality, although it will be technically. In my experience, metering is *much* faster than the photographer, and has been since TTL metering was introduced. (If you are talking speed of AF, the d300s will probably be better.) WRT meter accuracy, the biggest failure of any TTL metering system (beyond the photographer ) revolves around how it averages across the entire frame. Matrix metering is the worst offender, and the d80 was (by all accounts) the worst example. The problem with matrix metering IMO is it seems to be designed for "people" shots, and if you don't do people shots, it may not get it right. Spot metering is far more reliable, and works in conjunction with the AF. But, exposure compensation can adjust for general meter bias, and experience and understanding of exposure is far more important than a fancy metering system.

Having said that, I find the metering on the d7000 to give a slightly "better" exposure than the d40x - but the active D-Lighting and (I think) better dynamic range are big contributors here. (Note - you can also adjust the size of the spot metering circle on the d7000 - a neat feature IMO). But remember, no matter how fancy the metering, you are still only getting the shutter and aperture settings (and maybe ISO) - the metering does not change the light available.

I think the build quality is sufficiently high - magnesium body, weather/dust sealing etc. - and certainly better than the d40x. I'm also aware of pro bodies that have failed - you still need to be careful with the camera and lens.

[colinl]

You are probably right. I am over thinking it. With regard to metering, I had meant the speed at which the camera can set itself up for a shot, so AF is probably my biggest concern. Often I find my D60 just can't react fast enough to get a shot I would have liked. I'm sure both these cameras would be a big improvement on the D60.
I appreciate the input. It certainly helps in working things through your head when you can get varied perspectives.

[farmer_rob]

Don't forget that the operation of the lens is also an issue for AF speed - some are better than others, AF-S are meant to be better than the older screw-drive lenses, but the internet suggests some AF-S lenses are faster than others.

The d40x was a bugger for not letting you take a shot because it had "lost focus" (and it wasn't refocussing ). I haven't had that problem with the d7000 - the extra focus points handle it with ease, and you can turn off that annoying restriction anyway (Using a smaller aperture and flash, pin-sharp focus on the subject is ideal but not essential.) I think you'll find the same advantages with the d300s. (And with either of them, you'll still miss shots - but then you have to blame the operator )

[maccaroneski]

Are you keeping the D90 or will you be selling it to fund the purchase?

[colinl]

I only have a D60. I'll probably keep it, I doubt they would be worth much these days and it could still come in handy at times.

I think I may have made a choice. It will probably be the the D7000, the later technology would be good and the low light ability would be a bonus. The only thing holding me to the D300s choice was the build quality and speed of auto focus. Neither of which would be far in front of the D7000, if at all.

[Briegman]

Hi
I have made up my mind as well, I'm going from D90 to D700. As long as the replacement is not coming out before Xmas, hence I'll wait for Santa End of the day the camera will only enhance the photographer, not the other way around. Cheers guys

[farmer_rob]

Colin, I hope you like it as much as I like mine (or, "it's been nice knowing you..." )
Briegman, you'll have a fun christmas - or at least one learning a new aspect of photography.

Regards, Rob.

[colinl]

I've got to say, I'm struggling with this. Normally I'm pretty sure footed when it comes to making a purchase. I don't think I've given this much thought or effort into buying any of our houses over the years, yet alone a car, or perhaps even a motorcycle.

Has anyone heard of a dead pixel or soft focus problem on the D7000? I guess they have been selling them by the truck load since their release, so a couple of duds would be expected. These things can gather their own momentum these days with the internet and sometimes minor concerns get blown out of proportion.

[N*A*M]

dead pixels happen on many sensors but are rarely a real issue, especially when downsizing for web or printing on paper
sharpness claims probably come from the physics of higher resolution, plus lack of proper RAW support by software

just buy it and don't sweat the little details from the few negative comments on the web

[colinl]

Hi Nam, How do you like the D300?

[rellik666]

Having had a look at the D7000 (in pictures) I am still happy with my D300s....and tbh my only regret is not going all the way to D700....It looks to me like there are some bits missing from the D7000 and options that are easily available on the D300s not on the D7000....forgive my ignorance but where are the DOF, AF-ON, Focus Area and Continous Servo Buttons on the D7000...I use these regularly and wouldn't want to have to hunt for them. I am assuming they could be programmed?

[farmer_rob]

Roo, Why wouldn't you be happy with the d300s? The d7000 is not a replacement for the d300 series. IMO it lies between the d90 and the d300 in useability/functions. However, it has better tech than the d90 (more AF points, newer metering) and a newer sensor than both the d90 and the d300 (higher ISO, more MP). IMO, the d300s will be replaced before the d7000 and if the d7000 is a guide, the d300s replacement will be a great camera.

BTW, Focus Area and AF-A/AF-S/AF-C can be set by a button and the command dials (button is in center of Autofocus/manual lever on the front of the camera). You can program the ae lock to be "focus on". DOF preview is on the front of the camera too.

[colinl]

Well I've done it. Stuffed if I know if it was the right choice. I've wanted the D300s for a while and in the end this is what finally one out. As good as the specs are on the D7000 I know the D300s will still take nice pictures and I have more confidence that the AF system will be nice and quick and the build quality proven (not that I think the D7000 would suffer much in this regard).

While I was at it I ordered a SB600 flash as well, so it will be a long few days ahead I think.

[Eberbachl]

EDIT: Never mind the post below... just read your last post... well done


Forget about dead pixels and soft focus

You're starting to pay too much attention to Internet myths propagated by forum experts with too much time and not much idea

Either the D7000 or D300s are great cameras... you'll love either one. Go buy one and take some pictures already.

I've got to say, I'm struggling with this. Normally I'm pretty sure footed when it comes to making a purchase. I don't think I've given this much thought or effort into buying any of our houses over the years, yet alone a car, or perhaps even a motorcycle.

Has anyone heard of a dead pixel or soft focus problem on the D7000? I guess they have been selling them by the truck load since their release, so a couple of duds would be expected. These things can gather their own momentum these days with the internet and sometimes minor concerns get blown out of proportion.