Although I generally feel like we live in a zoo, yesterday we ventured out to the Chattanooga Zoo. For the past week plus, Brennan & Knox have been sick with RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus). Although they seem to be feeling much better, we didn’t think it would be a good idea to take them to…
About this time every year I’m filled with anticipation. For one, I anticipate a new season. I don’t know about you but I’m affected by the weather. Every February I find myself in the “funk”. I’m tired of the rain, the cold, the deadness & I’m ready for new life, a new season, new things….
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YEAH!!! I am so excited for ya’ll. You definatley need a little girl to spice things up a little. There is nothing like them :O) Love Ya’ll!!!
Ah!!! HOW WONDERFUL!!!!!
Almost weekly, I receive requests from other photographers as well as beginners who are interested in what gear I use. Those starting out in the field, whether by hobby or trade, are generally curious my recommendations. I generally suggest the same things, so my responses have become fairly standard. However, I knew it would be…
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@Elizabeth: Thanks! Great question… I initially chose Canon when I was shooting film & bought my first SLR. I don’t know if I had a good reason to select it over Nikon except that it was probably on sale & due to it’s brand recognition… I’ve liked Canon since those Andre Agassi commercials. Ha! Then, when I purchased a DSLR, I chose the Canon because I already had a lens for the 35mm that I could use on the digital camera. So for me, I decided to stick with what I started with. Both Nikon & Canon have distinct advantages. I have many friends & photog heroes who are Nikon users. The placement of controls are so different than Canon that it takes a bit for me to get used to it… neither in my opinion is better, just different. I personally prefer the colors & skin tones of the Canon as well as the assortment of the lenses they offer (plus you can use Nikon lenses on a Canon but not vice-versa). Canon’s lens variety & build is reason enough for me. But, Nikon, in my opinion boasts a more consistent AF (auto-focus) system & the user controls seem more fitting for those starting out in photography. That’s likely why it felt better in your hands; they are fantastic cameras. In most cases I recommend sticking with what you began with; you’ll be familiar with the settings & won’t have to reinvest in lenses. As you grow as a photographer, you’ll continually learn how to max out your camera’s abilities. At that point, you may realize you need to upgrade. I don’t perceive ever switching (pending an endorsement… ha!) but my Nikon friends say the same!
@Tommy: Great to hear from you; thanks for your comment. You bring up some excellent points & nice suggestions. Although I’ve yet to have any problems with the AF in my Mark II, I have heard from others a similar story as your friend. I feel like the AF in the next generation 5D (or the like) is the most needed issue to be addressed. There were times I experienced some soft-focus but it was due to a lens that needed re-calibrated rather than the body. And, you’re absolutely correct, there are much more important things than megapixels… great points!
This is a great resource for those looking at investing in their first DSLR or upgrading. I am curious though, have you experienced any issues with the autofocus system in your 5D Mark II? I first heard about it from Michele Anderson of Pinkle Toes Photography (she wrote a blog posting about it). She had the 5D Mark II and sent it in multiple times and Canon replaced the entire AF system each time, but it never remedied her problem. She ended up switching to Nikon’s D700. After reading of her situation, I researched more and found others to have the same issue with their 5D Mark II.
I have to admit I’m a Nikon shooter, though I have no prejudices against Canon. I find Nikon’s AF systems and low-noise ISO performance to be a bit better, in my opinion. I feel that Nikon puts more emphasis on these traits than megapixels. I mean, the Nikon D3s only has 12.1mp but is probably the low-light king among DSLRs. So, megapixels shouldn’t necessarily be a deciding factor. Nikon has since developed newer sensors however with higher megapixel counts while improving upon it’s ISO performance.
Video is a great feature to have in a DSLR, but I don’t feel that someone should base their decision on a camera body because of it’s video capabilities if they’re only going to use it every now and then. If your focus will be on the video side, then the 5D Mark II is the one you want.
Bottom line, I tell people to go and test the cameras in person before buying. Hold the body, see how it feels in your hands. Also, go through the menu system and see how easy/difficult it is to navigate. These were deciding factors in my decision years ago. The lenses you use are also a great determining factor in getting the images you desire. I look forward to your next post and seeing your thoughts.
This is an excellent review! One question, what made you first choose Canon over Nikon? Did you test them both before you bought? I have a Nikon D60 and tested it alongside the Canon Rebel, and I just liked the feel of the Nikon in my hands. Do you find the features on the Canon to be better than Nikon? Should I choose to upgrade one day in the distant future, this would be pertinent info. 
by Ben Finch
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Alison Nation - These photos are great! The peacock photos are awesome! We’ve been wanting to go to the zoo but was unsure of the one in Chattanooga. But after seeing all the animals you guys got to see, it looks pretty fun!
Khloe Williams - Go to Cades Cove!! Early morning (around 8a) offers some of the best photos!!